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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Installation begins for new information screens at bus stops in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Installation has begun on 287 new information screens set to improve journeys for bus passengers across the city.

    Portsmouth City Council is enhancing travel across the city by installing 287 new information screens at bus stops, as part of the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). This upgrade will ensure that over 90% of bus stops in Portsmouth are equipped with real time information about bus arrivals and passenger capacity, making journeys smoother and more informed for passengers.

    The fresh new look signs make it easier to see the bus services operating to and from the bus stop. The new information screens will also feature a push-button option, allowing passengers with visual impairments to hear the information displayed, making bus travel more inclusive and user-friendly.

    The installation of the new screens is a direct response to feedback from bus users, who identified the need for more real time information and clearer signage at bus stops. This demand was highlighted as one of the key priorities in the BSIP public consultation.

    Councillor Peter Candlish, Portsmouth’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

    “We’ve heard loud and clear from bus passengers that they want more accurate, accessible information at bus stops, and we’re thrilled to begin installing these new screens throughout the city. These updates will make it easier for passengers to navigate the bus network and plan their journeys with confidence. Our aim is to make public transport in Portsmouth as accessible and convenient as possible for everyone.”

    Transport systems experts, Vix Technology, will carry out the installation of the new screens. Two different types of screens will be installed: one set at bus shelters and another set on poles at stops without shelters.

    The screens will display the estimated arrival times of buses, with a countdown to show when the bus will arrive. The real time data is provided via GPS technology, which tracks the buses’ locations to calculate how soon they’ll reach each stop. The bus shelter mounted screens will also be able to display additional live information, including weather updates and news.

    Daniel Jacklin, Business Development Manager at Vix Technology, said:

    “We’re excited to continue our long-standing partnership with Portsmouth City Council to expand real time information across the city. The installation of over 287 new screens, marks a significant milestone. We’re looking forward to helping passengers navigate the city more easily and travel with greater confidence.”

    This installation is the latest in a series of improvements to the city’s bus stop infrastructure, designed to make travel information easier to access and the overall bus experience more seamless. Improving the bus service is a key part of the Council’s overall plan to make travel in the city better for everyone.

    For more information about bus stop improvements in the city, visit: travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip-schemes/rti-screens/)

    More information about the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan 

    The Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is Portsmouth’s visionary delivery scheme aligned with the government’s National Bus Strategy and aims to dramatically improve bus services in Portsmouth and to encourage passengers back to the bus.

    This programme is managed by an enhanced partnership between local bus companies Stagecoach South, First Solent and Portsmouth City Council. With a £48 million grant from the Department for Transport (DfT) the Portsmouth BSIP aims to increase bus usage in Portsmouth by engaging with the local community and transforming the bus network in the city so that it is faster, more reliable, and more affordable.

    The Portsmouth BSIP has already funded early morning travel, and later night services, tap on tap off technology, fare free weekends to encourage residents to try the bus, Christmas Day bus services and much more, with even more exciting developments planned for 2024/2025.

    According to the latest Department for Transport (DfT) figures, Portsmouth has seen a 20% rise in bus passengers over the past year and is recognised as the top city for bringing people back to bus travel, with over 12 million bus journeys taken.

    More information can be found on our website: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: StuffThatWorks Survey Reveals High Patient Interest in Participating in Clinical Trials

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Data from the largest patient-reported real-world data exploration underlines new opportunities for medical research to accelerate drug development

    Over 93 percent of more than 6,000 respondents are interested in learning about clinical trials relevant to their condition, but unexpected barriers delay participation

    GAASH, Israel, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — StuffThatWorks, the largest, most up-to-date crowd-sourced patient-centric real-world data optimized for the medical and research community, today released the results of a new custom survey, Barriers in Clinical Trials, which shows that patients are primed to participate in clinical research1. The survey taps the reactions of over 6,000 patients with chronic conditions and reveals that an overwhelming majority of respondents consider clinical trials a path to accessing new medical treatments, with more than 93 percent interested in learning about trials that are relevant to their condition. 

    In addition, nearly 57 percent of respondents report that they are severely impacted by their medical condition, with nearly 43 percent believing they have exhausted all other treatment options, highlighting an urgent need for additional treatment pathways. The survey’s findings also reinforce the need for more proactive engagement and education; nearly 96 percent of respondents reported they received little or no information from providers about clinical trials in the last six months.

    “The survey data reveal a desire among patients to access clinical trials as viable treatment options, underscoring the need for medical professionals to actively consider clinical research for addressing their patients’ needs,” said Yael Elish, Founder and CEO of StuffThatWorks and a WAZE founding team member. “This unique patient perspective and experience collected in structured form along with other organized health information provides valuable insights and underlines a new way for clinicians and researchers to engage with patients to better inform the development of study protocols to benefit patients and advance the science of medicine.”

    The survey was conducted among patients with chronic conditions through StuffThatWorks, the world’s first large scale patient-generated Real World Data platform. StuffThatWorks empowers patients to transform their experiences and health information into structured organized Real World Data optimized for patient centric Real World Data research. Research organizations receive near real time comprehensive access to organized aggregated, de-identified data and corresponding patients. 

    With over 3 million members across 1,250+ conditions and 1.3 billion data points in the U.S. and globally, StuffThatWorks is the largest and most up-to-date patient-generated crowd-sourced Real World Data optimized for generation of unique patient journey insights. From rare to common chronic conditions, patient insights covering various topics, including symptoms, treatments, and disease burden, can be generated in real-time and broken down by racial and ethnic demographics, geography, lifestyle, symptoms, and more. In addition to real-time access to the data set, on-demand custom surveys like this current Barriers to Clinical Trial initiative can be fielded to gain real-world insights from patients.

    Patients on StuffThatWorks share anonymized health information at scale on an ongoing basis.  Instead of exhausting patients by re-asking mundane questions, our approach allows us to benefit from the already collected patient data and to conduct follow-up surveys for the missing information only.  In addition, customers benefit from built in powerful analysis and insight generation tools that cross all conditions. 

    “Until now, researching the experience of people living with chronic conditions in the real world meant interviewing individual patients or running one-off limited surveys, which are time-consuming, costly, and, more importantly, limited in their ability to represent the diversity of patient populations and to provide insight beyond the limited number of questions possible,” added Elish. “Patient crowdsourcing at scale can reveal unmatched insights on any patient-centric topic, in this case – the insights needed to address barriers to patient participation in clinical trials.”

    The custom survey Barriers in Clinical Trials included 6,004 respondents with an average age of 61. Patients who participated in the survey suffered from a wide range of chronic conditions, including COPD, fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy, tinnitus, osteoarthritis, COVID-19, multiple sclerosis, migraine, high blood pressure, and clinical depression. 

    The study also revealed that:

    • Most respondents (98 percent) perceive clinical trials as a path through which they can significantly benefit by being included in the development of new medical options
    • Nearly one-third (29 percent) shared that their primary motivation for participating in clinical trials is to help advance science
    • Almost one-quarter (23 percent) want to participate in clinical research because they have no other treatment options available
    • For nearly one-quarter (23 percent), their physician recommended their participation in a trial, but the obstacles to involvement are travel costs and lost wages the patient would shoulder
    • One fifth (19 percent) of respondents shared that having their medical treatment and/or receiving an honorarium would motivate them to participate in a study
    • In addition, 41 percent shared being in a stressful or challenging financial situation, and more than 31 percent said their financials impact decision-making
    • Only 13 percent had a doctor explain why a clinical trial could be helpful for their condition, and an overwhelming majority (nearly 96 percent) revealed they did not receive information from doctors about clinical trials in the last six months
    • Participants indicated they are flexible regarding the possible format of clinical trials and would participate in in-person, virtual, or hybrid settings.

    “The survey’s data show that patients are not simply willing; they are eager to participate in clinical trials, provided they are informed and supported throughout the process,” said Chantal Beaudry, Senior Partner, Health Communications and Patient Recruitment at FINN Partners. “This dataset provides unique, real-world perspectives invaluable to organizations seeking to engage patients more effectively and optimize their clinical trials.” FINN Partners is working with StuffThatWorks to ensure these data are shared broadly to encourage greater participation in clinical trials and accelerate the delivery of new indications and therapies to patients.

    Additional data from the survey is being analyzed to provide information regarding insights and barriers in specific patient populations. This comprehensive database of patient-reported outcomes is now available for custom research and real-time data analysis. These custom surveys are a new offering and can be enriched with past and future data from the comprehensive StuffThatWorks database.

    For more information regarding StuffThatWorks, please visit www.stuffthatworks.health.

    About StuffThatWorks

    Created by Waze founding team members, StuffThatWorks uses crowdsourcing and AI to transform shared patient experiences and data into the first organized large scale, multidimensional, longitudinal, real-world data set facilitating a neutral representation of diverse populations and treatments, insights generation and direct engagement with patients throughout their journey.

    StuffThatWorks is the home to 3M members across 1,250 condition communities that have so far shared 1.3B data points. Already the largest organized Patient Level Real World Data platform, StuffThatWorks is differentiated by its powerful data collection, structuring and organization infrastructure. The unique, proprietary data set and unique AI and powerful Chat GPT like capabilities enable the efficient generation of insights for research, market access and drug development. 

    1. Data on file

    Contact:
    Glenn Silver, Media Relations
    FINN Partners
    +1 973 818 8198

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/49b9fbd5-e984-4f2e-ba4e-22217f2c5ee6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First International AI Safety Report to inform discussions at AI Action Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    First Independent International AI Safety Report to become the global handbook on AI safety, ahead of the France AI Action Summit.

    • First Independent International AI Safety Report to become the global handbook on AI safety, ahead of the France AI Action Summit
    • Inspired by the UN’s IPCC Report, the publication sets a new standard for scientific rigor in assessing AI safety
    • Brings together input from 100 world-leading AI experts put forward by 30 countries including France, China, the USA and UK, as well as the UN, EU, and OECD

    Ahead of the AI Action Summit hosted by France next month, the Independent International AI Safety Report published today sets out the first comprehensive, shared scientific understanding of advanced AI systems and their risks.  

    Spearheaded by Yoshua Bengio – a Turing Award-winning AI academic and the most cited computer scientist in the world – the report brings together insights from 100 independent international experts. Launched at the AI Safety Summit in November 2023, the report is mandated by more than 30 countries including France, China and the United States, with operational support provided by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology.  

    As policymakers worldwide grapple with rapid and unpredictable advancements in AI, today’s report contributes to bridging the gap by offering a scientific understanding of emerging risks to guide decision making.  

    The report also highlights how quickly the technology has evolved in recent years and months, including how AI systems are increasingly capable of acting as AI agents – autonomously planning and carrying out complex tasks.  

    Its publication looks to plug the gaps by building up a scientific basis of evidence to support policymakers in advancing AI safety, while the full implications of advanced AI systems are still being discovered. 

    Report’s Chair, Yoshua Bengio, Full Professor at Université de Montréal and Scientific Director of Mila – Quebec AI Institute, said:  

    The capabilities of general-purpose AI have increased rapidly in recent years and months. While this holds great potential for society, AI also presents significant risks that must be carefully managed by governments worldwide.  

    This report by independent experts aims to facilitate constructive and evidence-based discussion around these risks and serves as a common basis for policymakers around the world to understand general-purpose AI capabilities, risks and possible mitigations.

    Key areas identified for further research include how rapidly capabilities will advance, how general-purpose AI models work internally, and how they can be designed to behave reliably.  

    While there are still many challenges in mitigating the risks of general-purpose AI, the report highlights promising areas for future research and concludes that progress can be made. The report emphasises widespread agreement that improving our understanding of how AI works should be a top priority, as international governments and AI companies prepare to gather for the AI Action Summit. 

    Ultimately, the report emphasises that while AI capabilities could advance at varying speeds, their development and potential risks are not a foregone conclusion. The Report concludes by saying that the outcomes depend on the choices made by policymakers both today and in the future. 

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle said: 

    The transformative potential of AI is clear, which is why we have placed it at the heart of our government’s Plan for Change. It will help us kickstart economic growth, transform public services, and boost the living standards of working people across the country, but I remain clear eyed that safety must be baked in from the outset. 

    The UK is already at the forefront of building the global consensus needed on responsible AI, and this report will go a step further as we prepare for the AI Action Summit. It will support decision-makers with the scientific evidence they need to seize the opportunities of AI, which is a charge we are already leading by putting the technology to work to deliver more jobs, more money in people’s pockets, and transformed public services.

    French Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies, Clara Chappaz said: 

    Artificial intelligence is a central topic of our time, and its safety is a crucial foundation for building trust and fostering adoption. Scientific research must remain the fundamental pillar guiding these efforts. I salute the work of Yoshua Bengio and the international team who produced this report, work which must be perpetuated in the long term in the general interest. 

    This first comprehensive scientific assessment provides the evidence base needed for societies and governments to shape AI’s future direction responsibly. These insights will inform crucial discussions at the upcoming AI Action Summit in Paris. 

    Notes to editors

    The UK government will continue to provide the Secretariat for the report until a suitable long-term international home is agreed, and Professor Yoshua Bengio will continue acting as chair for 2025. This will be informed by ongoing global dialogues on AI governance, including those within the UN Global Digital Compact, the Network of AI Safety Institutes, and other forums, along with ongoing stakeholder consultations.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: MCQ Markets announces Solana and RWA Strategy for the Future of Data Authenticity and Tokenization of Collector Cars on the Blockchain

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MCQ Markets, an emerging leader in the automotive alternative asset investment space, is thrilled to announce its new strategic endeavor pioneering the curation of ultra-rare luxury vehicles and collectibles via tokenization and data authentication on the Solana Blockchain.

    MCQ provides individuals the opportunity to diversify their investment portfolios with iconic automobiles through their SEC-qualified offerings – breaking down barriers traditionally associated with luxury car ownership.

    MCQ Markets is creating a series of NFTs for each car to be sold on the MCQ platform, ensuring the data authenticity of all automobiles and collectibles. Each vehicle will be linked to a unique NFT, securely storing vital information such as VIN, mileage, acquisition date, and more. This secure and immutable digital ledger will ensure all records are tamper-resistant and fully transparent.

    Backed by the Solana Foundation, which drives the adoption of the Solana blockchain, this integration ensures the seamless tokenization of real-world assets (RWA) like these collector cars, setting a new standard for transparency and innovation in Web3. By leveraging scalability and efficiency offered on the Solana blockchain, MCQ Markets is laying the foundation for the future of data secure authentication in the collector car market, ensuring verified historical records and market valuations.

    CEO of MCQ Markets, Curt Hopkins, shared, “This integration will bring the technical prowess and security of the blockchain to the automotive world, ensuring authenticity, provenance, and transparency for our investors. This partnership will enable MCQ Markets to explore new frontiers in Web3 and be at the forefront of creating the future automotive collecting.”

    MCQ Markets has received an investment from SOL Global Investments Corp. as part of their 2025 Solana ecosystem investment strategy. Curt continued, “This investment into MCQ Markets from SOL Global highlights the innovative potential of Solana’s blockchain technology to revolutionize traditional and alternative asset classes, providing a new level of authenticity and provenance to all investments.”

    About MCQ Markets
    MCQ Markets is redefining luxury asset ownership by making exotic automobiles attainable through its innovative fractional ownership model. The platform serves both passionate enthusiasts and seasoned investors, democratizing luxury ownership and allowing more individuals to invest in assets that were previously out of reach. For more information, please visit: https://on.mcqmarkets.com/pr.

    Investments contain a high degree of risk. You should carefully review the MCQ Markets offering circular before deciding to invest, a copy of which is available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website, linked here: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2025795/000149315224023512/partiiandiii.htm.

    About Solana Foundation
    The Solana Foundation is dedicated to the adoption and growth of the Solana blockchain, one of the world’s fastest and most scalable decentralized networks. By enabling secure, low-cost, and energy-efficient transactions, Solana powers the next generation of blockchain-based innovations across finance, gaming, and real-world asset tokenization. For more information, visit: https://solana.org/.

    Contact Information:
    MCQ Markets Media Contact
    Email: press@mcqmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Elliott Broidy and Dr. Thomas Kaplan Co-Chair Fundraising Initiative to Convert Nazi Commandant’s Home Adjacent to Auschwitz into a New Global Center for Combating Antisemitism, Extremism, and Hate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Boca Raton, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and co-chairs of The Fund to End Antisemitism, Extremism, and Hate, Elliott Broidy and Dr. Thomas Kaplan announced the launch of a major fundraising campaign to help fund the Auschwitz Research Center on Hate, Extremism, and Radicalization (ARCHER) at House 88.

    Spearheaded by the Counter Extremism Project (CEP), ARCHER aims to transform the former residence of Auschwitz Commandant Rudolf Höss in Oświęcim, Poland, from a center of hate to a center against hate in all forms. In addition to the residence, famed architect Daniel Libeskind has designed an extraordinary new building on the grounds of House 88 to house the organization’s research, education, and advocacy activities.

    “This historic initiative represents a crucial step in our fight against extremism,” said Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, CEO of the Counter Extremism Project. “ARCHER at House 88 will serve as a vital hub for research, education, and—crucially—action in countering hate, antisemitism, and extremism globally.”

    “The lessons of history demand that we do more than just remember—we must act,” said Dr. Thomas Kaplan. “ARCHER at House 88 is not just about preserving history; it is about changing the future. By transforming this house—once a symbol of unimaginable evil—into a center dedicated to combating extremism and hate, we are sending a powerful message. But we cannot do this alone.”

    Elliott Broidy added, “This is a call to action—our fundraising efforts are critical to ensuring that this initiative succeeds in its mission to create a world free from extremism. I am thrilled that leaders and philanthropists Aryeh Bourkoff, Senator Norm Coleman, Eric Herschmann, Kenneth B. Mehlman, George Schaeffer, Lenny Sands, Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, and Dr. Herbert Wertheim have all joined the Board of the Fund.” (Board In Formation)

    Senator Norm Coleman said, “I am honored to stand in support of ARCHER at House 88 and its mission to confront antisemitism and extremism head-on. Converting the former Auschwitz Commandant’s residence into a global center for education and advocacy sends a resounding message: antisemitism, extremism, and hate will never prevail, and we are committed to building a future defined by tolerance and understanding.”

    Businessman Kenneth B. Mehlman said, “Never Again must be more than a slogan. It requires active engagement, education, and vigilance. ARCHER at House 88 will honor Auschwitz’s victims by educating, engaging, and warning future generations about the evils of genocidal hatred.”

    The ARCHER initiative is now actively seeking additional support to expand its programs, including:

    • A fellowship program for leading scholars focused on extremism research
    • Educational programs for policymakers, educators, and the public
    • Policy advocacy implementing actionable strategies to combat hate

    To learn more about ARCHER at House 88 or to make a donation, visit https://www.counterextremism.com/donate.

    For media inquiries:
    Vlad Drazdovich – vlad@redbanyan.com
    (954) 773-9456

    For fundraising inquiries:
    Robert Benton – rbenton@counterextremism.com

    About Elliott Broidy
    Elliott Broidy is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with a career spanning four decades. As Chairman and CEO of Broidy Capital Holdings, he has invested in over 160 companies across multiple industries. Since 9/11, his investments have focused on companies in the public safety and national security sectors. Through his philanthropic efforts, he has supported numerous organizations dedicated to countering hate and extremism, including The Simon Wiesenthal Center-Museum of Tolerance, The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), the George Washington University Program on Extremism, and StandWithUs.

    About Dr. Thomas Kaplan
    Dr. Thomas Kaplan is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and advocate for global education, cultural preservation, and the fight against extremism. As the former President and Chairman of New York’s 92nd Street Y, a world-renowned Jewish community and cultural center in New York, Dr. Kaplan has long supported initiatives that promote Jewish history and cultural awareness. He is also the founder of the Recanati-Kaplan Intelligence Fellows Program at Harvard’s Belfer Center and co-creator of a similar program at Yale’s Jackson School of Global Affairs, furthering advancements in intelligence and geopolitical strategy. Through his philanthropic work, Dr. Kaplan is committed to fostering education, historical preservation, and impactful global change.

    About ARCHER at House 88
    ARCHER at House 88 is a global research and education center dedicated to combating extremism, antisemitism, and hate. Established by the Counter Extremism Project (CEP) in collaboration with the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and UNESCO, the center serves as a hub for scholarly research, policy development, and public education.

    About the Counter Extremism Project (CEP)
    The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) is a nonprofit, non-partisan policy organization formed in 2014 to combat extremism by pressuring financial and material support networks; combating online recruitment and communications; and promoting progressive laws, policies, and, regulations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI is bad for the environment, and the problem is bigger than energy consumption

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Hamish van der Ven, Assistant Professor of Sustainable Business Management of Natural Resources, University of British Columbia

    The growing use of artificial intelligence has led to larger and more powerful data centres, with increased demands on the environment. (Shutterstock)

    Artificial intelligence technologies, like chatbots, are attracting growing scrutiny for their voracious energy demands. However, energy consumption is only one part of their broader environmental impact.

    Late last year, ChatGPT, the popular AI chatbot run by OpenAI, celebrated its second birthday. In its brief existence, the platform has amassed over 300 million weekly users who send roughly one billion messages to the chatbot per day.

    With US$6.6 billion raised in its last funding round, OpenAI has emerged as one of the most valuable private companies in the world.

    Soaring emissions

    Elsewhere in tech, other companies marked less savoury milestones. Alphabet — the parent company of Google — recently announced that its GHG emissions are up 48 per cent since 2019. At roughly the same time, Microsoft announced that its emissions are up 29 per cent since 2020.

    Both companies cite emissions associated with the need for more data centres to support AI workloads as a key factor in surging GHG emissions. AI is notoriously thirsty for energy — according to one researcher, one query to ChatGPT uses approximately as much electricity as one light bulb for 20 minutes.

    The collective energy demand of data centres in the United States is so high that Microsoft recently reached a deal to reopen Three Mile Island, the site of the worst nuclear accident in American history.

    The burgeoning AI industry needs so much electricity that plans to decommission several coal plants have been delayed. By some estimates, the collective demand of AI and other digital technologies will constitute 20 per cent of global electricity use by 2030.

    Insidious effects

    The energy use of AI is important, but it does not tell the whole story of AI’s environmental impacts. The social and political mediums through which AI affects the planet are far more insidious and, arguably, more consequential for the future of humanity.

    In the Business, Sustainability and Technology Lab at the University of British Columbia, we specialize in evaluating the social and political ways in which digital technologies affect the environment.

    In our recently published paper, “Does artificial intelligence bias perceptions of environmental challenges?,” my students and I argue that AI changes how humans perceive environmental challenges in ways that obscure the accountability of powerful entities, ignore marginalized communities and promote cautious and incremental solutions that are drastically out of sync with the timeline required to avert environmental crises.

    We asked four chatbots the same series of questions about the issues, causes, consequences and solutions to nine environmental challenges. We found evidence of systematic biases in their responses. Most notably, chatbots avoid mentioning radical solutions to environmental challenges. They are far more likely to propose combinations of soft economic, social or political changes, like greater deployment of sustainable technologies and broader public awareness and education.

    Chatbots by OpenAI and Anthropic exhibited a reluctance to discuss the broader social, cultural and economic issues that are entangled in environmental challenges. For example, the term “environmental justice” is absent from nearly all chatbot responses. Chatbots also avoided references to dismantling colonialism or rethinking infinite economic growth as solutions to these challenges.

    Chatbots may be programmed to avoid raising the broader social, cultural and economic issues that are entangled in environmental challenges.
    (Shutterstock)

    AI bias

    Biases also exist in who chatbots see as responsible or vulnerable to environmental challenges. The chatbots we studied were far more likely to blame governments for environmental challenges than businesses or financial organizations. Similarly, while the vulnerability of Indigenous groups to climate change and biodiversity loss was mentioned frequently, the susceptibility of Black people and women to these same challenges received scant attention.

    All of this is particularly worrisome given the increasingly widespread use of AI chatbots by educators, students, policymakers and business leaders to understand and respond to environmental challenges. Chatbots present information in an oracular way, usually as a single text box written in an authoritative manner and understood as a synthesis of all digitalized knowledge.

    If AI users treat this text uncritically, they risk arriving at conclusions that propagate biased conceptions of environmental challenges and reinforce ineffective efforts to avert ecological crises.

    In the near future, the problem of bias in AI looks to get even worse, as OpenAI and other AI companies consider incorporating advertising to generate the revenue needed to train newer and more complex large language models.

    While it remains unclear what advertising will look like when integrated into ChatGPT, it is not difficult to see a world in which a description of climate change and its attendant solutions will be brought to you by the good folks at ExxonMobil or Shell.

    Hamish van der Ven receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. AI is bad for the environment, and the problem is bigger than energy consumption – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-bad-for-the-environment-and-the-problem-is-bigger-than-energy-consumption-247842

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Search for sympathetic use for historic house

    Source: City of Plymouth

    We are currently looking for a dynamic, sensitive and funded individual or organisation who could give a new and sympathetic lease of life to one of the city’s oldest buildings – the Merchant’s House.

    The property, which dates back to the 16th Century, was once a museum but has been closed for almost a decade.

    Now the Council is hoping to hear from companies, organisations or individuals who are keen to see this incredible Grade II* building come alive once more.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member responsible for the city’s assets said: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly but we need to do something. We have invested millions in the Box and the Elizabethan House, but we currently have no use for this building and no prospect of funding to restore this house.

    “We very much hope some thinkers and doers with the finances and the wherewithal to take on a project like this will come forward.

    “The house has been closed for almost a decade and is slowly degrading over time. We hope this appeal will generate interest and open up new possibilities for this building.”

    Ideas could include a heritage attraction, a tea shop with an historic slant, offices for a business – although the preference would be to enable some form of public access.

    While it is not known exactly when the house was built, its first recorded owner was a privateer named William Parker, a friend of Sir Francis Drake. Like Drake he combined a career as a merchant with privateering and civic government. He also served as Mayor of Plymouth from 1601 to 1602.

    He served under Drake in 1588 in the fight against the Spanish Armada and carried out raids against the Spanish in the Caribbean. In 1601 he captured a pair of treasure ships laden with 10,000 gold ducats and on his return to Plymouth, was elected Mayor and used the profits from his ventures to remodel an older house on this site into a fashionable timber-framed house.

    Parker helped promote the Plymouth Company to colonise North America and took an active interest in the Virginia Colony. He died in 1618 on a voyage to the East Indies. His heirs lived here before it was passed to Abraham Rowe, another successful merchant and in 1651 the house was purchased by Justinian Beard, Mayor of Plymouth on two occasions.

    It was occupied by the Beele family until 1707, then by the Martyn family until 1807. In 1807 the building was extended to the rear (towards Finewell Street) and the front used as a shop. In the 1960s it was a taxi office, then restored by the Council and turned into a museum of local heritage, focussing on life in Plymouth over time. Rooms included recreating the Blitz experience and a replica Victorian schoolroom.

    The Council is keen to explore all options including a sale or a long commercially viable lease. Interested parties should provide the following when submitting an offer:

    • Purchase price/rental offer
    • Purchaser details
    • Conditions
    • Proposed use/development plans
    • Finance/evidence of funding
    • Track record in restoration of historic buildings
    • Timescales

    Proposed uses sensitive to the property’s historical significance will be given higher consideration. Interested parties should email Laura Hathaway from the Council’s Land and Property Team at [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Apprenticeship Week to highlight ideal pathway to full time employment

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Apprenticeship Week to highlight ideal pathway to full time employment

    29 January 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Labour Market Partnership are hosting a number of events for prospective apprentices and employers to mark Apprenticeship Week 2025.

    The Northern Ireland wide initiative, from Monday February 3rd to Friday February 5th 2025, seeks to celebrate and showcase the value of apprenticeships for individuals, businesses, communities and the wider economy.

    The events highlight the apprenticeship route as an alternative to full time education and will allow prospective employers and candidates to connect and learn more about the options available.

    Labour Market Partnership (LMP) Manager, Nicky Gilleece, explained more about the format of the combination of training and employment.

    “Apprenticeships take between two and four years to complete and offer paid employment for participants who can earn as they learn while working alongside experienced staff and gaining experience and qualifications specific to their chosen industry,” she explained.

    “The Derry Strabane LMP work proactively with the North West Regional College, the Careers Service and local private training providers to actively promote this as a viable pathway and to create jobs for young people.

    “We are organising a number of events this week for both employers and students interested in pursuing this route and I would encourage them to access the programme now and get involved.”

    The programme starts on Wednesday February 5th with an Employer Support Lunchtime Briefing for employers based in the Waterside area at the BEAM Centre in Maydown.

    On Thursday February 6th, the LMP will host an Employer Apprenticeship Brunch at 11am in the Guildhall’s Main Hall followed by an Apprenticeship and Careers Fair from 1pm-4pm where prospective apprentices, parents, guardians and school careers staff can meet with employers and education providers to learn more about the opportunities available in the Council area.
    On Friday February 7th employers can attend a Networking Business Breakfast from 8.30am to 12.30pm at Strabane Golf Club which will be followed by an Apprenticeship Lunch Expo from 12.30pm to 2.30pm where anyone considering an apprenticeship can get more information.

    For full details on the Apprenticeship programme visit http://getapprenticeships.me/ or email [email protected].

    For a listing of Apprenticeship Week Events visit https://www.derrystrabane.com/services/employment,-skills-training

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: SRC Indigenous Action Plan Builds on Decades Long Reputation of Collaboration

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 29, 2025

    An Indigenous Action Plan being set in motion by the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) aims to engage and advance the participation of Indigenous Peoples within the organization and communities across Saskatchewan. 

    SRC is proud to launch a new Indigenous Action Plan that centers on Indigenous Peoples, communities and businesses to help achieve shared goals. Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan. 

    “The Saskatchewan Research Council has a long history of collaboration with First Nations and Métis communities, spanning more than 40 years in areas such as ecological studies, student enrichment and job training opportunities, and longer-term initiatives including remediation of former mine and mill sites in northern Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for SRC Warren Kaeding said. “The new Indigenous Action Plan further builds upon these relationships to ensure continued Indigenous participation in Saskatchewan’s key economic sectors and growing workforce.” 

    SRC’s Indigenous Action Plan has been built to align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) Call to Action 92 and will be lifted by four integral pillars: Employment, Leadership, Indigenous Community Relationships and Business Development. 

    “Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan,” President and CEO of SRC Mike Crabtree said. “Advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is not only the right thing to do, it is simply good business. We encourage all our staff, collaborators and clients to embrace reconciliation each and every day.” 

    Of particular importance within the Plan will be two new programs supported by the Employment pillar: an Indigenous Workforce Program and an Indigenous Summer Student Program, Kiskiyihta (Kiskee ih-taah), which is a Cree word meaning to learn or to know. 

    Together, these programs will help SRC increase recruitment and hiring of Indigenous Peoples by collaborating with Indigenous educational institutions and training entities to develop strategies for the retention and advancement of Indigenous employees. The collaborating organizations will also support SRC in finding potential candidates for SRC job openings and for the Indigenous Summer Student Program.  

    Other important initiatives within the Plan include the formation of an Indigenous Advisory Committee, increasing Indigenous procurement via SRC’s Indigenous Procurement Policy, growing the number of Indigenous learning opportunities for SRC employees, and strengthening meaningful engagement and collaboration with Indigenous communities and Tribal Councils.  

    SRC would like to recognize and thank Saskatchewan-based Indigenous artist Arnold Isbister for his valuable contributions to the Plan. Isbister provided much of the document’s original artwork, helping bring the Plan’s holistic approach to life with his colourful interpretations of its four Pillars and its symbolic cover pages. 

    SRC is Canada’s second largest research and technology organization with 1,400 clients in 22 countries around the world. With more than 350 employees, SRC has been helping clients solve technology problems, make improvements, increase productivity and develop new markets for more than 77 years. More details about SRC’s Indigenous Action Plan can be found at src.sk.ca/IAP. 

    -30- 

    For more information, contact:

    Allison Collins  
    External Relations 
    Saskatchewan Research Council 
    Phone: 306-385-4208 
    Email: allison.collins@src.sk.ca 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: New AI Tool Enhances Due Diligence for Early-Stage Investors, Saving Time and Reducing Risk

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Conducting thorough due diligence is one of the most effective ways for investors to mitigate risk when evaluating early-stage companies. Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, South-East, and Texas (K4-MST) has launched the K4-MST AI FastTrak Due Diligence Engine, an AI-driven platform that accelerates the due diligence process, giving investors more time to focus on critical decision-making.

    For early-stage investors, venture capitalists, and family office managers, due diligence is the foundation of sound investment strategy. Historically, K4-MST’s due diligence teams have dedicated 80–120 hours to each report, supporting over $150 million in investments across 300 companies on the East Coast alone. The introduction of AI-driven automation marks a shift toward greater efficiency without sacrificing rigor.

    “The due diligence report may be the most critical marketing tool a company issues; it must excite and attract investors,” said Howard Lubert, Area President of Keiretsu Forum MST. “By automating data extraction, the K4-MST AI FastTrak Due Diligence Engine allows investors to spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time on deep analysis, leading to stronger investment decisions.”

    Why It Matters for Investors

    A 2024 study from The Wharton School, Due Diligence and the Allocation of Venture Capital, underscores the link between thorough due diligence and investment success. Venture capitalists report spending an average of 118 hours per investment on diligence, with more comprehensive analysis leading to better capital allocation and reduced volatility in returns. Conversely, insufficient diligence increases investment risk.

    K4-MST’s AI-powered platform enhances this process by:

    • Reducing time spent on data extraction – Drafts of key report sections, such as Human Resources and Intellectual Property, are completed in as little as 3.5 and 6 hours, respectively, instead of days or weeks.
    • Improving efficiency without cutting corners – Investors can analyze more opportunities with the same level of scrutiny, potentially increasing deal flow and reducing opportunity costs.
    • Focusing expertise on high-value insights – Rather than spending hours compiling information, investor teams can direct their attention to evaluating risks and identifying high-potential ventures.

    The K4-MST AI FastTrak Due Diligence Engine integrates company data from Keiretsu Forum’s Dealum platform, generating editable first drafts that allow due diligence teams to move faster without compromising depth.

    Private Demonstration for Investors

    To maintain confidentiality, K4-MST will host an exclusive demonstration of the AI FastTrak Due Diligence Engine on Wednesday, February 5, open to Keiretsu Forum members, sponsors, and partners. Investors interested in learning more can contact info@keiretsuforum.net.

    About Keiretsu Forum

    Keiretsu Forum is the world’s largest accredited investor network, with over 2,000 members across 54 chapters on four continents. Since 2000, Keiretsu Forum members have invested over $1 billion in 1,400+ companies spanning industries such as technology, healthcare, and consumer products.

    Media Contact

    Cindi Sutera
    K4-MST Communications
    CindiS@AMSCommunications.net
    610-613-2773

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Juniata Valley Financial Corp. Announces Quarter and Year End December 31, 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mifflintown, PA, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Juniata Valley Financial Corp. (OTCQX:JUVF) (“Juniata”) announced net income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 of $1.5 million compared to net income of $1.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, was $0.30 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $0.33 for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $6.2 million compared to net income of $6.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $1.25 and $1.24, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to basic and diluted earnings per share of $1.32 and $1.31, respectively, for the corresponding 2023 period.

    President’s Message

    President and Chief Executive Officer, Marcie A. Barber stated, “The Federal Reserve Bank rate decreases made in the last four months of 2024 contributed to a reversal in the last quarter of 2024 of the net interest margin compression trend in prior periods. Our net interest margin increased by twelve basis points compared to last year’s fourth quarter. In addition to an improved margin, we are pleased that our strategies to increase non-interest income have been successful resulting in substantial growth in both the fourth quarter of 2024 and the 2024 year. The decrease in fourth quarter net income compared to last year was due to several one-time noninterest expense items. Our credit quality remains strong with nonperforming loans totaling only 0.1% of the total loan portfolio and delinquent and nonperforming loans comprising just 0.4% of the portfolio. We are optimistic heading into 2025 that we can achieve accelerated loan growth while maintaining our excellent credit quality through increased efforts to cultivate loan and deposit relationships outside of our branch footprint coupled with exploring opportunities for expansion.”           

    Financial Results for the 2024 Year

    Return on average assets for the year ended December 31, 2024, was 0.72%, compared to the return on average assets of 0.79% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Return on average equity for the year ended December 31, 2024 was 14.19%, compared to the return on average equity of 18.20% for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Net interest income was $22.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $22.7 million for 2023. Average interest earning assets increased $15.7 million, or 1.9%, to $853.9 million, for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, due primarily to an increase of $34.6 million, or 6.9%, in average loans. The increase in average loans was partially offset by a decline of $20.1 million, or 6.1%, in average investment securities as the amortization on the mortgage-backed securities portfolio was used to fund loan growth rather than being reinvested into the securities portfolio. Average interest bearing liabilities increased by $14.3 million, or 2.4%, for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the comparable 2023 period, due primarily to growth in average time deposits as well as short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements. The yield on average loans increased by 47 basis points for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, while the costs of average interest bearing deposits increased by 116 basis points, and short- and long-term borrowings and other interest bearing liabilities increased by a total of 85 basis points. These increases were primarily the result of higher market interest rates and competitive pricing pressure between periods. The yield on earning assets increased 39 basis points, to 4.35%, for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, while the cost to fund interest earning assets with interest bearing liabilities increased 56 basis points, to 2.31%. The net interest margin, on a fully tax equivalent basis, decreased from 2.74% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 2.71% for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    Juniata recorded a provision for credit losses of $534,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to a provision for credit losses of $500,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Non-interest income was $5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 9.5%. Most significantly impacting the comparative year end periods were increases of $391,000 in customer service fees, $98,000 in the change in value of equity securities and $182,000 in fees derived from loan activity. These increases were partially offset by a $105,000 decrease in life insurance proceeds compared to the 2023 period.

    Non-interest expense was $21.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $19.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Most significantly impacting non-interest expense for the comparative year end periods was an increase of $568,000 in employee compensation expense due to annual salary increases, overtime pay from the core conversion in the first quarter of 2024 and having one additional pay period in 2024. Also impacting the comparative year end periods was an increase of $123,000 in occupancy expense due to an increase in rental expense from the early termination of a branch office lease in December 2024, as well as increases of $204,000 in equipment expense and $286,000 in professional fees. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $227,000 in merger and acquisition expense due to the Path Valley branch acquisition in 2023 with no similar transaction occurring in the 2024 period.

    An income tax provision of $979,000 was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to an income tax provision of $970,000 recorded for the year ended December 31, 2023. Juniata qualifies for a federal tax credit for investments in low-income housing partnerships. The tax credit decreased $37,000, or 10.1%, from $366,000 in the year ended December 31, 2023 to $329,000 in the year ended December 31, 2024, due to the completion of the amortization period for one of Juniata’s low-income housing partnership investments in January 2023.

    Financial Results for the Quarter

    Annualized return on average assets for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was 0.70%, compared to 0.79% for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Annualized return on average equity for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was 12.79%, compared to 18.06% for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    Net interest income was $5.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $5.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Average interest earning assets were relatively the same between the comparable three month periods, decreasing by $280,000, to $847.1 million compared to the 2023 period, with average loans increasing $18.9 million, or 3.6%, and average investment securities decreasing $18.7 million, or 5.8%, over the comparable three month periods. Average interest bearing liabilities increased by $15.8 million, or 2.6%, compared to the comparable 2023 period, primarily due to growth in average short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements. When comparing the three months ended December 31, 2024 to the three months ended December 31, 2023, the yield on average loans increased by 36 basis points, and the rates on average time deposits increased by 67 basis points, primarily due to competitive pricing pressures, while the rates on average short- and long-term borrowings and other interest bearing liabilities decreased by 77 basis points, primarily due to a decline in market interest rates between periods. The yield on earning assets increased 29 basis points, to 4.39%, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to same period in 2023, while the cost to fund interest earning assets with interest bearing liabilities increased 18 basis points, to 2.26%. The net interest margin, on a fully tax equivalent basis, increased from 2.64% for the three months ended December 31, 2023, to 2.76% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.

    Juniata recorded a provision for credit losses of $63,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to a provision for credit losses of $89,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    Non-interest income was $1.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and $1.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 12.4%. Most significantly impacting non-interest income in the comparative three month periods were increases of $109,000 in customer service fees and $56,000 in life insurance proceeds, as well as $68,000 in fees derived from loan activity, primarily due to the addition of back-to-back swap fees and an increase in title insurance commissions and letter of credit fees. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease of $46,000 in the change in value of equity securities due to declines in the market value of community bank stocks owned by Juniata for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    Non-interest expense was $5.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $5.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 13.7%. Most significantly impacting non-interest expense for the comparative three month periods was an increase of $212,000 in employee compensation expense, primarily due to an extra pay period in the 2024 period, as well as a $273,000 increase in employee benefits expense due to an increase in medical claims expenses. Also contributing to the increase in non-interest expense between comparative three month periods was an increase of $108,000 in occupancy expenses due to an increase in rental expense from the early termination of a branch office lease in December 2024, as well as increases of $80,000 in equipment expense and $90,000 in professional fees. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $102,000 in other non-interest expense, primarily due to a decrease in the provision for unfunded commitments during the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    An income tax provision of $212,000 was recorded for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to an income tax provision of $262,000 recorded for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The federal tax credit for investments in low-income housing partnerships was $82,000 in both the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

    Financial Condition

    Total assets as of December 31, 2024 were $848.9 million, a decrease of $21.7 million, or 2.5%, compared to total assets of $870.6 million at December 31, 2023. Comparing asset balances on December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, cash and cash equivalents and total debt securities decreased by $17.9 million and $12.0 million, respectively, while total loans increased by $8.5 million. As of December 31, 2024, short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements decreased by $10.6 million compared to December 31, 2023, and long-term debt decreased by $15.0 million over the same period due to the maturity of a 5-year FHLB advance in May 2024.

    Juniata maintains a strong liquidity position as of December 31, 2024, with additional borrowing capacity with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh of $216.2 million and $51.1 million from the Federal Reserve’s Discount Window. In addition, Juniata has internal authorization for brokered deposits of up to $175.0 million. Juniata had no brokered deposits as of December 31, 2024.

    Subsequent Event

    On January 21, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share to shareholders of record on February 14, 2025 payable on February 28, 2025.

    Management considers subsequent events occurring after the statement of condition date for matters which may require adjustment to, or disclosure in, the consolidated financial statements. The review period for subsequent events extends up to and including the filing date of a public company’s consolidated financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, the financial information in this release is subject to change.

    The Juniata Valley Bank, the principal subsidiary of Juniata Valley Financial Corp., is headquartered in Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, with fifteen community offices located in Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, Franklin, McKean and Potter Counties. More information regarding Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and The Juniata Valley Bank can be found online at www.JVBonline.com. Juniata Valley Financial Corp. trades through the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol JUVF.

    Forward-Looking Information
    *This press release may contain “forward looking” information as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect the current views of Juniata’s management with respect to, among other things, future events and Juniata’s financial performance. When words such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “believe,” “will likely result,” “expect,” “continue,” “will,” “anticipate,” “seek,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “goal,” “target,” “would” and “outlook,” the negative variations of those words or similar expressions are used in this release, Juniata is making forward-looking statements. Such information is based on Juniata’s current expectations, estimates and projections about future events and financial trends affecting the financial condition of its business, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond the control of Juniata. These statements are not historical facts or guarantees of future performance, events or results and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. If one or more events related to these or other risks or uncertainties materializes, or if underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from this forward-looking information. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and many factors could affect future financial results. Juniata undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward looking information, whether because of new or updated information, future events, or otherwise. For a more complete discussion of certain risks and uncertainties affecting Juniata, please see the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Forward-Looking Statements” set forth in the Juniata’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Financial Statements

    Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and Subsidiary
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

                 
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)      (Unaudited)       
        December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    ASSETS            
    Cash and due from banks   $ 5,064     $ 17,189  
    Interest bearing deposits with banks     5,934       11,741  
    Cash and cash equivalents     10,998       28,930  
                 
    Equity securities     1,189       1,073  
    Debt securities available for sale     64,623       67,564  
    Debt securities held to maturity (fair value $182,773 and $198,147, respectively)     191,627       200,644  
    Restricted investment in bank stock     2,530       1,707  
    Total loans     533,869       525,394  
    Less: Allowance for credit losses     (6,183 )     (5,677 )
    Total loans, net of allowance for credit losses     527,686       519,717  
    Premises and equipment, net     9,382       8,180  
    Bank owned life insurance and annuities     15,214       14,841  
    Investment in low income housing partnerships     832       1,154  
    Core deposit and other intangible assets     258       343  
    Goodwill     9,812       9,812  
    Mortgage servicing rights     69       83  
    Deferred tax asset     9,842       11,319  
    Accrued interest receivable and other assets     4,812       5,188  
    Total assets   $ 848,874     $ 870,555  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY              
    Liabilities:              
    Deposits:              
    Non-interest bearing   $ 196,801     $ 197,027  
    Interest bearing     551,156       552,018  
    Total deposits     747,957       749,045  
                 
    Short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements     42,242       52,810  
    Long-term debt     5,000       20,000  
    Other interest bearing liabilities     830       951  
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities     5,388       7,612  
    Total liabilities     801,417       830,418  
    Commitments and contingent liabilities            
    Stockholders’ Equity:              
    Preferred stock, no par value: Authorized – 500,000 shares, none issued     —       —  
    Common stock, par value $1.00 per share: Authorized 20,000,000 shares; Issued – 5,151,279 shares at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023; Outstanding – 5,003,384 shares at December 31, 2024 and 4,991,129 shares at December 31, 2023     5,151       5,151  
    Surplus     24,896       24,924  
    Retained earnings     53,126       51,297  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (33,320 )     (38,640 )
    Cost of common stock in Treasury: 147,895 shares at December 31, 2024; 160,150 shares at December 31, 2023     (2,396 )     (2,595 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     47,457       40,137  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 848,874     $ 870,555  

    Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and Subsidiary
    Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

                             
        Three Months Ended   Year Ended
    (Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)   December 31,    December 31, 
           2024      2023     2024      2023  
    Interest income:                
    Loans, including fees   $ 7,885   $ 7,159     $ 31,109   $ 26,728  
    Taxable securities     1,408     1,509       5,749     6,193  
    Tax-exempt securities     29     30       118     139  
    Other interest income     24     52       140     121  
    Total interest income     9,346     8,750       37,116     33,181  
    Interest expense:                            
    Deposits     2,924     2,633       11,167     8,247  
    Short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements     568     419       2,719     1,733  
    Long-term debt     31     118       268     471  
    Other interest bearing liabilities     8     9       33     38  
    Total interest expense     3,531     3,179       14,187     10,489  
    Net interest income     5,815     5,571       22,929     22,692  
    Provision for credit losses     63     89       534     500  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     5,752     5,482       22,395     22,192  
    Non-interest income:                            
    Customer service fees     467     358       1,767     1,376  
    Debit card fee income     450     477       1,752     1,770  
    Earnings on bank-owned life insurance and annuities     62     55       236     222  
    Trust fees     110     85       469     466  
    Commissions from sales of non-deposit products     79     82       388     337  
    Fees derived from loan activity     231     163       682     500  
    Change in value of equity securities     49     95       115     17  
    Gain from life insurance proceeds     56     —       56     161  
    Other non-interest income     101     113       360     472  
    Total non-interest income     1,605     1,428       5,825     5,321  
    Non-interest expense:                            
    Employee compensation expense     2,333     2,121       9,022     8,454  
    Employee benefits     715     442       2,448     2,355  
    Occupancy     433     325       1,412     1,289  
    Equipment     246     166       863     659  
    Data processing expense     719     711       2,881     2,937  
    Professional fees     304     214       1,134     848  
    Taxes, other than income     37     26       191     184  
    FDIC Insurance premiums     140     152       575     504  
    Gain on other real estate owned     —     (16 )     —     (16 )
    Amortization of intangible assets     21     25       85     81  
    Amortization of investment in low-income housing partnerships     80     80       322     353  
    Merger and acquisition expense     —     —       —     227  
    Other non-interest expense     626     728       2,079     2,072  
    Total non-interest expense     5,654     4,974       21,012     19,947  
    Income before income taxes     1,703     1,936       7,208     7,566  
    Income tax provision     212     262       979     970  
    Net income   $ 1,491   $ 1,674     $ 6,229   $ 6,596  
    Earnings per share                            
    Basic   $ 0.30   $ 0.33     $ 1.25   $ 1.32  
    Diluted   $ 0.30   $ 0.33     $ 1.24   $ 1.31  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How 19th-century melodrama turned the sweet music of gothic into something dark and sinister

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Emma McEvoy, Senior Lecturer in English Literature, University of Westminster

    In 1764, Horace Walpole published the first gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto, set in a labyrinthine castle surrounded by woods. The novel features the supernatural, with a dark secret from the past at its core. Today, 260 years later, gothic is still with us in the form of “contemporary gothic” plays, fiction, films, music and computer games.

    Central to the popularity of gothic is the way it affects its audiences. It is supposed to unsettle, to make the flesh creep and provoke feelings of claustrophobia. Soundtracks for gothic films are integral to creating such effects, building suspense and unease while amplifying the visceral impact of sudden jump scares.

    Alejandro Amenábar’s soundtrack for The Others (2001), for example, weirds its listeners out. The hollow but reverberant timbre of brushed piano strings evokes the spaces of the house, conjuring up the old-fashioned alienness of the place. Action, set and music sympathetically resonate.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    The soundtrack for The Substance (2024) shrieks with the strings and sudden dissonances of The Nightmare and Dawn (taken from Bernard Herrmann’s score for Hitchcock’s 1958 masterpiece, Vertigo). Then, it deepens the sense of disquiet with the sinister incantations and medieval-sounding harmonies of Swedish composer Anna von Hausswolff‘s Ugly and Vengeful.

    Both soundtracks impressively succeed in doing what we expect gothic music to do: provoke unease, create suspense and drive home the horror elements.

    But has the music of the gothic always been called upon to unsettle and scare? Has it always sounded so, well, gothic? These are questions I explore in my new book The Music of the Gothic 1789–1820.

    Over the last few years, I’ve been rummaging through archives in London, Oxford and Dublin searching for settings of songs from novels and music associated with gothic plays such as The Mysteries of the Castle (1795). I uncovered many treasures, some of which probably haven’t been performed for a couple of centuries.

    Thanks to a grant from the British Academy and the Leverhulme Trust, I was able to bring some of this music to audiences once more with the help of a group of wonderful musicians, headed by Seb Gillot, who performed the tracks you can hear in this article. You can see them performing live below.

    The gothic novels and plays of the 1790s were populated by sweet-singing heroines and heroes. Among the music I encountered was a song by the composer and singer Harriet Abrams (c. 1758-1821), in which a woman imprisoned in a madhouse sweetly pleads with her cold-hearted jailer.

    I also found music for gothic plays by the Northumbrian William Shield (1748-1829) and the Irish tenor Michael Kelly (1762-1826), who wrote songs about jolly mariners , comic poachers_ and young peasant girls on their way back from market.

    None of this material sounded remotely what we would now describe as gothic. Even the music accompanying the entrance of a blood-covered ghost in The Castle Spectre (1798) was warm and stately – and singularly unterrifying.

    I realised that none of the music from the 1790s – a period when gothic was phenomenally popular – was intended to scare. On the contrary, it was called upon to provide relief from the scare. In late 18th-century gothic plays such as The Italian Monk (1797), music was associated with romance, comedy and sublime religious experience, but not horror or terror.

    At what point then did the kind of gothic music we know today come into being? The evidence can be found in books such as Remick Folio of Moving Picture Music (1914) which contains music for silent film accompanists. With names like Mysterioso, or Forboding and Wind Storm, or Hurry, they were evidently designed for scenes of suspense and mystery.

    Such music is indebted to the music of Victorian melodrama, but what I wanted to know was when melodrama acquired its distinctive gothic sounds.

    Digging into the past of gothic

    Very often in research you discover that things happen gradually. There is trial and experiment, a series of influences, a slow accumulation of examples, and then a tipping point. But when it comes to gothic music, that is not the case. There is a definite date when a specific kind of music erupted onto the entertainment scene. The date was 1802, and the occasion a new dramatic production – a “melo-drame” or musical drama called A Tale of Mystery with music by Thomas Busby.

    Busby’s music was conceptualised very differently to the music of the 1790s. For a start it was intended to add to, not to provide relief from, the gothic elements of the play.

    Most crucially, it was not part of the imagined world of the drama. The fictional characters did not sing it – they did not even “hear” it: Busby’s music was directed at the audience. Instrumental music calculated to disturb, it was chaotic and unnerving, with lots of fast, disjointed short phrases, disturbing chords and cliffhanger endings.

    Instantly recognised as new and revolutionary, it caused a sensation. After audiences had a taste of the new gothic in A Tale of Mystery, music on the page and on the stage soon became something darker and more troubling.

    The older kind of music didn’t disappear overnight, of course, but melodrama took hold and the music of gothic was transformed. Not just on stage but also on the page. Gothic music was no longer uplifting but sinister.

    As seen in The Woman in Black (2012), there’s nothing like a music box in a deserted house to terrify audiences. And who doesn’t thrill to the sound of the diabolically thundering organ in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera?

    Emma McEvoy received a research grant from the British Academy and Leverhulme Trust for the project “The Music of Gothic Literature and Theatre 1790-1820”.

    – ref. How 19th-century melodrama turned the sweet music of gothic into something dark and sinister – https://theconversation.com/how-19th-century-melodrama-turned-the-sweet-music-of-gothic-into-something-dark-and-sinister-246797

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Farming company fined for breaching slurry spreading regulations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A farm company and its director has been fined and ordered to pay costs totalling almost £8,000 after failing to ensure land spreading did not cause pollution.

    Richard Jonty Mason, 52, of Higher Highfield Farm at Slaidburn in Clitheroe, attending on behalf of himself and as director of RJ Mason Ltd of Dalton Square in Lancaster, appeared at Blackburn magistrates’ court on Monday 20 January.

    Both he and the company pleaded guilty to one charge under Farming Rules for Water legislation of failing to ensure that slurry-spreading to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not cause a risk of pollution. 

    The company was ordered to pay a total of £6,575 – a fine of £1,125, costs of £5,000 and a victim surcharge of £450. Richard Mason was fined £137, ordered to pay costs of £1,000 and a victim surcharge of £55 – paying a total of £1,192.

    Jackie Monk, investigating officer from the Environment Agency, said:

    This acts as a reminder for landowners and farmers to ensure they follow the correct procedures for spreading safely.

    Spreading slurry to land is common practice, but steps must be taken to protect the environment. We will take action against anyone who breaches the regulations and puts the environment at risk.

    The court heard that RJ Mason Ltd farms Higher Highfield Farm for dairy, in the heart of the Forest of Bowland. A couple of unnamed streams cross the farm, both tributaries of the River Hodder.

    Slurry spreading regulations breached

    Between 15 and 18 October 2021, the company emptied its slurry tank and spread slurry to 8 fields.

    Slurry-spreading is common practice but care must be taken not to apply it in excess, or it can cause agricultural diffuse pollution – where nutrients wash off the land and into the water – and have a detrimental impact on the environment.  

    It’s a legal requirement to plan applications of slurry so that spreading does not cause a significant risk of pollution.

    To calculate the total amount of nutrients that can safely be applied to crop, soil samples must be taken from each field, a crucial step to understand how much additional nutrients can be safely applied to the soil. Only 3 of the 8 fields had soil tests before the spreading.

    An analysis of the company’s slurry spreading plans by the Environment Agency revealed that during 2021, several fields received multiple applications of slurry.

    One field, for example, received 6 applications of slurry between 2 January and 15 October 2021. The total nitrogen applied to this field in 2021 was 505 kg/hectare, which is more than double the limit set by the Code of Good Agricultural Practice for total nitrogen from organic manure applications, which is 250 kg/ha in any 12 month period.

    Other fields received more than 400 kg/ha total nitrogen from organic manure in 2021. Over-application gives rise to a risk of agricultural diffuse pollution.

    The Environment Agency concluded the spreading activity at the farm appeared to be the company wanting to dispose of the contents of the slurry storage tank.  

    The court found the actions of the company and Mason, as director, were reckless, with the failure to obtain soil samples for 5 out of 8 of the fields leading to a risk of pollution.

    Both were of previous good character and there was evidence they had taken steps to remedy the problem.

    Background

    Full charges:

    R J Mason Limited

    Between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, RJ Mason Limited failed to ensure that each application of organic manure to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not give rise to a significant risk of agricultural diffuse pollution…

    …contrary to regulation 4 and 11(1) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018.

    Richard Mason

    Between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, Richard Jonty Mason, at the relevant time being a director of RJ Mason Limited (“the company”) is liable for the offence by the company set out below as that offence was committed with his consent or connivance or was attributable to any neglect by him contrary to regulation 11(3) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018. The offence by the company being that on days between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, it failed to ensure that each application of organic manure to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not give rise to a significant risk of agricultural diffuse pollution…

    …contrary to regulation 4 and 11(1) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lean Manufacturing Technologies: GUU to Become Pilot Universities in Federal Project

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The State University of Management held a meeting between the rector’s office and representatives of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and the Federal Competence Center (FCC) to discuss the issue of including SUM in the list of pilot universities for the implementation of the lean manufacturing initiative.

    The State University of Management was represented by: Rector Vladimir Stroev, representatives of the rector’s office and other departments.

    The delegation of guests included: Head of the Monitoring and Statistics Department of the Department for Coordination of Activities of Educational Organizations of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia Alena Petrenko and representatives of the Federal Center for Strategic Studies Vyacheslav Tikhomirov and Ekaterina Nikolenko.

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroev spoke about the rich experience of interaction with ministries and implementation of joint projects.

    “GUU has a close-knit team, ready to implement solutions and maximally interested in the success of our university, especially in terms of development. We have a separate department for this issue. Moreover, many ministries are already implementing various solutions on our platform, so we are ready for this. Thus, for the Ministry of Economic Development we carry out many different tasks, including organizing foreign internships for graduates of the Presidential Program, we are also the operator of the competition “My Good Business” and much more,” shared Vladimir Vitalievich.

    Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Dmitry Bryukhanov outlined the issues proposed for discussion.

    “GUU has joined the pilot universities for the application of lean manufacturing ideology in educational institutions. Much is happening in the sphere of lean schooling, it is widely used in industry, and we are already seeing a positive effect from process optimization. For the first time, the experience of using lean technologies will be applied in university practice. The task of universities is to determine the main directions and goals for implementing this initiative,” Dmitry Yuryevich noted.

    Alena Petrenko spoke about what has already been done within the framework of the project and what plans there are for the implementation of lean technologies for this year.

    “The project will be implemented in close cooperation with the Federal Competence Center, the coordinator is the socio-center. Inter-ministerial cooperation between the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Economic Development will be implemented. The project passport and its roadmap have already been formed, pilot participating universities have been identified. By the end of the year, we must develop and implement solutions in five universities, and by the end of 2030, connect absolutely all higher education institutions subordinate to the Ministry of Education and Science to the lean manufacturing system. An important point is the rector’s interest and the university’s readiness for change,” said the head of the monitoring and statistics department of the Department for Coordination of Educational Organizations of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia.

    Vyacheslav Tikhomirov shared details about the upcoming project.

    “The work will be carried out within the framework of the federal project “Labor Productivity”, in which a significant number of industrial enterprises are already participating, and now it will be expanded to the social sphere. How it is implemented: we examine and describe in detail the processes in the organization in order to identify losses based on lean manufacturing, i.e. those actions that take resources but do not produce an effect. Together with the university working group, we will find ways to solve them and improve the process. As a result, we will receive a collection of best practices of boxed solutions, on the basis of which all organizations will be able to find techniques to improve their own indicators,” explained the head of the department for the implementation of projects in the social sphere of the FCC.

    The participants studied the project presentation and discussed possible areas of work, after which they went on a tour of the university.

    At the end of the meeting, it was decided to create a working group to implement the project and continue interaction.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 01/29/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gallabox raises $3.5M to fuel its mission to democratize AI-driven conversational commerce for SMBs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Diego, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Traditional customer communication channels are breaking down, with businesses losing millions in potential revenue through ineffective email, SMS and phone outreach. Gallabox, founded by veterans from India’s leading services marketplace, announced $3.5 million in funding to transform how businesses leverage WhatsApp for marketing and sales.

    The seed round was led by FUSE, with participation from existing investors Prime Venture Partners and Neon Fund. This latest round brings the total raised by Gallabox to $5 million since its inception in 2021.

    Karthik Jagannathan, CEO and co-founder of Gallabox.

    Businesses worldwide, especially in regions where WhatsApp dominates communication, are eager to integrate this high-ROI channel into their growth strategies. While large enterprises could afford to build custom WhatsApp automation solutions to nurture conversations and convert them to closed deals, small and mid-sized  businesses were left managing conversations manually, leading to significant revenue leakages and lost opportunities.

    Unlike traditional communication tools that offer fragmented solutions, Gallabox provides an end-to-end platform for WhatsApp automation. The platform’s no-code approach enables businesses to create AI chatbots for lead qualification, deploy drip marketing campaigns, and manage team collaboration through shared inboxes. From broadcast messaging and automated appointment booking to personalized service recommendations, Gallabox helps businesses automate every stage of their customer interaction funnel.

    Gallabox enables businesses to use WhatsApp for a wide range of purposes

    Founded by Karthik Jagannathan, Yogesh Narayanan, and Yathin Panchanathan, Gallabox emerged from their firsthand experience of working with thousands of SMBs struggling with customer communication and scaling growth—despite investing heavily in lead-generating resources, which have largely been manual. 

    “The shift to B2C messaging is undeniable, but most businesses lack the tools to capitalize on it,” said Karthik Jagannathan, CEO and co-founder of Gallabox. “Typically, SMBs spend enormous amounts of time and effort in building pipelines, which are often disjointed and not scalable. Our platform enables any business, regardless of their technical expertise or budget, to deploy sophisticated AI agents on WhatsApp, helping them convert every conversation into a business opportunity… within minutes.”

    The company’s trajectory validates its approach. Starting in Chennai, India’s unofficial SaaS capital, Gallabox acquired its first 100 customers outside their network within 100 days of launch. So far, the platform has served over 10,000 businesses across 45 countries, with strong traction in service-oriented sectors including education, healthcare/wellness, real estate, and travel. 

    Through Gallabox, businesses can offer a chatbot to support their customers.

    “The world is standardizing on WhatsApp as the modern communication and engagement platform. Gallabox enables companies to meet their customers exactly where they are — with a holistic marketing, sales, and commerce suite on top of WhatsApp. Thrilled to partner with Karthik, Yogesh, Yathindhar, and the entire Gallabox team as they shape the future of business-to-customer communication,” said Kellan Carter, Founding Partner at FUSE. 

    The company has established dedicated teams in the Middle East, Latin America and the US to support its rapid international expansion in markets where WhatsApp is the dominant channel for business communication.

    “Karthik, Yogesh, and Yathin have proven to be an exceptional team throughout the two years we have worked together. Their relentless focus on execution and great product made it an easy decision for us to double down on our commitment,” said Sanjay Swamy, Managing Partner, Prime Venture Partners. “Gallabox’s outstanding product allows SMBs to effortlessly create and deploy AI agents and workflows that automate customer engagement, enabling business owners to concentrate on their core operations.”

    The platform’s impact is evident across sectors. Educational institutions use Gallabox to automate their entire admission process, healthcare providers streamline appointment management, and real estate agencies automate property inquiries and viewing schedules. The platform’s AI agents handle routine interactions while enabling human teams to focus on high-value conversations.

    Looking ahead, Gallabox is evolving beyond pure WhatsApp automation to become a comprehensive AI Sales and Marketing agent platform for SMBs on multiple messaging channels. The company is developing advanced capabilities that will enable businesses to train AI agents through natural language instructions, handling complex tasks from lead qualification to prospect engagement to service delivery.

    Gallabox plans to use the funding to strengthen its product capabilities and expand its geographic footprint. The company’s vision is to redefine how businesses engage with customers, making enterprise-grade AI automation accessible to companies of all sizes.

    Ends

    Media images can be found here.
      
    About Gallabox
    Gallabox is a no-code conversational platform on a mission to democratize AI for small and medium-sized businesses worldwide. With offices in California, Dubai, and India, Gallabox is transforming the sales and marketing playbooks of thousands of companies, helping them achieve faster growth than ever before. 

    About FUSE
    FUSE is an early-stage software focused venture capital firm, currently investing out of their second fund of $255M.

    About Prime Venture Partners
    Prime Venture Partners is one of India’s leading early-stage venture capital firms (primevp.in) based in Bangalore, led by Sanjay Swamy, Shripati Acharya, and Amit Somani. Founded in 2012 with the goal of bringing Silicon Valley-style professionalism to venture investing and building world-class companies from India, PrimeVP is often the first institutional investor in category-defining tech startups. Its major investments span sectors including FinTech, Enterprise SaaS, Consumer Internet, EdTech, Healthcare, Logistics, IoT, and EVs, among others.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Unveils 100x Leverage Crypto Trading with Double Deposit Bonus & $50 Welcome Offer—No KYC Needed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the price of Bitcoin surpassed the $100,000 mark and many analysts believe that it will enter a long-term high-volatility market. Holding spot positions may not continue to generate profits in the short term. BexBack Exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and a 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 200,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d653f906-7908-4200-ab66-0a9a33b3d84e

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b9f6b25-c7eb-436a-8fb8-e59f1ccd5634

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/101ef4e2-f376-4588-a21e-03d8031d15c5

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5a9c839a-4633-419f-92e6-dfaeefb06023

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dash Social Launches Creator Management Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dash Social proudly announces the launch of its Creator Management platform, designed to empower marketing teams with reliable, verified data and streamlined workflows for managing influencer and social media campaigns.

    This milestone marks the next step in Dash Social’s mission to power the future of social entertainment. As the creator economy surpasses $100 billion globally, brands are increasingly looking to creators as essential partners in driving meaningful connections with their audiences. To fully capitalize on this shift, brands need verified data to accurately measure creator impact, and an integrated approach to seamlessly manage paid, earned and owned campaigns.

    Dash Social’s Creator Management platform meets this demand by combining reliable, API-backed data with unified reporting across every key area of social strategy. This comprehensive solution empowers brands to track performance, optimize budgets and gain a complete, actionable view of campaigns.

    “Our Creator Management platform is a game-changer for the influencer marketing industry,” said Thomas Rankin, CEO of Dash Social. “We have combined data integrity with powerful tools that allow teams to work smarter and with confidence. This isn’t just about replacing existing influencer software solutions — it’s about providing marketers with verified insights that enable them to make intelligent budget allocations, while connecting with audiences in a meaningful and measurable way.”

    Dash Social’s Creator Management platform delivers:

    • Reliable, Verified Data: Access API-backed data for accurate and trustworthy insights, eliminating guesswork and ensuring high-quality decision-making.
    • Scalable High-Performing Influencer Campaigns: Evaluate creator impact with metrics like Earned Media Value (EMV) to demonstrate measurable ROI for your campaigns.
    • Time Back: Simplify workflows and campaign measurement, saving hours while discovering the right influencers for your brand.
    • Influencer Management: Manage paid, owned, and earned media in a single platform, ensuring seamless alignment across teams and campaigns.

    Dash Social has built its reputation on anticipating industry shifts and delivering solutions that meet the evolving needs of marketers. With the launch of its Creator Management platform, the company strengthens its position as a leader in social entertainment.

    “This platform represents the culmination of our expertise and commitment to empowering brands to lead with confidence,” added Rankin. “In a world where creators are reshaping the digital economy, we’re providing the tools to turn opportunities into measurable success.”

    Dash Social’s Creator Management platform is now available. For more information, visit www.dashsocial.com.

    For all PR and media inquiries or to speak with a representative regarding this press release, please contact pr@dashsocial.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/906ee27d-1270-4674-822f-70796360d984

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund announces plans to divest assets in the amount of approximately EUR 55 million as part of its strategic effort to bring down LTV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Having recently received expressions of interest from several investors, the management team has engaged local advisors Newsec Advisers UAB and Redgate Capital AS to assist Baltic Horizon Fund (the Fund) in a structured divestment process.

    In February of 2024, Baltic Horizon Fund‘s management team introduced its strategic objectives to stabilize the Fund and build a solid foundation for the future. The past year, the focus has been on signing new leases in order to increase the net operating income and managing the cash position of the Fund.

    Building on the progress that has been made to repay the outstanding bonds and increase the occupancy of the portfolio, the management team sees recovery in the transaction market and has therefore initiated a structured process with the intention to dispose certain of its real estate assets, where the Fund does not see significant short-term opportunities for further value optimization.

    The ambition is to sell up to three assets, in the approximate amount of EUR 55 million including Postimaja and CC Plaza complex in Tallinn, Estonia. The management team has achieved 100% occupancy and prepared the complex for the next life cycle. The site holds potential for further real estate development, which, however, is not the core focus of the Fund going forward.

    The intended disposals are expected to result in a significant reduction in the LTV, considerable improvement of the DSCR and, if executed as planned, repayment of the outstanding bond, bringing the Fund’s LTV below the strategic target of 50%.

    “The intended divestment process is part of the strategic direction for Baltic Horizon Fund, it is expected to markedly improve the net cash flow generation of the Fund and provide a stable platform for the future growth,” says Fund Manager Tarmo Karotam.

    The goal is to enter into agreement with potential buyers during the first half of 2025. There is no certainty that any transaction will transpire. Further announcements will be made as and when appropriate.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bank of Canada provides operational details for restarting asset purchases to end quantitative tightening

    Source: Bank of Canada

    Today, the Bank of Canada is announcing its plan to complete its balance sheet normalization, ending quantitative tightening. Beginning in early March, the Bank will begin purchasing assets as part of normal balance sheet management. Purchases are intended to replace maturing assets, to offset the growth of currency notes in circulation and to stabilize settlement balances within a range over the course of the year.

    Asset purchases will begin with the restart of the regular term repo program, followed by Government of Canada (GoC) treasury bill purchases to restore a more balanced mix of assets on the Bank’s balance sheet.

    As such, the Bank will restart its term repo program effective March 5, 2025 and operations will be conducted every two weeks. Terms will alternate between 1-month operations and 1- and 3-months operations depending on the week. Initially, term repo operations will range between $2bln and $5bln. The sizes will increase over time as the Bank’s needs for additional assets grow. Final operational details, including the size and specific maturity date of the term repos, will be published 1 week prior to the operation date. See the updated terms and conditions for additional information.

    Treasury bill purchases will resume later this year and be conducted via GoC auctions. Purchase amounts will be announced via the regular call for tender process. The timing for the resumption of treasury bill purchases will ultimately depend on the evolution of the Bank’s balance sheet, including take-up of the term repo program. 

    Purchases of GoC bonds will likely not need to start until towards the end of 2026 at the earliest based on current projections for the Bank’s future asset needs. When they begin, they will be conducted in the secondary market. A subsequent market notice containing operational details will be published well in advance.

    Director
    Financial Markets Department

    Director
    Financial Markets Department

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bank of Canada announces an adjustment to the deposit rate and some changes to terms and conditions for Overnight Reverse Repo Operations

    Source: Bank of Canada

    The Bank announced it is making an adjustment to the deposit rate. Effective January 30, the deposit rate will be set at a spread of 5bps below the Bank’s policy interest rate. This change to the monetary policy implementation framework is being made to improve its effectiveness. The intent of this change is to improve the circulation of settlement balances as they decline towards steady state levels over the coming months and support the functioning of short-term funding markets. Adjusting the deposit rate should also help mitigate some of the upward pressure that has been seen on the overnight rate relative to the Bank’s target rate in recent months and help reinforce the effect of the Bank’s Overnight Repo (OR) operations.

    Occasional adjustments to the deposit rate spread may be required in the course of normal operations. These spread adjustments would be considered, among other factors, following a period of sustained and persistent upward, or downward pressure, on CORRA and would be communicated via a market notice. We will assess the impact of this change as the balance sheet continues to evolve and evaluate the need for any additional adjustments to our implementation framework.

    In addition, the Bank is realigning its framework for Overnight Reverse Repo (ORR) operations with that of OR operations. Effective January 30, when they are required, ORR operations will be conducted through a uniform price auction with an aggregate cash value amount offered in each operation of a minimum of $8 billion and individual dealer limits for each ORR of $3 billion. The terms and conditions of ORR operations have been updated to reflect this change and provide further operational details.

    Director
    Financial Markets Department

    Director
    Financial Markets Department

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Teesside Airport boosted with £173m Government Defence Investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    A £173 million Ministry of Defence training contract with British business Draken will boost Teesside International Airport and support jobs across Teesside, Bournemouth and the Midlands – delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    A £173 million Ministry of Defence training contract with British business Draken will boost Teesside International Airport and support jobs across Teesside, Bournemouth and the Midlands – delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    In addition to strengthening our national security, the deal will maintain vital infrastructure in the North East and support more than 200 UK jobs. The new contract will deliver Armed Forces training for responding to a range of threats – including air-to-air combat, electronic warfare and missile attacks.

    Using a fleet of aircraft, Draken will simulate threats for UK personnel, including:

    • Air-to-air combat.
    • Missile attacks.
    • Attacks on ships from aircraft.

    Defence Minister Maria Eagle announced the deal today on a visit to Teesside International Airport. The Minister spoke with staff and apprentices, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to boosting national security and economic growth.

    The project will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening national security and supporting the mission to kickstart economic growth. It also follows the launch of the Defence Industrial Strategy, which will ensure the defence sector is an engine for growth in every region and nation of the UK.

    Through live exercises with UK personnel over the North Sea, Draken private pilots will replicate the tactics and techniques of a range of adversaries.

    Using the latest electronic warfare technology, Draken will also train Royal Naval personnel to protect Carrier Strike Group assets from air and missile attacks and train Army personnel to quickly receive reconnaissance and intelligence information on enemy forces from the air.

    Altogether, this training will ensure that our Armed Forces receive demanding and realistic training, meeting NATO standards.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

    This investment will deliver world-class training for our Armed Forces and boost British business, jobs and national security.

    In line with our Plan for Change and upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy, this deal with Draken will support 200 UK jobs and ensure the future of Teesside International Airport.

    We are showing defence can be an engine for growth, in every region and nation.

    To deliver the training, Draken will use 14 Dassault Falcon 20, one Diamond DA42 and eight L-159E ‘Honey Badger’ fighter jets based at Teesside and Bournemouth. Draken will enrol a minimum of 12 apprentices at both sites.

    Air Officer Commanding 1 Group, Air Vice Marshal Mark Flewin said:

    Our partnership with Draken is of fundamental importance as we continue to train and prepare all of our front-line forces to meet emerging threats across the globe.

    The training delivered to date, simulating adversary threats while also allowing us to train in a representative and contested electro-magnetic environment, has never been more important to ensure the Royal Air Force is ready and able to support NATO and meet the threats of tomorrow.

    The contract will allow us to continue to evolve the high-end training available for all of our front-line forces, as we look to out-compete our potential adversaries.

    Nic Anderson, CEO at Draken, said:

    We are proud to continue serving the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy and the Army through the Interim Medium Speed Operational Readiness Training Services.

    Our purpose is to provide leading edge operational training to help the warfighter to be ready to fight and win. Through this ground-breaking contract we will continually innovate to improve their training experience. 

    Thank you to the whole Draken team who work relentlessly to support our customers, it is the high performance that the Draken team delivers every day that has enabled this contract win.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Man Charged with Drug Distribution and Loan Fraud

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

    BOSTON – A Michigan man has been charged and has agreed to plead guilty in connection with a conspiracy to import and sell illegal pharmaceuticals, including opioids, and to fund the operation of the scheme by fraudulently obtaining a Covid pandemic relief loan.

    Donald Nchamukong, 37, was charged by Information with conspiracy to smuggle goods into the United States, to commit loan fraud and to distribute controlled substances.  Nchamukong will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston on a date to be scheduled by the Court.

    According to the charging documents, starting in 2019 and continuing to 2022, Nchamukong and a co-conspirator, Doyal Kalita, conspired to distribute drugs to persons in the United States over the internet and using call centers in India. Nchamukong allegedly used shell companies, including a purported dietary supplements company and an auto parts supplier, and associated bank and merchant accounts to process sales of illegal foreign drugs, including the Schedule IV opioid, tramadol. Nchamukong and Kalita also received shipments of tramadol from India and reshipped the drug to customers across the United States, including in Massachusetts. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Nchamukong and Kalita allegedly fraudulently obtained a $200,000 Economic Injury Disaster Loan to fund their illegal drug scheme.  

    Kalita was convicted in 2024 and sentenced to 10 years in prison for orchestrating the online drug distribution scheme and a technical support fraud scheme and related money laundering.

    The charge of conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the monetary gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Fernando P. McMillan, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in New York, Small Business Administration and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil, Deputy Chief of the Securities, Financial, and Cyber Fraud Unit, is prosecuting the case.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, pleasehttps://www.justice.gov/coronavirus and https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus/combatingfraud.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Orange County Bancorp, Inc. Announces Strategic Realignment of Internal Divisions to Enhance its Wealth Management Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDDLETOWN, N.Y., Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orange County Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company” – Nasdaq: OBT), parent company of Orange Bank & Trust Co. (the “Bank”) and Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc., today announced a realignment of internal divisions designed to promote its wealth management services to better meet the evolving needs of its clients. The Company’s asset management arm, Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc., and trust and private banking offerings will be collectively known as Orange Wealth Management.

    The oversight of Orange Wealth Management will be led by Senior Vice President, David P. Dineen. Dineen is currently the head of the Bank’s wealth service sales and will now serve as the Managing Director of Wealth Management. Dineen has successfully overseen the trust and private banking divisions of the Bank since his hiring in February 2022 and has more than 30 years of banking and wealth management experience, making him uniquely qualified for this new role.

    “We recognize that our entrepreneurial clients frequently prioritize business expansion, which can sometimes overshadow their personal financial needs,” said Dineen. “By unifying our core divisions, we can provide a comprehensive wealth management solution, seamlessly integrating investment guidance, estate planning, and personal banking services. This team approach truly embodies the Bank’s tagline: ‘Guiding your business, Growing your wealth’.”

    Orange Wealth Management will provide clients:

    • Personalized Attention: In-person and cell-phone access to a dedicated team of advisors who understand their unique financial circumstances and goals.
    • Enhanced Convenience: A full suite of wealth management services that bring together old-fashioned service with cutting-edge technology.
    • Seamless Integration: A cohesive experience that seamlessly integrates personal and business banking with wealth management services unlike the banking industry’s traditional siloed approach to wealth management and commercial banking.

    “We are thrilled to have David lead this important initiative,” said Michael Gilfeather, President and CEO of Orange Bank & Trust Co. “His extensive experience in the wealth management industry will be invaluable as we continue to expand our offerings and provide exceptional service to our clients through Orange Wealth Management.”

    He continued, “Nationwide, a significant majority of the top 10 percent built their wealth through business ownership. This fact aligns perfectly with our business, since the majority of our Private Banking clientele have also built their wealth through entrepreneurship. With the ‘Great Wealth Transfer’ underway, involving the transfer of more than $80 trillion in assets, this strategic realignment positions us to capitalize on this unprecedented opportunity to garner an increasing wallet share within our marketplace by serving the evolving needs of high-net-worth individuals and their families with generations in mind.”

    The Company purchased Hudson Valley Investment Advisors (HVIA) in 2012 with $465 million in assets under management (AUM). Today, HVIA has more than $1.7 billion in AUM serving the owners, managers and directors of their business banking clientele as well as individual and institutional investors. This vertical provides the company with a consistent and growing fee-based revenue stream that is synergistic with its traditional commercial bank spread based income.

    About Orange County Bancorp, Inc

    Orange County Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company of Orange Bank & Trust Co. and Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc. Orange Bank & Trust Co. is an independent bank that began with the vision of 14 founders more than 125 years ago. It has grown through innovation and an unwavering commitment to its community and business clientele to approximately $2.5 billion in total assets. Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Advisor in Goshen, N.Y. It was founded in 1996 and acquired by the Company in 2012.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained herein are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms. Forward looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to the real estate and economic environment, particularly in the market areas in which the Company operates, competitive products and pricing, fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. Government, inflation, changes in government regulations affecting financial institutions, including regulatory fees and capital requirements, changes in prevailing interest rates, increased levels of loan delinquencies, problem assets and foreclosures, credit risk management, asset-liability management, cybersecurity risks, geopolitical conflicts, public health issues, the financial and securities markets and the availability of and costs associated with sources of liquidity.

    The Company wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company wishes to advise readers that the factors listed above could affect the Company’s financial performance and could cause the Company’s actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed with respect to future periods in any current statements. The Company does not undertake and specifically declines any obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

    Contact: Candice Varetoni
    AVP Marketing Officer
    Orange Bank & Trust Company
    cvaretoni@orangebanktrust.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Definitive Healthcare named a 2025 Best Places to Work in Boston by Built In

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FRAMINGHAM, Mass., Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Definitive Healthcare (Nasdaq: DH), an industry leader in healthcare commercial intelligence, today announced that it has been named one of Built In’s 100 Best Places to Work in Boston, MA for 2025. The annual awards program includes companies of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises, and honors both remote-first employers as well as companies in large tech markets across the U.S.

    “We are honored to once again be recognized as a best place to work,” said Kevin Coop, Chief Executive Officer at Definitive Healthcare. “People join Definitive Healthcare to make an impact in healthcare and the culture we have reflects that shared sense of purpose. Our employees’ expertise and dedication are the driving force behind our success. Employees are empowered to come to work as they are, and we have a culture of innovation where everyone’s input is valued and helps shape our progress.”

    Built In determines the winners of Best Places to Work using company data about compensation and benefits. To reflect the benefits that candidates are searching for more frequently on Built In, the program also weighs criteria like remote and flexible work opportunities, programs for DEI, and other people-first cultural offerings. 

    Definitive Healthcare is committed to the growth and success of its employees, offering a range of opportunities for development, including continuous learning, leadership development, educational support, and advancement opportunities. With benefits like unlimited PTO, hybrid work options, and half-day Summer Fridays for all U.S. employees, Definitive Healthcare promotes a flexible work environment that supports a balance between professional and personal life.

    “Being recognized as a Best Place to Work is a testament to these companies’ commitment to building a workplace where individuals and innovation thrive,” says Built In CEO and Founder, Maria Christopoulos Katris. “At Built In, we understand that great companies are powered by great teams, and this achievement showcases their dedication to fostering a culture of growth, inclusivity, and excellence.”

    More information about Definitive Healthcare’s culture and career opportunities can be found at https://www.definitivehc.com/about/life-at-definitive-healthcare.

    About Built In

    Built In is the “always on” recruiting platform that reaches the tech professionals that other leading recruiting platforms don’t. Designed to help companies hire expert tech talent, Built In continuously drives brand awareness with content. Monthly, millions of the industry’s most in-demand global tech professionals visit our site to stay ahead of tech trends and news, learn skills to accelerate their careers, find the right job opportunities and get hired. Thousands of companies, from fast-growing startups to the largest enterprises rely on Built In. By putting their stories in front of our uniquely engaged audience, we help them hire otherwise hard-to-reach technical and expert talent. www.builtin.com

    About Built In’s Best Places to Work

    Built In’s annual Best Places to Work program honors companies with the best total rewards packages across the U.S. and in the following tech hubs: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington DC. Best Places to Work is distinct because its algorithm selects tech companies that build their offerings specifically around what tech professionals value in a workplace. https://employers.builtin.com/best-places-to-work/

    About Definitive Healthcare

    At Definitive Healthcare, our mission is to transform data, analytics, and expertise into healthcare commercial intelligence. We help clients uncover the right markets, opportunities, and people, so they can shape tomorrow’s healthcare industry. Our SaaS products and solutions create new paths to commercial success in the healthcare market, so companies can identify where to go next. Learn more at definitivehc.com.

    Media Contacts:
    Bethany Swackhamer
    bswackhamer@definitivehc.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Brian Denyeau
    ICR for Definitive Healthcare
    brian.denyeau@icrinc.com
    646-277-1251

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Additional £1 million of funding proposed to futureproof Oxford’s historic Covered Market

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 29 January 2025

    Oxford City Council has proposed allocating over £1 million of additional funding to enhance the Covered Market redevelopment, which would bring the total investment to almost £8 million. 

    The allocation of additional funding, which will be decided at next week’s Cabinet meeting (5 February) and is conditional on approval of the Council Budget at the Full Council meeting on 13 February, would allow for additional upgrades to future-proof the historic market while minimising long-term disruption.  

    The redevelopment of the market, which celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2024, will ensure it remains a vibrant and sustainable hub for independent businesses, residents and visitors for generations to come.  

    The funding would enable additionalities, including: 

    • Upgrading services such as drainage, electrics, and utilities in a more sustainable way and to reduce future disruptions 
    • Further improvements to lighting, signage, and decoration, creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for visitors 
    • Removal of redundant services and fittings to help declutter the market and improve the appearance throughout  
    • Infrastructure updates to support greener technologies, including enhanced electrical capacity and provisions for low-carbon initiatives  

    By combining the additional works with the core masterplan improvements – which include a new public square and seating area, improved entrances on Market Street and High Street, service yard reorganisation and essential building maintenance – the project aims to deliver cost and time efficiencies while minimising future maintenance needs. 

    If approved by Cabinet, the project team is ready to progress to the next phase, with detailed designs and planning applications set to begin later this year. If the plans are then approved, work on-site could commence late 2026, with the market remaining operational throughout.  

    The Council recognises that there will be real concerns about disruption to trade during the work. This will be a major area of consideration for all involved in the development as the detailed design and construction plans are developed.  

    The Council is committed to producing an extensive programme of engagement with tenants and other stakeholders to ensure they have a say and are kept properly updated throughout.  

    Comment 

    “Throughout its long history, Oxford’s Covered Market has gone through transformations to ensure its continued relevance and character. This additional funding will enable another of those historic milestones, shaping the Market for future generations. 

    “By future-proofing infrastructure and embracing green technologies, we’re preserving its historic charm while creating a space that meets the needs of our community today and tomorrow.   

    “We understand there will be concerns about disruption, so we will work closely with tenants and stakeholders throughout the process to keep them informed and involved. We’ll listen to their needs, and make sure we do everything we can to meet them as the project is planned and then delivered. “ 

    Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeArt’s Exclusive Reveal of Yan Balestra’s Anvil Wonderland to be Held at WISeKEY’s Geneva Headquarters from January 30 to February 2

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    WISeArt’s Exclusive Reveal of Yan Balestra’s Anvil Wonderland to be Held at WISeKEY’s Geneva Headquarters from January 30 to February 2

    Geneva, Switzerland January 29, 2025: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a global leader in cybersecurity, AI, Blockchain, and IoT operating as a holding company, today announced that its WISe.Art subsidiary is offering collectors and art enthusiasts an array of diverse projects during ArtGeneve, the iconic annual contemporary art fair to be held from January 30 to February 2, 2025. In this vibrant atmosphere, the various projects will give art aficionados a glimpse into Yan’s unique Neo-Pop vision, blending fine art, digital storytelling, and pop culture nostalgia, a true insight on augmented reality with artists selected by Espace L as well as a world première which will revolutionise the music industry using AI to the advantage of human musicians.

    Anvil Wonderland: As the whimsical and the bold ooze with creativity, Anvil Wonderland invites audiences into a dynamic and colourful world where classical animation meets contemporary art. Inspired by the iconic cartoon trope of falling anvils, the piece transforms this playful chaos into a modern-day tribute to resilience.

    The 60 x 80 cm acrylic on canvas piece features striking colours of pure blue, red, yellow, black, and white showcasing Yonel, the mischievous central figure of Yan’s artistic universe, captured mid-leap in a vibrant and daring composition. Accompanying the physical piece is an exclusive NFT animation: a 9-second loop that brings Yonel to life, diving into the unknown with his signature energy and spirit. The package will be released for sale to the public simultaneously live at the WISeKEY’s headquarters and online via the WISe.ART platform.

    This unique combination of physical and digital artistry provides collectors with a phygital experience that seamlessly bridges the worlds of traditional fine art and cutting-edge innovation.

    About Yan Balestra: Yan Balestra is a contemporary artist celebrated for his Neo-Pop aesthetic and ability to combine extreme sports culture, retro-futuristic elements, and bold storytelling. Through Yonel, his artistic alter-ego, Yan invites audiences to reconnect with their inner child and embrace the joy of exploration and imagination. His work serves as a bridge between playful nostalgia and the forward momentum of contemporary art.
    https://www.instagram.com/yanbalestra/?hl=en
    https://platform.wise.art/author/yan/

    About SpinDreams: Hydroelectric transmutations in the Swiss landscape by River Oracle, Lea Sblandano, Nacoca Ko, Paulo Wirz, Ricardo Meli, Paul Fritz, Antoine Félix Bürcher, Hugo Landlade and Jan Steenman. The project was initiated in 2022 to bridge the fluidity of analog and digital reality questioning dreamlike realities and newer technologies, nature’s resources feeding human energies. The art pieces act as semiotic talismans, focal points that draw awareness to the ceaseless metamorphic interplay between the tangible and the virtual.

    About Espace_L: Inaugurated in 2011, Espace_L is rapidly becoming the reference in Geneva for contemporary art. The gallery interacts in distinct sectors by presenting internationally recognized artists and by orchestrating art meetings, to raise awareness and question current art movements questioning technology and the philosophy of art.

    About “20 Song” by Soren Sorenson aka Dorian Gray: Dorian Gray’s approach is, above all, exploratory, a way to understand how AI can enrich the creative process and open new avenues of expression. “20-version song” is a manifesto for augmented musical creation, where artificial intelligence becomes an ally, not a substitute for humans. The project does not stop there: it invites the public to participate in the experience, navigate this sound labyrinth, discover the 20 interpretations, and choose their favorite by voting directly on the site, a democratic approach that gives a playful and participatory dimension to this unique musical exploration.

    About The Good Token Society: In the dynamic landscape of Web3, the need for support, federation, promotion and representation has never been more pressing. The Good Token Society is a hub for sustainable, global technology development, a base for initiatives focusing on the confluence of impact, technology, and finance. A collective of innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders passionate about the intersection of technologies and impact. We must shift from reactive to proactive and being prepared for the future. Despite facing challenges, blockchain players persist in enhancing capabilities. We are transitioning from theoretical experimentation to tangible business solutions.

    The Event: Yan Balestra’s opening exhibition will take place at WISeKEY headquarters, 58 Avenue Louis Casaï in Geneva, Switzerland on January 29, from 4 to 9 pm, by appointment offering an intimate opportunity for collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts to explore Yan Balestra’s latest creation. While the event is not officially affiliated with ArtGeneve, it takes advantage of the vibrant energy surrounding the city’s most prestigious art week, providing a compelling space for attendees to discover Yan’s unique artistic narrative.

    SpinDream will be on show at the Espace_L booth at ArtGeneve and 20 Song will go live on the air simultaneously.

    Sales Details: The NFTs attached to all these various projects will be available for purchase with Crypto Currencies or Credit Card payment on WISe.ART, WISeKEY’s innovative platform for fine art and digital NFTs. This unique phygital piece offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind work of art that bridges the worlds of nostalgia, creativity, and cutting-edge digital innovation.

    About WISe.ART: WISe.ART, powered by WISeKEY, combines blockchain technology with the fine art world to create a secure and innovative space for artists and collectors. It is a cutting-edge platform designed to bring physical and digital art into a new era of authenticity and accessibility.

    About WISeKEY:

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact:  Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com     		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US)
    Contact: The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com    		 WISe.ART
    Contact: Sixtine Crutchfield
    Art Director
    Tel: +41764406563
    scrutchfield@wisekey.com

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Triller Steals Social Media Spotlight with $50 Million Fundraise

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Triller Group Inc. (Nasdaq: ILLR) secures its place as a fierce competitor to TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels with bold innovations, star power, and continued momentum

    Los Angeles, CA, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Triller Group Inc. (“Triller” or “the Company”) is making waves in the technology and investor sectors, announcing a $50 million equity funding round secured through a private placement with institutional investors. This investment fuels Triller’s rapid ascent as the next powerhouse in short-form video platforms, further challenging TikTok’s dominance to become the superior platform for creators, users, and collaborators. 

    Backed by global icons like Conor McGregor, The Weeknd, Marshmello, Lil Wayne, and many more, Triller surged into the top five in the “Photo and Video” category of app stores, solidifying its status as a rising star in digital entertainment.

    Supercharging the Creator Revolution

    In addition to enhancing the platform for users, the fundraise enables Triller to accelerate its mission of empowering creators. Triller will unveil cutting-edge AI-driven tools, enhanced live-streaming capabilities, and a revamped video editing suite, providing creators with unmatched opportunities to engage audiences and monetize their content.

    “At Triller, we’re not just building a platform—we’re leading a movement,” said Wing Fai Ng, CEO of Triller Group Inc. “Whether TikTok is banned or not has no bearing on our trajectory. With powerhouses like Conor McGregor and other global icons who champion our vision, we’ve created a platform that is designed to outlast TikTok and any other competitor. We’re not building our business around the failure of others; this seismic shift in social media is only the beginning of what’s to come.”

    Triller: The New Home for Viral Content

    As TikTok faces ongoing challenges and uncertainty, Triller has emerged as the ultimate refuge and frontrunner for displaced influencers and content creators. Triller’s savemytiktoks.com campaign has ushered in waves of creators seeking a U.S.-owned platform free from political and regulatory roadblocks.

    Under the new leadership of former TikTok Executive Sean Kim, Triller is redefining the user experience and what it means to create, distribute and monetize content.

    BKFC & TrillerTV: Entertainment Frontiers Redefined

    Triller isn’t stopping at short-form videos; the Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) brand reaches over 250 million fans across 60 countries, while TrillerTV is celebrating a decade of streaming success. Upcoming events like Wrestle Kingdom 19 from Tokyo Dome draw millions of viewers and further positions Triller as a multimedia powerhouse.

    Triller’s Future: Poised for Dominance in 2025

    With the fund raise and these developments underway, Triller is poised to become the premier social media hub in 2025, attracting top talent and ensuring long-term growth and success through its transparent and innovative environment.

    Following President Donald Trump’s reelection, Triller Group made a sizeable contribution to the Trump Inaugural Fund, underscoring its dedication to supporting initiatives that resonate with its business values and long-term vision.      

    Navigating the Ship: Investment and Changes to Triller’s Leadership

    Triller Group has also appointed Dr. Roger Kennedy as an non-executive director following a designation by KCP Holdings Limited, the lead investor in this funding round. He will join the board’s audit, remuneration, and nomination committees.

    The private placement consisted of common stock and warrants, with the Company’s shares priced at $2.20 each. This funding round is the first new capital infusion following the AGBA-Triller merger, with an additional fundraise expected later this year.

    This fundraise is a powerful catalyst for Triller Group’s commitment to innovation and growth. With strong backing from our investors and the star power of icons like Conor McGregor, Triller is gearing up to disrupt the digital content landscape like never before. Together with its team, partners, and creators, Triller is creating a platform where ownership, growth, and meaningful monetization are finally within reach.

    For more details, please refer to the Company’s report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 29, 2025.

    About Triller Group Inc.         

    Nasdaq: ILLR. Triller Group is a US-based company that operates two main businesses: the newly merged US-based social media operations (Triller Corp.), and the legacy operations of the Company in Hong Kong (“AGBA”).

    Triller Corp. is a next generation, AI-powered, social media and live-streaming event platform for creators. Pairing music culture with sports, fashion, entertainment, and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology, Triller Corp. uses proprietary AI technology to push and track content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks, enabling them to reach millions of additional users. Triller Corp. additionally owns Triller Sports, Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC); Amplify.ai, a leading machine-learning, AI platform; and TrillerTV, a premier global PPV, AVOD, and SVOD streaming service. For more information, visit www.trillercorp.com

    Established in 1993, AGBA is a leading, multi-channel business platform that incorporates cutting edge machine-learning and offers a broad set of financial services and healthcare products to consumers through a tech-led ecosystem, enabling clients to unlock the choices that best suit their needs. Trusted by over 400,000 individual and corporate customers, the Group is organized into four market-leading businesses: Platform Business, Distribution Business, Healthcare Business, and Fintech Business. For more information, please visit www.agba.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against us following the consummation of the business combination; expectations regarding our strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and our ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in Hong Kong and the international markets the Company plans to serve and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the SEC, the length and severity of the recent coronavirus outbreak, including its impacts across our business and operations. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward–looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    Investor & Media Relations:

    Bethany Lai
    ir@triller.co

    Breanne Fritcher
    triller@wachsman.com

    # # #

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: VelocityEHS Launches the Industry’s First Fully Integrated EHS Platform to Revolutionize Workplace Safety and Risk Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Velocity’s new enhancements of the Accelerate Platform transform the way companies identify and mitigate the threats that put people and businesses in danger.

    CHICAGO, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VelocityEHS, the global leader in EHS & ESG software solutions, is thrilled to announce significant enhancements to its cutting-edge Accelerate Platform, bringing together four industry-leading solutions into one unified experience. Developed by the industry’s largest team of certified EHS professionals, the Platform combines decades of expertise and innovation to help companies proactively manage risk, protect lives, cut administrative tasks, drive collaboration and accountability, and deliver actionable insights for peak performance.

    The Accelerate launch is a landmark moment for both VelocityEHS and the industry. More importantly, it’s a game-changer for EHS professionals dedicated to protecting frontline workers and ensuring their safe return home each day, and for senior leaders focused on business continuity and effective risk management across all operations.

    “EHS software can be a matter of life and death. With Accelerate, Velocity provides capabilities that no other single provider can match,” says VelocityEHS CEO Matt Airhart. “Accelerate empowers our customers to streamline safety, chemical management, industrial ergonomics, and operational risk processes into one unified platform.”

    The Platform was built to address the VelocityEHS customers’ need for seamless integration and greater efficiency. It lets organizations protect their workforce, reduce risks, and achieve operational performance like never before.

    “These new enhancements elevate the user experience from great to exceptional. The ability to create reports and integrate data from multiple solutions is revolutionary, putting actionable insights at our customers’ fingertips so they can focus on protecting lives rather than administrative tasks,” concluded Airhart.

    Key Enhancements of the Accelerate Platform

    • Unified Platform: Access a collection of best-in-class EHS solutions with one secure login, featuring a centralized platform for seamless management of hierarchies, locations, and roles.
    • Customizable Dashboards: Tailor dashboards to the individual or organization’s needs, delivering critical, real-time data when and where it is needed.
    • Advanced Reporting: Generate actionable insights through Business Intelligence (BI)-based, pre-built and custom reports that integrate data from all solutions on the platform.
    • User-Friendly Design: Intuitive features accelerate adoption, reduce learning time, and simplify complex tasks for teams at all levels.
    • Scalability: Seamlessly expands initiatives across multiple locations and regions, ensuring consistent performance and compliance globally while maintaining optimal efficiency.

    These enhancements redefine what is possible in EHS management by delivering scalable and highly adaptable solutions and tools to meet the needs of organizations across all sizes and industries.

    “At VelocityEHS, our commitment to innovation in EHS is unwavering,” says Jason Weiss, Chief Technology Officer, VelocityEHS. “Through extensive focus groups with our customers, combined with the rigorous research of our certified experts and machine learning scientists, we ensure the solutions within Accelerate deliver insights you can trust.”

    First launched in 2022, the Accelerate Platform leverages advanced machine learning and AI to drive continuous improvement through prediction, intervention, and measurable outcomes. As one of the first complete EHS platforms on the market, it remains one of the industry’s most comprehensive.

    For more information about the VelocityEHS Accelerate Platform and to learn how it can drive your EHS and operational excellence, visit www.EHS.com.

    About VelocityEHS

    Relied on by more than 10 million users worldwide to drive operational excellence and achieve outstanding outcomes, VelocityEHS is the global leader in true SaaS enterprise EHS & ESG technology. The VelocityEHS Accelerate® Platform is the definitive gold standard, delivering best-in-class software solutions for managing Safety, Ergonomics, Chemical Management, and Operational Risk. In addition, Velocity offers world-class applications for Contractor Safety & Permit to Work, Environmental Compliance, and ESG.

    The VelocityEHS team includes unparalleled industry expertise, with more certified experts in health, safety, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, sustainability, the environment, AI, and machine learning than any other EHS software provider. Recognized by the EHS industry’s top independent analysts as a Leader in the Verdantix 2025 Green Quadrant Analysis, VelocityEHS is committed to industry thought leadership and to accelerating the pace of innovation through its software solutions and vision. Its privacy and security protocols, which include SOC2 Type II attestation, are among the most stringent in the industry.

    VelocityEHS is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with locations in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Tampa, Florida; Oakville, Ontario; London, England; Perth, Western Australia; and Cork, Ireland. For more information, visit www.EHS.com. 

    Media Contact
    Jennifer Sinkwitts
    734.277.9366
    jsinkwitts@ehs.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Huddersfield Golf Tech Firm Tees Up for International Success

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    MIA Sports wins Dubai contract with support from HSBC UK and UK Export Finance.

    An MIA Sports studio bay at the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai

    • A Huddersfield-based company which specialises in indoor golf technology has entered the UAE market after it secured a finance package worth £75,000.
    • Financing was provided by HSBC UK, with government backing from UK Export Finance.

    MIA Sports specialises in the design, supply and installation of golf simulators and teaching studios. Though founded only 10 years ago, their products have been adopted as an integral training tool at golf facilities in the UK, Europe, and East Asia.

    MIA Sports has now begun exporting to the United Arab Emirates with the support of UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government export credit agency.

    Faced with the opportunity of supplying its technology to Dubai, MIA Sports had to provide financial guarantees which would have restricted its cashflow – a catch-22 situation. They approached UKEF, who worked with HSBC UK to arrange a finance package for the amount of £75k. This was supported by a government guarantee provided through UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF), a product specifically tailored to enable SMEs to scale up their exports by giving banks the confidence to lend.

    The finance package, provided by HSBC UK and guaranteed by UKEF, gave MIA Sports the confidence to secure the Dubai contract. This comprised the supply and installation of 5 teaching studio bays for a new academy at the Emirates Golf Club, home to the iconic Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

    Andrew Keast, Managing Director at MIA Sports, said:

    Breaking into the UAE market was a major opportunity for us. Thanks to UKEF and HSBC UK’s support, we were able to access the finance required to bring our technology to a fast-rising capital in the world of golf.

    Alissia Deane, Export Finance Manager for West Yorkshire, said:

    This deal demonstrates how we’re helping Yorkshire businesses reach their export potential. By working closely with HSBC UK, we’ve enabled MIA Sports to bring their innovative golf technology to Dubai’s growing sports market.

    Andy Booth, International Business Manager at HSBC UK, said:

    Working alongside UKEF, we’re committed to helping innovative British businesses like MIA Sports expand internationally. This showcases how effective partnership between banking and government support can boost UK exports.

    The story of MIA Sports shows how UKEF is working towards one of the key objectives in its Business Plan for 2024-2029: to support 1,000 SMEs a year by the end of the decade.

    Contact 

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan Invest in Livestock and Forage Research

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 29, 2025

    Today, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay and Saskatchewan’s Minister of Agriculture Daryl Harrison announced $6.9 million to jointly support livestock and forage-related scientific research in Saskatchewan in 2025, combined with co-funding from industry partners for a total of $7.2 million.

    The investment is part of Saskatchewan’s 2024-25 Budget of $37 million for agriculture research and is delivered through the province’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). The ADF is supporting 30 livestock and forage-related research projects this year which focus on a variety of topics.

    “We are working with the provinces and territories to deliver vitally important programming through Sustainable CAP,” MacAulay said. “Our shared investment with the Government of Saskatchewan in these Agriculture Development Fund research projects will help create growth and make sure our great sector remains on the cutting edge.”

    “Innovation is the key to staying competitive and allowing Saskatchewan to remain a global leader when it comes to new and best practices in agriculture,” Harrison said. “We continue to support this and help Saskatchewan’s livestock producers to keep doing what they do best through investments of this nature, which enables the kind of world-class scientific work that constantly moves the industry forward.”

    The selection and approval of projects supported by the ADF is based on an annual competitive process to identify research with the potential to help Saskatchewan’s livestock producers and agriculture industry remain innovative, profitable and competitive. This year’s livestock and forage-related projects include a range of topics such as enhancing the capacity to research pathogens and manufacture vaccines and therapeutics to help control infectious diseases, including those that cause pandemics; evaluating the combined impact of prescribed fire and post-fire herbicide applications to control woody plants (snowberry) in rangelands; and investigating how trace-mineral supplementation could help feeder calves respond better to vaccines.

    The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan work closely with industry partners to leverage funding to support research that aligns with industry priorities. This year’s ADF projects were supported by an additional $216,000 contributed to 10 projects by the following industry partners:

    • Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association
    • Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission
    • SaskPork
    • Western Dairy Research Collaboration (BC Dairy, Alberta Milk, SaskMilk, and Dairy Farmers of Manitoba)

    “Investment in research is critical for our industry,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association Chair Keith Day said. “We appreciate both levels of government recognizing its value and investing in our research priorities, which focused on animal health and forage production this year.”

    The ADF is supported through Sustainable CAP, a five-year, $3.5 billion investment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada’s agri-food and agri-product sectors. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

    For more information, including a full list of the above projects, please visit:
    https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/agriculture-natural-resources-and-industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-ranchers/sustainable-canadian-agricultural-partnership/programs-for-research/agriculture-development-fund.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –