Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA to Open Virtual Business Recovery Center to Assist Havasupai Tribe Businesses and Residents Affected by Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    “As communities across the Southeast continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the SBA remains focused on its mission to provide support to small businesses to help stabilize local economies, even in the face of diminished disaster funding,” said Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “If your business has sustained physical damage, or you’ve lost inventory, equipment or revenues, the SBA will help you navigate the resources available and work with you at our recovery centers or with our customer service specialists in person and online so you can fully submit your disaster loan application and be ready to receive financial relief as soon as funds are replenished.”

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today announced the opening of its virtual Business Recovery Center to meet the needs of Havasupai Tribe businesses and individuals who were affected by flooding that occurred Aug. 22–23.

    “When disasters strike, our virtual Business Recovery Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” Sánchez said. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    SBA has established a virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their electronic loan application.

    Virtual Business Recovery Center

    Mondays – Fridays
    8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time
    FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    (916) 932-8956

    Opens at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5

    Closed Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans Day

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    SBA disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

    Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 24, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 25, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: 7th China International Import Expo opens in Shanghai

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

    SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 — The newest edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s first national-level exposition dedicated to imports, opened on Tuesday in Shanghai.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 7th CIIE and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum.

    Running from Nov. 5 to 10, the 7th CIIE has attracted 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions. It also sets a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the event.

    More than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are set to be unveiled during the expo, which experts believe is a strong indication of global companies’ confidence in the Chinese market and their commitment to further development in China despite a sluggish global economic recovery.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ASEAN-Australia Centre inaugural Advisory Board appointments

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    Today, I am pleased to announce the inaugural Advisory Board of the ASEAN-Australia Centre.

    The establishment of the ASEAN-Australia Centre was announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit and commenced operations earlier this year.

    The Centre replaces the Australia-ASEAN Council and will strengthen people-to-people links, increase ties with national cultural institutions, support emerging leaders, drive business engagement, and deepen Australia’s trade and investment links under Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.

    The following individuals have been appointed to the Advisory Board of the ASEAN-Australia Centre:

    • Ms Louise Adams, Chief Operating Officer, Aurecon
    • Professor Nicholas Farrelly, Pro Vice-Chancellor, University of Tasmania
    • Professor Sango Mahanty, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australia National University
    • Ms Audra Morrice, chef, author, television presenter and sustainability tourism champion in Southeast Asia and the Pacific
    • Mr Tarun Nagesh, Curatorial Manager, Asian and Pacific Art, Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art
    • Ms Su-Lin Ong, Managing Director and Chief Economist, RBC Capital Markets
    • Professor Sharon Pickering, Vice-Chancellor and President, Monash University
    • Ms Kate Russell, Chief Executive Officer, Supply Nation
    • Ms Hayley Winchcombe, Engagement Manager, Mandala
    • Mr John Hopkins, (ex officio) Managing Director and CEO, Export Finance Australia
    • Ms Michelle Chan, (ex officio) Deputy Secretary and Head of the Office of Southeast Asia, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

    The Chair of the Advisory Board will be announced early next year.

    I would like to thank outgoing Chair Mr Glenn Keys AO and board member Ms Caroline Chan for their contributions in advancing the Australia-ASEAN Council’s work.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: Global Strategy: Fergus Kane Leads DIGZAX in Shaping the Future of Crypto Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ARVADA, Colo., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, the internationally renowned cryptocurrency exchange DIGZAX announced its global expansion strategy aimed at penetrating emerging markets and enhancing its business coverage and international influence. This initiative marks the further commitment of DIGZAX to the international market while showcasing its success in strategic positioning and market operations. As the heart of this expansion strategy, Fergus Kane, the founder and CEO of DIGZAX, has once again become a focal point in the industry.

    Fergus not only possesses a robust financial background but is also a pioneer in the realm of cryptocurrency. He graduated from Harvard University, and later achieved significant success at top financial institutions such as Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan on Wall Street. However, he did not confine himself to traditional finance; instead, he keenly recognized the vast potential within crypto finance.

    After extensive research into the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, Fergus identified numerous pressing issues facing cryptocurrency exchanges. In response, he decided to establish DIGZAX, a user-centric trading platform that emphasizes security and compliance. Since its inception in 2019, DIGZAX has rapidly secured a significant position in the global market, thanks to its innovative technology applications and high-quality user experience.

    According to the recently announced global expansion plan of DIGZAX, the platform will first solidify its leadership in the Asia-Pacific market before gradually extending its reach into Latin America. Fergus stated that both regions are experiencing rapid growth in their cryptocurrency user bases, presenting immense market potential. DIGZAX intends to establish a solid business foundation in these markets through stringent compliance measures and flexible operational strategies.

    This strategy not only reflects the global vision of DIGZAX but also underscores its keen attention to emerging markets. By deeply exploring these regional markets, DIGZAX aims to provide users with a more diversified range of services, ensuring it maintains a leading position in the fiercely competitive cryptocurrency landscape.

    For Fergus Kane, DIGZAX is not merely a cryptocurrency trading platform; it is a bridge that helps more people safely and conveniently enter the world of crypto finance. Throughout its global expansion, DIGZAX has consistently prioritized user experience as its core objective. Whether it involves the continuous optimization of platform features, the promotion of user education, or rigorous compliance management, Fergus and his team are dedicated to creating an efficient and secure trading environment, ensuring that more potential investors can confidently engage with the crypto market and fully enjoy the growth dividends of the industry.

    In addition to business expansion, Fergus particularly emphasized the importance of industry knowledge dissemination. He believes that users can only better participate and benefit from crypto finance when they truly understand its operational mechanisms and underlying values. Consequently, DIGZAX plans to further strengthen market education in the future, helping more investors grasp the relevant knowledge of cryptocurrencies. Through this initiative, DIGZAX aims to provide users with a safe and robust path to market participation, maximizing their potential returns.

    With the rapid development of the cryptocurrency market, Fergus Kane and the DIGZAX exchange have emerged as industry leaders. Through precise market insights, cutting-edge technology applications, and a user-centered service philosophy, DIGZAX is swiftly rising to become a frontrunner in the global crypto finance sector. With its global expansion plan, DIGZAX will continue to drive industry innovation, creating greater value and opportunities for users.

    Media Contact:

    Full company name: DIGZAX BLOCKCHAIN DEVELOPMENT INC

    Company website: https://www.digzax.co

    Contact Person: Darma

    Email id: support@DIGZAX.co

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by sponsor. 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/645f4f0f-608a-424c-9d2e-50837f5090e2

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Q&A: Default and Loss Data by ADB and Other MDBs

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Article | 05 November 2024
    Read time: 5 mins

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    On 10 October 2024, ADB published a comprehensive report detailing its sovereign default and loss rates over a 34-year period. This report, made in keeping with ADB’s commitment to data transparency, shows the remarkable credit performance of loans to its developing member countries (DMCs). On 15 October 2024, the GEMs Consortium—a group of 26 multilateral development banks (MDBs) and development finance institutions (DFIs)—published two reports that provide insights on the performance of credit portfolios and credit risk in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) based on the group members’ investment experiences.

    Stephen O’Leary, Head, Office of Risk Management, ADB

    What prompted major MDBs to disclose their proprietary data, such as credit data, to the public?

    Unlike in developed economies, there is a deficit of reliable data on credit performance in the emerging markets where MDBs operate. This leads to misconceptions about the level of risk in those regional debt markets. Therefore, major MDBs have decided to disclose their aggregated detailed default and recovery statistics at a more granular level in response to shareholders’ demand for greater transparency.

    By making their own credit data publicly available, MDBs are empowering private and public investors with valuable insights into the actual creditworthiness indicators of borrowers in developing countries. This information is crucial for investors who often perceive these markets as high risk due to a lack of data. The MDBs are playing a key role in changing this perception.

    How significant are the data being shared?

    The published data have additional granularity which may help refine credit models. Robust credit models are fundamental to lending volume and pricing decisions, capital adequacy assessment, and overall strategic decisions to operate in specific markets. MDB’s private sector data should also catalyze private investors to invest more in emerging markets.

    What are the key insights from the recent GEMs publication of private sector defaults and recoveries?

    To underscore the reliability of the insights, it should first be highlighted that the GEMs report has one of the biggest populations of approximately 2000 private sector defaults. For comparison, the S&P’s Emerging and frontier markets corporate default summary showcases around 500 default instances since 1997.

      The GEMs report reveals that private-sector lending in EMDEs has a historical average default rate of 3.56%, which implies S&P Corporates’ B rating. The annual default rates were surprisingly stable and slightly below the historical average for the past 20 years. The fact that lending in frontier markets did not result in high default rates is a remarkable finding, especially given that the MDBs prioritize development goals over profitability.

    The data also highlight that financials comprise 36% of MDBs and IFIs borrowers, while utilities comprise approximately 14%. The financials have the lowest default rate among all sectors. Such MDBs’ sectoral concentration facilitates credit transmission into the economies of developing countries via financial intermediaries. While lending to renewable energy and sustainable utilities infrastructure simultaneously reduces climate risk.

    What steps has GEMs Consortium taken to improve the data?

    GEMs Consortium continuously improves the data to increase their usability and credibility among investors and stakeholders. The consortium has already updated its methodology documentation, providing detailed explanations of data collection processes and sources. Additionally, GEMs Consortium invests in streamlined data collection technologies to ensure more timely and granular updates, facilitating better decision-making in fast-changing market conditions.

    How can sovereign data disclosures help the borrowers?

    Disclosing sovereign default and recovery data is important as they detail the performance of an MDB sovereign lending in a specific country. Such disclosures should help investors enter cofinancing agreements with an MDB. For example,   ADB’s report on sovereign default and loss rates demonstrates the low credit risk in ADB’s sovereign operations, with an average default rate of 0.54% over the last 34 years and zero new defaults from 2010 to 2021. The data underscore the strength of ADB’s relationship with its developing member countries and the preferred creditor treatment accorded to ADB.

    The recent strides made by MDBs in enhancing credit data disclosures are a testament to their commitment to transparency and accountability. These efforts, when continued, will ensure that stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the public, have access to reliable and comprehensive data. This, in turn, will contribute to sustainable development and financial stability on a global scale.

    In conclusion, the true utility of data is realized only when there is widespread global awareness of their free availability. While collecting and publishing data are essential steps, effective dissemination is key to maximizing their impact. The MDB community can significantly enhance the development benefits by engaging independent market participants to review, comment on, and utilize credit data. This collaborative approach not only enriches the value of the data but also fosters broader participation, ultimately driving meaningful outcomes.

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    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: Global firms capitalize on China’s smart, green transformation

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Jinbao, the mascot of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), and Xiaoxin, a humanoid robot providing inquiry service, are pictured at the media center of the 7th CIIE in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Global investors are eyeing fresh opportunities in China as the world’s second-largest economy accelerates its intelligent, green transformation.

    With the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) set to open on Tuesday, multiple industry leaders from across the world are gearing up to showcase their latest innovations and technologies, aiming to tap into China’s vast market potential.

    Tapping smarter manufacturing

    Aptiv, a multinational developing automobile parts, made its debut at the seventh CIIE, exhibiting software and hardware products featuring intelligence and electrification.

    “The CIIE provides an excellent platform for enterprises from all over the world to exchange ideas and cooperate,” said Simon Yang, president of Aptiv for China and the Asia Pacific region. He noted that Aptiv hopes to make full use of the CIIE to showcase its innovative solutions.

    The company is committed to its long-term development strategy of “In China for China,” and will continue to increase its investment in the Chinese market while expanding business cooperation with Chinese original equipment manufacturers.

    Aptiv is one of a number of multinationals gathering in Shanghai to test the pulse of China’s smart manufacturing market, which plays an important part in the country’s pursuit of high-quality development.

    Swedish technology company Hexagon has brought its new solutions to help traditional manufacturers become more digital-savvy to this year’s CIIE, including cloud platforms for industrial software and smart quality-testing systems.

    “The company is ready to ride the wave of the country’s pursuit of new quality productive forces, which are high-tech, highly efficient and of a high quality,” said Qin Lei, marketing business partner at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence (Qingdao) Co., Ltd.

    Merck Group, Germany’s leading tech company, is showcasing its innovative achievements in the new materials section of the CIIE, which is new to the annual event.

    China’s great market potential, improving business environment and rich talent pool have reinforced Merck’s confidence in its long-term investment in the country, said Marc Horn, executive vice president of Merck and president of Merck China.

    Embracing a greener future

    Entering its seventh year, the CIIE has retained its “New Era, Shared Future” theme, which holds special meaning for Christian Bruch, president and CEO of Siemens Energy AG.

    “I strongly agree with the theme, as it envisions a sustainable and more decarbonized future that requires collaborative efforts from governments, enterprises, customers, partners and the entire supply chains,” Bruch said.

    In his view, China’s dedication to building a modern energy system creates “extensive market opportunities” for global energy technology companies, including Siemens Energy.

    “Together with Chinese customers and partners, we have developed many energy infrastructure projects, continuously invested and expanded our manufacturing capacity in China, in order to meet the growing market demand in China and across the world,” he said.

    Pledging to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060, China has been steadfast in accelerating its energy transition. Over the past decade, the share of clean energy in the country’s total energy use has increased 10.9 percentage points, according to the National Energy Administration.

    Dedicated to promoting clean energy in China, Siemens Energy has established 15 manufacturing facilities across the country. It has become an important partner in the country’s energy transition, Bruch said.

    At this year’s CIIE, the company is poised to showcase its cutting-edge decarbonization technologies for the energy sector. Many of its exhibits will be presented for the first time in Asia or China.

    “During the expo, I look forward to meeting and exchanging ideas with partners, building consensus and fostering collaborative development,” Bruch said. “Tackling climate change and driving energy transition is a daunting task that no single country or region can accomplish alone.”

    Bruch’s emphasis on collaboration aligns with China’s increasing global contributions. According to a white paper issued by China’s State Council Information Office in August this year, the country’s wind power and photovoltaic exports helped other countries reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by about 810 million tonnes in 2023.

    Recognizing China’s role in the global energy transition, Bruch highlighted Siemens Energy’s confidence in deepening cooperation with its Chinese partners. “We are fully committed to working together to build a new energy ecosystem that supports China’s dual-carbon goals and fosters sustainable energy development worldwide.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Foxconn’s planned business headquarters a vote of confidence in mainland market

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Foxconn, the world’s leading electronics manufacturer, is set to build a new business headquarters in Zhengzhou, central China, in a move the Taiwan company described as “a crucial step” in expanding its presence on the mainland market.

    Analysts say the decision highlights Foxconn’s commitment to investing in the mainland, despite rising global trade protectionism and “decoupling” and “de-risking” rhetoric ratcheted up by certain Western politicians.

    The tech giant recently won a bid for a 2.84-hectare plot at 150 million yuan (about 21.07 million U.S. dollars) in the Zhengdong new district in Zhengzhou, capital of Henan Province, where it plans to build a headquarters focusing on key technology sectors, according to the Zhengzhou Public Resources Trading Center in a recent statement.

    This initiative aligns with Foxconn’s “3+3” strategy targeting electric vehicles, digital health and robotics, along with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors and next-generation communication, the company said.

    Foxconn’s planned headquarters will feature a construction area of approximately 70,000 square meters in its first phase, with an investment of 1 billion yuan. The company has not yet provided a groundbreaking date.

    In a speech at the unveiling ceremony for the new business headquarters in April 2023, Chairman Young Liu emphasized that the headquarters will mark the beginning of a new journey for Foxconn’s strategic industry development on the mainland, and the company’s new businesses are both a response to global market trends and an embrace of the latest wave in technological advancement.

    Henan’s favorable infrastructure and business environment, as well as the collaborative relationship between Foxconn and the local governments, were pivotal factors in the decision to locate the headquarters there, Liu noted.

    Between February and April 2023, Liu visited Henan three times, pledging to “build a new Foxconn” in the province. In July this year, the company signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Henan provincial government to accelerate projects related to new business ventures.

    Per the deal, Foxconn plans to leverage its expertise in smart manufacturing, along with its global technological capabilities and supply chain resources, to advance projects in the new energy vehicle, energy storage battery, digital healthcare and robotics industries.

    Construction of a trial manufacturing center for new energy vehicles has started at Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone, with operations expected to commence by the end of the year.

    Foxconn’s increased investment in Henan and its focus on future industries represent a win-win approach, said He Liang, an official with Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone.

    “We will continue to provide quality service and foster a first-rate business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized,” He added.

    Henan and Foxconn share a deep bond.

    Foxconn, the principal assembler of Apple iPhones, established operations in the inland province in 2010. By the end of 2023, its Zhengzhou factory spanned around 2.8 million square meters and had recorded 12 consecutive years of growth in industrial output. Over the years, Foxconn has further expanded its footprint across Henan, setting up facilities in cities such as Jiyuan, Hebi and Zhoukou.

    The cooperation has also transformed Henan’s economy, turning the province into a global hub for intelligent terminal manufacturing. From 2016 to 2020 alone, the Zhengzhou factory attracted over 200 related supply chain enterprises to the Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone, with total investments exceeding 300 billion yuan, according to the zone administration.

    Analysts view Foxconn’s moves as part of a broader bet on emerging industries, such as new energy vehicles, solid-state batteries, robotics, AI and semiconductors — sectors that are likely to shape the future of global manufacturing.

    Song Xiangqing, deputy head of the Commerce Economy Association of China, noted that the company’s increased investment in Henan underscores the opportunities created by the digital economy and technological progress on the mainland, as well as the resilience of its industrial chain and its shift toward high-quality manufacturing.

    The world’s second-largest economy has been steadfastly expanding its institutional opening-up in recent decades, rolling out various policies aimed at achieving high-quality development and offering the rest of the world new growth momentum and opportunities.

    At its third plenum, the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China renewed the country’s commitment to the basic state policy of opening to the outside world and continuing to promote reform through opening-up.

    The commitment to an open economy, paired with its massive domestic market, presents significant opportunities for companies that are aiming to scale up operations in China despite global headwinds.

    In May, U.S. carmaker Tesla began construction on a mega factory in Shanghai to manufacture its energy-storage batteries. In his recent visit to China, Apple CEO Tim Cook also reaffirmed the company’s investment commitment in the country.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Science, Cargo Launch on 31st SpaceX Resupply Mission to Station

    Source: NASA

    Following a successful launch of NASA’s SpaceX 31st commercial resupply mission, new scientific experiments and cargo for the agency are bound for the International Space Station.
    The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, carrying more than 6,000 pounds of supplies to the orbiting laboratory, lifted off at 9:29 p.m. EST Monday, on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    Live coverage of the spacecraft’s arrival will begin at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, on NASA+ and the agency’s website. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
    The spacecraft is scheduled to autonomously dock at approximately 10:15 a.m. to the forward port of the space station’s Harmony module.
    The resupply mission will support dozens of research experiments conducted during Expedition 72. In addition to food, supplies, and equipment for the crew, Dragon will deliver several new experiments, including the Coronal Diagnostic Experiment, to examine solar wind and how it forms. Dragon also delivers Antarctic moss to observe the combined effects of cosmic radiation and microgravity on plants. Other investigations aboard include a device to test cold welding of metals in microgravity and an investigation that studies how space impacts different materials.
    These are just a sample of the hundreds of investigations conducted aboard the orbiting laboratory in the areas of biology and biotechnology, physical sciences, and Earth and space science. Such research benefits humanity and lays the groundwork for future human exploration through the agency’s Artemis campaign, which will send astronauts to the Moon to prepare for future expeditions to Mars.
    The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to remain at the space station until December when it will depart the orbiting laboratory and return to Earth with research and cargo, splashing down off the coast of Florida.
    Learn more about space station activities by following @space_station and @ISS_Research on X, as well as the ISS Facebook, ISS Instagram, and the space station blog.
    Learn more about the commercial resupply mission at:

    NASA’s SpaceX CRS-31

    -end-
    Claire O’Shea / Josh FinchHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
    Stephanie Plucinsky / Steven SiceloffKennedy Space Center, Fla.321-876-2468stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov / steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov
    Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on November 04, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 550,223.53 6.12 5.00-6.50
         I. Call Money 7,899.89 6.41 5.10-6.50
         II. Triparty Repo 396,114.85 6.08 5.41-6.25
         III. Market Repo 145,225.79 6.22 5.00-6.50
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 983.00 6.40 6.40-6.41
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 296.85 6.39 6.20-6.50
         II. Term Money@@ 657.00 6.50-6.90
         III. Triparty Repo 790.00 6.21 5.50-6.36
         IV. Market Repo 831.61 6.53 6.35-6.67
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Mon, 04/11/2024 3 Thu, 07/11/2024 74,000.00 6.49
    3. MSF# Mon, 04/11/2024 1 Tue, 05/11/2024 5,231.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Mon, 04/11/2024 1 Tue, 05/11/2024 193,522.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -262,291.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Thu, 31/10/2024 14 Thu, 14/11/2024 24,697.00 6.49
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    5. On Tap Targeted Long Term Repo Operations Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 250.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 2,275.00 4.00
    6. Special Long-Term Repo Operations (SLTRO) for Small Finance Banks (SFBs)£ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 105.00 4.00
    Mon, 22/11/2021 1095 Thu, 21/11/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 29/11/2021 1095 Thu, 28/11/2024 305.00 4.00
    Mon, 13/12/2021 1095 Thu, 12/12/2024 150.00 4.00
    Mon, 20/12/2021 1095 Thu, 19/12/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 255.00 4.00
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,458.51  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -13,698.49  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -275,989.49  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on November 04, 2024 1,026,975.35  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending November 15, 2024 1,011,562.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ November 04, 2024 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on October 18, 2024 402,348.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    As per the Press Release No. 2020-2021/520 dated October 21, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/763 dated December 11, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/1057 dated February 05, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/695 dated August 13, 2021.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    £ As per the Press Release No. 2021-2022/181 dated May 07, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/1023 dated October 11, 2021.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/1428

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST promotes Hong Kong’s status as international asset and wealth management and risk management centre in Switzerland (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, started his visit to Zurich, Switzerland, yesterday (November 4, Zurich time) to promote Hong Kong’s status as an international asset and wealth management and risk management centre.

         Mr Hui in the morning met with the Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Solutions, Swiss Re Group, Mr Ivan Gonzalez, and the Chairman of the Board of Zurich Insurance Group, Mr Michel M Liès, respectively. During the exchanges with these two world-leading insurance services and risk-solution providers, Mr Hui updated them on Hong Kong’s latest initiatives as announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address (Policy Address)” to further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a global risk management centre. The initiatives include reviewing the risk-based capital regime implemented in July 2024 and examining the capital requirements for infrastructure investment to enrich insurance companies’ asset allocations for risk diversification, and drive investment in infrastructure; as well as continuing to invite Mainland and overseas enterprises to establish captive insurers in Hong Kong. 

         Hong Kong is currently home to around 160 insurance companies. It has the largest concentration of insurance companies and the highest insurance density in Asia.    

         Mr Hui had a lunch meeting with the Swiss-Hong Kong Business Association (SHKBA), one of the members of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations. Mr Hui shared with SHKBA members the huge scale and diversified investment opportunities of Hong Kong’s asset and wealth management business, adding that the city welcomes investors and family offices around the world.      

         At another gathering with leaders of a multinational financial service provider, Mr Hui briefed them on the enhancements proposed in the Policy Address that further strengthen Hong Kong’s status as an asset and wealth management hub. Hong Kong will consult the industry on increasing the types of transactions eligible for tax concessions for funds and single family offices to cover emission derivatives/emission allowances, insurance-linked securities, loans and private credit investments, virtual assets, etc. He also updated participants that the Government’s issuance of green bonds has been attracting strong interest from local and international investors. So far a total of HK$220 billion in government green bonds have been successfully issued, including a diverse array of bonds – retail, institutional, and tokenised – across multiple currencies and tenors.

         On the same day, Mr Hui met with the Head of Bilateral Cooperation, Swiss National Bank, Ms Lena Lee Andresen, to discuss issues of mutual concern such as the global trend of monetary policies. 

         Mr Hui also visited the headquarters of Gategroup, and met with their Chief Financial Officer, Mr Urs Schwendinger. Gategroup is a market-leading inflight caterer with a global presence, including Hong Kong. Noting that Hong Kong is an international aviation hub with continuous development of the Airport City, Mr Hui welcomed Gategroup to further expand their business in the city.  
        
         Mr Hui will depart for Geneva in the morning of November 5 (Zurich time) to continue his visit in Switzerland.                     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: $100 Million ADB Loan to Strengthen Armenia’s Fiscal Sustainability and Financial Markets Development

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (5 November 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an €89.47 million ($100 million equivalent) policy-based loan as Subprogram 2 of Armenia’s Fiscal Sustainability and Financial Markets Development Program.  

    The reforms promoted under this programmatic approach, supported by ADB in partnership with Agence Française de Développement, strengthen Armenia’s fiscal management and deepen its financial markets. These reforms align with Armenia’s national strategy to enhance governance, promote economic stability, and accelerate climate action.

    Government reforms under Subprogram 2 promote critical objectives of fiscal reform, including improved multi-year budget planning and procurement governance, and strengthened public debt, fiscal risk, and public investment management. In addition to fiscal governance reforms, the program also supports the establishment of liquid money markets, facilitates greater investor confidence, and enhances corporate transparency and governance.  

    Armenia’s climate change action policy commitments will also be enabled by key program reform efforts to embed adaptation and mitigation concerns and environmental policy objectives in public financial management systems and in financial sector policy.

    “The reforms will stimulate the financial sector and access to finance, positioning Armenia as a more robust economy resilient to external risks,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov.  

    Subprogram 2 builds on the successful implementation of Subprogram 1 and aims to reduce fiscal vulnerabilities and bolster investor confidence in its financial and capital markets.

    “This program is a vital step in promoting fiscal effectiveness and bolstering Armenia’s capacity to manage fiscal risks and public investments effectively, creating foundations for sustainable growth,” said ADB Principal Financial Sector Economist João Farinha-Fernandes.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB to Help Nepal Upgrade Electricity Transmission and Distribution Infrastructure

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (5 November 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $311 million loan to improve and modernize electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure in Nepal.

    “Upgrading and modernizing Nepal’s electricity transmission and distribution facilities and infrastructure is essential to its sustainable growth and development,” said ADB Principal Energy Specialist Jiwan Acharya. “Not only will this project ensure the reliable and sustainable delivery of electricity in the country, but it will also provide employment and business opportunities to make lives of Nepalese better and more comfortable.”  

    The project will finance a total of 290 kilometers (km) of power transmission lines from Dailekh to Jumla, New Butwal to Lamahi, Nijgadh to Ramauli, and Teenpiple and Okharpauwa. It will also expand, reinforce, and rehabilitate electricity distribution infrastructure in Karnali and Lumbini provinces. Distributed grid-connected solar photovoltaic generation facilities with a total capacity of 8 megawatts will be established in Karnali and other areas. 

    ADB will help the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) upgrade its training center, expand the smart meter rollout program, establish a data recovery center, and implement a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition network. The project will conduct awareness-raising campaigns on safe and efficient energy use.

    ADB will provide an additional $30 million grant from its Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries, to support training and capacity building. Advanced communication tools and technology, funded by the grant, will equip NEA with skills in hydropower management and electricity dispatch significantly enhancing Nepal’s capability to trade power with neighboring countries. 

    The project will also support training of women and disadvantaged groups on business and technical skills, open energy-related employment opportunities, and expand energy-based businesses. It will help build the capacity of the NEA and other government agencies in power management, project management, new technologies, and power trade, among others.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Fijian journalists embrace multimedia landscape for the digital age

    By Catrin Gardiner, Queensland University of Technology

    In the middle of the Pacific, Fiji journalists are transforming their practice, as newsrooms around Suva are requiring journalists to become multimedia creators, shaping stories for the digital age.

    A wave of multimedia journalists is surfacing in Fijian journalism culture, fostered during university education, and transitioning seamlessly into the professional field for junior journalists.

    University of the South Pacific’s technical editor and digital communication officer Eliki Drugunalevu believes that multimedia journalism is on the rise for two reasons.

    “The first is the fact that your phone is pretty much your newsroom on the go.”

    With the right guidance and training in using mobile phone apps, “you can pretty much film your story from anywhere”, he says.

    The second reason is that reliance on social media platforms gives “rise to mobile journalism and becoming a multimedia journalist”.

    Drugunalevu says changes to university journalism curriculum are not “evolving fast enough” with the industry.

    Need for ‘parallel learning’
    “There needs to be parallel learning between what the industry is going through and what the students are being taught.”

    Mobile journalism is growing increasingly around the world. In Fiji this is particularly evident, with large newsrooms entertaining the concept of a single reporter taking on multiple roles.

    Fijian Media Association’s vice-president and Fiji Times editor-in-chief Fred Wesley says one example of the changing landscape is that the Times is now providing all its journalists with mobile phones.

    “While there is still a photography department, things are slowly moving towards multimedia journalists.”

    Wesley says when no photographers are available to cover a story with a reporter, the journalists create their own images with their mobile phones.

    Journalists working in the Fiji Times newsroom, which is among the last few remaining news organisations in Fiji to have a dedicated photography department. Image: Catrin Gardiner, Queensland University of Technology

    The Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) also encourages journalists to take part in all types of media including, online, radio, and television, even advertising for multimedia journalists. This highlights the global shift of replacing two-person teams in newsrooms.

    Nevertheless, the transition to multimedia journalists is not as positive as commonly thought. Complaints against multimedia journalism come from journalists who receive additional tasks, leading to an increase in workload.

    FBC advertises for multimedia journalists, reflecting the new standard in newsrooms. Image: FBC TV/Facebook/QUT

    Preference for print
    Former print journalist turned multimedia journalist at FBC, Litia Cava says she prefers focusing on just print.

    She worked a lot less when she was just working in a newspaper, she says.

    “When I worked for the paper, I would start at one,” she says. “But here I start working when I walk in.”

    Executives at major Fijian news companies, such as Fiji TV’s director of news, current affairs and sports, Felix Chaudhary, also complain about the lack of equipment in their newsrooms to support this wave of multimedia journalism.

    “The biggest challenge is the lack of equipment and training,” Chaudhary says.

    Fiji TV is doing everything it can to catch up to world standards and provide journalists with the best equipment and training to prepare them for the transition from traditional to multimedia journalism.

    “We receive a lot of assistance from PACMAS and Internews,” Chaudhary says. “However, we are constantly looking for more training opportunities. The world is already moving towards that, and we just have to follow suit or get left behind.”

    More confidence
    Fortunately for young Fijian journalists, Islands Business managing editor Samantha Magick says a lot of younger journalists are more confident to go out and produce and write their own stories.

    “It’s the education now,” she says. “All the journalists coming through are multimedia, so not as challenging for them.”

    University of South Pacific student journalist Brittany Louise says the practical learning of all the different media in her journalism course will be beneficial for her future.

    “I think that’s a major plus,” she says. “You already have some sort of skills so it helps you with whatever different equipment it may be.”

    Catrin Gardiner was a student journalist from the Queensland University of Technology who travelled to Fiji with the support of the Australian government’s New Colombo Plan Mobility Programme. This article is published in a partnership of QUT with Asia Pacific Report, Asia Pacific Media Network (APMN) and The University of the South Pacific.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI commences visit to Canada (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, began his visit to Toronto, Canada, on November 4 (Toronto time).

         In the morning, Professor Sun visited MaRS Discovery District, an innovation hub, and met with its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Alison Nankivell, to receive a briefing on the hub’s successful experience in nurturing an innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem. Located close to major universities and hospitals in downtown Toronto, MaRS focuses on nourishing deep technology industries including clean technology and life science. As the largest urban innovation centre in North America, MaRS Discovery District supports 1 200 enterprises and renders direct assistance to enterprises in the hub with a view to building communities of innovators and promoting the adoption of new solutions.

         Professor Sun then visited the University of Toronto, and toured the Centre for Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Engineering of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering of the University. Professor Sun met with the Dean of the Faculty, Professor Christopher Yip, and the Acting Associate Vice-President International Partnerships, Professor David Wolfe, and was briefed on the latest developments and research and development (R&D) achievements of the Centre. The Centre brings together universities and industries to translate the latest advances of artificial intelligence and data analytics into technologies in areas ranging from advanced manufacturing to human health. Its team also delivers ongoing guidance for advanced analytics projects in industry settings. Professor Sun encouraged the University to co-operate with universities in Hong Kong to participate in the InnoHK research clusters to strengthen global R&D collaboration.

         In the afternoon, Professor Sun visited a start-up that provides storage and delivery services in North America. The start-up adopts a smart platform that automatically processes orders and updates inventory levels in real time. It also utilises robotic shuttles to manage inventories automatically, thereby reducing the overall cost for logistics and delivery services.

         Professor Sun attended a networking dinner organised by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Toronto Chapter) in the evening, and had an exchange with Hong Kong young people studying and working in Toronto to learn more about their study and work lives in Canada. Professor Sun shared with them Hong Kong’s efforts to develop as an international I&T centre and build an international hub for high-calibre talent. He noted that it is of paramount importance to enlarge the talent pool for the I&T development in Hong Kong, adding that the city is an ideal destination for young people to develop their careers and that Hong Kong youngsters are encouraged to seize the myriad opportunities there.

         Professor Sun will proceed to Ottawa and continue his visit on November 5 (Ottawa time).                  

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI to conduct 2-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction under LAF on November 05, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    On a review of the current and evolving liquidity conditions, it has been decided to conduct a Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction on November 05, 2024, Tuesday, as under:

    Sl. No. Notified Amount
    (₹ crore)
    Tenor
    (day)
    Window Timing Date of Reversal
    1 1,25,000 2 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM November 07, 2024
    (Thursday)

    2. The operational guidelines for the auction as given in the Reserve Bank’s Press Release 2019-2020/1947 dated February 13, 2020 will remain the same.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1429

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Workers At Boeing Achieve Contract Victory to Set New Standards For Aerospace Industry

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Industry-leading contract approved by majority worker vote will deliver 43.65% compounded wage increase

    On behalf of Biden-Harris administration, U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su played key role in helping the employer and workers reach groundbreaking agreement that will protect access and pathways to the middle class for thousands of frontline workers

    SEATTLE – 33,000 frontline workers at Boeing, members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Districts 751 and W24 voted to ratify a new union contract with the company that has instantly set a new standard for compensation and wages for aerospace industry workers. 

    The deal followed a vigorous strike lasting nearly two months by the workers in Washington state, Oregon and California that made international headlines and drew widespread public support and bipartisan political support. 

    The new contract includes a 43.65% compounded wage increase – 38% before compounding – over the four-year life of the contract. In recent weeks, acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su worked on behalf of the Biden-Harris administration to help restart and reach a positive resolution to negotiations that had previously stalled.

    Jon Holden, President of IAM District 751 and Brandon Bryant, President of IAM District W24, issued the following joint statement following the votes being tallied: 

    “Working people know what it’s like when a company overreaches and takes away more than is fair. Through this strike and the resulting victory, frontline workers at Boeing have done their part to begin rebalancing the scales in favor of the middle class – and in doing so, we hope to inspire other workers in our industry and beyond to continue standing up for justice at work. Through this victory and the strike that made it possible, IAM members have taken a stand for respect and fair wages in the workplace. Our members perform high quality and flight critical work for the airplanes we build and deserve a return on their labor investment that provides for the quality of life worthy of that labor.

    “This contract also creates a new foundation to build on for the future and that future begins today. We are ready to help Boeing change direction and return to building the highest quality and safest airplanes in the world. Our members are critical to that mission, and now have a stronger voice in the decision making process to ensure those needed improvements are made. ‘There is no Boeing without the IAM’ has been our battle cry, and we are ready, again, to do our part to bring this company back to the standard that it never should have strayed from.

    “Livable wages and benefits that can support a family are essential – not optional – and this strike underscored that reality. This contract will have a positive and generational impact on the lives of workers at Boeing and their families. We hope these gains inspire other workers to organize and join a union. Frontline Boeing workers have used their voices, their collective power, and their solidarity to do what is right, to stand up for what is fair – and to win.”

    Brian Bryant, IAM International President, issued the following statement: 

    “This agreement represents a new standard in the aerospace industry – one that sends a clear statement that aerospace jobs must be middle class careers in which workers can thrive. Workers in the aerospace industry, led by the IAM — the most powerful aerospace union in the world — will not settle for anything less than the respect and family-sustaining wages and benefits they need and deserve. This agreement reflects the positive results of workers sticking together, participating in workplace democracy, and demonstrating solidarity with each other and with the community during a necessary and effective strike. 

    “Nearly every worker in America knows what it’s like for a company to take too much and give too little. A contract like this sends an inspiring message to all workers in the United States who are seeking to join unions or who have been shortchanged by their employer. We remain very thankful to Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su, who on behalf of the Biden-Harris administration helped to bring the employer and the members together for productive talks to reach this agreement.”

    Highlights of the latest tentative agreement approved Monday night by the union members include:

    • 38% general wage increase over four years – 13%, 9%, 9%, 7% which compounds to 43.65% over the life of the agreement 
    • $12,000 Ratification Bonus: The ratification bonus combines the previous $7,000 ratification bonus and the $5,000 lump sum into the 401(k). Now, union members can choose how this total amount is received – in their paycheck, contribution to 401(k), or a combination of both.
    • AMPP incentive plan is reinstated, with a guaranteed minimum annual payout of 4%, including 2024 payout in February 2025
    • 401(k) employer match of 100% up to 8%
    • Special company retirement contribution of 4% into 401(k) maintained
    • $105 pension multiplier per year for those vested in the pension plan
    • Call-in language back to current contract
    • New long-term disability plan and big improvement to short term disability plan
    • Health care cost containment
    • Improved overtime rules
    • Key job security provisions
    • Increased Minimum Rates that now increase with COLA increases. 

    Further details of the negotiated resolution can be found at iam751.org/2024StrikeProposal

    “For many frontline Boeing workers in the IAM Union, the terms of this contract will be life-changing,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. “It’s the most significant upgrade we’ve had to our collective bargaining agreement in a decade – and it will prove to be an example for the rest of the industry to live up to. Their strike was a great example of workers standing up for not just themselves, but also their families and communities.”

    “Our members went on strike for better wages and better working conditions – and they won by staying united and exercising democracy in the workplace,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “They hit the streets, held strong, and have been rewarded with an excellent contract. These provisions are not just deserved by this dedicated frontline workforce — they are also overdue. This will set a new standard for aerospace across the region, the nation, and the industry.”

    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries. 

    goIAM.org | @MachinistsUnion

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Affirm needs strategic positioning amid regulatory shifts in the crowded UK BNPL market, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Affirm needs strategic positioning amid regulatory shifts in the crowded UK BNPL market, says GlobalData

    Posted in Banking

    Following the news that the US-based buy now pay later (BNPL) startup Affirm has entered the UK market;

    Phoebe Hodgson, Associate Analyst, Banking and Payments at GlobalData, offers her view:

    “The BNPL market in the UK is becoming increasingly saturated. According to GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey*, only 21% of respondents in the UK have used an online BNPL service while buying goods and services. This limited adoption, coupled with an already concentrated market, where 75% of the UK market is held by five BNPL providers, suggests Affirm may find it challenging to position itself among the well-established competitors like Klarna, PayPal and Zilch.

    “Affirm’s unique selling points, such as extended loan periods and strategic partnerships, could help distinguish it, but it will have to overcome significant obstacles. One of the biggest hurdles is the evolving regulatory environment. The UK government seeks to regulate the BNPL product further, treating it as if it were a credit product, subjecting them to stricter consumer protections and potentially reducing the appeal for BNPL for both providers and consumers alike. Soon to be under stricter regulations, Affirm must work under pressure to assert itself among the UK customers, who are more cautious of debt amid high living costs and economic uncertainty. Furthermore, with competitors already moving towards innovative product extensions, and compliance initiatives, Affirm’s market entry may need to be more than just a product push – it must be a strategic positioning exercise to resonate with cautious UK consumers.”

    *Global survey conducted online in Q2 2024 among 67,292 consumers across 41 markets globally. The survey explores global consumer behaviors, purchasing preferences, and attitudes across the most important banking products. The UK’s sample is 5,003.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Smartphone launches by US carriers drive intense promotional battle in Q3 2024, observes GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Smartphone launches by US carriers drive intense promotional battle in Q3 2024, observes GlobalData

    Posted in Technology

    The launch of flagship mobile devices by Apple, Samsung Electronics, and Google sparked intense promotional competition among the US carriers during the third quarter (Q3) of 2024. Telecom giants targeted both new and existing customers with aggressive preorder trade-in offers, switcher deals, and new line promotions aimed at upgraders, seeking to capitalize on demand for high-end smartphones and drive customer retention, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Deepa Karthikeyan, Senior Technology Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “July to September typically marks a pivotal period in the US handset promotions in preparation for the holiday season.”

    GlobalData’s latest US Handset Promotions report reveals that preorder promotions on flagship devices including Apple’s iPhone 16 series, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip6, Galaxy Z Fold6, Google’s Pixel 9 series and the Motorola Razr series made up 16% of the total offers count during Q3 2024.

    The key telcos competed against each other to win upgrade customers potentially looking for deals on the next best smartphone model. Attractive trade in offers featuring up to $1900 off high value flagship devices such as the Galaxy Z Flip6 and Z Fold6 dominated the landscape in Q3.

    Karthikeyan explains: “The slew of flagship device launches provided the carriers’ with an opportunity to attract users to their high-end plans and services, increasing their premium userbase and tackling churn with device financing clauses that consumers must honor to remain eligible for the discounted device prices.”

    GlobalData reveals that there were 188 carrier sponsored promotions for the iPhone 16 series, 76 for the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 and 93 for the Pixel 9 series devices. T-Mobile offered the highest number of promotions for these devices among all carriers tracked, featuring a mix of trade-in, upgrade/trade-in, and new line promotions offering users up to $1,100 off the cost of the device.

    Karthikeyan concludes: “All carriers launched promotions with comparable value and terms for both new and existing customers, underscoring their dedication to customer retention as well as to acquire new clientele. However, there has been a greater prevalence of promotions for new lines on Pixel devices compared to trade-in or upgrade offers. This trend suggests that carriers are actively promoting the Pixel series to attract new users.”

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: US still faces systemic issues in maternal care despite access to advanced medical technology, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    US still faces systemic issues in maternal care despite access to advanced medical technology, says GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    Women’s health, specifically maternal care, is a medical device sector that has seen significant growth in recent years. However, there are still several challenges associated with the sector, especially in the US. The US ranks worse than any other developed nation in cases of maternal mortality, despite having access to the most advanced medical technology, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Toronto’s Medtech Conference 2024, held from October 15–17, hosted a panel discussion with industry experts on the topic of maternal health and the challenges facing the industry in the US. These include a lack of access to caregivers across the country, even in major metropolitan areas such as Washington, DC, hospital closures, and low funding. Additionally, experts highlighted that women in America still suffer from low access to maternal health medical technologies that could improve their health outcomes.

    American women face obstacles to care such as low income, difficulty taking time off work, and location, all of which can impact their ability to access quality maternal care. Additionally, the US has a lower level of health awareness than other countries, especially regarding maternal health. All these factors have led to care being more reactive than proactive for mothers. The experts present at these panels agreed that maternal care should be significantly more patient-centered than it currently is.

    David Beauchamp, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Maternal care is an incredibly important part of modern healthcare. Unfortunately, the US lags behind other developed countries in terms of the standard of care. A major problem in the US is the lack of patient-centered care and a focus on reactive instead of proactive care. Experts at the Medtech Conference have identified several problems with the existing options for care in the US and have suggested that focusing on the patient during maternal care could solve or improve many of these problems.”

    GlobalData’s databases tracks 399 products within the reproductive and maternal health sector that are currently available on the market. A further 43 are in various stages of development globally. These devices have seen significant success in addressing demand for treatments for conditions such as postpartum hemorrhage and other complications relating to delivery.  However, the market is significantly smaller than other medical device markets, likely due to the factors listed above and the general lack of funding.

    Beauchamp concludes: “Maternal care is an incredibly important part of women’s health, and ensuring that women have access to this kind of care is vital to reduce maternal mortality. If the problems mentioned above are solved, it is possible the US will see a significant decrease in maternal mortality and an improved standard of care for mothers.”

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Eco-friendly formulations and sustainable packaging drive Asia laundry detergent market, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Eco-friendly formulations and sustainable packaging drive Asia laundry detergent market, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    Rising environmental awareness among the Asia-Pacific (APAC) consumers is fueling demand for eco-friendly laundry detergents, as buyers increasingly prefer products with sustainable packaging and chemical-free, biodegradable formulations. A growing aversion to traditional chemical-based detergents, due to their adverse effects on ecosystems and marine life, is accelerating this shift, making sustainability a crucial factor in laundry detergent purchasing decisions across the region, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Naveed Khan, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Eco-friendly detergent formulations with ingredients such as plant extracts, essential oils, enzymes, and natural preservatives are becoming increasingly popular. These ingredients are perceived by consumers to have low to no environmental impact, throughout the product lifecycle from production till disposal.”

    GlobalData 2024 Q3 Consumer Survey* corroborates this trend, where 80% of the consumers in Asia & Australasia regard “sustainable/environmentally friendly” attributes in product purchases as either essential or nice to have. In the same survey, 79% consider the same for “recyclable packaging” tags.

    In response, detergent manufacturers are making their production process sustainable and ecologically friendly to attract consumers. For instance, in Malaysia, Ouji Seiyaku introduced a detergent liquid under its Fab Zero brand name. According to the company, the product is biodegradable and contains plant-derived ingredients such as alkyl glycoside from corn fermentation extract. Similarly, in Singapore, Watson’s Personal Care Stores launched Orita-branded laundry detergent with 97% biodegradable ingredients, which includes coconut oil.

    Deepak Nautiyal, Consumer and Retail Commercial Director, APAC and ME at GlobalData, adds: “Consumers seek environmentally friendly packaging as concerns about increasing packaging wastes, which end up in landfills and oceans, polluting the region’s land, water, and air, mounts. Thus, packaging features such as zero plastic packaging, 100% recyclable packaging, and biodegradable packaging are increasingly offered by manufacturers to capitalize on the growing consumer concerns.”

    In line with this, in Malaysia, sustainable detergent brand, The Laundry Pods, introduced its line of bio-enzyme laundry pods with plastic-free packaging. Similarly, in Singapore, Bio-Home branded Laundry Sheet Detergent with completely dissolvable detergent sheets packed in paperboard box was awarded the WorldStar Award at the 2024 Singapore Packaging Star Awards.

    Khan concludes: “Increasing consumer demand for sustainable and ecologically safe options will create new growth opportunities for manufacturers to improve their shares. However, incorporating sustainable aspects, ingredients, and materials in the production process will require more investments. Thereby striking the right balance between increasing production costs and keeping prices competitive while compromising on margins will be challenging for manufacturers.”

    *GlobalData 2024 Q3 Consumer Survey – Asia & Australasia, published in October 2024, included 6,131 respondents

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SJ at Second Legal Forum on Interconnectivity and Development (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following are the closing remarks by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at the Second Legal Forum on Interconnectivity and Development under the Hong Kong Legal Week 2024 today (November 5):

    Your excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

         Thank you very much again for participating in this year’s Second Legal Forum on Interconnectivity and Development. I would first like to express my gratitude to the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR (OCMFA) for co-organising this forum with the Department of Justice (DoJ) of the Hong Kong SAR. OCMFA’s support and contribution are invaluable to the success of this event.

         I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and especially to their General Counsel, Mr Alberto Ninio, who delivered an impactful keynote address on promotion of good governance and high-quality development under international law earlier this morning. Hong Kong, China became a member of AIIB in 2017. Our arrangement for secondment of DoJ counsel to the legal department of AIIB in the past few years has been conducive to enhancing our collaboration with AIIB and strengthening the development of Hong Kong international legal and dispute resolution services, especially in the financial fields.

         Following the keynote address from AIIB, the two Panel Sessions examined the critical importance of legal connectivity in our increasingly globalised landscape, as well as its impact across various fields, from international trade and commerce, dispute resolution, sanctions to emerging domains such as the governance of artificial intelligence (AI). The experience and practice of Hong Kong in connecting with high-standard international legal rules provide a good illustration for our discussion. Allow me to reflect briefly on today’s discussions and Hong Kong’s role in these vital developments.

    Cross-border legal connectivity and China’s foreign-related rule of law

         Legal connectivity transcends borders, bringing jurisdictions closer and promoting shared prosperity. As President Xi Jinping has noted, the fundamental purpose of advancing foreign-related rule of law is to better safeguard the interests of the country and the people, promote the progress of international rule of law and the development of a community with a shared future for mankind. China’s institutional opening-up progresses alongside its development of foreign-related legal frameworks. The rule of law forms the foundation of a favourable business environment.

         The first session explored Hong Kong’s evolving legal landscape, where, under the “one country, two systems” framework, it serves as a strategic nexus for trade and commerce and dispute resolution, regionally in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, as well as internationally. In this era of ever-changing global business norms, as China’s institutional opening-up progresses, Hong Kong serves not only as a “super-connector” but also provides unique legal services under its legal and international arbitration framework.

    Rule of law to safeguard sustainable development

         On the importance of the rule of law to mitigate risks and to safeguard Hong Kong’s and national sustainable development, the learned speakers have shared their insights into the global developments in financial sanctions and anti-sanctions, as well as legislative trends on anti-interference in major western countries.

         As AI rapidly advances, it transforms industries and economies in a revolutionary way. This also brings with it complex global regulation and governance issues and related risks. As the final report on this subject by the United Nations Secretary-General appointed panel concludes, “the very nature of the technology itself – transboundary in structure and application – necessitates a global approach”. The discussions on this topic today are timely and relevant as we consider how to safeguard sustainable development in an increasingly inter-connected world with AI.

         As President Xi stressed during the 16th BRICS Summit, “as the world becomes more turbulent, it is even more important to uphold the banner of peace, development, co-operation and win-win outcomes”. It is my sincere hope that the discussions in today’s forum could bring out a spirit of co-operation and collaboration in traditional fields like economy and trade, as well as emerging areas like artificial intelligence, with our sustainable development safeguarded by the rule of law.

    Hong Kong as a global legal and dispute resolution hub

         On co-operation and development, aligned with Hong Kong’s development of “eight centres” as outlined in the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Department of Justice has taken forward policies to strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a leading legal and dispute resolution hub.

         The staunch support of the Central People’s Government in strengthening the city as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region under the National 14th Five-Year Plan can be demonstrated by the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) Preparatory Office last year. The IOMed Preparatory Office has successfully facilitated the conclusion of negotiations on the Convention on Establishment of the IOMed last month. A decision has also been made by all the negotiating parties that a signing ceremony of the Convention will be held in Hong Kong next year and the IOMed headquarters will also be situated in Hong Kong once the Convention has entered into force.

         As the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation, IOMed is important for the implementation of settling international disputes by peaceful means as set out in the United Nations Charter. Upon its establishment, the IOMed will provide friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services, thereby building Hong Kong as a capital for international mediation.

         Apart from exciting development on IOMed, we also continue to enhance our collaboration with prominent law-related international organisations, such as the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT), with which we co-organised this year’s Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit yesterday. We are also in active discussion with UNIDROIT for the possible establishment of its liaison office in Hong Kong in the near future. These forms of collaborations enable Hong Kong to contribute to and align with international standards, thus enhancing its appeal as a global hub for dispute resolution.

         In addition, with the support of the Central People’s Government and the assistance of the OCMFA, the Department of Justice has put in place programmes to second local legal talents to several law-related international organisations including the UNIDROIT. Through participating in the work of such international organisations, local legal professionals can enhance their knowledge of international legal matters and develop global vision. Nurturing Hong Kong’s legal talents is crucial for the sustainable development of the legal community, for consolidating our position as a leading international legal and dispute resolution services centre and for the long-term development of the rule of law, matters to which the Central Authorities and the HKSAR Government have attached great importance.

    Fostering legal talent: Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy

         Following the announcement in the Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy will be officially launched on this Friday, Day five of Hong Kong Legal Week. To make good use of Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and international legal status, the Training Academy will regularly organise practical training courses, seminars, international exchange programmes and more to promote exchanges among talents in regions along the Belt and Road region. It will also provide training for talents in the practice of foreign-related legal affairs for the country, and cultivate legal talents to be familiar with international law, common law, civil law, national legal systems and other legal areas. In future, our Department will make use of this capacity building platform to enable practitioners from different jurisdictions to exchange ideas on promoting the culture of harmony.

    Looking ahead: Hong Kong’s future role as an international legal hub

         Looking to the future, we are reminded of the traditional Chinese saying by Confucius, in Chinese is “å�›å­�和而ä¸�å�Œ and in English “a gentleman seeks harmony, not uniformity”. This philosophy encourages us to pursue a shared vision despite our differences, and is crucial for enhancing interconnectivity and development in building a community of shared future for mankind. In our interconnected world, such harmony through diversity is essential for achieving lasting success and mutual respect across boundaries. Hong Kong’s dedicated efforts in aligning with and contributing to international legal standards, its experience in international dispute resolution, as well as its commitment to legal capacity-building could leave a positive impact as the world navigates through complex challenges. As China moves towards deeper institutional opening-up, Hong Kong has a significant role to play in facilitating international engagement and promoting the progress of international rule of law.

         In closing, my sincere thanks to all speakers, participants, supporting organisations, colleagues at the OCMFA and the DoJ for making this forum a success. I look forward to your support for the Third Legal Forum on Interconnectivity and Development next year. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Capital Southwest Announces Pricing of Convertible Notes Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capital Southwest Corporation (Nasdaq: CSWC) (“Capital Southwest”) today announced the pricing of $200,000,000 principal amount of 5.125% Convertible Notes due 2029 (the “notes”) in an underwritten offering (the “offering”). Capital Southwest also granted the underwriters of the notes an option to purchase up to an additional $30,000,000 principal amount of notes, solely to cover over-allotments. The sale of the notes is expected to close on November 8, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

    The notes will be senior unsecured obligations of Capital Southwest and will accrue interest payable quarterly in arrears on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year, beginning on February 15, 2025 at a rate of 5.125%. The notes will mature on November 15, 2029, unless earlier converted, redeemed or repurchased.

    Noteholders may convert their notes at their option at any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding the maturity date.

    Upon conversion, Capital Southwest will pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of Capital Southwest’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of Capital Southwest’s common stock, at Capital Southwest’s election. The conversion rate will initially be 40.0000 shares of Capital Southwest’s common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes (equivalent to an initial conversion price of $25.00 per share of Capital Southwest’s common stock). The initial conversion price of the notes represents a premium of approximately 12% over the last reported sale price of Capital Southwest’s common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market on November 4, 2024. The conversion rate will be subject to adjustment in some events. In addition, following certain corporate events that occur prior to the maturity date or if Capital Southwest delivers a notice of redemption, Capital Southwest will, in certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for a noteholder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or notice of redemption, as the case may be.

    Capital Southwest may not redeem the notes prior to November 20, 2027. Capital Southwest may redeem for cash all or any portion of the notes (subject to certain limitations), at Capital Southwest’s option, on a redemption date on or after November 20, 2027 and on or before the 45th scheduled trading day immediately prior to the maturity date if the last reported sale price of Capital Southwest’s common stock has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during any 30 consecutive trading day period (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which Capital Southwest provides notice of redemption at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. No sinking fund is provided for the notes.

    If Capital Southwest undergoes a fundamental change, then, subject to certain conditions, noteholders may require Capital Southwest to repurchase for cash all or any portion of their notes at a fundamental change repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the fundamental change repurchase date.

    Capital Southwest estimates that the proceeds from the offering will be approximately $193.6 million (or approximately $222.7 million if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional notes in full), after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated expenses payable by Capital Southwest. Capital Southwest expects to use the net proceeds from the offering to redeem in full its 4.50% Notes due 2026, to repay a portion of the outstanding indebtedness under its senior secured revolving credit facility with ING Capital LLC, and for general corporate purposes.

    Oppenheimer & Co. is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The proposed offering is being conducted pursuant to Capital Southwest’s automatic shelf registration statement on Form N-2, including a base prospectus, that was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on October 29, 2024 and became effective upon filing. A preliminary prospectus and accompanying prospectus relating to the proposed offering were filed with the SEC and are available for free on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the proposed offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available for free on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the final prospectus supplement relating to this offering and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, from: Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., Attention: Syndicate Prospectus Department, 85 Broad Street, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10004, by telephone at (212) 667-8055, or by email at EquityProspectus@opco.com.

    This press release, the pricing term sheet, the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus are neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall they constitute an offer, solicitation or sale of any securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Capital Southwest

    Capital Southwest Corporation (Nasdaq: CSWC) is a Dallas, Texas-based, internally managed business development company with approximately $1.5 billion in investments at fair value as of September 30, 2024. Capital Southwest is a middle market lending firm focused on supporting the acquisition and growth of middle market businesses with $5 million to $50 million investments across the capital structure, including first lien, second lien and non-control equity co-investments. As a public company with a permanent capital base, Capital Southwest has the flexibility to be creative in its financing solutions and to invest to support the growth of its portfolio companies over long periods of time.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking” statements, as that term is defined under the federal securities laws, including statements concerning the closing of the offering of the notes, the anticipated use of proceeds from the offering, the potential impact of the foregoing or related transactions on dilution to holders of Capital Southwest’s common stock or the market price of Capital Southwest’s common stock or the notes. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond Capital Southwest’s control. Capital Southwest’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to whether Capital Southwest will consummate the offering of notes on the expected terms or at all, which could differ or change based upon market conditions or for other reasons, and the other risks detailed in Capital Southwest’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the year ended March 31, 2024, in Capital Southwest’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and in other filings and reports that Capital Southwest may file from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent Capital Southwest’s views as of the date of this press release. Capital Southwest anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Capital Southwest’s views to change. Capital Southwest undertakes no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Capital Southwest’s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    Michael S. Sarner, Chief Financial Officer
    214-884-3829

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement Celebrating Machinists Vote

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    SEATTLE, WA – U.S. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement after the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) voted to ratify Boeing’s recent contract offer.

    “Tonight, I congratulate the workers in the IAM for winning a hard-fought victory after going on strike for seven weeks to stand up for core principles. Their solidarity in going on strike – a legitimate step in America’s collective bargaining process – ensured a contract with 38 percent wage increases, sizable increases in retirement plans and job security. I also congratulate Machinists President Jon Holden as well as Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg for working to reach a deal that ensures Boeing will continue to build quality planes that contribute to our country’s security and mobility while valuing and respecting the fact that there is no Boeing without the IAM.  I also thank Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su for her skilled leadership in bringing both parties to the table and to an agreement.

    “Boeing has a long history of building the middle class in Seattle, with generations of workers committed to their jobs and to the company. This contract is a promising sign that the new leadership is committed to returning to that role as a business that is contributing to our region, state and country’s well-being for current and future generations.”

    Jayapal has supported IAM Machinists throughout the strike, joining them on the picket line and rallying with them. She also sent a letter urging all parties to return to the bargaining table to reach a fair contract and stood behind the Machinists after they rejected Boeing’s initial contract offer.

    Issues: Jobs, Labor, & the Economy

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: VTR Biotech Unveils Upgraded National Technology and Innovation Center:A Leap Forward in Biotech Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHINA, ZHUHAI, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, VTR Biotech proudly announces the comprehensive upgrade of its National Enterprise Technology Center, a landmark achievement reflecting its commitment to advancing the biotechnology sector. The history of VTR Biotech began in the early 1990s when the company was founded with a vision to revolutionize the biotechnology landscape in China. From its inception, VTR Biotech has prioritized innovation and scientific excellence, rapidly establishing itself as a leader in the field. In the years that followed, the company made significant strides in research and development, resulting in groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology solutions.

    The upgraded center features five state-of-the-art technology platforms: the Genetic Engineering Platform, High-Throughput Screening Platform, Biosynthesis Platform, Technology Transfer Platform, and Technical Support Platform. These platforms are designed to enhance VTR Biotech’s R&D capabilities, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology.

    Key investments in high-performance artificial intelligence computing servers, advanced microbial selection robots, liquid handling workstations, and an expanded fully automated fermentation tank system are poised to enhance VTR Biotech’s independent R&D capabilities. These improvements aim to increase research efficiency and facilitate the practical application of research outcomes, ensuring that VTR Biotech remains at the forefront of biotechnological innovation.

    “The upgrade of our National R&D Center is a monumental achievement for VTR Biotech,” said Mr. Chen, Chairman of the company. “We are proud to lead a global team of scientists and engineers working on transformative biotechnology solutions in life sciences, including genetic modification, microbiology, biosynthesis technology, and enzyme engineering. This upgrade elevates our R&D capabilities and strengthens our ability to provide innovative solutions to the global market.”

    VTR Biotech’s National Enterprise Technology Center is recognized as one of China’s most prestigious enterprise technology innovation platforms, evaluated jointly by the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Finance, the General Administration of Customs, and the State Taxation Administration. This recognition underscores VTR Biotech’s significant contribution to technological advancement in China.

    In recent years, VTR Biotech has demonstrated its dedication to research and development by employing over 200 professional R&D personnel, more than 30% of whom hold postgraduate degrees. The center also boasts a team that includes 15 PhDs and 10 senior engineers. Collaborative projects with leading research institutions such as the University of Sydney, South China University of Technology, and South China Agricultural University further emphasize VTR Biotech’s commitment to transforming scientific discoveries into practical applications for the global market.

    The company has undertaken four national key R&D program projects and four key R&D projects in Guangdong Province, in addition to establishing 15 national, industry, and group standards. VTR Biotech has been recognized for its innovative efforts, receiving the China Patent Excellence Award for five consecutive years.

    As VTR Biotech embarks on this new chapter with the upgraded National Enterprise Technology Center, the company is poised to set new standards in the biotechnology industry, driving innovation and delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. For more information about VTR Biotech and its upgraded National Enterprise Technology Center, please visit www.vtrbiotech.com

    About VTR Biotech

    VTR Biotech is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to advancing the field through innovative research and development. With a commitment to scientific excellence and sustainability, VTR Biotech aims to deliver high standard biosolutions that address the challenges faced by the biotechnology industry.

    Media Contact

    Brand Name: VTR Biotech

    Contact Person: Marketing Team

    Email: vtrbiotech@vtrbio.com

    Tele: +86-756-8676888

    Website: www.vtrbiotech.com

    SOURCE: VTR Biotech

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the 2-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on November 05, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 2-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 1,25,000
    Total amount of offers received (in ₹ crore) 70,825
    Amount accepted (in ₹ crore) 70,825
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.49
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.49
    Partial Acceptance Percentage of offers received at cut off rate NA

    Ajit Prasad           
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1430

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: CoinShares Announces Q3 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    5thNovember 2024 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey | CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or “the Group”) (Nasdaq Stockholm: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), the leading European investment company specialising in digital assets, has today published its results for the quarter ending 30th September 2024.

    Jean-Marie Mognetti, Chief Executive Officer of CoinShares said:

    “In Q3 2024, we concentrated on executing our strategy and preparing for a promising Q4 and the upcoming year. A key achievement was the change in our accounting policy for digital assets. We now record movements on digital assets at fair value through profit and loss, enhancing the transparency of our financial statements. This change enables a wide range of investors to have a better understanding of CoinShares’ financial performance and health.

    We have concurrently implemented bitcoin as a treasury management instrument, thus demonstrating our commitment to our investment thesis. Consequently, we now rank among the select few publicly traded companies globally that have opted to maintain bitcoin holdings (78 BTC at the end of Q3) on our balance sheet.”

    Q3 2024 financial highlights

    • Total Revenue, Gains & Other Income for Q3 2024 of £25.8 million (Q3 2023: £15.2 million)
    • EBITDA for Q3 2024 of £15.4 million (Q3 2023: £8.3 million)
    • Net profit for Q3 2024 of £14.2 million (Q3 2023: £6.7 million)

    Q3 2024 operational highlights

    • Asset Management: The CoinShares Physical ETP platform closed the quarter with nearly $80 million in net flows, marking its second-largest quarterly inflow since 2021. We launched a new multi-asset ETP in partnership with finanzen.net to enhance our visibility in the German retail market. In the United States, the CoinShares-Valkyrie business line had its second-best quarter, achieving $61 million in net inflows, mainly from BRRR and WGMI products. Integration of this business line into the wider CoinShares Group is largely complete, and we anticipate it becoming a meaningful contributor to overall Group value, with full stride expected in 2025.
    • Capital Markets & Hedge Fund Solutions: Following the successful rollout of our algorithmic trading platform, MATRIX, our development team is optimising its performance and connectivity, enabling signal ingestion from multiple sources and opening doors to new collaborations. This allows our quantitative research team to focus on new alpha generation strategies to drive future performance for our Capital Markets and Funds divisions. Concurrently, our Hedge Fund Solutions division is preparing to launch an equity long-short fund focused on crypto equities, leveraging our BLOCK Index expertise; the product is ready to launch pending market demand, currently being assessed by our sales teams in the United States and Europe. 
    • Principal Investments: Despite a decrease of approximately £1.9 million in the Group’s Principal Investment portfolio during Q3—primarily due to an extension of the CS2 fund’s life that delays the receipt of our recognized carried interest and results in a corresponding discount—we have observed positive developments in some of our smaller investments. These include the conversion of one of our SAFEs (Station 70) and the change in status of GTSA to that of an Electronic Money Institution.
    • Accounting Policy Change: An important development this quarter concerns our accounting policies for digital asset holdings; historically, our financial statements were distorted by classifying digital assets as intangibles under IFRS, resulting in profit or loss after tax figures that differed markedly from our total comprehensive income and impacting the readability of our accounts. As our organisation has evolved and our activities have diversified significantly, we are now able to classify our digital assets so that their fair value movements are taken through profit and loss, allowing us to present financial statements that provide a more understandable view of our financial performance—easily reconciled to our EBITDA—a transition we’ve been eager to make and are pleased to have finally achieved.

    Full details of the Q3 results, inclusive of financial information on each of the Group’s business units, are included within the full report, available here.

    Download the Swedish Executive Summary here.

    ABOUT COINSHARES

    CoinShares is the leading European investment company specialising in digital assets, that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading and securities to a wide array of clients that includes corporations, financial institutions and individuals. Focusing on crypto since 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    This information is information that CoinShares International Limited (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act.

    The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, at 07:00 CEST on November 5, 2024.

    PRESS CONTACT

    CoinShares
    Benoît Pellevoizin
    bpellevoizin@coinshares.com

    M Group Strategic Communications
    Peter Padovano
    press@coinshares.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: WISe.ART Announces “MINDREAMER” Exhibition from Ylan Anoufa

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISe.ART Announces “MINDREAMER” Exhibition from Ylan Anoufa

    Exhibition accompanied by Ylan Anoufa art sales benefiting foundation for childhood education

    Geneva, Switzerland – November 5, 2024: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and Internet of Things (IoT) innovations, today announced that its subsidiary WISe.ART is proud to support Ylan Anoufa’s upcoming “MINDREAMER’ exhibition and new collection of twin phygital art packages. The exhibition is set to premiere November 13 at Geneva-based gallery Gallery Re Source. Proceeds from sale of the packages will benefit Ylan’s foundation for childhood education.

    “MINDREAMER” at Gallery Re Source

    Internationally renowned French contemporary artist Ylan Anoufa captivates the art world with his bold and socially engaged works. For the first time in Switzerland, his creations, including his famous AnoufaBear, will be showcased in the groundbreaking exhibition “MINDREAMER”.

    An Immersive and Interactive Exhibition

    After conquering cities such as New York, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Nice, Marbella, Monaco, and Paris, Ylan Anoufa will unveil “MINDREAMER” in Geneva’s Old Town from November 13, 2024, to February 10, 2025.

    The exhibition will feature several editions of his iconic AnoufaBear, a symbol of unity and strength, alongside a selection of ultra-dynamic and powerful urban and pop art pieces. By pushing the boundaries of traditional art, Ylan invites the public to dive into a universe oscillating between vulnerability and collective strength, while addressing contemporary issues and celebrating the beauty of human diversity.

    Performances, Digital Art, and Education

    As part of the exhibition, Ylan Anoufa will present a live art performance titled “REALOVE,” offering the audience a unique and captivating experience that combines emotion and interaction.

    Additionally, he will unveil his digital creativity through a series of NFT artworks. To further explore the digital realm, Gallery Re Source and WISe.ART will host two conferences dedicated to blockchain and NFTs during the exhibition.

    Committed to passing on his knowledge, Ylan also plans to lead AnoufaBear creation workshops for children at the Gallery, fostering artistic expression and creativity from an early age. “MINDREAMER” promises to be a participatory experience.

    AnoufaBears & The Digital Revolution
    In collaboration with WISeKey subsidiaries WISe.ART and SEALSQ, AnoufaBears are part of an exciting project set to embrace the digital realm of art. Through incorporation of the SEALSQ VaultIC155 semiconductor, a contactless solution designed to ward off counterfeiting, AnoufaBears will boast features like Open Detection and Privacy mode.

    WISe.ART’s CEO Carlos Moreira, commented “We believe in a future where digital assets are as valuable, if not more so, than physical ones. Our mission at WISe.ART is to ensure that this future is authentic, secure, and accessible to all.”

    Ylan Anoufa – An Artist on the Rise

    Ylan Anoufa’s talent continues to make waves in the contemporary art world. In January 2024, he was named Artist of the Year at the WISe.ART Excellence Awards during the prestigious World Economic Forum week in Davos. This accolade comes in addition to being named NFT Artist of the Year, cementing his status as a major player in the digital art world.

    His works, now fetching record prices at auctions, reflect growing interest from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. His unique approach and commitment to social causes have earned him increasing international recognition, making him one of the most influential emerging artists of our time.

    Ylan Anoufa is set to participate in several upcoming major international events, including Art Together at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art on November 18, the Telethon on November 30, and Art Basel Miami from December 2 to 15.

    About Gallery Re Source
    Nestled in Geneva’s Old Town, Gallery Re Source is a space dedicated to contemporary art and design, regularly hosting artistic, cultural, and holistic events. The “MINDREAMER” exhibition, enriched with workshops, performances, and conferences, aligns with the co-founders’ vision to make art a living and accessible experience for all.

    Stay connected with Gallery Re Source on social media to follow the latest updates and discover upcoming surprises.

    About Ylan Anoufa: The Maestro Behind AnoufaBears
    Ylan, born in 1980, is an embodiment of perpetual evolution. His art, found across global cities from Paris to Hong Kong, beams with modernity, humour, and a thought-provoking narrative. With a heart that radiates positivity, Ylan’s artwork becomes a vibrant fusion of colour, harmony, space, and form. Combining his stylistic finesse in painting and sculpture, Ylan’s graphics are a testament to his poetic inspiration. His collaborations with music legends like Lenny Kavitz and the Rolling Stones, as well as commercial endorsements with brands such as Porsche and Barbie, further enhance his global statue.

    About WISeKey
    WISeKey is a Swiss-based computer infrastructure company specializing in cybersecurity, digital identity, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, and post-quantum semiconductors. As a computer infrastructure company, WISeKey provides secure platforms for data and device management across industries like finance, healthcare, and government. It leverages its Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to ensure encrypted communications and authentication, while also focusing on next-generation security through post-quantum cryptography.

    WISeKey’s work with post-quantum semiconductors is aimed at future-proofing its security solutions against the threats posed by quantum computing. These advanced semiconductors support encryption that can withstand the computational power of quantum computers, ensuring the long-term security of connected devices and critical infrastructure. Combined with its expertise in blockchain and IoT, WISeKey’s post-quantum technologies provide a robust foundation for secure digital ecosystems at the hardware, software, and network levels.

    About WISe.ART

    Established in September 2020, our marketplace is a forward-thinking digital art platform pioneering the intersection of blockchain technology and artistic and/or visionary creativity. With a strong commitment to democratizing access and ownership to unique innovative products, WISe.ART provides a vibrant marketplace for buying, selling, preserving, and discovering original digital creations. By embracing blockchain and NFT technology, WISe.ART ensures provenance, artist recognition, heritage preservation and secure, transparent transactions.

    WISe.ART platform leverages WISeKey’s strong cybersecurity expertise, digital identity technology. As a part of our mission to empower creators and collectors, the launch of the WISe.ART token marks a significant milestone in our journey. By creating a unique digital currency, we aim to foster an inclusive, engaging, and rewarding ecosystem that transcends traditional boundaries of the art world.

    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

    Katie Murphy

    Tel: +1 212 836-9612 / kmurphy@equityny.com

    Gallery Re Source
    Véronika Saporta Tel: +41 78 227 32 70
    Stéphanie Jacob Tel: +41 76 508 03 99
    Instagram.com/lagalleryresource
    lagallery.ch
    info@lagallery.ch
    Gallery Re Source – rue Etienne-Dumont, 5 – 1204 Geneva, Switzerland

    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 Asia-Pac: Sun Dong begins Canada visit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong began his visit to Toronto, Canada, by touring an innovation hub, the University of Toronto and a startup.

    In the morning of November 4, Prof Sun visited MaRS Discovery District and met its Chief Executive Officer Alison Nankivell to receive a briefing on the innovation hub’s successful experience in nurturing an innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem.

    Located close to major universities and hospitals in downtown Toronto, MaRS focuses on nourishing deep technology industries including clean technology and life science.

    It is also the largest urban innovation centre in North America, which supports 1,200 enterprises and renders direct assistance to enterprises, with a view to building communities of innovators and promoting the adoption of new solutions.

    Prof Sun then visited the University of Toronto and toured the Centre for Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Engineering of the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering.

    He met Faculty Dean Prof Christopher Yip and Acting Associate Vice-President International Partnerships Prof David Wolfe, and was briefed on the centre’s latest developments and research and development (R&D) achievements.

    The centre brings together universities and industries to translate the latest advances of artificial intelligence and data analytics into technologies in areas ranging from advanced manufacturing to human health.

    Its team also delivers ongoing guidance for advanced analytics projects in industry settings.

    Prof Sun encouraged the university to co-operate with universities in Hong Kong to participate in the InnoHK research clusters to strengthen global R&D collaboration.

    In the afternoon, the technology chief visited a startup that provides storage and delivery services in North America.

    Apart from adopting a smart platform that automatically processes orders and updates inventory levels in real time, the startup also utilises robotic shuttles to manage inventories automatically, thereby reducing the overall cost for logistics and delivery services.

    In the evening, Prof Sun attended a networking dinner organised by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Toronto Chapter), where he had an exchange with Hong Kong young people studying and working in Toronto to learn more about their studies and work life.

    Prof Sun shared with them Hong Kong’s efforts to develop as an international I&T centre and build an international hub for high-calibre talent.

    He noted that it is of paramount importance to enlarge the talent pool for Hong Kong’s I&T development, adding that the city is an ideal destination for young people to develop their careers.

    He also encouraged Hong Kong youngsters to seize the myriad opportunities.

    Prof Sun will proceed to Ottawa and continue his visit.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial and Operational Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) today released its financial and operational results and related management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

    William Lundin, IPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, comments: “We are pleased to announce another positive quarter of operational performance. IPC achieved average net daily production during the third quarter of 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), following planned maintenance shutdowns during the quarter. We also continue to purchase IPC common shares under the normal course issuer bid (NCIB). We have now almost completed the 2023/2024 NCIB, reducing the outstanding number of common shares by over 6% since the beginning of December 2023. We intend to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval to renew the NCIB in December 2024. We are also pleased to report on the progress achieved at the Blackrod Phase 1 development in Canada, which remains on schedule and on budget.”

    Q3 2024 Business Highlights

    • Average net production of approximately 45,000 boepd for Q3 2024, in line with guidance (49% heavy crude oil, 17% light and medium crude oil and 34% natural gas).(1)
    • Successful completion of planned maintenance shutdowns at Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) in Canada and the Bertam field in Malaysia.
    • Drilling activity at the Suffield area in Canada continued with four wells drilled in Q3 2024 and completed by October 2024.
    • Development activities on Phase 1 of the Blackrod project continue to progress on schedule and on budget, with forecast first oil in late 2026.
    • 2.6 million IPC common shares purchased and cancelled during Q3 2024 under IPC’s normal course issuer bid (NCIB), on track to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024.
    • IPC plans to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval for the renewal of the NCIB in December 2024.

    Q3 2024 Financial Highlights

    • Operating costs per boe of USD 17.9 for Q3 2024, below guidance.(3)
    • Operating cash flow (OCF) and Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) of MUSD 73 and MUSD 68 respectively in line with guidance for Q3 2024.(3)
    • Capital and decommissioning expenditures of MUSD 102 for Q3 2024, in line with guidance.
    • Free cash flow (FCF) for Q3 2024 amounted to MUSD -38 (MUSD 44 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding).(3)
    • Gross cash of MUSD 299 and net debt of MUSD 157 as at September 30, 2024.(3)
    • Net result of MUSD 23 for Q3 2024.

    Reserves and Resources

    • Total 2P reserves as at December 31, 2023 of 468 MMboe, with a reserves life index (RLI) of 27 years.(1)(2)
    • Contingent resources (best estimate, unrisked) as at December 31, 2023 of 1,145 MMboe.(1)(2)

    2024 Annual Guidance

    • Full year 2024 average net production guidance range maintained at 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.(1)
    • Full year 2024 operating costs guidance revised to below USD 18 per boe.(3)
    • Full year 2024 OCF guidance estimated at between MUSD 335 and 342, assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)
    • Full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditures guidance forecast maintained at MUSD 437.
    • Full year 2024 FCF guidance estimated at between MUSD -140 and -133 (between MUSD 222 and 229 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding), assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)
      Three months ended
    September 30
      Nine months ended
    September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Revenue 173,200   257,366     598,659   655,446  
    Gross profit 39,505   93,429     167,397   210,559  
    Net result 22,875   71,681     101,804   143,269  
    Operating cash flow (3) 72,589   119,142     263,831   279,414  
    Free cash flow (3) (38,269 ) 34,703     (74,021 ) 67,379  
    EBITDA (3) 68,313   123,054     259,304   284,334  
    Net cash/(debt) (3) (157,228 ) 83,097     (157,228 ) 83,097  
                       

    Oil prices softened in the third quarter with Brent prices averaging USD 80 per barrel compared with USD 85 per barrel in the second quarter. Volatility during the quarter was high with Brent prices ranging from USD 89 per barrel in July to USD 70 per barrel in September. Notwithstanding the volatility in prices, the crude market was in a deficit through the third quarter, aided by the proactive supply management by the OPEC+ group. The continued conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine led to increased oil prices, though these were partially offset by concerns over global oil demand growth, in particular consumer and industrial demand in China. Despite some of these negative factors, the physical market remains tight with OECD crude stock levels below the five-year average, with oil demand expected to be at an all-time high in 2024 and continue to grow in 2025. Approximately 50% of IPC’s forecast 2024 oil production is hedged at USD 80 per barrel WTI or USD 85 per barrel Dated Brent through to the end of 2024.

    The third quarter 2024 WTI to Western Canadian Select (WCS) price differentials averaged just under USD 14 per barrel, in line with the second quarter and approximately USD 5 per barrel lower than the first quarter differential average of USD 19 per barrel. The Trans Mountain expansion (TMX) pipeline continues to support tighter differentials with the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) now having excess spare pipeline capacity for the first time in more than a decade. Crude exports from the new TMX pipeline are flowing off the coast of British Columbia, with deliveries to the US West Coast and Asia creating new end destinations for Canadian heavy oil. Around 70% of our forecast 2024 Canadian WCS production volumes are hedged at a WTI/WCS differential of USD 15 per barrel.

    Natural gas prices in Canada remained suppressed in the third quarter, with AECO pricing averaging CAD 0.67 per Mcf during the period, compared to CAD 1.17 per Mcf average for the second quarter. This has led to some Canadian natural gas producers curtailing production as western Canada gas storage levels continue to sit above the five-year range. IPC implemented hedges during the third quarter for approximately 14,500 Mcf per day at CAD 1.57 per Mcf from August to year end 2024.

    Third Quarter 2024 Highlights and Full Year 2024 Guidance

    IPC delivered average daily production rates of 45,000 boepd for the third quarter. The average daily production for the first nine months of 2024 was 47,400 boepd and the full year Capital Markets Day (CMD) production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd is maintained. During the third quarter, planned maintenance shutdowns at the Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) asset in Canada and at the Bertam field in Malaysia were successfully completed. High uptimes were achieved across all major producing assets in our portfolio during the quarter and the business benefited from the oil wells drilled within our Southern Alberta assets and the new wells brought on stream from sustaining Pad L at the OLT asset.(1)

    Operating costs in the third quarter of 2024 were below forecast at USD 17.9 per boe. The lower costs were largely driven by lower energy input costs within our Canadian asset base. Full year 2024 operating costs guidance is revised to less than USD 18 per boe, below the CMD guidance range of USD 18 to 19 per boe.(3)

    Operating cash flow (OCF) for the third quarter of 2024 was USD 73 million in line with forecast. Full year 2024 OCF guidance is revised to USD 335 to 342 million (assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024).(3)

    Capital and decommissioning expenditure for the third quarter was in line with plan at USD 102 million. Our full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditure guidance is unchanged at USD 437 million.

    Free cash flow (FCF) was USD -38 million (or USD 44 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) during the third quarter of 2024. Full year 2024 FCF guidance is revised to USD -140 to -133 million (or USD 222 to 229 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)

    Net debt was increased during the third quarter of 2024 by approximately USD 69 million to USD 157 million.(3) This is due to the growth capital expenditure at the Blackrod Phase 1 project and continued funding of the normal course issuer bid (NCIB) share repurchase program. The gross cash position as at September 30, 2024 was USD 299 million. In the third quarter, IPC enhanced its financing position by entering into a letter of credit facility in Canada to cover all of its existing operational letters of credit, giving full availability under IPC’s undrawn CAD 180 million Revolving Credit Facility.

    With a robust balance sheet and strong cashflow generation from the producing assets, IPC is strongly positioned to deliver on our three strategic pillars of organic growth, shareholder returns and pursue value-adding M&A.

    Blackrod Phase 1 Project

    The Blackrod asset is 100% owned by IPC and hosts the largest booked reserves and contingent resources within the IPC portfolio. After more than a decade of pilot operations, subsurface delineation and commercial engineering studies, IPC sanctioned the Phase 1 development in the first quarter of 2023. The Phase 1 development targets 218 MMboe of 2P reserves, with a multi-year forecast capital expenditure of USD 850 million to first oil planned in late 2026. The Phase 1 development is planned for plateau production of 30,000 bopd which is expected by early 2028.(1)(2)

    2024 marks a peak investment year at the Blackrod Phase 1 project for IPC, with USD 362 million planned to be spent in the year. Project progress has advanced according to plan, with approximately USD 245 million spent through the first nine months of 2024. All major third-party contracts have been executed, including but not limited to, the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements for the central processing facility (CPF) and well pad facilities, midstream agreements for the input fuel gas, diluent and oil blend pipelines, and drilling rig and stakeholder agreements. All major long lead items have been procured and pre-operations onboarding continues as the asset undergoes rapid change from a pilot steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operation to a commercial SAGD operation. IPC’s core operational philosophy is to responsibly develop and commission projects with the staff that are going to manage and operate the asset to ensure the seamless transition from development to operations.

    As at the end of the third quarter of 2024, over half of the Blackrod Phase 1 development capital had been spent since the project sanction in early 2023. All major work streams are progressing as planned and the focus continues to be on executing the detailed sequencing of events as facility modules are safely delivered and installed at site. The total Phase 1 project guidance of USD 850 million capital expenditure to first oil in late 2026 is unchanged. IPC intends to fund the remaining Blackrod Phase 1 development costs with forecast cash flow generated by its operations and cash on hand.

    Stakeholder Returns: Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Under the current 2023/2024 NCIB, IPC has the ability to repurchase up to approximately 8.3 million common shares over the period of December 5, 2023 to December 4, 2024. IPC repurchased and cancelled approximately 7.5 million common shares up to the end of September 2024. The average price of common shares purchased under the 2023/2024 NCIB was SEK 132 / CAD 17 per share. IPC expects to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024, resulting in the cancellation of 6.5% of the total number of common shares outstanding as at the beginning of December 2023.

    As at September 30, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,751,038 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 30,000 common shares in treasury. As at October 31, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,244,638 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 44,400 common shares in treasury.

    The IPC Board of Directors has approved, subject to acceptance by the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), the renewal of IPC’s NCIB for a further twelve months from December 2024 to December 2025. We expect that the 2024/2025 NCIB will permit IPC to purchase on the TSX and/or Nasdaq Stockholm, and cancel, up to a further approximately 7.5 million common shares, representing approximately 6.2% of the total outstanding common shares (or 10% of IPC’s “public float” under applicable TSX rules) following completion of the current 2023/2024 NCIB. IPC continues to believe that reducing the number of common shares outstanding while in parallel investing in material production growth at the Blackrod project will prove to be a winning formula for our stakeholders.

    Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance

    As part of IPC’s commitment to operational excellence and responsible development, its objective is to reduce risk and eliminate hazards to prevent occurrence of accidents, ill health, and environmental damage, as these are essential to the success of our business operations. During the third quarter of 2024, IPC recorded no material safety or environmental incidents.

    As previously announced, IPC targets a reduction of our net GHG emissions intensity by the end of 2025 to 50% of IPC’s 2019 baseline and IPC remains on track to achieve this reduction. During the first quarter of 2024, IPC announced the commitment to remain at end 2025 levels of 20 kg CO2/boe through to the end of 2028.(4)

    Notes:

    (1) See “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” in “Reserves and Resources Advisory” below. See also the annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (AIF) available on IPC’s website at www.international-petroleum.com and under IPC’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
    (2) See “Reserves and Resources Advisory“ below. Further information with respect to IPC’s reserves, contingent resources and estimates of future net revenue, including assumptions relating to the calculation of NPV, are described in the AIF.
    (3) Non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Measures” below and in the MD&A.
    (4) Emissions intensity is the ratio between oil and gas production and the associated carbon emissions, and net emissions intensity reflects gross emissions less operational emission reductions and carbon offsets.

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50
          Or       Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
             

    This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07:30 CET on November 5, 2024. The Corporation’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements (Financial Statements) and management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and are also available on the Corporation’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

    • 2024 production ranges (including total daily average production), production composition, cash flows, operating costs and capital and decommissioning expenditure estimates;
    • Estimates of future production, cash flows, operating costs and capital expenditures that are based on IPC’s current business plans and assumptions regarding the business environment, which are subject to change;
    • IPC’s financial and operational flexibility to continue to react to recent events and navigate the Corporation through periods of volatile commodity prices;
    • The ability to fully fund future expenditures from cash flows and current borrowing capacity;
    • IPC’s intention and ability to continue to implement strategies to build long-term shareholder value;
    • The ability of IPC’s portfolio of assets to provide a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth;
    • The continued facility uptime and reservoir performance in IPC’s areas of operation;
    • Development of the Blackrod project in Canada, including estimates of resource volumes, future production, timing, regulatory approvals, third party commercial arrangements, breakeven prices and net present value;
    • Current and future production performance, operations and development potential of the Onion Lake Thermal, Suffield, Brooks, Ferguson and Mooney operations, including the timing and success of future oil and gas drilling and optimization programs;
    • The potential improvement in the Canadian oil egress situation and IPC’s ability to benefit from any such improvements;
    • The ability to maintain current and forecast production in France and Malaysia;
    • The intention and ability of IPC to acquire further common shares under the NCIB, including the timing of any such purchases;
    • The ability of IPC to renew the NCIB and the number of common shares which may be purchased under a renewed NCIB;
    • The return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of the NCIB;
    • The ability of IPC to implement further shareholder distributions in addition to the NCIB;
    • IPC’s ability to implement its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and climate strategies and to achieve its net GHG emissions intensity reduction targets;
    • IPC’s ability to implement projects to reduce net emissions intensity, including potential carbon capture and storage;
    • Estimates of reserves and contingent resources;
    • The ability to generate free cash flows and use that cash to repay debt;
    • IPC’s continued access to its existing credit facilities, including current financial headroom, on terms acceptable to the Corporation;
    • IPC’s ability to maintain operations, production and business in light of any future pandemics and the restrictions and disruptions related thereto, including risks related to production delays and interruptions, changes in laws and regulations and reliance on third-party operators and infrastructure;
    • IPC’s ability to identify and complete future acquisitions;
    • Expectations regarding the oil and gas industry in Canada, Malaysia and France, including assumptions regarding future royalty rates, regulatory approvals, legislative changes, and ongoing projects and their expected completion; and
    • Future drilling and other exploration and development activities.

    Statements relating to “reserves” and “contingent resources” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves and resources can be profitably produced in the future. Ultimate recovery of reserves or resources is based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.

    Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks.

    These include, but are not limited to general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties, environmental and abandonment regulations.

    Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in the MD&A (See “Risk Factors”, “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein), the Corporation’s Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2023, (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Reserves and Resources Advisory” and “Risk Factors”) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Management of IPC approved the production, operating costs, operating cash flow, capital and decommissioning expenditures and free cash flow guidance and estimates contained herein as of the date of this press release. The purpose of these guidance and estimates is to assist readers in understanding IPC’s expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Non-IFRS Measures
    References are made in this press release to “operating cash flow” (OCF), “free cash flow” (FCF), “Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization” (EBITDA), “operating costs” and “net debt”/”net cash”, which are not generally accepted accounting measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other public companies. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    The definition of each non-IFRS measure is presented in IPC’s MD&A (See “Non-IFRS Measures” therein).

    Operating cash flow
    The following table sets out how operating cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Revenue 173,200   257,366     598,659   655,446  
    Production costs (100,984 ) (130,765 )   (328,110 ) (364,889 )
    Current tax 373   (7,459 )   (6,718 ) (16,045 )
    Operating cash flow 72,589   119,142     263,831   274,512  
                       

    The operating cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 279,414 thousand.

    Free cash flow
    The following table sets out how free cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Operating cash flow – see above 72,589   119,142     263,831   274,512  
    Capital expenditures (99,100 ) (76,844 )   (308,457 ) (183,904 )
    Abandonment and farm-in expenditures1 (2,575 ) (2,755 )   (4,938 ) (7,683 )
    General, administration and depreciation expenses before depreciation2 (3,903 ) (3,547 )   (11,245 ) (11,124 )
    Cash financial items3 (5,280 ) (1,293 )   (13,212 ) (3,593 )
    Free cash flow (38,269 ) 34,703     (74,021 ) 68,208  

    1 See note 16 to the Financial Statements
    2 Depreciation is not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
    3 See notes 4 and 5 to the Financial Statements

    The free cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the free cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 67,379 thousand.

    EBITDA
    The following table sets out the reconciliation from net result from the consolidated statement of operations to EBITDA:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Net result 22,875   71,681     101,804   143,269  
    Net financial items 4,124   4,257     23,942   16,227  
    Income tax 8,257   25,451     29,473   50,671  
    Depletion and decommissioning costs 30,491   31,687     96,305   71,488  
    Depreciation of other tangible fixed assets 2,023   1,509     6,503   6,503  
    Exploration and business development costs 197   (24 )   344   2,007  
    Depreciation included in general, administration and depreciation expenses 1 346   405     933   1,180  
    Sale of Assets   (11,912 )     (11,912 )
    EBITDA 68,313   123,054     259,304   279,433  

    1 Item is not shown in the Financial Statements

    The EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the EBITDA contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 284,334 thousand.

    Operating costs
    The following table sets out how operating costs is calculated:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Production costs 100,984   130,765     328,110   364,889  
    Cost of blending (29,818 ) (39,836 )   (116,699 ) (128,523 )
    Change in inventory position 2,755   (8,067 )   3,160   2,228  
    Operating costs 73,921   82,862     214,571   238,594  

    The operating costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating costs contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 245,395 thousand.

    Net cash/(debt)
    The following table sets out how net cash/(debt) is calculated:

    USD Thousands September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023  
    Bank loans (6,431 ) (9,031 )
    Bonds1 (450,000 ) (450,000 )
    Cash and cash equivalents 299,203   517,074  
    Net cash/(debt) (157,228 ) 58,043  

    1 The bond amount represents the redeemable value at maturity (February 2027).

    Reserves and Resources Advisory
    This press release contains references to estimates of gross and net reserves and resources attributed to the Corporation’s oil and gas assets. For additional information with respect to such reserves and resources, refer to “Reserves and Resources Advisory” in the MD&A. Light, medium and heavy crude oil reserves/resources disclosed in this press release include solution gas and other by-products. Also see “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” below.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in Canada are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the reports prepared by Sproule Associates Limited (Sproule), an independent qualified reserves evaluator, in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the COGE Handbook) and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in France and Malaysia are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the report prepared by ERC Equipoise Ltd. (ERCE), an independent qualified reserves auditor, in accordance with NI 51-101 and the COGE Handbook, and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

    The price forecasts used in the Sproule and ERCE reports are available on the website of Sproule (sproule.com) and are contained in the AIF. These price forecasts are as at December 31, 2023 and may not be reflective of current and future forecast commodity prices.

    The reserve life index (RLI) is calculated by dividing the 2P reserves of 468 MMboe as at December 31, 2023 by the mid-point of the 2024 CMD production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.

    IPC uses the industry-accepted standard conversion of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf = 1 bbl). A BOE conversion ratio of 6:1 is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

    Supplemental Information regarding Product Types

    The following table is intended to provide supplemental information about the product type composition of IPC’s net average daily production figures provided in this press release:

      Heavy Crude Oil
    (Mbopd)
    Light and Medium Crude Oil (Mbopd) Conventional Natural Gas (per day) Total
    (Mboepd)
    Three months ended        
    September 30, 2024 21.9 7.8 91.9 MMcf
    (15.3 Mboe)
    45.0
    September 30, 2023 25.8 7.1 103.4 MMcf
    (17.3 Mboe)
    50.2
    Nine months ended        
    September 30, 2024 23.7 7.9 94.8 MMcf
    (15.8 Mboe)
    47.4
    September 30, 2023 25.9 8.6 102.4 MMcf
    (17.1 Mboe)
    51.6
    Year ended        
    December 31, 2023 25.8 8.1 102.8 MMcf
    (17.1 Mboe)
    51.1
             

    This press release also makes reference to IPC’s forecast total average daily production of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd for 2024. IPC estimates that approximately 50% of that production will be comprised of heavy oil, approximately 16% will be comprised of light and medium crude oil and approximately 34% will be comprised of conventional natural gas.

    Currency
    All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted. References herein to USD mean United States dollars and to MUSD mean millions of United States dollars. References herein to CAD mean Canadian dollars.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 4 November 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 5 November 2024 at 8:30 am EET

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 4 November 2024

    On 4 November 2024, Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3, LEI 743700UF3RL386WIDA22) has acquired its own A shares (ISIN code FI4000552500) as follows:                

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
      3,246 41.34 AQEU        
      37,786 41.36 CEUX
      1,804 41.33 TQEX
      48,472 41.35 XHEL
    TOTAL 91,308 41.35  

    *rounded to two decimals                

    On 17 June 2024, Sampo announced a share buyback programme of up to a maximum of EUR 400 million in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052. On 16 September 2024, the Board of Directors of Sampo plc resolved to increase the share buyback programme to EUR 475 million. The programme, which started on 18 June 2024, is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024.

    After the disclosed transactions, the company owns in total 9,963,604 Sampo A shares representing 1.81 per cent of the total number of shares in Sampo plc, taking the issuance of shares on 16 September 2024 into account.

    Details of each transaction are included as an appendix of this announcement.

    On behalf of Sampo plc,
    Morgan Stanley

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    The principal media
    FIN-FSA
    DEN-FSA
    www.sampo.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network