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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI: HSBC Bank Plc – Form 8.5 (EPT/RI) – Keywords Studios plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.5 (EPT/RI)

    PUBLIC DEALING DISCLOSURE BY AN EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER WITH RECOGNISED INTERMEDIARY STATUS DEALING IN A CLIENT-SERVING CAPACITY
    Rule 8.5 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.         KEY INFORMATION

    (a) Name of exempt principal trader: HSBC Bank Plc
    (b) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
         Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Keywords Studios plc
    (c) Name of the party to the offer with which exempt principal trader is connected: OFFEROR: Houting UK Limited (a newly formed company indirectly wholly-owned by EQT’s BPEA Fund VIII)
    (d) Date dealing undertaken: 23 September 2024
    (e) In addition to the company in 1(b) above, is the exempt principal trader making disclosures in respect of any other party to this offer?
         If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A      

    2.         DEALINGS BY THE EXEMPT PRINCIPAL TRADER

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(b), copy table 2(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchases/ sales

     

    		 Total number of securities Highest price per unit paid/received
    (GBP)    		 Lowest price per unit paid/received
    (GBP)
     

    Ordinary Shares

    		 Purchase 4,378 2,430.000 p 2,428.000 p
    Ordinary Shares Sale 4,378 2,430.000 p 2,428.000 p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description Nature of dealing Number of reference securities Price per unit (GBP)
    e.g. CFD e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)         Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

     

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
       

     

    		    

    3.         OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the exempt principal trader making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included.  If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
     

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the exempt principal trader making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)  the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
     

    None
    Date of disclosure: 24 September 2024
    Contact name: Dhruti Singh
    Telephone number: 0207 088 2000

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service. 

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s dealing disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – ASCENTIAL PLC – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Ascential PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/a  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 1.7p ordinary (GB00BQFH6320)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,204,832 1.57 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 3,204,832 * 1.57 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 4,198 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    1.7p ordinary (GB00BQFH6320) Sale 8,024 5.6492 GBP  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Unlock Your Trading Edge With Axi at The 2024 Dubai Forex Expo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading online FX and CFD broker Axi is attending this year’s Dubai Forex Expo, taking place on October 7-8, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Center.

    Event attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Axi Select, the innovative capital allocation program, designed to empower ambitious traders on their trading journey. “We invite all traders to visit our team at Booth 2 and uncover the future of trading with Axi,” says Louis Cooper, Chief Commercial Officer at Axi, before adding “We look forward to networking with follow traders and showcase the exceptional benefits of Axi Select. Our program features zero registration fees, capital funding of up to $1,000,000 USD, the opportunity to earn up to 90% of the profits, and advanced tools to accelerate traders’ trading potential.”

    Additionally, visitors can explore their Introducing Broker (IB) and Affiliate programs or learn more about Axi’s longstanding partnership with Man City, Premier League Champions. The championship trophy will be on display for photos and attendees stand the chance to win exciting prizes from the broker.

    Recently, the broker has renewed its collaboration with LaLiga club, Girona FC, and their Brand Ambassador, England international John Stones. They’ve also recently launched their biggest global trading competition ever, with a total prize pool of $250,000 USD. Over 45 prizes were given to traders including the grand prize of $100,000 USD.

    About Axi

    Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, with thousands of customers in 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, Coffee, and more.

    At Axi, we are proud of our reputation as an honest, and fair broker, providing our customers with outstanding service and trading conditions since 2007. We also work with leading regulatory governing authorities globally to ensure we exceed the highest standards in the industry.

    Contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com

    The Axi Select programme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. In our dealings with you, we will act as a principal counterparty to all of your positions. This content is not available to AU, NZ, EU and UK residents. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees apply.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: The Eclipse Foundation Launches the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to Help Open Source Participants Navigate Global Regulations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source foundations, has announced the formation of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). This pioneering initiative aims to support participants across the global open source community—including developers, enterprises, industries, and open source foundations—in navigating and adhering to evolving regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the working group will work closely with governments and regulatory bodies to enhance their understanding of the unique open source development model. Supported by prominent open source foundations and global technology leaders, this collaborative effort is dedicated to advancing the open source model in an increasingly regulated software supply chain.

    “Given the impact of software technology on the global economy, it is unsurprising that governments worldwide are enacting new regulations to safeguard privacy, security, and accessibility,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation.“The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group was created to bridge the gap between regulatory authorities and the open source ecosystem, ensuring organisations and developers can leverage open source technologies while remaining compliant with evolving global regulations.”

    The newly established working group is committed to formalising industry best practices and offering essential resources to help organisations navigate regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions. Additionally, it aims to assist government entities in providing greater legal certainty to the open source ecosystem and software supply chain.

    Through collaboration and guidance, the group seeks to elevate software quality and security in open source projects. Backed by the Eclipse Foundation’s strong commitment to open source supply chain security, the working group leverages a team of expert security professionals and rigorous processes. As a CVE Numbering Authority, the Eclipse Foundation plays a key role in effective vulnerability management, ensuring that security remains a top priority for all contributors, projects, and users within the ecosystem.

    While the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is chartered to address compliance with open source-impacting requirements in general, its immediate focus is the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). With the CRA rapidly approaching implementation, the working group’s immediate efforts are centred on ensuring compliance with this new legislation.

    Current Initiatives:

    1. Process Specifications: Development of cybersecurity process specifications and best practices aligned with the requirements of the CRA.
    2. Collaboration with European Authorities: The working group actively engages with the various European institutions to understand legislative timelines and produce timely compliance materials, with a primary focus on the CRA.
    3. Formalising Standards Participation: Having secured formal liaison status with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC), the working group is actively pursuing working relationships with other European and National Standards Organizations to expand its contribution on regulatory standards.
    4. Community and Industry Education: A series of webinars with European Commission staff aims to keep the open source community informed about the EU’s legislative process. Recordings and materials, including sessions like “How to Read the CRA” led by Enzo Ribagnac, Associate Director for European Policy at Eclipse Foundation, are available here.
    5. Centralised Information Hub: The working group is developing a central resource to house all relevant CRA-related content, including webinars, glossaries, flowcharts, and FAQs to inform EU guidelines.

    Collaborative Engagement:

    The working group has garnered significant support from a broad range of open source organisations and private companies. As of the date of this announcement, participant organisations include: Apache Software Foundation (ASF), Blender Foundation, Robert Bosch GmbH, CodeDay, The Document Foundation, FreeBSD Foundation, iJUG, Lunatech, Matrix.org Foundation, Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH, Nokia, NLnet Labs, Obeo, Open Elements, OpenForum Europe, OpenInfra Foundation, Open Source Initiative (OSI), Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF), OWASP, Payara Services, The PHP Foundation, Python Software Foundation, Rust Foundation, SCANOSS, Siemens, and Software Heritage.

    For more information on joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, visit the participation page.

    Member Quotes:

    Apache Software Foundation (ASF)
    “The CRA will impact open source users and producers alike. Legislators will benefit from the brain trust of open source organisations that Eclipse has brought together to ensure that the legislation is crafted in a way that protects all parties. The Apache Software Foundation is committed to safeguarding our digital future by addressing the multifaceted challenges of cybersecurity in the open source ecosystem, and cooperating with and implementing the CRA.” – David Nalley, President of the Apache Software Foundation

    Bosch
    “Bosch supports the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) as a harmonised cybersecurity framework, but also recognizes the crucial role of open-source software (OSS) in its supply chain. Thus, it is vital to regulate the use of OSS in a reasonable way. This requires new processes for OSS due diligence, developed through close collaboration between OSS stewards and manufacturers. We welcome the Eclipse Foundation’s initiative to provide software security specifications aligned with open-source practices. We are convinced that by bringing together industry leaders, SMEs, researchers, and OSS experts, we will be able to develop processes that meet regulations while also supporting open development. We also expect these processes to serve as blueprints for the upcoming EU Data and AI Act and future regulations.” – Dr. Andreas Nauerz – Executive Vice President at Robert Bosch GmbH

    The Document Foundation
    “The Document Foundation participates in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group because it believes that the development of common best practices for the security of open source software is an important factor in the recognition of FOSS as a key element of the global information technology infrastructure and compliance with laws such as the Cyber Resilience Act in the EU.” – Italo Vignoli, Director at The Document Foundation

    FreeBSD Foundation
    The FreeBSD Foundation is proud to participate in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. This initiative is key to helping developers and organisations continue innovating while navigating complex global regulations like the European Cyber Resilience Act. We believe collaboration within the open source community is essential to overcoming these challenges, and we’re excited to contribute to this important effort.” – Deb Goodkin, Executive Director of the FreeBSD Foundation

    Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH
    “We support the mission of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to help shape the future of secure software development in Europe, together with the European Commission, Open Source foundations and other industry players.” – Jochen Strenkert, Chief Engineer MB.OS

    Nokia
    “Open source communities and the software they produce are ever more important for the whole industry. This is exactly why for Nokia the wellbeing and sustainability of the open source communities is paramount. The European Union Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) brings potential new requirements to the open source communities. Nokia strongly believes that the targets of the EU CRA and the best outcome can only be achieved by the open source community having a strong voice in this process. We believe that the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is the way to achieve this. Therefore, Nokia is honoured to join the ORC WG. We are looking forward to working as part of the community to ensure getting the best possible outcome of the EU CRA for everybody.” – Jonne Soininen, Head of Open Source Initiatives at Nokia

    Obeo
    “As an SME with open-source in its DNA and a strategic member of the Eclipse Foundation, Obeo is thrilled to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. Collaborating with major industry players in critical and strategic sectors, we believe that open innovation is essential for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. We stress the importance of new regulations recognizing the unique nature of this model to ensure that communities continue to thrive while complying with governmental requirements.” – Cédric Brun, President of Obeo

    The Open Source Initiative (OSI)
    “Compliance with the Cyber Resilience Act and other upcoming legislation poses a new challenge for the Open Source community. The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group gives us an opportunity to find solutions together, and to work with lawmakers and regulatory bodies to help them better understand Open Source. We very much look forward to contributing to the working group.” – Stefano Maffulli, Executive Director at OSI

    Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF)
    “The OSRF is pleased to be involved in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. As well as finding and creating best practices and methodologies for open-source projects to follow when complying with the EU’s new Cyber Resilience Act, the outputs of this working group will enable open-source projects, including in robotics, to also comply with other existing and future regulations that create a safer and more secure world for all. We are honoured to be working with other open-source foundations on this critical task.” – Geoff Biggs, CTO at the Open Source Robotics Foundation

    Payara Services Ltd
    “At Payara, we are proud to be an active participant in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). By collaborating with other ORC WG members, we will contribute to the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards that will help the open-source community meet evolving regulatory requirements, starting with the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). We believe that the implementation of these regulations is essential for ensuring safer software and robust protection for users and enterprises worldwide. Our active participation in this working group underscores our dedication to keeping open-source solutions a trusted choice for companies globally.” – Steve Millidge, Founder at Payara Services Ltd

    The PHP Foundation

    “We’re delighted to be joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. With new regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) on the horizon, it’s great to be working with other Open Source foundations. We’ll share what we know about building secure software and learn from one another. Our goal is simple: to help make these new regulations work for everyone, without stifling the creativity that makes Open Source so great.” – Roman Pronskiy, Executive Director at the PHP Foundation

    Python Software Foundation

    The safety and security of Python is important to all our users for different reasons, but the recent Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) has created a sharp incentive to work on a collective understanding of best practices for all stakeholders. We appreciate the opportunity to share and collaborate on these topics with our open source peers via the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. — Deb Nicholson, Executive Director at Python Software Foundation

    Rust Foundation
    “The Rust Foundation is delighted to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. We look forward to working collaboratively with key Open Source and Industry stakeholders to ensure that emerging and evolving regulation is high quality, accommodating of the unique and valuable features of Open Source, and fit for purpose.“ – Rebecca Rumbul, Executive Director & CEO, Rust Foundation

    SCANOSS
    “Every day, we see the growing need for regulatory tools and robust supply chain security. SCANOSS is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive Open Source detection and SBOM solution, helping organisations mitigate risk and comply with regulations like the CRA. We are honoured to join the Eclipse Foundation in leading this effort to ensure the security and resilience of the open source software supply chain.” – Alan Facey, CEO at SCANOSS

    Siemens
    “Open source technologies are embedded in and vital to many of our solutions. Through our involvement in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, we actively shape standards to ensure compliance with evolving regulations.” – Oliver Fendt, Senior Manager Open Source at Siemens

    Software Heritage
    “The mission of Software Heritage, launched by Inria and in partnership with UNESCO, is to collect, preserve and share all publicly available software source code. With over 50 billion software artefacts secured through the Software Hash Identifier (SWHID) specification, we guarantee long-term availability, ensure integrity, and enable traceability across the entire software ecosystem. As a foundational non profit open infrastructure for software integrity and compliance, we are excited to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to support the evolving regulatory landscape and ensure the open source ecosystem thrives.” – Roberto Di Cosmo, co-founder and director, Software Heritage

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 415 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 360 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    Nichols Communications for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    514 Media Ltd for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: 2024 HP Work Relationship Index Reveals AI Users Have Healthier Relationships with Work

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Only 28% of knowledge workers from various industries around the world have a healthy relationship with work, a one-point increase compared to 2023
    • AI usage among knowledge workers surged to 66% in 2024, up from 38% last year; and workers who use AI are 11-points happier with their relationship with work than their colleagues who don’t
    • At least two-thirds of knowledge workers desire personalized work experiences; and 87% would be willing to forgo a portion of their salary to get it
    • Only 44% of leaders have confidence in their human skills; female business leaders are significantly more confident than their male counterparts

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) released the second annual HP Work Relationship Index (WRI), a comprehensive study that explores the world’s relationship with work. The study, which surveyed 15,600 respondents across industries in 12 countries, reveals that work is still not really working. Only 28% of knowledge workers have a healthy relationship with work, a one-point increase compared to last year’s findings. However, new findings hone in on two potential solutions to improve relationships with work: AI and personalized work experiences.

    “We know employer and employee expectations have evolved and we believe smart technology is key to meeting the needs of today’s workforce,” said Enrique Lores, President and CEO of HP Inc. “The future of work will be unlocked by using the power of AI to create solutions and experiences that drive business growth and enable individuals to achieve personal and professional fulfillment.”

    Personalized Work Experiences Can Lead to Healthier Relationships with Work

    In its second year, the study continued to analyze aspects of people’s relationships with work, including the role of work in their lives, their skills, abilities, tools, workspaces and their expectations of leadership. This year, WRI reveals a major universal need from knowledge workers: personalized work experiences.

    At least two-thirds of workers expressed a desire for personalized work experiences, including tailored workspaces, access to preferred technologies and flexible working environments. These experiences are crucial for improving relationships with work, and have positive implications for both employees and businesses:

    • 64% of knowledge workers say if work was tailored or customized to personal needs and preferences, they would be more invested in their company’s growth.
    • 69% of knowledge workers believe it would enhance their overall well-being.
    • 68% of knowledge workers stated it would incentivize them to stay with their current employers longer.

    This desire for personalization is so strong that 87% of knowledge workers would be willing to forgo part of their salary for it. On average, workers would be willing to give up to 14% of their salary with Gen Z workers giving up as much as 19%.

    AI Opens New Opportunities for Knowledge Workers to Enjoy Work and Improve Productivity

    AI usage among knowledge workers has surged to 66% in 2024, up from 38% last year. Workers who use AI are seeing the benefits, including a healthier relationship with work:

    • 73% feel that AI makes their jobs easier, and nearly 7-in-10 (69%) are customizing their use of AI to be more productive, indicating AI could be an ingredient to unlocking a more personalized work experience.
    • 60% state that AI plays a key role in improving their work-life balance.
    • 68% say AI opens up new opportunities for them to enjoy work.
    • 73% agree that a better understanding of AI will make it easier to advance their careers.

    Further, knowledge workers who use AI are +11-points happier with their relationship with work than their colleagues who don’t. Therefore, there is an urgency to get AI into the hands of workers sooner rather than later as non-AI users have shown increased fear of job replacement by AI, with 37% expressing concern, a +5-point increase from last year.

    Business Leaders Lack Confidence; Female Leaders Emerge as a Bright Spot

    While at the global scale the index highlights little change, countries that saw an increase in their individual work relationship index saw slight improvement across the six key drivers of a healthy relationship with work – most notably the Leadership and Fulfillment drivers. This year’s index revealed that trust in senior leadership remains a critical factor in a healthy work relationship, but there is a disconnect between the recognition of the importance of human skills (e.g., mindfulness, self-awareness, communication, creative-thinking, resilience, empathy, emotional intelligence) and leaders’ confidence to deliver:

    • While more than 90% of leaders acknowledge the benefits of empathy, only 44% feel confident in their human skills.
    • Only 28% of workers consistently see empathy from their leaders, despite 78% valuing it highly.

    However, this year’s research uncovered a bright spot: female leaders. On average, female business leaders are +10-points more confident in their hard skills (technical, computer, presentation, etc.), and notably +13-points more confident in human skills than their male counterparts. Additionally, female business leaders’ confidence in both skills grew over the past year (+10-points in human skills, +4-points in hard skills), while confidence among male business leaders remained stagnant in human skills and decreased in hard skills (-3-points).

    For more information on the HP Work Relationship Index, please visit the WRI website and to access the full report, please visit the HP Newsroom.

    Methodology

    HP commissioned an online survey managed by Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) that fielded between May 10 – June 21, 2024 in 12 countries: the US, France, India, UK, Germany, Spain, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, and Indonesia. HP surveyed 15,600 respondents in total – 12,000 knowledge workers (1,000 in each country); 2,400 IT decision makers (200 in each country); and 1,200 business leaders (100 in each country).

    HP Inc. Media Relations
    MediaRelations@hp.com

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Holding(s) in Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    1. Issuer Details
    ISIN
    GB00BLDRH360
    Issuer Name
    OSB GROUP PLC
    UK or Non-UK Issuer
    UK
    2. Reason for Notification
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation
    Name
    BlackRock, Inc.
    City of registered office (if applicable)
    Wilmington
    Country of registered office (if applicable)
    USA
    4. Details of the shareholder
    Full name of shareholder(s) if different from the person(s) subject to the notification obligation, above

    City of registered office (if applicable)

    Country of registered office (if applicable)

    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    20-Sep-2024
    6. Date on which Issuer notified
    23-Sep-2024
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation

    . % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8.A) % of voting rights through financial instruments (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2) Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 5.160000 0.340000 5.500000 21013776
    Position of previous notification (if applicable) 4.620000 0.380000 5.000000  

    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    8A. Voting rights attached to shares

    Class/Type of shares ISIN code(if possible) Number of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) Number of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1) % of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) % of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00BLDRH360   19665223   5.160000
    Sub Total 8.A 19665223 5.160000%

    8B1. Financial Instruments according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (a))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is exercised/converted % of voting rights
    Securities Lending     368875 0.090000
    Sub Total 8.B1   368875 0.090000%

    8B2. Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (b))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Physical or cash settlement Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    CFD     Cash 979678 0.250000
    Sub Total 8.B2   979678 0.250000%

    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation
    2. Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entities (please add additional rows as necessary)

    Ultimate controlling person Name of controlled undertaking % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, National Association      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Fund Advisors      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited      

    10. In case of proxy voting
    Name of the proxy holder

    The number and % of voting rights held

    The date until which the voting rights will be held

    11. Additional Information
    BlackRock Regulatory Threshold Reporting Team

    Jana Blumenstein

    020 7743 3650
    12. Date of Completion
    23rd September 2024
    13. Place Of Completion
    12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL, U.K.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Invesco Ltd: Form 8.3 – International Paper Company; Public dealing disclosure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Invesco Ltd.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Paper Company  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23.09.2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 Yes, Smith (DS) PLC  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: Common stock US4601461035  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 8,158,384 2.34      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 8,158,384 2.34      
    *The change in the holding of 2,233 shares since the last disclosure on 23.09.2024 is due to the transfer out of a discretionary holding at 48.45 USD.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    Common stock US4601461035 Purchase 747 48.45 USD  
    Common stock US4601461035 Sale 89,776 48.34 USD  
    Common stock US4601461035 Sale 6,300 48.48 USD  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements, or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24.09.2024  
    Contact name Philippa Holmes  
    Telephone number +441491417447  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Castellum, Inc. Announces $4.1 Million First New Contract Win with its Protégé, Epic Systems, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Va., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) (“Castellum”), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government, announces that teaming with its protégé Epic Systems, Inc. (“Epic”), a new $4.1 million contract award with the National Science Foundation (“NSF”) supporting NSF’s Administrative Services Help Desk was awarded to Epic. Castellum’s subsidiary, Corvus Consulting, LLC, will have a 49% work share on the contract.

    “We are proud to share this major milestone win with our protégé, Epic. We are very committed to providing mentor support and meeting our obligations to help Epic grow and succeed with more and larger wins in the future. The Small Business Administration “Mentor-Protégé” program is an important part of our growth strategy that allows us to help disadvantaged businesses succeed and generate revenue from opportunities otherwise not available to Castellum,” said Glen Ives, President and Chief Executive Officer of Castellum.

    About Castellum, Inc.  

    Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government – https://castellumus.com/.

    Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:  

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements represent the Company’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “shooting to,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “likely,” “will,” “would,” “appears,” “goal,” “target” or similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to compete against new and existing competitors; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget or continuing resolution; and the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American LLC. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements made in this release or in any of its SEC filings except as may be otherwise stated by the Company.

    Contact:

    Glen Ives
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (703) 752-6157
    Contact: Info@castellumus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c0de00ee-75fd-41d4-964f-ab1f3eeadab4

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion Announces Earnings Release Date for Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) will publish its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, in a press release to be issued at approximately 6:00 a.m. Central Time (CT) on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The company will hold a conference call on the same day at 8:30 a.m. (CT) to discuss its financial results. The press release and a live webcast of the earnings conference call will be available on the TransUnion Investor Relations website at http://www.transunion.com/tru.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business

    E-mail investor.relations@transunion.com
    Telephone 312-985-2860

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – International Paper Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Paper Company
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A
    Offeree – Smith (DS) plc

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: common stock
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 71,226 0.02 725,371 0.21
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:                                     1,752,178 0.51
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 71,226 0.02 2,477,549 0.72

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    common stock Purchase 98 48.431 USD
    common stock Purchase 1,284 48.347 USD

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – AngloGold Ashanti plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 AngloGold Ashanti plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A
    Offeree: Centamin plc

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: USD 1 ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 347,936 0.08 1,083,286 0.26
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:     144,060 0.03
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 347,936 0.08 1,227,346 0.29

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    USD 1 ordinary Purchase 2 28.863 USD
    USD 1 ordinary Sale 45 28.598 USD
    USD 1 ordinary Purchase 23,478 28.735 USD

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    USD 1 ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a short position 179 497.453 ZAR

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Keywords Studios plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Keywords Studios plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 1,666,330 2.07    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 1,666,330 2.07    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 45,274 24.300 GBP

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Darktrace plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Darktrace plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests  
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 7,625,908 1.09    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 7,625,908 1.09    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 190,064 5.811 GBP

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – TI Fluid Systems plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 TI Fluid Systems plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23/09/2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES / NO / N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,550,599 2.32    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 10,538,589 2.12    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 22,089,188 4.43    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Sale 38,731 1.657 GBP

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 8,555 1.657 GBP
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 135 1.657 GBP
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Reducing a long position 26,648 1.657 GBP

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 24/09/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – GRAN TIERRA ENERGY INC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Gran Tierra Energy Inc  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    I3 Energy PLC    		  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: USD 0.001 ordinary (US38500T2006)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,315,575 4.24 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 1,315,575 * 4.24 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 2,170 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    USD 0.001 ordinary (US38500T2006) Purchase 2,100 8.4338 CAD  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Enabling change that matters: the Daintta ACE supplier story

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    How ACE provided the consultants with a platform for growth, the ability to showcase quality work and access to new customers they wouldn’t otherwise have met.

    Technical and business consultancy Daintta was founded on the values of transparency, fairness and daring with a mission to put staff and customers first.

    Starting with just three staff in 2020, it now has over 60 engineers and technical and business consultants as well as horizon scanning and innovation specialists. The company prides itself on having a diverse workforce as well as creating an environment that enables people to bring the best of themselves to work and thrive.

    Daintta has been a member of the Vivace community since late 2020 and its core expertise areas are:

    • digital intelligence, bringing disparate datasets together through capabilities such as data science, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to enable greater insights
    • cybersecurity and data privacy, helping companies become more resilient and
    • networks and communication, helping organisations embrace new and emerging technologies

    Navigating complexity

    One thing that links much of Daintta’s work inside and outside the Accelerated Capability Environment (ACE) is complex project delivery says Abu Sayed, the company’s chief client officer.

    He said: “Most of the work we do doesn’t have a clear-cut solution, and so what we’re doing is helping customers navigate through the complexity and untangle some of that.

    “We’re the company that enables change that truly matters, it’s kind of our tagline, and we do that by helping clients leverage the opportunities uncertainty produces. Ultimately, most of our work is helping clients strengthen their ability to deliver their mission.

    “We work really well with ACE because ACE is all about working alongside the customer, embracing innovation and willing to be daring.”

    Daintta’s first commission with ACE was supporting a workshop, and the company has since gone from “strength to strength”. Today its plays an active role in pulling together collaborative rainbow teams of suppliers to respond to client problems. Daintta enjoys working with both new and established ACE community members and is comfortable either leading or supporting commissions, ensuring that the team’s expertise as well as knowledge of ACE best practice is shared.

    Significant pieces of work for ACE include helping develop a business case for the UK Telecoms Lab, providing telco subject matter experts as part of a rainbow team. This was successful in helping secure funding, and Daintta stayed on to work directly with the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology to help build the lab and transition it to operational. Today, Daintta continues to provide experts to develop this capability.

    Another project involved creating a data strategy for a law enforcement body, including discovery to understand what data existed, where it was stored and how it could be used. A visual ‘data landscape’ was then created to help understand how available data could be used to help answer investigative questions.

    A third piece of work was around understanding the requirements for a secure development environment for law enforcement, for use cases involving technologies such as machine learning, AI and graphing technologies as well as unstructured data, and then creating a prototype intelligence search capability.

    Sayed said: “ACE has undoubtedly provided us with a platform for growth. It has given us an opportunity to demonstrate the quality of our work and the expertise of our people. And it has provided us with access to customers that we would not have otherwise come into contact with, accelerating our growth by 12 to 15 months.

    “It’s also unique – no other government framework has the kind of sense of community that ACE has fostered, because people are competing for work but collaborating a lot more than they are competing. That allows the best ideas to come forward and really make a difference to the customer.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – VIRGIN MONEY UK PLC – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Virgin Money UK PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 23 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/a  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 10p ordinary (GB00BD6GN030)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 38,788,978 2.99 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 38,788,978 * 2.99 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 167,748 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    10p ordinary (GB00BD6GN030) Sale 53,254 2.1720 GBP  
    There was a Transfer In of 5,508 shares of 10p ordinary  
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 24 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: NGOs call on all UN Member States to adhere to the ICJ Advisory Opinion on the unlawfulness of Israel’s occupation

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In July the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a historic advisory opinion concluding that Israel’s decades long occupation and annexation of Palestinian territory is unlawful because it violates some of the most fundamental tenets of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and denies Palestinians their human rights.

    The ICJ opinion also concludes that all states have an “obligation not to recognize as legal the situation arising from the unlawful presence of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory” and “not to render aid or assistance in maintaining the situation created by Israel’s illegal presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.” Meanwhile, the virtually unconditional transfer and sale of weapons, parts, and ammunition by governments where there is clear risk of use in harming civilians and violating international law has continued.

    As the UN General Assembly prepares to vote on a resolution this week that would seek to bring the occupation to an end, the undersigned organizations call on all governments, including the UN Security Council and its members, to adhere to the ICJ’s advisory opinion, including through the halting the transfer and sale of weapons, parts and ammunition.

    Humanitarian, development and human rights organizations, many of us with decades of experience working throughout the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, delivering lifesaving assistance and other services, have witnessed first-hand the humanitarian consequences of Israel’s occupation, and its devastating impact on the Palestinian population, including the well-being of children.

    This includes but is not limited to:

    ● the use of weapons, by Israeli forces and settlers in attacks, including in apparent violations of international law, resulting in the killing and permanent disabilities of Palestinian civilians, including children, and instances of gender based violence;

    ● the arbitrary detention and systematic prosecution of Palestinians, including children, in Israeli military courts, often held in horrific conditions;

    ● the forced displacement of Palestinians through demolitions of Palestinian homes and property, Israeli settlement expansion, Israeli settler violence, and so-called “evacuation” orders amid Israeli bombardment in Gaza;

    ● a discriminatory permit regime that denies freedom of movement to Palestinians, depriving them of basic services, including vital medical assistance.

    These practices have taken place without accountability for decades, but the intensification over the last 11 months has led to a staggering humanitarian catastrophe for Palestinians throughout the occupied Palestinian territory, fuelled by the virtually unconditional supply of weapons, parts, and ammunition.

    More than 40,000 people in Gaza have been killed, and tens of thousands face life-altering injuries and potentially irreversible mental harm, including as a result of apparent violations of IHL. Meanwhile, the situation in the West Bank is deteriorating at a rapid pace, with large-scale Israeli military ground incursions and airstrikes killing and injuring people almost every day this year. The violence and restrictions under Israeli occupation have rendered the mandates of humanitarian, human rights, and development organizations almost impossible to fulfill.

    Humanitarian support provided by Member States is regularly obstructed and destroyed by Israeli authorities. Assistance that humanitarian organizations have managed to provide has been insufficient to address the needs and does not address the root causes of the humanitarian consequences created by Israel’s decades-long occupation that the international community has allowed to continue for too long.

    Failure to adhere to the ICJ’s advisory opinion will send a message that states can be selective in their application of international law. It is imperative that states reinforce and show their commitment to international institutions and the international order that has been in place for nearly 80 years. The time for empty statements has passed. All Member States must act decisively to adhere to the ICJ Advisory Opinion before more lives are irreparably destroyed.

    Undersigned:

    1. ActionAid

    2. American Friends Service Committee

    3. Amnesty International

    4. BePax

    5. CCFD-Terre Solidaire

    6. Center for Peace Education (Miriam College, Philippines)

    7. Christian Aid

    8. Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

    9. DanChurchAid 10.Danish Refugee Council

    11. Finn Church Aid

    12.Franciscans International

    13.Gender Action for Peace and Security (GAPS) (Secretariat)

    14.Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

    15.Handicap International/Humanity & Inclusion (HI)

    16.Human Concern International

    17.Islamic Relief Worldwide

    18.Médecins du Monde International Network

    19.Mennonite Central Committee

    20.Middle East Children’s Alliance

    21.Norwegian Church Aid

    22.Norwegian Refugee Council

    23.Oxfam

    24.Pax Christi Austria

    25.Pax Christi England and Wales

    26.Pax Christi International

    27.Pax Christi Scotland

    28.Pax Christi USA

    29.Première Urgence Internationale

    30.Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

    31.Terre des hommes Foundation

    32.Terre des Hommes Italy

    33.United Church of Christ

    34.War Child

    MIL OSI NGO –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel must implement UNGA resolution by ending its unlawful occupation of Palestinian Territory

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution today demanding that Israel end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) within 12 months, in compliance with the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) July advisory opinion, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, said:

    “Today’s resolution makes crystal-clear that Israel’s 57-year occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in flagrant violation of international law, cannot be allowed to continue any longer.

    “Israel must comply with the resolution immediately by withdrawing its forces from the West Bank, including illegally annexed East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, occupied since 1967. Israel must also remove all settlers from the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and reverse its annexation, both in law and in practice.

    “This resolution vindicates long-standing calls from the Palestinian people and many countries around the world, by pursuing the implementation of the ICJ’s historic advisory opinion which confirmed Israel has a legal obligation to end its unlawful occupation of the OPT and its systemic discrimination against the occupied Palestinian population.

    Today’s resolution makes crystal-clear that Israel’s 57-year occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in flagrant violation of international law, cannot be allowed to continue any longer.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “For decades Israel’s unlawful occupation has brought injustice, bloodshed and suffering to Palestinians on a mass scale. Over the past 11 months the systematic human rights violations that are a hallmark of Israel’s brutal occupation and system of apartheid have drastically intensified.

    “Israel’s unprecedented onslaught against Palestinians in Gaza is exacting a deplorable toll on the civilian population, causing deaths, injuries, mass destruction of critical infrastructure, decimation of cities and successive waves of forced displacement. It has rendered Gaza virtually unlivable and plunged the Strip into one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, compounding an already dire humanitarian situation stemming from Israel’s 17-year-long illegal blockade of Gaza. In the meantime, Israel has intensified its oppressive campaign against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, through lethal military operations accompanied by extensive damage of civilian infrastructure, unlawful killings, escalation in arbitrary arrests, torture and other ill-treatment, while settler violence is spiking with impunity and displacing Palestinians.

    “Implementing the UNGA’s resolution is key to restoring faith in international law. This is a critical juncture for the international community.  States, including allies of Israel, must ensure Israel complies with the resolution and puts an end to its persistent disregard for international law, human rights and the historic injustices against Palestinians.

    “Pending an end to Israel’s occupation, third states must immediately stop all forms of aid or assistance that help maintain the unlawful occupation, including halting arms transfers to Israel and ceasing all trade with illegal settlements.

    “They must also support the establishment of the mechanisms indicated in the resolution namely, to record all damages caused by Israel’s military occupation and the one to address Israel’s violations of the Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. These mechanisms must be designed and effectively resourced to hold perpetrators accountable, deliver justice to victims and put an end to Israel’s system of apartheid against all Palestinians whose rights it controls.”

    Background

    The UNGA resolution passed with 124 votes in favour, 43 abstentions and 14 against including the US and Israel. The resolution put forward by the State of Palestine was based on a July advisory opinion by the ICJ that said Israel’s continued presence in the OPT is illegal and that settlements should be removed as rapidly as possible.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel/OPT: UNGA resolution ‘makes crystal-clear’ that Israel must end unlawful occupation of Occupied Palestinian Territory

    Source: Amnesty International –

    UNGA resolution passed with 124 votes in favour, 43 abstentions and 14 against including the US and Israel

    The resolution was based on a July advisory opinion by the ICJ that said Israel’s continued presence in the OPT is illegal

    ‘For decades Israel’s unlawful occupation has brought injustice, bloodshed and suffering to Palestinians on a mass scale’ – Agnès Callamard

    Responding to the news that the UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution today demanding that Israel end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months, in compliance with the International Court of Justice’s July advisory opinion, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “Today’s resolution makes crystal-clear that Israel’s 57-year occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in flagrant violation of international law, cannot be allowed to continue any longer.

    “Israel must comply with the resolution immediately by withdrawing its forces from the West Bank, including illegally annexed East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, occupied since 1967. Israel must also remove all settlers from the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and reverse its annexation, both in law and in practice.

    “This resolution vindicates long-standing calls from the Palestinian people and many countries around the world by pursuing the implementation of the ICJ’s historic advisory opinion which confirmed Israel has a legal obligation to end its unlawful occupation of the OPT and its systemic discrimination against the occupied Palestinian population.

    “For decades Israel’s unlawful occupation has brought injustice, bloodshed and suffering to Palestinians on a mass scale. Over the past 11 months the systematic human rights violations that are a hallmark of Israel’s brutal occupation and system of apartheid have drastically intensified.

    “Israel’s unprecedented onslaught against Palestinians in Gaza is exacting a deplorable toll on the civilian population, causing deaths, injuries, mass destruction of critical infrastructure, decimation of cities and successive waves of forced displacement. It has rendered Gaza virtually unlivable and plunged the Strip into one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, compounding an already dire humanitarian situation stemming from Israel’s 17-year-long illegal blockade of Gaza.

    “Israel has intensified its oppressive campaign against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank through lethal military operations accompanied by extensive damage of civilian infrastructure, unlawful killings, escalation in arbitrary arrests, torture and other ill-treatment while settler violence is spiking with impunity and displacing Palestinians.

    “Implementing the UNGA’s resolution is key to restoring faith in international law. This is a critical juncture for the international community. States, including allies of Israel, must ensure Israel complies with the resolution and puts an end to its persistent disregard for international law, human rights and the historic injustices against Palestinians.

    “Pending an end to Israel’s occupation, third states must immediately stop all forms of aid or assistance that help maintain the unlawful occupation, including halting arms transfers to Israel and ceasing all trade with illegal settlements.

    “They must also support the establishment of the mechanisms indicated in the resolution namely, to record all damages caused by Israel’s military occupation and the one to address Israel’s violations of the Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. These mechanisms must be designed and effectively resourced to hold perpetrators accountable, deliver justice to victims without and put an end to Israel’s system of apartheid against all Palestinians whose rights it controls.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Reaction to UNGA’s overwhelming support for implementing the ICJ’s opinion on the illegality of Israel’s occupation

    Source: Oxfam –

    In response to the UNGA’s overwhelming support for a resolution providing a roadmap to implement the International Court of Justice’s recent opinion on the illegality of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory, Oxfam’s Middle East and North Africa Director Sally Abi Khalil said: 

    “This historic vote has shown that the international community overwhelmingly recognises its obligations in ensuring the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and an immediate end to Israel’s illegal occupation.  

    “The UN Security Council must uphold its obligation to enforce this sober, responsible and detailed resolution or forever undermine any remaining credibility by flouting the legal and political opinion of the UN.” 

    The resolution lays out the steps necessary to implement July’s legally definitive International Court of Justice opinion that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian Territory (Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank) is unlawful and must end immediately; that illegal settlers must leave; that Israel must pay reparations to Palestinians for harm caused since 1967; that no third State may provide any aid or assist Israel’s continuing crimes; and that Israel’s legislation and measures breach Article 3 of CERD, which condemns racial segregation and apartheid. The next stage is for the UNSC to adopt a resolution under Chapter VII of the UN Charter to enforce that implementation. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: company run by retired police officers promoting electric-shock torture equipment

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Film obtained from Birmingham trade fair shows staff at UK company The Squad Group Ltd demonstrating electric-shock gloves which deliver painful electric shocks

    Call on West Midlands Police and HM Revenue & Customs to urgently investigate

    ‘It’s disturbing that a UK company led by three former police officers has openly promoted these devices’ – Dr Michael Crowley

    ‘No-one should be allowed to profit from the sale of torture equipment’ – Sacha Deshmuk

    A British company led by retired police officers – including a former Assistant Chief Constable – has been caught on camera demonstrating electric-shock torture equipment at a trade fair in Birmingham.

    The revelations, made by Amnesty International UK and the Omega Research Foundation, raise serious questions about the enforcement of laws in relation to the prohibition of torture equipment as well as the staging of security equipment trade events, with campaigners saying it should prompt an urgent investigation by West Midlands Police and HM Revenue & Customs, as well as the trade fair organisers, Nineteen Group Ltd.

    In one video, filmed yesterday at the Emergency Services Show at the Birmingham NEC, representatives of the company, The Squad Group Limited – which markets itself as the “Sole UK & Ireland partner of Compliant Technologies”, a US company promoting a range of electric-shock devices – are seen demonstrating devices (known as the “G.L.O.V.E.”), direct-contact devices which emit a painful electric charge on contact with a restrained person’s skin. The Squad Group Limited are seen demonstrating the glove device while emphasising that its electrical charge setting was only at “one tenth” of what the device is capable of. The person volunteering to receive the shock – apparently a serving police officer – is seen grimacing in pain when the glove is used to grab his arm.

    In addition, the company has also promoted a body-worn electric-shock device, the “E-Band Restrictor”, on its website. This device, which is designed to be worn around the ankle of a prisoner, can deliver painful electric shocks repeatedly via a remote control.

    In a briefing document to accompany the video, Amnesty and Omega explain that the trade in direct-contact and body-worn electric-shock weapons is illegal under laws regulating the arms and security trade, with UK companies and nationals banned from importing, exporting or in any way promoting these goods anywhere in the world. Electric-shock weapons are prohibited under The Trade in Torture etc. Goods (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, and current Government export control guidance clearly states that all trading activity, including promotion and marketing of these goods anywhere in the world, is prohibited.

    Due to their design and purpose, these electric-shock weapons are inherently abusive and can be used to carry out torture, including through the application of multiple or continuous electric shocks, as well as electric shocks to vulnerable areas of the body such as the head, neck and genitals. In the UK, police use of Tasers is the only permissible use of electric-shock weapons, and then only under strict licensing conditions. The G.L.O.V.E. is a conductive energy distraction device, the means of that distraction via the application of electric shocks, and as such Amnesty International UK and the Omega Research Foundation believe it falls clearly within the scope of prohibited torture goods.

    The Squad Group Limited is a new company, only registered in May 2023, and its three company directors are all retired police officers. The company’s founder, Adam Conn, is a former police officer and emergency services worker; its CEO, Matthew Nicholls, is a former Assistant Chief Constable with the Hertfordshire Constabulary; and its chief operating officer, Simon Thompson, is a former police officer with the Metropolitan Police. On the company website all three detail their extensive police experience, with two citing their knowledge of weapons deployment in policing.

    Last year, The Squad Group Ltd representatives appeared in photographs and videos demonstrating the use of the G.L.O.V.E. and E-Band Restrictor devices to members of the Royal Gibraltar Police at a two-day seminar event in Gibraltar. Officers from UK police forces, UK Border Force and officials from the Ministry of Defence attended the event, either in person or remotely.

    After yesterday’s discovery, Amnesty International UK and the Omega Research Foundation alerted the trade fair organisers Nineteen Group Ltd and the relevant UK authorities. At the time of writing, it is unclear what action – if any – has been taken.

    Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said:

    “It’s alarming in the extreme that torture equipment is openly being demonstrated at a UK trade fair, and West Midlands Police should urgently investigate this.

    “Bringing any direct-contact electric-shock weapon into the UK must surely be a serious breach of import-export controls, and HMRC should investigate to see if the rules banning torture equipment are being properly enforced.

    “The organisers of this trade fair have serious questions to answer about how they allowed torture equipment to be touted at their event. No-one should be allowed to profit from the sale of torture equipment.”

    Dr Michael Crowley, Researcher at the Omega Research Foundation, said:

    “The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture has specifically identified direct-contact electric-shock weapons and body-worn electric-shock weapons as inherently-abusive goods that should be completely prohibited.

    “It’s disturbing that a UK company led by three former police officers has openly promoted these devices on its website and demonstrated direct-contact electric-shock weapons at an international trade fair.

    “The Squad Group’s ability to attend and demonstrate inherently-abusive devices to a seminar of UK and Gibraltar police officers is also deeply concerning, and should be investigated to establish if UK law was broken and whether serving UK law-enforcement officers or Government officials knew of or facilitated these actions.

    “The UK now also needs to become a global champion in the fight against torture by supporting the call for an international Torture-Free Trade Treaty to end the global trade in these abhorrent products.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Manufacturer of ATMs and charging stations became a resident of the Technopolis Moscow SEZ

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Another capital enterprise has received the status of a resident of a special economic zone (SEZ) “Technopolis Moscow”. Now, significant benefits and a special tax regime apply to JSC SAGA Technologies. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “Development of service infrastructure remains our priority. On behalf of the Mayor of Moscow, we are developing the world’s best contactless payment technologies, including through new solutions from Moscow companies. Assigning resident status allows enterprises to implement the most modern developments and implement new high-tech projects. For example, in the first half of 2024, private investments by SEZ residents amounted to about 30 billion rubles, which is almost 10 billion more than in the same period last year. Microelectronics and photonics manufacturers have become leaders,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    The company “SAGA Technologies” produces banking equipment, high-tech self-service machines and equipment for automation of production. One of the company’s products is ATMs with a money recycling function. Self-service machines can now be found all over the city – from large retail chains to parking lots with parking meters.

    In the first half of the year alone, the company delivered more than five thousand units of this product to customers. According to Oksana Kalashnikova, Commercial Director of JSC SAGA Technologies, the launch of additional lines will allow expanding production and satisfying growing demand. With the opening of workshops in the Technopolis Moscow SEZ, the company plans to increase its staff, increase the number of machines and finance the development of new products.

    In addition to ATMs, the company produces charging stations for electric vehicles, which are already operating on the streets of the capital and other regions.

    “Today, more than 200 companies operate in the capital’s SEZ, over 100 of which have resident status. This gives them the opportunity to use city support measures, in particular a number of tax preferences. We are interested in increasing the number of residents of the Technopolis Moscow SEZ. Thanks to this status, companies can invest more in their projects, expand and localize production, increase production and increase the number of jobs,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    SEZ “Technopolis Moscow”— a territory with a special legal status, where a preferential regime of entrepreneurial activity for investors operates. The area of six sites (Pechatniki, Alabushevo, Mikron, MIET, Angstrem, Rudnevo), where high-tech enterprises are located, exceeds 280 hectares. SEZ Technopolis Moscow has been a leader in international and national industry ratings for several years.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144344073/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: Auckland’s iconic Diwali and Lantern Festivals secure naming rights partnership with BNZ

    Source: BNZ statements

    Two of the country’s most iconic cultural celebrations, the Auckland Diwali Festival and the Auckland Lantern Festival, will continue to delight locals and visitors thanks to a new naming rights sponsorship agreement with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) announced today.

    The Auckland Diwali Festival, known as ‘The Festival of Lights’, draws over 60,000 attendees annually. Since its inception in 2002, the festival has been a vibrant showcase, featuring traditional and contemporary music, dance, and stalls offering Indian delicacies and crafts.

    The Auckland Lantern Festival, founded in 2000, marks the culmination of the Chinese New Year festivities. As Auckland’s largest annual festival and New Zealand’s largest Chinese cultural festival, it attracts over 170,000 attendees each year. With its recent move to the Manukau Sports Bowl, the festival promises to deliver a fantastic celebration.

    BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says, “We’re delighted to throw our support behind two of New Zealand’s best loved and attended festivals.”

    “Our sponsorship of the Auckland Diwali and Lantern Festivals reflects our commitment to growing the social, cultural, and financial wellbeing of New Zealanders. These events align with that mission, bringing hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders from all backgrounds together each year to celebrate Aotearoa’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity.

    “We are thrilled to help bring these free family-friendly events to life from 2023 and beyond.”

    Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive, Nick Hill, says the partnership is a significant one.

    “As one of New Zealand’s most recognisable brands, we are thrilled that BNZ is partnering with two of Auckland’s most popular cultural festivals. It’s a great example of how Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is working with the private sector to reduce the reliance on ratepayer funding, while still delivering world-class cultural experiences that inevitably make Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland a great place to live, work, and visit.”

    This year’s Auckland Diwali Festival will take place on 4-5 November at Aotea Square and Queen Street. Auckland Lantern Festival will be held at the Manukau Sports Bowl from 22 -25 February next year.

    The post Auckland’s iconic Diwali and Lantern Festivals secure naming rights partnership with BNZ appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: No card? No problem: New Zealanders can now shop online without a credit or debit card

    Source: BNZ statements

    Ka whangaia, ka tupu, ka puawai (“that which is nurtured will grow and blossom”)

     New Zealanders can now easily shop online without needing a credit or debit card, thanks to an API agreement between homegrown Māori fintech start-up BlinkPay and the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ).

    BlinkPay provides a platform that connects businesses with their customers using BNZ’s secure API built to Payments NZ standards – a tool allowing third-party services to securely connect with BNZ accounts, with customer consent.

    Blink PayNow is a new payment solution that makes online shopping easy by enabling account to account payments within New Zealand with only a couple of clicks, eliminating the need for a credit or debit card, while reducing transaction fees for merchants.

    “As pioneers in the API payment solutions space, BlinkPay is proud to collaborate with BNZ, which is a leader in the NZ financial services sector,” says Adrian Smith (Ngāpuhi), Chief Product Officer and co-founder of BlinkPay.

    “This collaboration allows BNZ merchants to access BlinkPay’s payment products like Blink PayNow and, in the future, Blink AutoPay. Both products provide a straightforward and secure payment method from a customer’s BNZ bank account.”

    Karna Luke, BNZ’s Executive of Customer Products & Services, says it’s about simplifying the digital economy and making it accessible to more New Zealanders.

    “Whether it’s for the latest fashion, an annual insurance premium, or other domestic online purchases, this service makes it possible to easily pay for your shopping online with just a bank account.

    “Enabled through our secure API, this is a step forward for inclusive banking in Aotearoa, reducing barriers and making it easier for consumers and businesses to benefit from the digital economy.”

    BNZ has been providing open banking services since 2018 and has consistently led the market in New Zealand in releasing APIs. It is a strong supporter of industry moves toward secure standards for open banking, and its APIs are already being used by a range of different organisations and companies, from local councils to financial service providers, fintechs, and many more.

    How Blink PayNow works 

    At checkout on a BlinkPay-integrated website, customers simply select Blink PayNow and choose their bank. They are then redirected to their bank’s portal, where payment details are pre-filled.

    After reviewing and confirming the payment from their mobile banking app, customers are taken back to the merchant’s site with a successful payment notification.

    No credit card details, no lengthy forms, just a few mouse clicks or taps on your smartphone.

     

     

    Making it cheaper to do business

    In addition to providing a user-friendly, secure and accessible payment option for customers, businesses using BlinkPay will also benefit from cheap fees. BlinkPay’s standard fee is 0.95% per transaction, capped at $3.00 NZD, and there is no cost to consumers who pay through the service.

    “We’re proud to offer cheaper fees to New Zealand businesses than our multinational rivals. Reduced fees make it easier for businesses to be competitive in the marketplace, which is also good news for consumers,” Mr Smith says.

    To introduce this new feature, BlinkPay is offering BNZ-merchants a special deal: no integration fees and half-price transaction fees until 31 December 2023. Merchants can get this offer by signing up on BlinkPay’s website by the 30th of September 2023.

    For more details on this payment method, visit BlinkPay’s official website.

    The post No card? No problem: New Zealanders can now shop online without a credit or debit card appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ FY23 Results: Solid performance as economy slows

    Source: BNZ statements

    BNZ announced a statutory net profit of $1,509 million for the 12 months to 30 September 2023, up 6.7% or $95 million on the previous year. The result reflects a strong first half, with a decline in Net Profit of 12.5% in the second half reflecting the broader economic slowdown in New Zealand.

    CEO Dan Huggins says challenging economic conditions have impacted business and household confidence and this has flowed through into BNZ’s result in the second half of the year.

    “Inflation, while softening, remains high, and as the official cash rate has risen, businesses and households have taken a more cautious approach to borrowing.

    “Despite the slowing economy and intense competition across the banking sector, we’ve continued to see growth across the business as more New Zealanders choose to bank with BNZ.

    “Customer deposits are up 5.8% to $78.5 billion compared to the same period last year. Home lending increased 5.3% to $57.7 billion, with nearly 5,000 home loan customers switching to BNZ from other lenders in the 12 months to 30 September.”

    Mr Huggins says BNZ remains strong, stable and well capitalised. “With more than $12 billion in total capital, we’re well positioned to continue supporting our customers and the New Zealand economy.”

    Supporting our customers 

    BNZ recognises the cost-of-living pressures that are challenging household budgets, and the concerns New Zealanders have about keeping safe from scams and frauds.

    “While most of our home lending customers have moved onto higher rates, we continue to proactively contact those who we have identified as potentially needing additional support,” says Mr Huggins.

    “With an increase in scams and fraud impacting more New Zealanders, protecting our customers and helping them stay safe online remains a priority. We continue to invest significantly in fraud protection measures, and we support the establishment of a multi-agency anti-scam centre and the introduction of account name and number matching, which will add additional layers of protection for New Zealanders.

    “We continue to work alongside our business customers as they navigate their way through a variety of ongoing challenges. The impacts of adverse economic conditions and this year’s severe weather events are still being felt by a number of our customers.

    “We have made $1 billion in low-cost lending available through our Business Recovery and Resilience Fund, committed more than $50 million in interest relief, and provided nearly $900,000 in cash and community grants,” says Mr Huggins.

    Outlook 

     Economic growth is expected to remain flat for the next 12 months, however, Mr Huggins says BNZ is cautiously optimistic that business and household confidence will begin to rebuild in 2024.

    “New Zealanders are resilient, and while the year ahead will remain challenging, we are optimistic about New Zealand’s future potential and prosperity. As BNZ has done for the past 160 years, we’ll continue to support our customers and New Zealand.”

     Key Financial Items

     Note: compared to the year ended 30 September 2022, unless otherwise stated.

     Statutory net profit of $1,509 million increased by $95 million, or 6.7%

    • Loans and advances to customers increased by $2.5 billion to $102 billion driven by home loan growth
    • Customer deposits and other borrowings increased $2.8 billion to $81 billion
    • KiwiSaver funds under management increased by $733 million, up 17%
    • Total Capital Ratio 15.7% – more than $12 billion invested in New Zealand

    An unaudited summary of financial information for the 12 months ended 30 September 2023 follows:

    The post BNZ FY23 Results: Solid performance as economy slows appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ expands investment offering by launching High Growth Funds for the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth

    Source: BNZ statements

    From today, members of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and investors in YouWealth have the option of investing into High Growth Fund options.

    The two High Growth Funds invest 100% in growth assets, providing the potential for higher returns for those who are more long-term minded and understand that it means holding investments through the market cycle which can have its ups and downs.

    BNZ’s General Manager of Wealth Peter Forster says the funds provide those with a long investment timeframe with the opportunity to take a more aggressive approach.

    “We’re excited to give our customers the choice of a fund that will suit people who are prepared to weather the inevitable market turbulence through their investment journey,” he says.

    BNZ has chosen to charge the same low 0.45% per annum fee for the two High Growth Funds as it does across the majority of its BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth funds (the exceptions being the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme Cash (0.30% p.a. and Default (0.35% p.a. funds).

    “A management fee of just 0.45% for funds that invest 100% in equities represents real value in a market where investors are frequently charged in excess of 1% for more aggressive funds,” says Mr Forster.

    BNZ is also launching an updated version of its KiwiSaver Navigator tool today that will recommend the High Growth Fund when appropriate.

    The tool will provide users with a detailed breakdown of steps they need to take to get back on track if they are not currently predicted to reach their savings targets. These steps could include increasing contribution rate, changing fund choice or delaying retirement or first home purchase.

    BNZ customers can request a KiwiSaver Navigator session by visiting a BNZ branch or over the phone.

     

    Disclaimer:

    BNZ Investment Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of New Zealand (‘BNZ’), is the issuer and manager of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth. Download a copy of the relevant Product Disclosure Statement from bnz.co.nz/kiwisaver or bnz.co.nz/youwealth.

    Investments made in the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme or YouWealth do not represent deposits or other liabilities of BNZ or any other member of the National Australia Bank Limited group, and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and principal invested. None of BNZ or any other member of the National Australia Bank Limited group, the Supervisor, and any director of any of them, the Crown or any other person guarantees (either fully or in part) the performance or returns of the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme or YouWealth, or the repayment of capital.

    The post BNZ expands investment offering by launching High Growth Funds for the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme and YouWealth appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ Foundation backs marine restoration, social vehicle leasing and community support network in first round of partnerships

    Source: BNZ statements

    Restoring marine biodiversity, empowering low-income families with affordable low-emissions transport, and developing new ways to support New Zealanders facing financial difficulty are the focus of three projects selected for support through the BNZ Foundation’s inaugural grant round.

    $590,000 will go to three charitable programmes: Revive Our Gulf, Waka Aronui, and a new partnership aimed at improving community resilience.

    “This marks a significant milestone for the Foundation as we transition from planning to action,” says Dan Huggins, BNZ Foundation Chair. “After 18 months laying the groundwork for the Foundation, we’re delighted to now be in the position to provide tangible support to projects that will make a significant, positive difference for New Zealand.

    “The organisations we are partnering with share our vision for a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Aotearoa and align with our funding mandate to make strategic investments in the areas of regenerating biodiversity and improving financial wellbeing,” Mr Huggins says.

    Restoring the Hauraki Gulf’s marine ecosystem

    Revive Our Gulf—spearheaded by the Mussel Reef Restoration Trust in collaboration with iwi and research partners—is set to receive a significant boost with a three-year, $450,000 commitment from the BNZ Foundation.

    The project is at the forefront of restoring the Hauraki Gulf’s soft sediment kūtai (green lipped mussel) reefs: vital ecosystems that once flourished in the region. The project aims to increase biodiversity, enhance water quality, and re-establish critical natural habitats for marine life.

    Revive Our Gulf has already deployed over 350 tonnes of mussels in experimental mussel beds in the Hauraki Gulf. As these beds continue to grow in number, thorough monitoring becomes increasingly important. The BNZ Foundation’s financial support will fuel the development of a comprehensive programme for monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the Gulf’s health and the effectiveness of restoration efforts.

    Empowering low-income families with sustainable transportation

    Currently in the second year of a three-year pilot in south Auckland, Waka Aronui is a social car leasing programme which aims to provide low-income whānau with safe, affordable, and low-emissions vehicles to support an equitable transition to a greener future.

    Many low-income families grapple with costly, high-interest vehicle finance, often leading to unaffordable, poorly maintained, and uninsured vehicles. The pilot, spearheaded by the Ākina Foundation and the Manukau Urban Māori Authority, has shown promising results, improving financial and mental wellbeing, along with environmental benefits through CO2 emissions reductions.

    With a $110,000 grant from the BNZ Foundation, a comprehensive feasibility study will explore options to scale the programme to new regions across New Zealand as well as the potential to incorporate new solutions such as vehicle sharing and e-bikes.

    Growing the financial wellbeing of New Zealanders

    Thanks to seed funding from a range of philanthropic foundations, including a $30,000 contribution from the BNZ Foundation, The Centre for Sustainable Finance: Toitū Tahua is establishing a new partnership between corporates, iwi and community organisations to support more resilient communities. The partnership aims to foster collaboration between corporates and community organisations and encourage new practices, products and services that ensure New Zealanders facing economic hardship can always access essential goods and services.

    “These partnerships reflect our commitment to impactful investment. It’s about taking a targeted approach, making every dollar count, and ensuring that our resources bring about substantial and lasting positive change for the country,” says Mr Huggins.

    John McCarthy, BNZ Foundation Independent Trustee, says, “The investment decisions we make are deeply rooted in the principles of Kaitiakitanga and Manaakitanga, values that all our partners embody. We look forward to working closely with them and accelerating positive change for our communities.”

    For more information on the BNZ Foundation and its funding programmes, please visit bnz.co.nz/bnzfoundation.

    The post BNZ Foundation backs marine restoration, social vehicle leasing and community support network in first round of partnerships appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: Unlocking home ownership aspirations for iwi housing – BNZ and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei collaborate on papakāinga development

    Source: BNZ statements

    24 new whānau homes are under construction on Hawaiki St, Ōrākei in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, thanks to a new funding framework which enables lending for housing on iwi land. Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) collaborated with the central Tāmaki tangata whenua, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, in the development of the framework.

    Under the new model, hapū members who meet BNZ’s normal home lending criteria can secure a BNZ home loan for papakāinga housing on land owned by the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust at standard home loan interest rates.

    “The framework has made home ownership more accessible for our whānau,” says Grant Kemble, CEO of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa. “BNZ’s commitment to work alongside us, understand our vision, and persevere through complex legal arrangements has been commendable.”

    “For our people that will move into these new homes, it will be the realisation of a dream: the security of home ownership on their whenua.”

    Historically, obtaining finance for housing on Māori owned land has been challenging. The unique ownership structure and restrictions on land transferability often meant that it couldn’t be used as security for loans, creating a significant barrier for Māori home ownership.

    To address this, the new framework employs standard leasehold mortgage lending practices, underpinned by a confidential Deed of Understanding. This ensures that in the face of any challenges, the land integrity and control is preserved with the iwi or hapū, in this case Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, who would take over in the event of a distressed mortgage. This approach balances the bank’s security requirements with the enduring land rights of the iwi.

    Developing the model involved significant legal work, which was undertaken with advice and guidance from Buddle Findlay and Russell McVeagh, who provided pro bono legal support to help enable the solution.

    BNZ believes the framework may hold promise for broader application among other iwi and the approach has been shared with other banks in the hopes that it will help expand access to finance for development on Māori land across New Zealand.

    BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says the prosperity of Māori, and Māori businesses, is vital to the prosperity of Aotearoa.

    “BNZ is committed to growing the social, cultural and financial wellbeing of all New Zealanders, and our collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is part of our wider strategy to facilitate financial solutions for Māori which enable Māori people and businesses to prosper.

    “Considerable thought has been invested in designing this framework to be as flexible as possible, and it has been shared with other financial institutions in the hope of extending its benefits to more iwi across New Zealand.

    “We are committed to helping New Zealand and New Zealanders to thrive and prosper. Our collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is another example of how we can achieve this. We hope this example will help more iwi to assist their people into warm, dry homes of their own.”

    Further bolstering the collaboration with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, BNZ has provided a $20 million social loan, certified by EY New Zealand, to support the construction of the homes. Ground has broken on site, with roofing expected to be laid before the summer holidays. Completion of the homes is expected in 2024.



    The post Unlocking home ownership aspirations for iwi housing – BNZ and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei collaborate on papakāinga development appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: From red roses to red flags – BNZ warns of increase in relationship scams ahead of Valentine’s Day

    Source: BNZ statements

    On Valentine’s Day eve, BNZ is warning Kiwis to be wary of scammers with its customers reporting a 43% increase in relationship and romance scams over the past year.

    “There were 167 reported cases in 2023 – and they’re only the ones that we know about as many of these sorts of scams go unreported,” says BNZ’s Head of Financial Crime Ashley Kai Fong.

    This is up from 117 reported cases in 2022.

    “This shows that despite the headline grabbing nature of these types of scams, relationship scams are still very fertile ground criminals are using to exploit vulnerable Kiwis,” says Kai Fong.

    Relationship scams are a type of fraud where criminals pretend to be interested in a relationship with another person, sometimes for romance and occasionally simply for companionship, most commonly online, and then victims are conned out of their money or tricked into sharing personal details.

    “All scams can be devastating for victims, but relationship scams are particularly heinous given the time criminals invest in building the relationship with their victims. It can be months before the scammer hints or asks directly for money. They steal your heart, then they steal your money,” says Kai Fong.

    In a recent romance scam case, Barry (details have been changed) came to a BNZ branch wanting help to make an international payment to Italy. Barry revealed that the funds were going to his girlfriend’s friend for an airline ticket to New Zealand. They had been dating online for almost a year and he recently started sending his “girlfriend” money. The girlfriend had asked for the money to be sent to her “friend’s account” as her friend had the credit card to purchase the airline ticket.

    “There is so much social engineering involved in romance scam cases, and victims often don’t believe that they are caught up in a scam. That is what has happened in this case. Barry refused to believe this was a scam and despite being warned of the risks, he sent the money,” says Kai Fong.

    In another case, romance scam victim Sally (details have been changed) believed she was sending money to her US Army surgeon boyfriend stationed in Syria. But Sally’s “boyfriend” said he couldn’t access his bank account due to a poor internet connection and needed the money urgently to fly to NZ. This customer had already sent considerable funds to her “boyfriend” from a number of banks, despite being warned of the risks. The funds for the latest transaction were the proceeds of a personal loan from a finance company.

    “As in this case, criminals can go to great lengths to provide evidence to support their fake personas,” says Kai Fong.

    “They set up bogus social media profiles, and often share doctored documents such as boarding passes or letters from fake employers. While relationship scams primarily involve romantic relationships, criminals can also exploit friendships built up online too.

    “So, while we’ve got an eye out for red roses this Valentine’s Day, and I know it’s not very romantic, my plea is that New Zealanders keep an eye out for the red flags of romance scams this year too.”

    How to recognise a romance scam: 

    • Strong emotions are expressed within a short timeframe.
    • The scammer gives you excuses as to why they cannot meet in person or video call.
    • They’ve asked you to keep the relationship a secret.
    • You’re asked to provide financial assistance.
    • You’re asked to receive money on their behalf and forward it to them.

    Top tips to protect yourself from romance scams: 

    • Never send money or give personal or financial information to someone you have just met or have not met in person.
    • Do not trust someone who claims to be in love with you after a short time without meeting you.
    • Do not trust someone who asks you to communicate only through email, phone, or chat apps and avoids video calls or social media.
    • Do not trust someone who has a lot of excuses for not meeting you in person or who cancels plans at the last minute.
    • The internet is your friend – use reverse image search to check if their photos are stolen from someone else. Search for their name, email, phone number, or other details on the internet and see if they match what they have told you.
    • A great relationship isn’t a secret! Talk to your friends and family about your new relationship. They may be able to spot the signs of a scam that you may have missed.
    • Report any suspicious or fraudulent activity to the online platform where you met the person.  If you’ve sent any funds, contact your bank immediately.

    The post From red roses to red flags – BNZ warns of increase in relationship scams ahead of Valentine’s Day appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    September 29, 2024
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