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  • MIL-OSI: Atos to deliver key IT services and applications for UEFA Nations League Finals™ 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    Press Release

    Atos to deliver key IT services and applications for UEFA Nations League Finals™ 2025

    Paris, France – 5 June, 2025 – Atos, the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football, will deliver key IT services and applications support for the UEFA Nations League Finals™(UNLF) 2025, taking place from June 4 to June 8, 2025, in Germany. Atos’ expertise will once again support hundreds of millions of fans worldwide to share the electrifying experience of one of the highest profile football tournaments.

    To provide the best experience for all stakeholders, from the European football family to fans and media, Atos will be responsible for managing core IT planning and operations systems all requiring the highest level of reliability, efficiency and security. These solutions include:

    • Event Management systems including accreditation, access control solutions, competitions solutions, radio communication and service desk services.
    • Diffusion system like the football service platform, the mobile app, the website including some embedded gaming functionalities such as match predictor and quiz about competitions.
    • End-to-end cybersecurity services, from compliance and threat intelligence to on-the-ground and hybrid-cloud security.

    Since the inception of their partnership in 2022, Atos have assisted UEFA on a day-to-day basis to manage, improve, and optimize its complex technology landscape and in facing new technology challenges. In a new data consumption era, large sport associations need to keep pace with the expectations of their audiences, especially the youth fan base, who are craving for more personalization, technology and data, engagement and real-time information. To meet these challenges, Atos and UEFA have been striving to continuously introduce innovations driving immersive fan experiences with secure, real-time data and deliver best-in class, AI-powered IT solutions.

    Atos, helped make the UEFA EURO 2024™ a tremendous success, supporting over 200 applications, over 6 million app download, almost 1.3 billion email and app push notifications, and a cumulated live audience of over 5 billion. Atos and UEFA also introduced innovative applications like the Football Service Platform, providing data and statistics such as results, line-ups, live match events, players status and ranking of all UEFA teams, transforming all stakeholders’ experience.

    The entire Atos team, from the IT Command Center of UEFA in Nyon (Switzerland) to the delivery centers in Madrid and Barcelona (Spain), as well as Egypt, Poland, Romania and France are committed on daily basis to making sure UEFA is well-prepared to deliver exceptional experiences to fans around the world.

    “We are excited to feel the competition pressure building up as we enter the last stages of UEFA Nations League preparation. Our team is working tirelessly to make sure we once again deliver a secure, flawless and innovative service to UEFA and provide all football fans with an unforgettable tournament experience.” said Nacho Moros, Head of Atos Major Events.

    “Since the beginning of our partnership with Atos in 2022, we have been making advances in the quality of services we are introducing and providing to all the Football stakeholders. We are confident that the 2025 edition of the Nations League will once again leverage the most advanced technologies to provide all football fans an amazing experience”, stated Hosni Ajala, Chief of ICT at UEFA.

    Atos has been serving its partners and customers through a dedicated in-house sports and major events division (“Major Events”) for over 3 decades, giving it an unmatched experience and the flexibility to serve its customers regardless of their exposure, size and scale. From global events to local competitions, Atos consistently strives to deliver technology excellence to its entire customer base. 

    Atos has been involved with the Olympic Movement since 1992 and the Paralympic Movement since 2002 and is the Official Digital Technology Partner of the European Olympic Committees, as well as the official Digital partner for Special Olympics International. The company is also the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football. Most recently, Atos has been instrumental in delivering successful leading-edge IT services for iconic events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 or inspiring events such as Invictus Games Vancouver 2025 or the Special Olympics Torino Winter Games 2025. 

    To learn more about Atos solutions for sporting events and major events, visit  Atos Major event. 

    ***

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Laurent Massicot – laurent.massicot@atos.net – 33 (0)7 69 48 01 80

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Enko Capital welcomes commitment from IFC to new Impact Credit Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Enko Capital (“Enko”), an African-focused asset management firm managing debt, private debt, equity and private equity investments across Africa, has welcomed commitment from International Finance Corporation (“IFC”) to its new Impact Credit Fund (“EICF”).

    The commitment has been confirmed by IFC with the planned equity investment in the fund being up to the lower of US$25 million or 20% of total Limited Partner (LP) commitment to EICF. The project is being processed under IFC’s Debt Funds Project (DFP) Investment Framework. 

    EICF is Enko’s first private credit vehicle. It has a target LP commitment size of US$150 million, targeting US$80 million at first close, expected to take place in Q3 2025. EICF’s objective is to invest in a diversified portfolio of USD denominated senior secured and unsecured debt to mid-sized corporates in sub-Saharan Africa, excluding South Africa. 

    EICF will seek to invest in SDG-aligned, ESG focused and gender-oriented businesses, while generating commercial returns and utilising guarantees, insurance wraps and collateral to hedge downside credit risks.  

    Alain Nkontchou, Managing Partner of Enko, said, “We are delighted to have received this invaluable support from IFC for our debut private credit fund. The fund will provide critical growth capital for mid-market SMEs on the continent and will deliver both positive social impact and compelling risk-adjusted returns. This growth capital can help address the massive funding gap which businesses on the continent face while driving sustainable development.”

    About Enko:

    Enko Capital (“Enko”), is an African-focused asset management firm managing debt, private debt, equity and private equity investments across Africa. Enko offers deep knowledge of the continent combined with best-in-class investment expertise. Enko was founded in 2008 by Alain and Cyrille Nkontchou, and has over $1bn in assets under management.

    Contact:

    nick.white@enkocapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Capgemini becomes an Official Partner of the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift until 2029 to power cycling through tech and innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Capgemini becomes an Official Partner of the Tour de France
    and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift until 2029
    to power cycling through tech and innovation

    The new partnership encompasses 14 international cycling events including La Vuelta, Paris-Roubaix and Liège-Bastogne-Liège races, as well as five standalone women’s races

    Paris, June 5, 2025 – Capgemini announced today that it has become the Official Technology Partner, for the next 5 years, of 14 cycling races, including the world renowned Tour de France, to help drive innovation in professional cycling. Together, they will leverage technology, innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) to grow the cycling community, engage fans all over the world and bring cycling into people’s lives.

    This agreement, that goes beyond the Tour de France and the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, will see Capgemini support a series of international cycling events, that include both men’s races – such as La Vuelta, Paris-Nice, Critérium du Dauphiné, Paris-Roubaix, Paris-Tours, La Flèche Wallonne, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, the Tro Bro Leon, and the women’s races of La Vuelta Femenina by Carrefour.es, Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift, La Flèche Wallonne Femmes, Liège-Bastogne-Liège Femmes.

    As part of this new global long-term partnership, Capgemini is the Official Technology Partner of each of these events, bringing its deep expertise in digital innovation, technology and AI into the professional cycling field. Over the next five years, Capgemini will support these top cycling events in realizing their technology roadmap, delivering cutting-edge technological solutions aimed at enhancing performance insights, supporting international audiences and engaging fans, from casual enthusiasts to amateur cyclists. In 2024, the Tour de France reached more than 1 billion TV viewed hours in 190 countries and broke digital records with nearly 100 million website visits and 1.6 billion impressions on social media.

    With this partnership, Capgemini extends its sports sponsorship portfolio that focuses on bringing the breadth of the Group’s capabilities to enhance leading global events with technological innovation, high performance and team spirit at the heart. As a global company based in 50 countries, with well-established operations across regions that have a strong cycling fanbase such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, UK, and USA, Capgemini will promote the fourteen cycling races internationally.

    “At Capgemini, we are proud to partner with 14 iconic global sports competitions including the world-famous Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Each embody the driving principles of precision, endurance, high performance and teamwork – attributes that we, at Capgemini, live by every day,” said Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer of Capgemini. “This partnership reflects our commitment to bringing the Group’s breadth of expertise and capabilities to enhance the future of sport through cutting-edge innovation, data-led insights and an augmented fan experience.”

    “We are very proud to launch this long-term partnership with Capgemini, leader in technology and innovation. This strategic partnership will help to promote and accelerate our digital ambitions for the Tour de France and all A.S.O. Cycling events around the world. New digital solutions will help to further enhance the Fan experience and engage new communities with innovative and upgraded features and services,” says Yann Le Moënner, A.S.O. Managing Director.

    Transforming sport through technology and innovation
    The partnership builds on Capgemini’s already strong track record in adding value to the fan experience and sporting performance through its portfolio of sports sponsorships.

    • In 2024, for the 37th America’s Cup, Capgemini and America’s Cup Media revealed the breakthrough WindSight IQTM technology in Barcelona. Through a combination of technology, engineering, data, and design, Capgemini developed a LiDAR-based sensor system that made the yacht racing more understandable and engaging for viewers. The solution enabled the viewers to visualize the wind and model potential race results, enhancing the fan experience.
    • This year, Capgemini is a Principal Partner of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, set to kick off in the UK in August. Since 2022, the Group has played a pivotal role in advancing inclusivity in the sport as a Global Partner of the Women in Rugby initiative and enabling the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme, to support a new generation of female leaders in rugby.
    • For the 2025 Ryder Cup in September, Capgemini will bring a generative AI powered version of its Outcome IQ, a tool that puts the intelligence of real-time data in the palm of every fan’s hand, helping to enhance the fan experience by tracking outcome probabilities shot by shot. Capgemini is Worldwide Partner to the Ryder Cup up until and including the 2027 Ryder Cup in County Limerick, Ireland.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Non-time critical payments – Panel

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Learn more about the benefits that NTC payments offer PSPs with regards to the 24/7 availability of the SCT Inst features combined with the certainty offered by the SCT scheme. Why do banks support NTC payments in TIPS? And how can you benefit?

    Martijn de Ruijter, Head of SEPA Products and Payments Fraud Prevention, Rabobank
    Michael Knetsch, Tribe Lead Instant Payments, Deutsche Bank
    Carl Bengtzon, Business Developer, SEB Treasury
    Moderator: Karen Birkel, Head of Market Infrastructure Development Division, ECB

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xt2nhZMB0t0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Non-time critical payments – Technical introduction to the NTC solution

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Discover more on how NTC payments can be made possible in TIPS and gain insights on the technical functionality for the NTC solution.

    Andrea Dimartina, Market Infrastructure Expert and TIPS Functional Manager, Banca d’Italia

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-w2t9kkkQ8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Non-time critical payments – Welcome address

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Non-time critical (NTC) payments in TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS) would be a new functionality which allows for a tailored payment processing based on the criticality of the payment. Discover what benefits this would bring to payment service providers (PSPs) and the purpose for implementation.

    Dimitri Pattyn, Deputy Director General, ECB

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPAhvp8cqBE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Non-time critical payments – Business cases for NTC payments

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    In TIPS, NTC transactions would come in addition to SCT Inst transactions. Examples of possible business cases would be payments whose immediacy is not necessary. Learn more about what advantages this would bring and how NTC payments can benefit PSPs.

    Fabrizio Dinacci, Team Lead Market Infrastructure PM, ECB

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUXQNeb1sdM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Non-time critical payments – Closing remarks

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Dimitri Pattyn, Deputy Director General, Market Infrastructure and Payments, ECB

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBjmaYBJdq0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • India’s Services Sector on a Roll: PMI Strong, Hiring Hits Record

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s services sector maintained its high pace of growth in May, driven by strong demand for exports, which also saw firms increase staff hiring to an all-time high during the month, according to the latest HSBC survey.

    The seasonally adjusted HSBC India Services Purchasing Managers’ Business Activity Index (PMI) registered 58.8 in May. This was broadly in line with April’s reading of 58.7 and therefore signalled another sharp rate of expansion. The survey states that growth was reportedly underpinned by healthy demand conditions, new client wins and greater staffing capacity.

    Notably, companies observed a near-record improvement in international demand for their services during May. Over the course of the survey’s 19-and-a-half-year history, faster increases in new export orders were only recorded in May and June 2024. When citing sources of growth, firms mentioned Asia, Europe and North America in particular, the survey said.

    Similar to the trend for output, new orders rose at a sharp pace that was largely aligned with those registered from February to April. To accommodate ongoing expansions in new business, service providers continued to recruit additional staff, the survey added.

    Price gauges showed an intensification of input cost and output charge inflation, with the rates of increase edging above their historical averages in each case.

    Pranjul Bhandari, Chief India Economist at HSBC, said: “India registered a services PMI of 58.8 in May 2025, broadly in line with the steady readings from recent months. Strong international demand continued to fuel services activity, as evidenced by the new export business index’s uptick from April.”

    “To keep up with swelling demand, India’s service providers heavily increased staff recruitment. Indeed, the employment index rose to the highest reading ever recorded by this survey. Meanwhile, price pressures continued to intensify, with both input prices and prices charged rising last month,” Bhandari added.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – Regional resilience but weaker main centres in May – Cotality

    Source: Cotality

    Property values in Aotearoa New Zealand edged down by -0.1% in May and remain -1.6% below a year ago.

    The latest slight fall in values on the Cotality hedonic Home Value Index comes after some previous months of modest gains, with the national median now at $818,132. That remains 16.3% below the January 2022 peak.
    Values were patchy around the main centres in May, with Kirikiriroa Hamilton inching up by +0.1%, but Ōtepoti Dunedin and Tauranga both edging down by -0.1%. Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland dipped by -0.3%, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington by -0.4%, and after a period of resilience, Ōtautahi Christchurch fell by -0.8%.
    Cotality NZ (formerly CoreLogic) Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said May’s figures were a reminder that any emerging housing upturn could well remain slow and variable for the time-being, both from month to month and across regions.
    “Lower mortgage rates are clearly going to be bolstering households’ confidence as well as their wallets, and there were signs of higher loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratio lending activity in the latest Reserve Bank figures.”
    “But it’s not one-way traffic. After all, housing isn’t necessarily affordable in absolute terms, while the economy and labour market remain subdued too. Indeed, filled jobs edged lower again in April. These are certainly restraints on buyers’ willingness to push ahead with property deals or to pay higher prices.”
    “May’s drop in values at the national level was fairly trivial and could be reversed next month. But anybody who was anticipating a sharp or widespread increase in property values as we got further into 2025 continues to be disappointed.

    National and Main Centres
    Change in dwelling values
     Region
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From peak
    Median  value
    Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
    -0.3%
    -0.6%
    -2.7%
    -21.4%
    $1,073,222
    Kirikiriroa Hamilton
    0.1%
    1.0%
    1.4%
    -10.5%
    $754,800
    Tauranga
    -0.1%
    -0.5%
    -1.0%
    -16.3%
    $918,320
    Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington*
    -0.4%
    -0.2%
    -5.2%
    -23.9%
    $797,126
    Ōtautahi Christchurch
    -0.8%
    -0.2%
    0.6%
    -6.0%
    $695,117
    Ōtepoti Dunedin
    -0.1%
    -0.8%
    -0.9%
    -10.9%
    $610,669
    Aotearoa New Zealand
    -0.1%
    -0.1%
    -1.6%
    -16.3%
    $818,132
    Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
     Region
    Change in dwelling values
    Month
    Quarter
    Annual
    From peak
    Median  value
    Rodney
    0.4%
    0.5%
    -2.5%
    -19.6%
    $1,227,830
    Te Raki Paewhenua North Shore
    -1.0%
    -1.6%
    -1.4%
    -18.4%
    $1,283,925
    Waitakere
    0.0%
    -0.6%
    -1.7%
    -23.3%
    $940,295
    Auckland City
    -0.3%
    -0.9%
    -4.0%
    -22.2%
    $1,149,279
    Manukau
    -0.3%
    -0.1%
    -2.6%
    -22.6%
    $1,000,134
    Papakura
    -0.6%
    -0.8%
    -1.8%
    -22.0%
    $840,185
    Franklin
    0.2%
    1.3%
    0.1%
    -19.3%
    $969,887
    Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
    -0.3%
    -0.6%
    -2.7%
    -21.4%
    $1,073,222

    May was a patchy month for the various sub-markets across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, with Rodney recording a +0.4% rise, Franklin up by +0.2%, and Waitakere holding steady. But Auckland City and Manukau both fell by -0.3%, with Papakura (-0.6%) and North Shore (-1.0%) registering even larger drops.

    Franklin and Rodney remain higher than three months ago, but the rest of Auckland’s sub-markets have seen values drop since February (albeit only -0.1% in Manukau).

    Mr Davidson said, “Auckland is a pretty good example of the wider forces that are playing out across the housing market at present. In an environment where lower interest rates are being counteracted by other restraints, the tr

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand Economy – Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the ten months ended 30 April 2025

    Source: The Treasury

    The Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the ten months ended 30 April 2025were released by the Treasury today. The April results are reported against forecasts based on the Budget Economic and Fiscal Update 2025 (BEFU 2025), published on 22 May 2025, and the results for the same period for the previous year.

    The majority of the key fiscal indicators for the ten months ended 30 April 2025 were slightly better than forecast. The Government’s main operating indicator, the operating balance before gains and losses excluding ACC (OBEGALx), showed a deficit of $7.4 billion. This was $0.1 billion smaller than forecast. While the core Crown results were favourable to forecast, this was largely offset by the results of State-owned Enterprises. Net core Crown debt was in line with forecast at $184.6 billion, or 43.2% of GDP.

    Core Crown tax revenue, at $100.4 billion, was $0.7 billion (0.7%) higher than forecast. Corporate tax and other individuals’ tax contributed $0.4 billion and $0.2 billion respectively to the above forecast result.

    Core Crown expenses, at $115.8 billion, were $0.1 billion (0.1%) below forecast. This variance is mostly timing in nature and was spread across a range of agencies.

    The OBEGALx was a deficit of $7.4 billion, $0.1 billion less than the forecast deficit. When including the revenue and expenses of ACC, the OBEGAL deficit was $11.7 billion, in line with the forecast deficit.

    The operating balance deficit of $6.7 billion was $2.8 billion higher than the forecast deficit. This reflected both the OBEGAL result and net unfavourable valuation movements. Net gains on financial instruments were $4.3 billion lower than forecast, driven by New Zealand Superannuation Fund (NZS Fund) and ACC’s investment portfolios. This unfavourable variance was partly offset by net gains on non-financial instruments being $1.3 billion higher than the forecast loss. This was largely owing to the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme with net gains on the liability being $1.1 billion higher than the forecast loss.

    The core Crown residual cash deficit of $8.4 billion was $0.1 billion lower than forecast. While net core Crown operating cash outflows were $0.4 billion higher than forecast, net core Crown capital cash outflows were $0.5 billion lower than forecast.

    Net core Crown debt at $184.6 billion (43.2% of GDP) was in line with forecast. With core Crown residual cash broadly in line with forecast, this and minor movements in non-cash items contributed to the net core Crown debt result.

    Gross debt at $203.5 billion (47.7% of GDP) was $6.3 billion lower than forecast, largely owing to lower than forecast unsettled trades and issuances of Euro Commercial Paper.

    Net worth at $181.4 billion (42.5% of GDP) was $3.1 billion lower than forecast largely reflecting the year-to-date operating balance result.

                     

                      

      Year to date Full Year
    April
    2025
    Actual1
    $m    		 April 
    2025
    BEFU 2025
    Forecast1
    $m    		 Variance2
    BEFU 2025
    $m    		 Variance
    BEFU 2024
    %    		 June
    2025
    BEFU 2025
    Forecast3
    $m
    Core Crown tax revenue 100,365 99,645 720 0.7 120,894
    Core Crown revenue 110,787 110,304 483 0.4 134,188
    Core Crown expenses 115,808 115,937 129 0.1 142,207
    Core Crown residual cash (8,439) (8,565) 126 1.5 (9,990)
    Net core Crown debt4 184,620 184,622 2 –  185,644
              as a percentage of GDP 43.2% 43.2%     42.7%
    Gross debt 203,505 209,766 6,262 3.0 209,999
              as a percentage of GDP 47.7% 49.1%     48.3%
    OBEGAL excluding ACC (OBEGALx) (7,444) (7,526) 82 1.1 (10,175)
    OBEGAL (11,667) (11,660) (7) (0.1) (14,740)
    Operating balance (excluding minority interests) (6,665) (3,872) (2,793) (72.1) (5,493)
    Net worth 181,424 184,553 (3,129) (1.7) 183,130
              as a percentage of GDP 42.5% 43.2%     42.1%
    1. Using the most recently published GDP (for the year ended 31 December 2024) of $426,925 million (Source: Stats NZ).
    2. Favourable variances against forecast have a positive sign and unfavourable variances against forecast have a negative sign.
    3. Using BEFU 2025 forecast GDP for the year ending 30 June 2025 of $435,148 million (Source: The Treasury).
    4. Net core Crown debt excludes the NZS Fund and core Crown advances. Net core Crown debt may fluctuate during the year largely reflecting the timing of tax receipts.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua City Council makes budget decisions

    Source: Porirua City Council

    After listening to feedback from residents Porirua City Council has made changes to next year’s budget, including not increasing paid parking charges in the city or Cannons Creek pool entry fees.
    The Council’s Te Puna Kōrero committee met this morning to deliberate on the Annual Plan, which sets the city’s budget for the coming financial year.
    When preparing the draft Annual Plan, the starting point for this year’s rates increases had increased from the planned 10 per cent to 15 per cent, due to cost pressures.
    Council acknowledged this wasn’t sustainable for households and businesses, so took a hard look at internal operations to find cost savings. This process brought the new starting point for the average rates increase down to 6.75 per cent.
    Council consulted on five options, which if adopted would decrease the rates increase even further. A total of 343 submissions were received, with a mix of opinions on the items on the table.
    Committee Chair Councillor Ross Leggett thanked everyone who made submissions and shared their thoughts.
    “Your feedback is shown in this paper and we do read and appreciate all of it,” he said.
    Of the options consulted on, the committee voted to discontinue the Chamber of Commerce grant and increase Council’s building consent hourly rate.
    They voted against increasing the paid parking hourly rate, putting up Cannons Creek Pool entry fees, and discontinuing the Event Investment Programme.
    With these changes, the average rates increase for residential properties for the 2025/26 year will be 6.39 per cent, subject to confirmation by the full Council on 26 June.
    Mayor Anita Baker said everything possible was done to keep rates increases as low as possible.
    “Nobody wants the big increases we saw last year and we know the community is struggling. The organisation has done a deep dive internally and made significant cuts that got us to a lower starting point than planned.
    “In terms of the further cuts we could have made, we asked for feedback and we’ve listened to our people. That’s why we are not supporting some of the ideas that were on the table.”
    Councillors spoke about the community benefits of swimming pools, the life that events bring to the city, and the need to support local businesses through keeping parking charges as they are. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Past Policy Choices Coming Home to Roost

    Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

    For yet another year, the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) data published today shows that estimates for New Zealand’s gas reserves are rapidly declining.
    There has been a 27 per cent year-on-year reduction in natural gas reserves, dropping to 948 petajoules from 1,300 in 2024, which was 20 per cent down on the previous year. Production is now forecast below 100 PJ by 2026, rather than 2029, as previously forecast.
    Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie says the $200 million Crown co-investment in new domestic gas projects, the removal of the 2018 exploration ban, and changes proposed through the Crown Minerals Amendment Bill are all great signs that the Government is working hard to turn the corner on the deindustrialisation of the New Zealand economy.
    “We acknowledge the Government is moving to support the strong potential of our domestic gas supply. But only time will tell if this will be enough.”
    Carnegie says the ongoing challenges with gas supply underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to secure energy stability and support New Zealand’s economic resilience.
    “We know there are still prospective fields out there – now we need to see the right conditions continue so that we can unlock the supply.
    Kiwi businesses are doing it tough as gas supply becomes further constrained. We desperately need more natural gas in the market to ensure electricity is available to keep the lights on and our export economy thriving.”
    Currently, we’re witnessing the consequences of a shrinking domestic gas supply: higher prices, the use of imported coal, and uncertainty for industrial users, Carnegie says. 
    “Natural gas plays a critical role in supporting renewables, powering industry, and keeping energy affordable and reliable.
    Gas production projects underpin everything from electricity to industrial manufacturing. If we don’t continue to work hard on securing more domestic gas for New Zealand, we risk higher prices, more imported coal use, and further instability.”
    If New Zealand can get this right, the benefits are enormous: jobs, royalties, export earnings, and the confidence of regional businesses to expand, knowing they have secure and affordable energy for the future.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Drives Stablecoin Expansion After $20M USDe Purchase and $100M TVL Milestone

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is shaping its long-term strategy, based on its mission – making crypto more accessible to everyone and building trust within the community. Being a significant player in the market, MEXC drives the whole industry. The effect of its recent investments on the crypto space globally is hard to overestimate.

    As part of this strategy, the exchange has previously made a significant investment of $16 million in Ethena, a leading innovator in the stablecoin space. The investment follows MEXC’s recent acquisition of $20 million worth of USDe, Ethena’s synthetic dollar, which caused a surge in ENA’s trading volume and boosted USDe’s total value locked (TVL).

    In May 2025, the TVL of USDe in MEXC recorded a value above $100 million, making it the second-largest holder of USDe TVL among centralized exchanges. This growth aligns with the broader rise of USDe, whose circulating supply has reached nearly $5.2 billion — making it the fourth-largest stablecoin by market capitalization. The trust in this coin is backed up by several factors. In contrast to some highly volatile crypto assets, USDe exhibits greater price stability. Also, Ethena employs a unique strategy for maintaining the dollar peg, combining derivatives and on-chain liquidity.

    To encourage users to experience and trade USDe, MEXC launched several events and promotional campaigns, including one with an impressive prize pool of $1 million. Other incentives include zero trading fees, presented as a limited-time Trader’s Fest, aimed at attracting crypto professionals and those who are making their first steps. Within this offering, traders can take advantage of zero-fee trading pairs.

    To appeal to risk-averse crypto investors, MEXC comes out with exclusive staking rewards with generous APR (annual percentage rate). These incentives, targeted to various crypto user groups, offer simplicity, innovation and customization. They drive industry as a whole and build confidence among market participants by promoting stablecoins as a more trustworthy instrument and emphasizing transparency and security of operations.

    These efforts, benefiting not only MEXC itself, but the crypto market on a larger scale, are followed by astonishing numbers. For instance, in March, the quantity of ENA holders increased by 30%, ENA TVL increased by 14%, and the daily trading volume of ENA increased by 885%. The average spot daily trading volume in March increased by 557% compared to February’s numbers.

    By May 2025, ENA’s market capitalization reached 1.96 billion USD, marking a substantial growth from February 2025, when its market cap was approximately half that amount at 1.07 billion USD.

    To sum up, MEXC, a cryptocurrency exchange with a years-long history (it was founded in 2018) is making investments in innovative, but at the same time secure instruments. This move emphasizes MEXC’s values and sets positive trends for the crypto industry in the long-term perspective.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Source

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ee886fd6-a86d-483a-bc84-6114b3f85355

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Introduces Samsung Finance+ for Bespoke AI Appliances, Offering Quick and Digital Financing for Indian Consumers

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand has expanded its popular digital lending program, Samsung Finance+, enabling consumer ease of purchase for its wide range of Bespoke AI Appliances. Developed by Samsung R&D Institute in Bangalore & Delhi, Samsung Finance+ ensures a fully digital and hassle-free financing experience with loan approvals in as little as 15 minutes. The initiative aims to provide seamless, quick, and paperless financing solution, making Samsung’s latest AI-enabled appliances including refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, more accessible to consumers across India.
     
    Samsung Finance+ is designed to drive financial inclusion so that consumers can avail easy credit with minimal documentation and quick loan approvals. Loans under Samsung Finance+ are facilitated in partnership with leading financial institution, DMI Finance, which specializes in digital lending solutions, ensuring a fast and seamless experience.
     
     “At Samsung, we are committed to making premium technology accessible to consumers across India, and Samsung Finance+ is a testament to our vision. By combining digital innovation with seamless and hassle-free accessibility, we are simplifying the financing process and expanding financial inclusion, ensuring consumers can conveniently upgrade their lifestyles with our Bespoke AI Appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances, Samsung India.
     
    How Samsung Finance+ Works
    Consumers can avail a loan through Samsung Finance+ via samsung.com and across retail stores in just a few simple steps. At the retail outlets, consumers have to submit their e-documents for KYC verification at the Samsung Finance+ desk. On the completion of verification and credit scoring processes, the loan is sanctioned in as little as 15 minutes. Flexible EMI options are also available, tailored to suit varied consumer needs. This seamless process ensures that customers can purchase their preferred Samsung appliances quickly and without financial strain.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Nintendo Switch 2 launches globally with shortages expected amid pent-up demand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Nintendo’s 7974.T Switch 2 launched on Thursday and is widely expected to be in short supply globally amid pent-up demand for the more powerful next-generation gaming device.

    “The level of demand seems to be sky-high,” said Serkan Toto, founder of the Kantan Games consultancy.

    The Switch launched in 2017 and followed the underperforming Wii U. The home-portable device became a juggernaut with games including two “The Legend of Zelda” titles and COVID-19 pandemic breakout hit “Animal Crossing: New Horizons”.

    The Switch 2 bears many similarities with its predecessor but offers a larger screen and improved graphics and debuts with titles including “Mario Kart World”.

    “The much larger audience of Switch users should translate to stronger adoption in the opening part of its lifecycle,” said Piers Harding-Rolls, an analyst at Ampere Analysis.

    “Nintendo is better prepared this time around” to deal with the high demand, he said.

    The launch of the $499.99 Switch 2 is a test of Nintendo’s supply chain management during U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war.

    Nintendo last month forecast sales of 15 million Switch 2 units during the current financial year.

    President Shuntaro Furukawa said Nintendo will strengthen production capacity to respond to strong demand and focus on sales promotion in an effort to exceed the forecast.

    The company, which is known for conservative forecasts, also expects to sell 4.5 million Switch units.

    Nintendo said it received 2.2 million applications for its Switch 2 sales lottery on its My Nintendo Store in Japan. Pre-orders at Target TGT.N sold out in less than two hours.

    “You are looking at weeks or months until you can walk into a store and buy a Switch 2,” said Toto of Kantan Games.

    Investor expectations for the new device are similarly lofty.

    Nintendo’s shares are trading near highs and have gained almost 30% this year.

    Concerns include whether momentum for the Switch 2 will be sustained after hardcore gamers have upgraded.

    “The volume of first-party games on offer at launch isn’t as strong as it could be, so some more casual users may wait and see how the games available build over the next one to two years before making the leap,” said Ampere’s Harding-Rolls.

    Ampere forecasts Switch 2 sales to exceed 100 million units in 2030. Nintendo has sold 152 million Switch units in total.

    (Reuters)

  • DBT, Jan Dhan schemes revolutionised welfare delivery in India: FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several groundbreaking financial inclusion schemes by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government have revolutionised welfare delivery in India in the last 11 years, by plugging leakages and ensuring transparency, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday.

    Over the past decade, the NDA government has taken pathbreaking steps to uplift several people from the clutches of poverty, focussing on empowerment, infrastructure and inclusion.

    “Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has revolutionised welfare delivery in India, by plugging leakages and ensuring transparency. Over 1,200 government schemes now leverage DBT, enabling direct transfer of Rs 44 lakh crore to beneficiaries’ bank accounts,” said FM Sitharaman in a post on X.

    This system has already saved the nation Rs 3.48 lakh crore in leakages and inefficiencies, she informed.

    Also, PM MUDRA Yojana has given wings to grassroots dreams and made entrepreneurship inclusive.

    “Under this scheme, over 52 crore loans worth Rs 33 lakh crore have been sanctioned, out of which 68 per cent belong to women,” said the Finance Minister.

    PM Jan Dhan Yojana has made banking universal. Under the world’s largest financial inclusion programme, 55.44 crore accounts have been opened, out of which 55.7 per cent are held by women, said the Finance Minister.

    According to PM Modi, the push for DBT, digital inclusion and rural infrastructure has ensured transparency and faster delivery of benefits till the last mile.

    Since the money goes directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries, the leakage has been curbed, which has resulted in a halving of subsidy allocations from 16 per cent to 9 per cent of total expenditure, government data showed in April.

    “It is due to this that over 25 crore people have defeated poverty. The NDA remains committed to building an inclusive and self-reliant India, where every citizen has the opportunity to live with dignity,” said PM Modi in a post on X.

    (IANS)

     

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow robots master more and more specialties — Sergei Sobyanin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow companies are increasing the production of robots. They are mastering more and more specialties, including loader, farmer and storekeeper, replacing people in hazardous production areas, and also relieving them of routine tasks. Sergei Sobyanin spoke about some interesting developments in his blog.

    “Moscow’s robotics industry continues to develop dynamically: the production of automated systems is demonstrating rapid and confident growth. In the first quarter of 2025, the volume of production of machinery and equipment, including robots, increased by 14.3 percent compared to the same period last year,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Industrial robots

    TechnoRed develops and manufactures ready-made box robotic systems, including automated welding complexes and robotic machine operators. In addition, the company produces palletizers (packaging machines) capable of sorting, moving and compactly stacking products. They are in demand at more than 550 Russian enterprises. Robots allow increasing labor productivity by an average of two to three times.

    In the first quarter of this year, the company increased its output by 50 percent. Today, it has more than 20 patented developments. The company is a technology partner of Innopolis University, Moscow State Technological University Stankin and Plekhanov Russian University of Economics. The company implements its own training programs in the field of robotics, introduces robotic cells into educational institutions.

    In May of this year, the company opened a production site at the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone (SEZ) for the production of domestic industrial robots.

    From sports to robotics: the number of clubs in renovated Moscow schools has increased by almost 40 percentNew machines and robotics kits delivered to engineering and IT classes in Moscow schools

    Robots in warehouses and production

    Ronavi Robotics, a company of the Rusnano Group, produces logistics robots for automating warehouses and production facilities. Some are designed for assembling and moving cargo, others for sorting parcels. There is a model that can replace the main conveyor.

    This year, the company robotized the warehouse of a capital manufacturer of workwear with an area of about 7.5 thousand square meters. To implement the project, the company supplied 48 robots, 10 charging stations and four assembly stations. The manufacturer continues to develop the system, improves the parameters every month and develops new solutions for other areas of the warehouse.

    UVL Robotics specializes in developing intelligent solutions for warehouse and transport logistics. The drone-based inventory system allows for inventory counting 10 times faster and five times more efficiently than traditional methods.

    Recognizing objects with the help of a built-in scanning module, robots read markings on containers. Their productivity is up to 1.5 thousand pallets per hour, manually such a volume can be processed in about six hours. At the same time, drones cope well with work in refrigerated warehouses with temperatures down to minus 25 degrees, reducing the workload on personnel.

    This year, an improved model was released. It is lighter, can maintain altitude, is easier to control, stores data and transmits it quickly over the network.

    Rescue robots

    The company “Special Design and Technology Bureau of Applied Robotics” manufactures multifunctional robotic systems at the site of the SEZ “Technopolis Moscow”. Among them are robotic sappers, which are used not only for mine clearance, but also in a number of explosive works, for example, in dismantling buildings.

    In addition, the company produces mobile robotic fire extinguishing units to combat fires of any level at radiation and explosive hazardous facilities. The robot is equipped with television cameras, a thermal imager, as well as chemical and radiation reconnaissance devices. It can transmit information to the control post online.

    Another original development is an amphibious robot. The model can be used underwater at a depth of up to four meters, as well as on land, and can be used for reconnaissance, emergency rescue, and explosive engineering work. The installation was created for nuclear power plants.

    Robots for agriculture

    The company “ERlab” creates robots for agriculture. The machines replace up to 15 people on a farm and process up to eight hectares in one hour. In particular, the robotic sprayer reduces the use of chemicals by 95 percent, fertilizers by 40 percent, and the robotic weeder increases crop yields by seven percent. Agrorobots independently identify weeds and signs of plant diseases.

    “Moscow developers of robotic systems are mastering more and more areas and directions. With the support of the city, they are expanding their model range and increasing production output. New developments are successfully integrated into production processes, increasing their efficiency and safety,” Sergei Sobyanin emphasized.

    Moscow supported more than three thousand innovative solutions with patent grantsMikhail Mishustin and Sergei Sobyanin inspected the work of the Lomonosov cluster

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12817050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Capital’s manufacturing enterprises increased production output

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    According to the results of the first four months of 2025, Moscow companies in the manufacturing industry increased the production of key products that are in demand among residents. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “On the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, we are actively developing the industrial sector, which allows us to regularly note the growth of the industrial production index. According to the results of the first four months of 2025, manufacturing enterprises increased output by 6.7 percent. Companies began to produce more textile and paper products, chemicals, medical equipment, pharmaceutical substances and other important products,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    According to analysts’ forecasts Department of Investment and Industrial Policy of Moscow, the growth of industrial production in the capital will continue: this will be facilitated by a set of effective support instruments.

    “Moscow industry is a dynamically developing sector of the capital’s economy and one of the key elements in strengthening the country’s technological sovereignty. Today, we offer over 20 comprehensive tools for sustainable industrial development, which allows the city to reach new heights. In January-April, industrial production grew by 5.4 percent compared to the same period last year,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    Moscow is the largest industrial and scientific-engineering center of Russia. There are more than 4.5 thousand industrial enterprises in the capital, employing over 750 thousand people. Every year, 150 high-tech companies open in the city and implement dozens of investment projects.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154837073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Spectacular SUP regatta to take place at Moscow on the Wave. Fish Week festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    At the festival “Moscow is on the wave. Fish week”, which is carried out within the framework of the project “Summer in Moscow”, June 7 will see one of the most exciting events of the summer – a costumed SUP regatta. Guests are welcome at beach No. 3 in Serebryany Bor. A record number of participants – about a thousand people – will take to the water near the city’s favorite recreation spot. The total prize fund is one million rubles.

    Residents of the capital and tourists will enjoy a colorful water procession, in which Poseidons, mermaids, witches, crocodiles, astronauts, fairies and many other fantastic characters will take part. Each participant in the costumed SUP regatta will decorate their SUP board in accordance with the chosen image, turning the board into a real art object.

    Anyone can join the event. You will need a SUP board, a life jacket and a medical certificate from a therapist. Participation is free,pre-registration. Entry of cars into the territory of Serebryany Bor is prohibited.

    The route of the costumed SUP regatta will start at beach No. 3 in Serebryany Bor. This is a long coastal area with rich infrastructure for a full-fledged rest. There are sports and children’s playgrounds, cozy gazebos for picnics and even a swimming pool, which was reconstructed and opened in June 2024. Spectators will be able to comfortably sit on benches and sun loungers.

    The total length of the costumed regatta route is about five kilometers along the Moskva River. Participants will sail on decorated SUPs past beaches No. 4 and 5, enter Lake Bezdonnoye, go around Serebryany Bor Island and return back to the starting point, where the SUP regatta will end.

    Registration for individual numbers will open at 08:00. At 10:00, participants will take to the water, and at 11:00, the SUP regatta will begin. The awards ceremony will take place at 15:00.

    The authors of the most striking and unusual costumes will receive recognition from the audience, as well as cash prizes in five nominations: for the best male, female, children’s, team costumes and the most original outfit for a pet.

    Silver Forest It is no coincidence that it became the site of a costumed SUP regatta. This is a significant historical recreation area for Muscovites and tourists, which is visited annually by hundreds of thousands of people. The entire infrastructure is being updated and equipped for the new season. This year, guests will find even more picnic spots, sports grounds and landscaped areas near the water in the most picturesque natural landscapes of the capital.

    The costumed SUP regatta in Moscow is not only a celebration of sports and creativity, but also a platform for self-expression. Last year, more than 600 people took part in the event. First place in the costume contest was taken by Mikhail Ryutov, who transformed into a fisherman from Alexander Pushkin’s fairy tale about the Golden Fish. Second place was taken by Maxim and Darya Karakulov for their spectacular images of a rescuer and a traffic police inspector, and third place went to Leonid Varlamov – he captivated the jury and spectators with the image of a large green crocodile. A special prize was given to the participants who chose an original raft – a huge pizza – as a means of transportation on the water.

    All details about the festival “Moscow – on the wave. Fish week” – onwebsite.

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Until June 8, the capital is hosting the ninth festival “Moscow on the Wave. Fish Week”, organized as part of the “Moscow Seasons” cycle with the support of the city. This year, it is being held as part of the “Summer in Moscow” project and covers more than 30 sites in all districts of the capital. Leading fishing and fish processing companies from all over the country have brought the freshest delicacies to Moscow, and guests can expect a rich program with entertainment, master classes and sports events.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154752073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: How to invest funds and present business ideas: what young visitors to financial literacy days will learn

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On June 7 and 8, the Northern and Southern river terminals will host financial literacy days. A two-day educational marathon for the whole family was prepared Department of Finance of the City of Moscowand the Financial Literacy Center of the capital together with partners. While adults will participate in lectures and master classes, children will learn how to manage money wisely. The program of events for young visitors is divided into age groups: for children aged six to 10, 11 to 14, and 14 to 17.

    “Young guests will master key skills in an accessible, playful way: be mindful of spending and saving, avoid financial traps, and turn dreams into achievable goals. No complicated terms — just practice, exciting games, educational cartoons, and interactive activities. Today, when the world of finance is becoming increasingly complex, it is especially important to give children a reliable compass that will help them confidently chart their course into adulthood,” she emphasized.

    Elena Zyabbarova, Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Finance.

    This time, financial literacy days will be held as part of a large-scale city project “Summer in Moscow”. To participate, you need to register in the Russpass service. In order to attend the events on June 7, Northern river station, registration will be required. To participate in the events on June 8, Southern river station You also need to register.

    “On June 7 and 8, the Northern and Southern River Terminals will become the venue for financial literacy days. On the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, we continue to develop both river terminals. Today, these are not only transport platforms, but also modern urban spaces: entertainment, cultural and educational events are held here all year round,” said the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    How to preserve capital

    The organizers came up with a way to explain to children what a personal budget, savings, and reasonable spending are. They turned complex topics into an exciting game.

    For the first time, during the days of financial literacy at the Northern River Terminal on June 7, a separate children’s zone “Cabin Boys-Entrepreneurs” will open. The children will master important navigation skills. They will learn to keep track of treasures – income, control damage in the hold – expenses, and also determine the course – plan a budget. How to manage wisely with personal fundsNatalia Pivkina, an expert at the Moscow Center for Financial Literacy, will tell the children how to always stay afloat.

    At the master class “Color your treasure map”The kids will learn to set financial goals, such as saving up for a new toy or book. Together with experts, they will learn the rules of saving.

    Children learn information more easily through visual examples. At the event “The Island of Financial Fairy Tales”Experts will analyze the behavior of famous cartoon characters and show how to make a shopping list, plan expenses, and even help parents save money.

    During interactive classes, schoolchildren will be asked to come up with a new type of means of payment and layout bank cardwith its own original design.

    For guys who are interested in cryptocurrency and digital ruble, the master class will be held by Irina Maslova, Doctor of Economics. The expert will talk about the features of digital money and give advice on how not to become a victim of crypto scammers.

    Young sailors will be able to take a break from the busy program during short physical exercises – deck and storm exercises. The festive atmosphere will be complemented by a soap bubble show and Aitish’s financial assistant – a favorite character of all children from the program “Good night, little ones!”

    How to invest savings

    Young guests of the second day of financial literacy at the Southern River Terminal on June 8 will get acquainted with various banking instruments that will be useful to them in the future. Children who learn to save money from an early age have a better chance of saving for a dream or a long-awaited trip.

    For those who want to properly form savings and invest them in the future, experts will suggest drawing up step by step planand visualize it colorfully.

    Older kids will be interested team play, during which you can develop business ideas and learn how to present them correctly. Irina Suslova, a teacher at the Department of Innovation Economics of the Faculty of Economics at Lomonosov Moscow State University, will help you with this.

    How to turn a hobby into source of income, Director of Electronic Commerce Dmitry Milyushin will tell young businessmen. The guys will learn what steps they need to take to start making money on their hobby, and what platforms and tools will help with this.

    By solving thematic problems and competing in intellectual tournaments, young guests will understand issues of telephone and internet fraudand find out how to protect yourself from investing in dubious financial organizations.

    Useful exhibitions

    At the Northern and Southern River Terminals, participants in the financial literacy days will be able to visit the Bank of Russia exhibition “Journey to Childhood”. The stands will display photographs of coins dedicated to heroes of folk tales, characters of Russian cartoons, children’s writers and artists. The exhibition will help young guests learn more about finances using familiar stories.

    At the Southern River Terminal, young visitors will be treated to an exhibition called “Financial Security”. The exhibition will introduce children to common types of fraud – from calls from unknown numbers to financial pyramids and fictitious job offers.

    On both days, VR simulators developed jointly with experts from the Moscow Government’s Personnel Services Department will be available. With their help, teenagers aged 14 and over will be able to practice their financial management skills. A financial checkup will help them assess their own knowledge. After answering several questions in the express test, participants will find out their level of financial literacy and receive personal advice and links to useful training materials.

    Summer concerts of the “Music in the Metro” project begin at the Northern River Terminal

    More news about financial literacy, as well as event announcements, can be found in the telegram channel “Open Budget of Moscow” and on portal of the same name.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154853073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues NOK 2 billion notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    5 June 2025 at 10:00 am (EEST)

    Municipality Finance issues NOK 2 billion notes under its MTN programme

    Municipality Finance Plc issues NOK 2 billion notes on 6 June 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 6 January 2031. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.125% per annum.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 6 June 2025.

    DNB Bank ASA acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland. The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jorgovanka Tabaković: By joining SEPA, Serbia reaffirms its strategic direction

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, dear colleagues,

    It is a particular pleasure for me that my neighbour, Mr Holti (Senior Financial Sector Specialist with the Payments Team in the Finance, Competitiveness & Innovation Global Practice at the World Bank) from Albania, is with us. As a good host, at the beginning, I greeted him in the way my neighbours in my home town would do. That is indeed a sign of good hospitality, but there is also a bit of bitterness because we, as the best, are the 41st in the SEPA system. However, there is a good Serbian saying: Luck is never late. And whenever something happens, it happens on time.

    I am speaking to you at a moment when a significant chapter has already been opened: the Republic of Serbia has become part of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA).

    With this step, Serbia has entered a new phase of economic integration with the EU. We are now the first country in the region with an advanced instant payment system, ready to participate equally in a space where payments are executed without borders – quickly, securely, and reliably.

    “Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity,” said Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers of the EU. Our path to SEPA embodies these concrete achievements – the collective effort of experts, institutions and partners from the country and abroad.

    SEPA is not merely a technical framework for connecting payment systems. It is a civilizational framework of trust – a common language for European markets and the foundation of the digital economy. If the Tower of Babel, like in Bruegel’s painting, remained unfinished in its construction because the people of the world could not agree to speak one language, through the SEPA instrument we are trying to realise that eternal human dream – to speak the same language in order to understand each other best.

    By joining SEPA, Serbia not only establishes the basis for more efficient cross-border payment transactions but also clearly reaffirms its strategic direction, which is European, modern and inclusive.

    Our path to SEPA was a carefully guided process of reforms, involving thorough alignment with the highest EU standards. From adopting a modern legal framework for payment services and implementing the provisions of the PSD2 directive to enacting secondary legislation – every step was grounded in a clear vision and institutional responsibility. During this process, we enhanced supervisory capacities, strengthened collaboration with the banking and fintech sectors, and created a regulatory environment that now enables a stable, transparent, and competitive system. Over this time, Serbia has taken a significant leap – not only in terms of aligning with the highest EU standards but also in terms of developing its own solutions that today serve as benchmarks both regionally and globally. When I say our own solutions, I mean solutions developed primarily relying on our own efforts, for our greatest strength is the people who created that software. Our instant payment system, the NBS IPS system, which operates in real time and processes over five million transactions a month, has become a symbol of innovation and reliability. We have achieved what until recently seemed a distant goal – that the size of a country depends not on its territory but on the knowledge it possesses and the trust it inspires. Today, Serbia does not merely follow European trends but actively shapes them – through vision, infrastructure, and the trust it has built among partners and users.

    I extend special gratitude to the European Payments Council, the European Commission, the European Central Bank, and the World Bank for their continuous support. Your confidence in our institutional capacity has been the driving force behind our resolve.

    As Governor, I am proud of the National Bank of Serbia’s team, which has worked tirelessly toward this goal. We witness how expertise has translated into reform, how plans have become reality, and how vision has opened the door to the European financial system.

    “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how“, or He who has a why to live can bear almost any burden. And he who does not, does not embark on any project. These are not only the words of Friedrich Nietzsche, but a philosophy we affirm every day in our business decisions. These words – that if you know why you live, you can endure any burden – shape human resilience and the meaning of existence. Our why has always been clear: to ensure that citizens and the economy reap the benefits they deserve – lower costs, greater trust and simpler processes.

    Today, we can proudly say that Serbia is part of the European payments area. Our application has been officially accepted. Serbia has become a full-fledged member of the SEPA geographical scope.

    On behalf of the National Bank of Serbia, the institution entrusted with the stability and development of the domestic financial system, it is my honour to announce this news with a sense of deep pride and responsibility. With this achievement, Serbia takes its place in the Single European Payments Area with systems that speak the same language of standards, regulations that protect users, and a vision that integrates economies into a single payments market.

    This is a space where interoperability is not just a technical term but a daily practice of trust. It is a network where every signal, every transfer of funds, every digital confirmation – testifies to a single European idea: that stability, transparency, and efficiency are not a matter of luxury but expectations. Today, Serbia does not translate the lexicon of payment standards – it is the one writing it. Now, all payment service providers in Serbia stand before a new chapter of responsibility but also of opportunity. Joining SEPA does not mark the end of our work – our work now begins at a higher level. Now is the moment to once again demonstrate our leadership: through knowledge, efficiency and dedication, and to prove that the trust placed in us was not accidental but earned.

    May this day be remembered as the moment Serbia did not take a step forward – but a natural step. For we did not wait to become part of SEPA; we have long been ready for it. Today, Europe has recognised what we already knew – that Serbia belongs to a community that values knowledge, reliability and vision, and that Serbia is part of the area where standards mean trust and collaboration yields results.

    I thank everyone who has supported us on this journey, above all our colleagues, then the banking sector, which has always understood that we are working together on this task. I wish everyone a successful and inspiring continuation not only of today’s workshop but also of our future cooperation.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹32,000 crore on June 06, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on June 06, 2025 (Friday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    6.92% GS 2039 16,000 381 381
    6.90% GS 2065 16,000 381 381

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on June 06, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 10:30 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/481

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Ageas Re partners with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the Motor insurance business distributed by Italian Insurtech Prima

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Ageas Re partners with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the Motor insurance business distributed by Italian Insurtech Prima

    Today, Ageas Re, the reinsurance arm of Ageas Group, concluded a reinsurance agreement with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the partnership entered into by Triglav Group with leading Italian direct Motor insurance distributor, Prima Assicurazioni S.p.A. (Prima), with the objective to expand its business portfolio and to contribute to the Ageas’s Elevate27 profitable growth ambitions.

    Under to the agreement, Ageas Re takes an 80% Quota Share on the Prima business underwritten by Triglav Group in 2025, commencing in the coming weeks.

    Prima is a rapidly growing, profitable insurance distributor that began distributing personal lines policies, mainly Motor, in 2015. Since then, it has become the number 1 in the Italian Direct Motor business. In 2024, the company generated EUR 1.3 billion gross written premiums, servicing over 4 million customers, and EUR 104 million Group EBITDA.

    This agreement is in perfect alignment with Ageas’s Elevate27 strategy to achieve profitable growth in an attractive European Non-Life market. The Italian Motor insurance market generates premiums in excess of EUR 15 billion, with consistent profitability. Through this partnership, Ageas Re teams up with a tech-driven, local champion, with proven track record, providing immediate market entry with considerable scale.

    Ageas Re anticipates inflows from this transaction in excess of EUR 500 million in 2025 and a Net Operating Result of around EUR 15 million, spread over 2025 and 2026. The impact on Group Solvency is estimated to be no more than -4 points in 2025.

    Hans De Cuyper, CEO of Ageas stated: The agreement with Triglav Group aligns well with many aspects of our newly launched strategy, Elevate27. This collaboration enables us to enter a promising European growth market in Non-Life insurance and achieve profitable growth through a partner with a strong market position.”

    Joachim Racz, CEO of Ageas Re continued: “I am pleased to announce this partnership. Along with the entire Ageas Re team, I look forward to establishing a successful collaboration, offering high-quality insurance products to the Italian customer distributed by Prima. We would also like to thank Howden Re for the excellent management of the process and transaction.”

    George Ottathycal, CEO of Prima said: “Prima Assicurazioni has experienced remarkable growth in the Italian motor insurance market, surpassing 4 million active customers in just ten years. This success is the result of our sophisticated and rigorous pricing and underwriting, outstanding user experience, and, most importantly, our carefully selected strategic partners who fully align with our cutting-edge, technology- and data-driven business model. Not only will the solidity and trust of the new partners Triglav Group and Ageas Re further expand our growth, but will also deliver significant value to our entire network of agents and brokers—and, above all, to our customers.”

    Andrej Slapar, President of the Management Board of Zavarovalnica Triglav, commented: “Our strategic ambition is to grow beyond existing markets and enhance Triglav Group’s international recognition. The Italian motor insurance market presents a strong opportunity to support this goal, and we are pleased to be working with well-established partners Prima and Ageas Re. The Triglav Group will continue to explore opportunities for further growth and for delivering on the other objectives set out in our strategy.”

    Ageas is a Belgian rooted listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning of 200 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow, and is also engaged in reinsurance activities. As one of Europe’s larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Portugal, Türkiye, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of about 50,000 people and reported annual inflows of EUR 18.5 billion in 2024.

    Prima Assicurazioni is an insurtech company operating as a specialized insurance agency in the automotive, home, and family sectors, serving over 4 million clients. It has revolutionized the Italian insurance market through innovation, technology, and a data-driven strategy. Thanks to unprecedented growth over its 10-year history, Prima’s evolving business model has enhanced the user experience, offering competitive pricing and fostering greater market competition. A leader in Italy’s online motor insurance sector, Prima also operates a nationwide network of agents. Since 2022, the company has expanded into the United Kingdom and Spain.

    For 125 years, the Triglav Group has earned the trust of clients and other stakeholders through its expertise, experience, and financial strength. It is the largest insurance-financial group in the Adria region and one of the leading groups in Southeast Europe. The Group operates in six countries, with broader international presence through insurance and reinsurance activities. Insurance and asset management are the two main pillars of its operations. The Group employs more than 5,000 people. Its mission is to create a safer future. The core values of the Group are responsiveness, simplicity, and reliability. Its vision is focused on strengthening its identity and recognition as an international insurance-financial group. Through sustainable operations, it provides a development-oriented environment for employees, maintains strong partnerships, and represents a stable, secure, and profitable investment for shareholders. The parent company of the Triglav Group is Zavarovalnica Triglav, a Prime Market issuer on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Richemont publishes FY25 Annual Report and Non-Financial Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    5 JUNE 2025 

    RICHEMONT PUBLISHES FY25 ANNUAL REPORT 
    AND NON-FINANCIAL REPORT

    Richemont has today published its combined Annual Report and Accounts with the Business review, the Compensation Report and the Corporate Governance Report, along with its Non-Financial Report, for the year ended 31 March 2025.

    The Annual Report and Accounts, which includes the Chairman’s review to shareholders, the annual consolidated and statutory financial statements, and the corresponding audit reports was already published on 16 May 2025.

    The Non-Financial Report 2025, prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards (2021), provides Richemont’s disclosures on non-financial matters. The report complies with the reporting disclosure required by Articles 964a-c of the Swiss Code of Obligations, including the Swiss Ordinance on Climate Disclosures. Selected disclosures and indicators have been independently assured (limited assurance) by PricewaterhouseCoopers SA (PwC).

    Both reports are available for download on the Company’s website at https://www.richemont.com/media/ue1bjrjv/richemont-fy25-annual-report-en.pdf and https://www.richemont.com/media/3vwfatyf/richemont-non-financial-report-2025.pdf. Hard copies will be mailed to parties who have requested it and may also be obtained from the Company’s registered office at the address below or by contacting the Company via the website at www.richemont.com/about-us/contact-us.

    In South Africa, the Annual Report and Non-Financial Report may be obtained directly from the Depository Agent at the following address: Computershare Investor Services Proprietary Limited, Rosebank Towers, 15 Biermann Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa.

    About Richemont

    At Richemont, we craft the future. Our unique portfolio includes prestigious Maisons distinguished by their craftsmanship and creativity. Richemont’s ambition is to nurture its Maisons and businesses and enable them to grow and prosper in a responsible, sustainable manner over the long term.

    Richemont operates in three business areas: Jewellery Maisons with Buccellati, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Vhernier; Specialist Watchmakers with A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Panerai, Piaget, Roger Dubuis and Vacheron Constantin; and Other, primarily Fashion & Accessories Maisons with Alaïa, Chloé, Delvaux, dunhill, G/FORE, Gianvito Rossi, Montblanc, Peter Millar, Purdey, Serapian as well as Watchfinder & Co. Find out more at https://www.richemont.com/.

    Richemont A shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, Richemont’s primary listing, and are included in the Swiss Market Index (‘SMI’) of leading stocks. Richemont A shares are listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Richemont’s secondary listing.

    Investor/analyst and media enquiries
    +41 22 721 3003 (investor relations)
    Investor.relations@cfrinfo.net
    +41 22 721 3507 (media)
    pressoffice@cfrinfo.net
    richemont@teneo.com

    Click here for a printer-friendly version in English (PDF)

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What is the Savings and Investments Union?

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Discover the primary objectives of the Savings and Investments Union and how it will reshape Europe’s financial landscape.

    Europeans save around €1.4 trillion each year in low-interest rate bank deposits, while European businesses, especially start-ups and small enterprises, struggle to secure investment funding for their projects. The need for a strategic investment approach is evident.

    To address this, the Savings and Investments Union aims to streamline investment processes and expand opportunities, driving EU economic growth and boosting household wealth.

    This initiative will empower a variety of stakeholders, including investment firms and individual citizens, to participate in investments across the EU, facilitating access to capital for critical sectors such as green and digital transitions.

    The Savings and Investments Union also focuses on equipping people with the knowledge and skills they need so that, if they decide to invest, they can make informed decisions.

    Ultimately, the objectives of the Savings and Investments Union are to amplify investment choices, support EU enterprises, and strengthen the regional economy, leading to improved living standards for all Europeans.

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-271253
    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI-gnz9di3E

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: April results of the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) in Germany | Demand continued to rise in all loan categories

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    The German banks responding to the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) tightened their credit standards slightly for loans to enterprises in the first quarter of 2025, primarily based on risk considerations. By contrast, banks eased their credit standards for loans to households for house purchase. They did not see a need to adjust their credit standards for consumer credit and other lending to households. 
    Banks tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter. They had originally intended to tighten their credit standards for loans to households. 
    The banks that took part in the survey made credit terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and for consumer credit and other lending to households more restrictive on balance, whilst easing terms and conditions for loans to households for house purchase. 
    Demand for loans continued to rise in all loan categories, with loans to households for house purchase increasing significantly.  
    The level of the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio and other indicators of credit quality had tightening effects on lending policies for loans to enterprises and for consumer credit and other lending to households over the past three months.
    The ECB Governing Council’s past and expected key interest rate decisions had a negative impact on net interest income, thereby contributing to a deterioration in banks’ profitability in the 2024-25 winter half-year. For the summer half-year, too, banks are expecting the key interest rate decisions to have a negative impact on their net interest income as well as on their profitability.
    The BLS covers three loan categories: loans to enterprises, loans to households for house purchase, and consumer credit and other lending to households. On balance, the surveyed banks tightened their credit standards (i.e. their internal guidelines or loan approval criteria) slightly for loans to enterprises. By contrast, they eased their credit standards for loans to households for house purchase. They left their credit standards for consumer credit and other loans to households unchanged. The net percentage of banks that tightened their standards stood at +3% for loans to enterprises (compared with +13% in the previous quarter). Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened only for large enterprises. Standards for small and medium-sized enterprises were eased somewhat on balance. The net percentage of banks that tightened their standards for loans to households for house purchase was -7% (compared with +11% in the previous quarter); for consumer credit and other lending to households, this figure was 0% (compared with +11% in the previous quarter). Banks tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter. They had originally intended to tighten their credit standards for loans to households. 
    The banks justified the slight tightening of credit standards for loans to enterprises on the grounds of a perceived increase in credit risk. This assessment relates to the general economic situation, but also to sector and firm-specific factors. Banks’ main rationale for easing credit standards for loans for house purchase was their higher risk tolerance. Another factor was that the outlook on the housing market had improved. They also reported that competition with other banks had increased and capital costs had decreased. For the second quarter of 2025, banks are planning to tighten their credit standards in all loan categories. Here, credit risk is likely to have a restrictive impact on the adjustment of credit standards owing to the tense economic situation and a decline in borrower creditworthiness.

    Change in credit standards for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factorsOn balance, banks tightened their terms and conditions (i.e. the terms and conditions actually approved as laid down in the loan contract) for loans to enterprises as well as for consumer credit and other lending to households. The restrictive adjustments in both loan categories are the outcome of higher lending rates and an increase in margins irrespective of credit ratings. The banks justified these adjustments primarily on the grounds of their reduced risk tolerance and a perceived increase in credit risk. Banks eased their terms and conditions for loans to households for house purchase overall by reducing their margins. They stated that this was mainly due to stronger competition and an improvement in their liquidity base.
    The surveyed banks reported that demand for bank loans in Germany had risen on balance in all loan categories in the first quarter of 2025, with loans to households for house purchase registering significant growth. Banks stated that the marginal rise in demand for loans to enterprises was driven by various factors: increased demand for mergers, acquisitions and corporate restructuring, as well as for refinancing, debt restructuring and renegotiation. In addition, debt securities were replaced to some degree by bank loans. Interest rate levels once again supported demand for loans, albeit to a lesser extent than in the previous two quarters. By contrast, financing needs for fixed investment declined on balance. The high degree of uncertainty surrounding economic and (geo)political developments is likely to have been a factor here. According to the surveyed banks, the considerable rise in demand for loans to households for house purchase was mainly attributable to the lower level of interest rates and households’ positive view of the outlook on the housing market. Higher consumer confidence also boosted demand. Banks put the rise in demand for consumer credit and other lending to households down to an increase in purchases of durable consumer goods. The loan rejection rate for loans to enterprises went up again, but only for loan requests and applications from small and medium-sized enterprises. There was no change in the rejection rate for large enterprises. The rejection rate declined for loans for house purchase and for consumer credit and other lending to households. For the second quarter of 2025, banks are expecting to see demand increase further across all three loan categories. On balance, they expect demand for housing loans to rise at a significantly more subdued rate than in the first quarter.

    Change in demand for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factorsThe April survey round contained ad hoc questions on participating banks’ financing conditions and the impact of the ECB Governing Council’s past and expected key interest rate decisions. It also contained questions about the impact of the Eurosystem’s monetary policy asset portfolios and of NPLs and other indicators of credit quality on the institutions’ lending policies.
    Against the backdrop of conditions in financial markets, German banks reported virtually no change in their funding situation compared with the previous quarter. The ECB Governing Council’s past and expected future key interest rate decisions have had, overall, a negative impact on banks’ profitability over the past six months. After the interest rate cuts in October and December 2024 and in February and March 2025, key interest rate decisions ceased to have a positive impact for the first time since this question was introduced. For the 2025 summer half-year, banks are once again expecting key interest rate decisions to have a negative impact on their net interest income as well as on their profitability. Taken in isolation, the reduction in the Eurosystem’s monetary policy securities holdings weakened the liquidity position of banks in Germany. German banks assessed the impact on their financing conditions and capital ratios, too, as slightly negative. 
    In the first quarter of 2025, the level of the NPL ratio (the stock of gross NPLs on the bank’s balance sheet as a percentage of the gross carrying amount of loans) and other indicators of credit quality had restrictive effects on lending policies for loans to enterprises and on consumer credit and other lending to households. In the second quarter of 2025, the banks are expecting this restrictive effect stemming from the decline in credit quality to continue. 
    The Bank Lending Survey, which is conducted four times a year, took place between 10 March and 25 March 2025. In Germany, 33 banks took part in the survey. The response rate was 97%.

    Change in credit standards for loans to enterprises and contributing factors
    Change in demand for loans to enterprises and contributing factorsTime series credit standards
    Loans to enterprises
    Loans to households for house purchase
    Consumer credit and other lending to households

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA: Last day of the subscription period in the subsequent offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the stock exchange notice from IDEX Biometrics ASA on 21 May 2025 regarding the subscription period (the “Subscription Period”) in the subsequent offering (the “Subsequent Offering”) consisting of up to 600 million new shares at a subscription price of NOK 0.01 per share (“Offer Shares”).

    The Subscription Period will end today, 5 June 2025, at 16:30 CET.

    This Subsequent Offering is conducted to give the shareholders not participating in the debt conversion on 11 April 2025 an opportunity to subscribe for Offer Shares at a subscription price per share equal to the subscription price in the debt conversion.

    Completed subscription forms must be received by Arctic Securities AS, or, in the case of online subscriptions, be registered by the expiry of the Subscription Period. Subscription rights that are not used to subscribe for Offer Shares in the Subsequent Offering before the expiry of the Subscription Period will have no value and will lapse without compensation to the holder.

    Further information about the Subsequent Offering and the subscription procedures is included in the prospectus prepared in respect of the Subsequent Offering, which is available at   

    www.arctic.com/offerings/ecm/2025/idex-biometrics-asa-subsequent-offering

    Arctic Securities AS is acting as manager in connection with the Subsequent Offering.

    Kristian Flaten, CFO, +47 95092322

    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

    About IDEX Biometrics:

    IDEX Biometrics ASA (IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

    About this notice:

    This notice was issued by Kristian Flaten, CFO, on 5 June 2025 at 08:15 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. The information shall be disclosed according to section 5-8 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (STA) and released in accordance with section 5-12 of the STA.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: LIVE: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gives remarks at a NATO defense ministers meeting in Brussels.

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivers remarks at a NATO defense ministers meeting in Brussels, June 5, 2025.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqMa7DLdb0A

    MIL OSI Video –