NewzIntel.com

Category: Canada

  • MIL-OSI Canada: SIRT Investigating Death in RCMP Custody on James Smith Cree Nation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 30, 2025

    On Monday April 28, 2025 at approximately 10:18 a.m., the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) received a notification from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) regarding an in-custody death on the James Smith Cree Nation. 

    SIRT’s Civilian Executive Director accepted the notification as within SIRT’s mandate and directed an investigation by SIRT.

    On April 28 at approximately 7:55 a.m., the Melfort RCMP received the first of several calls reporting that a male on the James Smith Cree Nation had discharged bear spray within an occupied residence. Three RCMP members as well as James Smith Cree Nation community peacekeepers responded and located a 29-year-old male within the residence. The RCMP members spoke with the man and attempted de-escalation tactics while the man remained inside the residence. A short time later the man was informed that he would be taken into custody under the Mental Health Services Act and fled from the residence through the rear door. After a short foot pursuit, the man was taken into custody without the use of force and was handcuffed. A conducted energy weapon (CEW) was drawn during the pursuit but was not discharged during the encounter. 

    Shortly after being handcuffed, the male went into medical distress. RCMP members immediately contacted EMS for assistance and commenced first aid. While awaiting the arrival of EMS, RCMP and community peacekeepers from James Smith Cree Nation continued first aid, performing CPR and administering naloxone several times. At approximately 9:43 a.m., EMS arrived at the scene and assumed responsibility for the man’s care. Shortly thereafter, the man was pronounced deceased by EMS.

    Following the notification, a SIRT team consisting of the Civilian Executive Director and six SIRT investigators was deployed to Melfort and the James Smith Cree Nation to begin their investigation. A community liaison was also appointed pursuant to S.91.12 (1) (a) of The Police Act, 1990. SIRT’s investigation will examine the conduct of police during this incident, including the circumstances surrounding the man’s arrest and the cause of his death. The RCMP will maintain responsibility for any investigation into the original incident. No further information will be released at this time. A final report will be issued to the public within 90 days of the investigation ending.

    SIRT’s mandate is to investigate alleged cases of serious injury, death, sexual assault or interpersonal violence arising from the actions or omissions of on and off-duty police officers, or while an individual is in police custody.

    For updates on SIRT investigations, follow SIRT on X, formerly known as Twitter, at https://twitter.com/SIRT_SK. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta’s Statement on President Trump’s First 100 Days

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Washington, DC – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) released the following statement on the Administration’s first 100 days in office:

    “The first 100 days of the Trump Administration have been chaotic, costly, created economic uncertainty, challenged our constitution, and weakened our institutions, alliances, and credibility.  During the campaign, the President promised that on day one that he would reduce inflation, end the war in Ukraine, bring home the hostages from Gaza, and support America’s working families.  Instead, he has failed to fulfill any of those promises, overwhelmed us with a deluge of executive orders, and tried to distract us from his failures by talking about stealing Greenland, annexing Canada, running for a third term, and more.  Although the most successful part of the Administration’s agenda, increasing immigration enforcement, has significantly reduced the flow of crossings at the southern border, his deportation policy has become mired in legal challenges by disregarding due process, administrative carelessness, and defying courts of law.  The President’s self-imposed, short-sighted, and sweeping tariff policies have hurt our economy and are set to raise prices even higher with retaliation from our trading partners.  By giving Elon Musk unbridled power to cut federal programs and jobs, the Administration has jeopardized vital services like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food assistance, and scientific research.  Without a clear strategy in the Administration’s trade and foreign policies, our nation has pushed away our allies and created strategic opportunities for our adversaries.

    “President Trump made his intentions abundantly clear during the campaign. However, his chaotic actions, including instituting massive tariffs, challenging our constitution and courts, continued cozying up to dictators, and pardoning January 6 rioters appear to have no long-term strategy, degraded our credibility, and led to a steady decline in his national polling numbers on all major issues over the past 100 days. 

    “As I said from day one of this Administration, America’s system of checks and balances must flex its muscles. The courts don’t act as fast as the executive branch, but they continue to be the bulwark against the Administration’s overreach and violations of our Constitution.  Although the President has shown little interest in working with Congress to pass any long-term legislation, we will continue to work on bills that constrain the Administration’s destructive actions, investigate any abuses of power, and serve our constituents.  Over the past few decades, Congress has relinquished its authority to the executive branch on trade, commerce, agency oversight, and even warfare.  However, the actions of this Administration must be a wake-up call for Democrats and Republicans to come together and take back our constitutionally mandated power. But ultimately, as we have seen throughout the history of our nation, our democracy isn’t about one person, one court, or one legislative body.  It’s about the collective power of Americans.  The President’s first 100 days will not be anywhere near as important as the remaining 1360 days of his term, and why our system of checks and balances must stay strong, and we the people must stay together in our fight for our shared democratic values.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch on Trump’s 100 Days of Chaos: “100 days of giving a lot of rope and a lot of license to the Executive is 100 days too many. But it’s not too late for us in Congress to stand up…” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined Democrats in holding the Senate floor last night to slam the first 100 days of Trump’s second term. In his remarks, Senator Welch highlighted the myriad ways this White House has caused chaos, including Elon Musk’s so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” or DOGE, Trump’s attacks on institutions like USAID and the Administration’s push to freeze colleges’ funding for research and development to cure diseases, and Trump’s tariffs and trade war. He also shared stories from Vermont businesses affected by the tariffs. 
    “It’s 100 days. It is time to assess. And whatever you may say about President Trump and the stated goals, there’s an obligation to act functionally to achieve those goals. Stating you want an outcome is a long way from implementing a plan and executing a plan to achieve it. And there is no plan,” said Senator Welch. “There is absolutely no plan.” 
    “It is time for this Congress to make an assessment of our obligation to the citizens we represent. When is enough, enough? When has the Executive gone too far? When is it that all of us should heed the pleas of the businesses, the enterprises in each of our states about this chaotic and very destructive tariff policy? When is it we will say ‘no more’ to an Executive pushing his weight around with private law firms, private employers, with our universities, and telling them unless they do it his way, they’ll pay an enormous price in lost governmental funding or access to things that they need?” Senator Welch concluded. “In my view, 100 days of giving a lot of rope and a lot of license to the Executive is 100 days too many. But it’s not too late for us in Congress to stand up for the separation of powers, the balance of powers, and the prerogatives of the United States Senate and the United States Congress.” 
    Watch his full remarks:  

    Key quotes from Senator Welch: 
    “Let’s talk first about DOGE. DOGE is about supposedly getting rid of waste, fraud, and abuse. There’s not a single member of this Congress who is in favor of waste, fraud, and abuse. But if you are going to do that, you look at a Department. What’s its goal?  How is it achieving it? Where is it coming up short? You do an assessment, and you do a plan. What DOGE did was essentially get the personnel list and then send out e-mails to every fifth or sixth person saying you’re fired because you did a lousy job. It is not at all on the level.  
    “And, as a result, the real goal becomes revealed. It’s not to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. It’s to eliminate USAID. It’s to eliminate the Department of Education. It’s to eliminate the Social Security response team. That’s what’s going on. And the challenge for us—and this is bipartisan — is whether we as an independent branch of government want to look at what’s before our very eyes and address it or simply ignore it.” 
    ••• 
    “The tariffs…are going to be seen by historians as the absolute worst economic blunder in the last 100 years. Whether you’re a farmer in Vermont or in Utah or in the Dakotas, these tariffs are hammering you. Most of our farmers in the northern part of the country import fertilizer, import, in many cases, grain to feed our animals, from Canada. This tariff is going to hammer farmers who are already contending with what farmers every year have to contend with—very tight margins, the will of the weather. This is having real impact on them.  
    “In Vermont, we had roundtables to hear ‘how are these tariffs going to affect you?’ Number one, ‘what tariffs?’ ‘What are they today?’ Supposedly they were 25% yesterday, then they’re suspended, then they’re back on. They apply to this part, but not that part. There’s no possibility of anybody making a plan in order to run their business.  
    “By the way, these are folks who came in and are affected by the tariffs. They are not Republicans or Democrats or Independents. They are really folks just trying to make a living….What they’re talking about is the real-world impact of these crackpot tariffs that are on again, off again.  
    “Small business owner Jason Levinthal, founder of J skis said, ‘This is essentially a tax on the consumers.’ Something the administration won’t acknowledge itself.  
    “The president of Mad River Distillers, Mimi Buttenheim said, ‘Tariffs affect our manufacturing arm by raising the price of raw materials.’  
    “Jen Kimmich, co-founder of the Alchemist Brewery: ‘We don’t know how they are going to affect us. We just know they’re going to affect us.’  
    “John Lacy, CEO of Burton Snowboards, ne of the global enterprises founded in Vermont by Jake Burton and Donna carpenter: ‘How can you navigate the playbook when you don’t know what the rules of the road are?’ It’s a fair question. And it’s a question that President Trump feels he has no obligation to answer. This goes on and on.” 
    ••• 
    “Then there’s the next step—the overreach of power. The absolutely lawless abuse of Executive authority. What business is it of Donald Trump what are hiring practices are of an individual private corporation or firm? It is the business to enforce the law. But it’s not his business to be able to tell a law firm he’ll take contracts away. It’s not his business to be able to tell a law firm that [because they] had somebody who represented the government in a case against Trump or some Trump ally that they’re going to punish you…This is a complete overreach and extension by the president. Essentially to impose his own will, not enforce the law but to enforce his will as he arbitrarily wishes.  
    “What sense does it make that because of his vendetta about higher education, that instead of addressing those concerns and having discussions, he literally takes away billions of dollars of research that has gone not just to Harvard, our oldest institution, but the University of Alabama, the University of North Carolina. People, to our benefit, have dedicated their lives to scientific research. The United States government has provided support for research and development, and we’ve had cures for terrible diseases. But if they don’t do what Donald Trump says, he’ll take away grants…destroying research, destroying development.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province moving forward on short-term rental rules

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Municipalities with fewer than 10,000 people, regional districts and resort municipalities are exempt from the principal-residence requirement but may request to opt in by March 31 of each year to take effect Nov. 1 of the same year.

    The three communities that have requested to opt in in 2025 are the Town of Creston, Salt Spring Island and Electoral Area B of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (Revelstoke/Golden).

    Certain local governments can annually request by a resolution submitted to the minister of housing and municipal affairs to opt out of the principal-residence requirement if the community has a rental vacancy rate of 3% or more for two consecutive years. In addition, communities that have previously opted in can request to opt out without the vacancy-rate requirement.

    There are three communities that have made the decision to opt out of the principal-residence requirement, meaning that the principal-residence rules will not apply on Nov. 1, 2025. The communities are the District of Tofino, Electoral Area E of the Cowichan Valley Regional District (Cowichan Station/Sahtlam/Glenora) and Electoral Area G of the Cowichan Valley Regional District (Saltair/Thetis + Penelakut Islands). 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DOGE’s AI surveillance risks silencing whistleblowers and weakening democracy

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Stuart, Lecturer in Communications, Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria

    The United States Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is reportedly using artificial intelligence to surveil federal agency communications for anti-Donald Trump and anti-Elon Musk sentiment.

    AI tools now automate firings and assess U.S. federal employees’ sentiment and alignment with the administration’s “mission.” Musk, who has been appointed a “special government employee” by the U.S. president and leads DOGE, has framed these moves as an attempt to cut waste and increase efficiency.

    At least one agency, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has reportedly warned staff to watch what they say, type or do online.

    The move has been largely overshadowed by tariff debates and constitutional concerns. But research on AI and governance suggests surveillance may erode the transparency that defines public institutions.

    Now, with Musk signalling he may scale back his involvement with DOGE, questions remain about how the system will operate in his absence — and whether anyone will be tasked with dismantling it.

    Disruption replaces due process

    Musk has presented DOGE as a lean, tech-driven solution to government bloat — a message he has repeated in interviews and on social media. Artificial intelligence, he argues, can cut red tape, trim costs and optimize operations.

    However, within federal agencies, AI has been used less to support public servants than to evaluate them — and in some cases, to eliminate them.

    Since DOGE assumed control over key functions within the Office of Personnel Management in January, hundreds of federal employees have been dismissed without formal explanation. DOGE also restricted access to cloud systems and sidelined career officials.

    DOGE was established by Trump through an executive order on Jan. 20, 2025 and tasked with cutting federal spending.
    (Shutterstock)

    Concerns over data security soon followed. In March, a federal judge barred DOGE from accessing Treasury systems, citing a “chaotic and haphazard” approach that posed a “realistic danger” of exposing sensitive financial information.

    Internally, DOGE operates through tools more familiar to startups than government agencies. Staff use disappearing messages via the Signal messenger app and draft documents in Google Docs rather than approved federal platforms.

    Grok, a generative AI chatbot launched by Musk in 2023, has been integrated across departments, though its tasks remain unclear.

    How Doge’s AI targets workers

    Earlier this year, thousands of federal employees received an email from the Office of Personnel Management asking them to provide five bullet points listing what they accomplished that week. “Failure to respond,” Musk warned on X, “will be taken as a resignation.”

    The message triggered uncertainty across departments. Without clear legal guidance, many workers were left guessing whether silence would mean termination. The Department of Justice and several intelligence agencies warned staff not to respond.



    Read more:
    Musk’s ruthless approach to efficiency is not translating well to the U.S. government

    Others, like the U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Transportation, instructed staff to comply with DOGE’s requests. HHS later warned responses could “be read by malign foreign actors.” The EPA distributed template responses to help staff navigate the demand.

    The following week, the Office of Personnel Management clarified participation was voluntary. By then, responses had already been processed.

    DOGE reportedly planned to feed the responses into a large language model to determine whether an employee was mission-critical. Musk later denied this, describing the exercise as a test “to see if the employee had a pulse.”

    DOGE’S algorithms judge allegiance

    According to reports, DOGE’s AI tools have now been deployed across agencies to monitor political sentiment of workers. There is no indication that these systems otherwise assess employee competence or efficacy.

    Trump administration officials reportedly said some government employees have been informed that DOGE is examining staff for signs of perceived disloyalty to both the Trump administration and Musk himself.

    When AI is used in this way — without transparency or clear performance frameworks — it optimizes for compliance rather than capability.

    AI designed to detect dissent offers little support for the work of public service. Rather than recognizing expertise or ethical judgment, these tools reduce complex decision-making to surface-level signs of loyalty.

    Effective collaboration between humans and AI depends on clear boundaries. AI might complement the public service by identifying patterns in data, for example. Humans though must retain authority over context and judgment. When AI polices allegiance, those boundaries collapse, sidelining human skill and integrity.

    AI surveillance rewrites workplace behaviour

    The inherent limitations of large language models amplify these risks. These models cannot reliably read nuance, navigate ethical grey areas or understand intent. Assigning surveillance or employee evaluations to these systems invites errors.

    Worse, such blunt tools force civil servants into self-censorship to avoid misinterpretation. Public service shifts from informed expertise to performative alignment.

    For employees, the consequences extend beyond flawed assessments. AI surveillance deployed through tools like Grok and Signal creates uncertainty about how performance is measured and by whom.

    As surveillance systems degrade psychological safety, employees disengage and become discouraged. Far from enhancing productivity, covert monitoring erodes trust in both management and mission.

    This atmosphere weakens accountability. Whistle-blowing often reflects loyalty to institutional values rather than defiance. By reframing personal beliefs and integrity as disloyalty, DOGE will silence mechanisms that safeguard transparency.

    AI surveillance becomes institutional

    Musk recently announced his involvement at DOGE “will drop significantly”, likely beginning in May. The move is attributed in part to pressure from Republicans urging Trump to distance himself from Musk, as well as pressure from Tesla investors.

    Despite his expected departure, around 100 DOGE employees — and the AI frameworks they manage — will remain embedded across federal departments. Musk’s departure may shift headlines, but it will leave structural risks embedded within federal operations.

    Once governments adopt new surveillance tools, they rarely dismantle them, regardless of whether their architect stays to oversee them. With no clear formal oversight beyond presidential discretion, the surveillance system is likely to outlast Musk’s tenure.

    Employees monitored for political conformity are less likely to raise concerns, report misconduct or challenge flawed directives.

    As human resource protocols are bypassed and oversight is diminished, the balance could shift from policy grounded in principle to regulations grounded in algorithms. Governance risks giving way to control, which could weaken the political neutrality of the civil service.

    Thomas Stuart does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. DOGE’s AI surveillance risks silencing whistleblowers and weakening democracy – https://theconversation.com/doges-ai-surveillance-risks-silencing-whistleblowers-and-weakening-democracy-254358

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The ‘entourage effect’ — what we don’t know about how cannabis works

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jonathan Simone, Adjunct Professor of Biological Sciences, Brock University

    In the years since legalization, there has been a tremendous surge in the number of cannabis products available to Canadian consumers, many offering tailored experiences to enhance seemingly any mood or activity.

    Do you want something calming or uplifting? Are you looking to inspire focus, spark creativity or get a good night’s sleep? Do you prefer full-spectrum extracts or THC isolates?

    But how does one plant produce so many different experiences? Like many of its botanical relatives, cannabis is rich in active compounds. The prevailing view is that these compounds work together to shape the overall experience, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”

    From a consumer standpoint, the idea of custom-tailored experiences guided by key active ingredients is appealing — and it certainly makes things easier. But in reality, it’s not so cut-and-dried.

    Making informed decisions as a cannabis consumer can seem overwhelming, and navigating a product menu can feel like it requires a chemistry degree. But how much do we really know about how cannabis works? And how well are we able to predict individual experiences based on a product’s composition?

    What’s in a high?

    Most research into cannabis’ effects has focused on two key compounds, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is non-intoxicating and thought to underlie many therapeutic effects of cannabis, whereas THC is the primary compound responsible for the classic cannabis high.

    Until recently, the most pertinent information available to cannabis consumers was the THC:CBD ratio, and from a regulatory standpoint, these are the only compounds required by Health Canada for product labels. But the cannabis plant produces over 500 potentially bioactive compounds, most notably cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, with increasing emphasis being placed on how they interact to drive different experiences.

    The idea that the different components of cannabis work in concert, modulating one another’s activity to influence the overall experience, has been termed the “entourage effect.” Simply put, it seeks to explain the effects of cannabis beyond those of any individual component, such as THC or CBD, and offers an elegant explanation for a common question: how can products with the same amount of THC and CBD produce different effects?

    Indeed, the medical cannabis community has long-favoured full- and broad-spectrum products (those containing a varied chemical profile) over single-compound isolates such as purified THC or CBD, based on claims of superior safety and efficacy.

    Ask your local budtender for a recommendation and you will likely get a crash-course on terpene nomenclature, hearing words like limonene, myrcene, pinene and linalool.

    While this modern embrace of terpene pharmacology and natural product chemistry reflects a growing appreciation for the complexities of the cannabis plant, claims of entourage effects remain largely speculative, highlighting how much we’ve yet to learn.

    Sound science or smoke and mirrors?

    Initially coined by scientists in Israel and Italy in study published in 1998, the term “entourage effect” described interactions among endogenous cannabinoids (THC-and CBD-like molecules produced by the human body). The idea was that some of these compounds, which are inactive on their own, could enhance or modulate the activity of others, resulting in combined effects greater than the sum of their parts.

    It is important to note that this study did not examine plant-derived cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but rather structurally related compounds produced naturally in the brain and body. As such, the idea of cannabis-specific entourage effects did not emerge directly from the data itself, but from broader inferences drawn from that research that provided a rationale for the diverse effects often reported by cannabis users.

    Since then, and despite a lack of supporting evidence, the term has been widely adopted and adapted by the cannabis industry, often leveraged to differentiate products in an overly crowded market.

    The available support for entourage effects in humans is limited to a few small clinical and observational studies and meta-analyses that suggest whole-plant extracts may outperform isolates for conditions like chronic pain and pediatric epilepsy.

    However, these studies often use non-standardized extracts and are therefore unable to identify which chemical interactions are driving the effects. Further, direct comparisons of full-spectrum and isolate products are lacking, with most claims rooted in inferences made from pre-clinical (in other words, non-human) research and from studies of non-cannabis derived phytomolecules.

    That said, the entourage effect is a valid hypothesis and arguably the most promising in terms of explaining cannabis’s varied and nuanced effects. Similar effects have been described for other drug classes, though these interactions are often termed synergism and potentiation and typically involve just a few well-characterized compounds. In contrast, unlocking cannabis synergy requires untangling the interactions of hundreds of different molecules, many of which are still poorly understood.

    That complexity is what I’ve spent my career trying to understand. Researching how cannabis-derived compounds work in the brain and body, I have gained a considerable appreciation for how far our understanding of cannabis has come, how much we have still yet to uncover and how easy it is for enthusiasm to outpace evidence.

    Reading between the product lines

    As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, consumers need to approach product claims with a healthy dose of skepticism. There is no doubt the cannabis plant is a treasure trove of unexplored and underexplored bioactive molecules, and that we will continue to uncover interesting and unexpected interactions among them. But we are far from a complete picture.

    At present, the entourage effect remains a hypothesis more often co-opted for marketing than grounded in evidence. That doesn’t mean it’s wrong, but it does mean we should resist conflating convenient narratives with established science. This highlights an important question: where does the onus of responsibility for generating this new knowledge fall?

    If the cannabis industry continues invoking the entourage effect for marketing and product differentiation, then it should support and contribute to research that furthers the state of evidence.

    Relying solely on existing pre-clinical and academic studies in lieu of directly advancing the science and validating real-world product claims risks perpetuating hype at the expense of credibility. But industry is not alone in their duty. Government must also remedy the regulatory bottlenecks that impede new research.

    Establishing a credible, science-backed cannabis marketplace means moving beyond hype. It requires action, from industry and government, to generate the information consumers need to make informed decisions.

    Jonathan Simone does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The ‘entourage effect’ — what we don’t know about how cannabis works – https://theconversation.com/the-entourage-effect-what-we-dont-know-about-how-cannabis-works-251799

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: CIC – Issuer Call Notice (Titres Participatifs)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT (SEE “DISCLAIMER” BELOW).

    Paris, April 30th, 2025

    Notice of Early Redemption

    To : (i)      The Noteholders of the below mentioned Notes;
    (ii)      Euronext Paris
    (iii)      Fiscal Agent.

    Dear Sirs,

    Crédit Industriel et Commecial S.A.,
    €137,205,000 “Titres Participatifs” Variable Rate Notes issued on 28 May 1985 (the ‘’Notes”)

    (ISIN Code: FR0000047805)

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A., (formerly “Compagnie Financière de Crédit Industriel et Commercial’’) is the issuer (the “Issuer’’) of the Notes.

    In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Notes (the ‘’Conditions’’), the Issuer hereby gives notice that it is exercising in whole its right to redeem the Notes pursuant to the provision Redemption (‘’Remboursement’’) of the Listing Particulars (“Issuer Call Option”) of the Notes.

    We, the Issuer, instruct you as Fiscal Agent, to authorise the French Central Securities Depository to cancel the Notes redeemed on 28 May, 2025 (“Early Redemption Date”).

    For the purposes of the Issuer Call:

    (i) the Issuer Call Date will be 28 May, 2025; and
    (ii) the Optional Redemption Amount(s) or Early Redemption Amount excluding accrued interest is: EUR 300.68 per Denomination.

    Unless otherwise defined in this notice, capitalised terms used in this notice shall have the meaning given to them in the Listing Particulars (‘’Note d’Information’’) dated Mai, 1985, as applicable, relating to the Notes.

    Yours faithfully,

    For and on behalf of

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial

    By: Alexandre SAADA

    Duly authorised

    DISCLAIMER
    This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, the Instruments in the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan or in any other jurisdiction, including France. The distribution of this press release in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this press release comes are required to inform themselves and observe any such restrictions. No communication may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction in which registration or approval is required. No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such action would be required; CIC disclaims any liability for any violation by any person of such restrictions.

    Contacts
    Corporate Communications and Press Relations Department: +33 (0)1 53 48 26 00 – compresse@cic.fr
    Investor Relations: bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

    About CIC
    CIC is a leading bank in France and internationally, and the bank of one in three businesses in France. It provides nearly 5.5 million customers with a French network of nearly 1,800 branches and 20,000 employees, as well as international branches in 37 countries. In order to meet the needs of all economic players and to build up a constantly efficient offer on a daily basis, it combines financial, insurance, telephony and cutting-edge technological services with a high level of financial solidity backed by that of its parent company, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. For more information, visit cic.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Bay St. George RCMP investigates armed robbery at town office in St. George’s; alleged victim charged with public mischief and theft

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay St. George RCMP responded to a report of an armed robbery that allegedly occurred at the town office in St. George’s on April 29, 2025. As part of the investigation, an employee of the town, 61-year-old Mary Spicer was arrested and is facing criminal charges.

    Shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Bay St. George RCMP received the report of an armed robbery. Police attended the scene and conducted an investigation. It was determined that a robbery did not occur, and that Spicer, who reported being robbed, had made a false report of the crime to police.

    Evidence gathered at the scene suggested that Spicer stole approximately $11,000.00 cash from the town office. She was arrested and is charged with public mischief and theft over $5,000.00. Spicer is set to appear in court at a later date.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Bay St. George RCMP reminds the public that making a false report of a crime to police is a criminal offence.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Companjon and Omio expand globally with Cancel for any reason – No questions asked and no documentation required

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Companjon is a global leader in CFAR and in embedded insurance solutions
    • Omio is the leading multi-modal travel booking platform
    • Omio Flex, CFAR developed with the partnership between Omio and Companjon, was first introduced in EEA countries and the UK, and now make it available for the rest of the world

    DUBLIN, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Companjon, a leading Insurtech company specializing in dynamic embedded insurance, announced the rollout of its flexible cancellation solution for Omio to the rest of the world. Omio Flex was developed in partnership with the multi-modal travel booking platform, bringing ultimate flexibility to travel plans. From now on, Omio customers from all over the world can cancel their train and bus journeys for any reason up to 15 minutes before departure (depending on fare type).

    The solution is seamlessly integrated into Omio’s customer journey from purchasing to cancelling. Users can select it in the ticket configuration process. If customers with Omio Flex decide not to travel, they can simply cancel their trip and receive a payment of up to 100% of the purchase fare (depending on fare type). Omio pays the compensation directly to the customer. The solution was first introduced in EEA countries and the UK, and after a successful trial period, Omio decided to make it available for the rest of the world as well. Companjon will use its advanced technology into Omio’s booking platform and ensuring a seamless customer experience for Omio users.

    Matthias Naumann, CEO, Companjon, said: “We’ve been proud of our collaboration with Omio since day one, and we’re thrilled to take it a step further. The expansion of Omio Flex allows customers across the world to cancel for any reason, with no questions asked and no documentation required. Travellers consistently highlight flexibility as one of the most valued features when booking trips. Embedding our technology into Omio’s booking platform is essential to staying ahead of the competition. Both teams—Omio and Companjon—have invested heavily in developing this product, with our unique technology and data-driven insights playing a key role in bringing it to life.”

    Veronica Diquattro, President B2C Europe, Omio, commented, “Journeys don’t always go as planned. The ability to cancel a booking for any reason is an important cornerstone of our promise to offer seamless travel anywhere in the world. Our customer data shows that flexibility is a key travel consideration, which is why we’re excited to now offer Omio Flex globally. Companjon’s advanced technology and data insights were instrumental in helping us address the evolving demands of our users and developing this product.”

    About Omio

    Since its foundation in 2013, the Omio Group has helped customers discover new ways of travelling. Thanks to its two interconnected platforms, Omio and Rome2Rio, Omio is the world’s leading travel platform for searching, comparing, and booking. Omio B2B Partnership services OTAs and mobility providers with bespoke business solutions. Omio supports its customers in their desire to explore Europe, the US, Canada and Southeast Asia by train, bus, flight, and ferry. Omio sells more than 80,000 tickets daily, employs over 430 staff from more than 50 countries and maintains offices in Berlin, Prague, Melbourne, London and Bangalore. The Omio Group offers its customers journeys that move them.

    www.omio.com

    About Companjon 

    Companjon is a leading B2B2C Insurtech start-up specializing in fully digital, AI-driven embedded insurance. Its modern, end-to-end insurance solutions enable companies to delight their customers and drive more business value from stronger brand loyalty and new ancillary revenue opportunities. Companjon designs, builds, and underwrites its dynamic solutions on a 100% cloud-based platform capable of issuing 32,000 policies per second, integrating API gateways easily, and leveraging the latest advanced technology. It has been recognized as one of the World’s Top Insurtech Companies 2024 by CNBC and one of the world’s most innovative insurtechs by FinTech Global for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

    Companjon seeks to change the way people think about insurance by creating seamless and positive experiences when things don’t go as planned: being right there when ‘life’ happens. The company is registered in Ireland and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

    www.companjon.com

    Media Contact:
    Simone Vottari
    +353 86 032 4630
    press@companjon.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From COVID to cancer: Why Canada’s RNA vaccine leadership matters more than ever

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Anna Blakney, Assistant Professor, Michael Smith Laboratories and School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia

    As the world marks World Immunization Week, attention turns once again to the lifesaving power of vaccines.

    Amid headlines about rising cases of measles, falling vaccination rates and growing vaccine hesitancy, a quieter revolution is underway — one that could fundamentally reshape how we respond to global health threats, including pandemics and cancer.

    This revolution is being powered by RNA technology — and Canada is uniquely positioned to lead it.

    A made-in-Canada breakthrough

    While the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines appeared to be a sudden scientific triumph, it was built on six decades of foundational work. Much of that work happened in Canada. Messenger RNA (mRNA) are large, negatively charged molecules that are easily degraded and repelled by our cells.

    To coax our cells to internalize them, scientists developed a way to encapsulate them in “fat bubbles” or lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which were invented by Pieter Cullis and collaborators. Cullis, a co-author of this article, is a professor in biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of British Columbia.

    Once inside a patients’ cells, the mRNA gives the cell instructions to translate a viral protein that triggers an immune response. Both the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines — which relied on these fat bubbles — were found to be highly efficacious (more than 94 per cent) and safe, both in initial trials and continuous monitoring over time. They were estimated to have saved nearly 10 million lives in 2021 alone.

    That’s just the beginning. Research teams across the country are now building on this homegrown innovation to expand the potential of RNA vaccines beyond infectious diseases.

    The next generation: Less means more

    At the University of British Columbia, the Blakney Lab is focused on developing vaccines and therapies using self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), a technology that offers several advantages over conventional mRNA. Because saRNA replicates itself once inside a patient’s cells, much smaller doses are needed to produce a robust immune response.

    Now, this replication process may sound like something out of a science fiction film, but similar to mRNA vaccines, this technology has been developed over decades and has been thoroughly clinically validated. The saRNA technology reduces manufacturing costs and makes vaccine production more scalable during global emergencies. Notably, the lower dose can also minimize side effects, potentially reducing the risk of getting a sore arm or having to miss a day of work after vaccination.

    Recent pre-clinical studies have shown that saRNA vaccines can offer longer-lasting immunity with smaller doses, and multiple clinical trials are now underway to evaluate their use for influenza, Zika virus and even cancer.

    Vaccine equity, health security, economic growth

    Expanding Canada’s domestic RNA vaccine capacity is more than just a scientific priority; it’s a public health imperative and economic opportunity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain breakdowns exposed the risks of relying on international sources for essential vaccine ingredients and production. Investing in local infrastructure allows for faster and more flexible responses to future outbreaks.



    Read more:
    From PPE shortages to COVID-19 vaccine distribution, the supply chain has emerged as a determinant of health

    But it’s not just about pandemic readiness. One of the most exciting frontiers for RNA technology is the development of personalized cancer vaccines. These vaccines train the immune system to recognize and attack mutations specific to an individual’s tumour.

    In early clinical trials, mRNA-based cancer vaccines — such as those developed by Moderna and BioNTech — have shown promising results, dramatically reducing recurrence rates in melanoma and pancreatic cancer patients.

    Canada’s scientific ecosystem is primed to contribute meaningfully to this next generation of therapies. Strengthening our biotech infrastructure could create high-quality jobs, stimulate economic growth and reinforce Canada’s place as a leader in the global bioeconomy.

    From crisis to capacity

    The COVID-19 pandemic showed us how rapidly science can enable positive public health outcomes — and how easily inequities can widen if infrastructure and access aren’t prioritized.

    Despite being home to world-class researchers, Canada lacked the manufacturing capacity to produce its own mRNA vaccines. That gap is now being addressed through substantial recent investments from the government of Canada, but sustaining momentum will require long-term commitment from policymakers and funders.

    Equity must also remain at the forefront. Communities in rural, remote and Indigenous regions often face barriers to accessing vaccines — not because of hesitancy, but due to logistical challenges and under-resourced health systems. The Public Health Agency of Canada has emphasized the importance of building trust and tailoring solutions in partnership with these communities.

    Vaccine confidence remains another challenge. Post-pandemic surveys reveal that misinformation continues to shape public perceptions, even about long-established vaccines like MMR. Addressing this requires proactive science communication, sustained public education and rebuilding trusted relationships between communities and health systems.

    Looking ahead

    World Immunization Week offered a chance to celebrate how far we’ve come — but also to ask what comes next. With decades of research leadership, a strong innovation ecosystem and new investments in RNA infrastructure, Canada has the tools to lead the next chapter of mRNA technology development.

    Whether it’s fighting the next virus or personalizing cancer therapies for individual patients, RNA technologies hold transformative promise. Seizing this opportunity will require sustained support, policy alignment and a focus on equitable access.

    By investing in RNA innovation today, Canada can deliver not just vaccines, but a healthier, more resilient future for all.

    Immunity and Society is a new series from The Conversation Canada that presents new vaccine discoveries and immune-based innovations that are changing how we understand and protect human health. Through a partnership with the Bridge Research Consortium, these articles — written by academics in Canada at the forefront of immunology and biomanufacturing — explore the latest developments and their social impacts.

    Anna Blakney sits on the scientific advisory board and/or consults for Genvax Technologies, Replicate Biosciences and Pasture Biosciences. She receives funding from CIHR, CBRF, NSERC and CFI.

    Pieter Cullis a co-founder and have shares in Acuitas Therapeutics, the company that provided the LNP enabling the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. He receives funding from CIHR.

    – ref. From COVID to cancer: Why Canada’s RNA vaccine leadership matters more than ever – https://theconversation.com/from-covid-to-cancer-why-canadas-rna-vaccine-leadership-matters-more-than-ever-254692

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Boat wakes aren’t just a nuisance, they harm freshwater shorelines and wildlife

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Chris Houser, Professor in Department of Earth and Environmental Science, and Dean of Science, University of Waterloo

    After long winters, Canadians love their summers. For some, that means summer vacations by a lake, along a river or on a bay for some much-needed rest and relaxation. For some, it’s time to disconnect at the dock, while for others it’s a time to cruise the lake or enjoy the thrill of water-skiing, tubing and wake-boarding.

    Over the last decade, there’s been a strong growth in the sale of new and pre-owned motorboats, and in particular, wake boats that are designed to generate large wakes.

    While recreational boating is a multi-billion-dollar industry in Canada, and enjoyed by many — including me — there has been increasing concern among cottage owners and other advocacy groups about the impact of the wakes generated by these boats.

    Recreational boat wake and jet ski jumping wakes in cottage country in Ontario. (Chris Houser)

    There is increasing evidence that boat wakes erode the shoreline, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, degrade water quality and pose a safety hazard to those at the shoreline or also on the water.

    Stronger than waves

    In Ontario’s cottage country, boat wakes represent a significant portion of total wave energy.

    Except for lakes where motorboats are restricted, the energy generated by wakes is greater than the energy of the waves generated by winds. The exact amount depends on the size, shape and depth of the body of water, but recent research I conducted with colleagues suggests wakes can account for up to 90 per cent of the total wave energy in small lakes with widths up to five kilometres.

    One respondent to our survey noted that:

    “The shore is eroding. I’m losing land and trees into the water. The water is more murky than ever before and the constant large waves makes it unsafe for my kids to swim at times.”

    Wakes not only represent an increase in the number of waves, but they are also responsible for waves of greater height and energy, particularly those generated by wake boats. The smaller the lake, the greater the wake energy at the shoreline, but it is also larger along rivers, lake arms and in bays due to the types and frequency of boating in those areas.

    There is limited impact along rocky shorelines, our research has found, but change can occur where the shorelines are muddy or sandy and the water is shallow.

    Just like large storm waves, wakes can erode the shoreline and uproot and undermine shoreline vegetation. The resuspension of bottom sediment and organic material can also degrade water quality and clarity, leading to the development of algae blooms and hypoxia and the dispersion of contaminants.

    “We have boats that are enhanced for sale surfing and our lake is not wide enough or deep enough to handle the energy generated by the wakes that are produced by these boats. We have parts of our lake that are less than 20 metres wide and less than eigth feet deep, and these boats are generating cut-outs on the bottom of the lake bed, which of course stirs up silt from the floor bed and harms water clarity.” A cottager on Fairy Lake, north of Toronto.

    Dangers to loons, fish, docks and people

    The turbulence can also disturb loon nests and fish spawning in shallow water by destroying nests, washing away eggs and displacing juvenile fish, leading to reduced reproductive success.

    “It is not a coincidence we have not had loons nesting on our point for 10 years since our channel became a busy wake-surfing mecca.” A cottager on Lake Joseph, north of Toronto.

    In our research, residents and cottage owners also raised concerns that wakes cause damage to shoreline infrastructure and docked vessels, leading to greater maintenance and repair costs. Large wakes can make it difficult for smaller slower boats to navigate safely, and at the shoreline, those waves pose a hazard to swimmers, who may be knocked off balance or even swept out by larger waves.

    While studies suggest that wakes represent a significant portion of the wave energy on small lakes, there has been little actual documentation of impacts, and we discovered that there was little direct evidence of erosion. Most examples were extreme and highlighted potential hotspots of shoreline change associated with boat wakes.

    “Our shoreline has eroded approximately six feet in the last 10 years, causing trees and shoreline to collapse into the lake.” A Lake Joseph cottager.

    Most respondents to the survey identified boat operation, the experience of the operators and use of the lake by other users (for example, those fishing, swimming and relaxing) as the primary issues associated with wakes and boating in general. This is consistent with another recent study that found no evidence of shoreline erosion, but an increase in sediment resuspension and phosphorus availability.

    Speed limits, no-wake zones

    Further study is needed to determine when and where boat wakes are a physical and/or ecological stressor rather than simply being a disturbance to the peaceful cottage country scene.

    Through these studies, it will be possible to implement appropriate speed limits and no-wake zones, limits to wakeboat use and improve education and awareness as the industry continues to improve hull designs to reduce the wake.

    There is no doubt that the debate over the impact of boat wakes will continue this summer, but hopefully it won’t make our time on the dock this summer too rocky.

    Chris Houser does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Boat wakes aren’t just a nuisance, they harm freshwater shorelines and wildlife – https://theconversation.com/boat-wakes-arent-just-a-nuisance-they-harm-freshwater-shorelines-and-wildlife-251958

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction of Nįtélazёtúë Elementary School Reaches Completion

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 30, 2025

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan, in partnership with the Northern Lights School Division and local community partners, announced the completion of the new Nįtélazёtúë Elementary school. This marks the culmination of a project aimed at providing a modern and culturally enriched learning environment for students in the region.

    “Completing this state-of-the-art school shows our government’s commitment to investing in education,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “This school stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and shared vision.”

    The 5,548-square-metre elementary school, located adjacent to Dene High School, is designed to accommodate approximately 475 students from Prekindergarten to Grade 6. The school’s architecture, developed with input from the local community, celebrates Indigenous cultural elements and reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding area. 

    “The completion of the new elementary school in La Loche is a significant milestone for students, families and the entire community,” Education Minister Everett Hindley said. “This facility will provide students with a safe and positive space to learn and we are proud to continue building infrastructure that strengthens education in northern Saskatchewan.”

    The new school, which began construction in February 2023, represents a $44.8 million contribution by the Government of Saskatchewan. The Northern Lights School Division contributed additional funds to expand the gymnasium, ensuring it serves both the school and the broader community. 

    “We are proud to announce that the construction of Nįtélazёtúë Elementary School is now complete,” Northern Lights School Division Board Chair Joey McCallum said. “This modern facility, with its enhanced cultural and learning spaces, will benefit our students, staff and families for many years to come.” 

    Students are scheduled to begin classes in the new facility in September 2025.

    Since 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan has committed approximately $2.8 billion toward school infrastructure projects, including 71 new schools and 31 major renovation projects. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Homicide Added to Rewards Program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the homicide of Oren Edward Williams.

    On August 14, 2022, police responded to a report of a suspicious death on Brian Street in East Preston. They found the body of Oren Edward Williams on the side of the road, at the end of a driveway.

    The RCMP is investigating the death as a homicide and say people may have information they have not shared with police.

    “If you have any information that can help solve this case, I urge you to come forward,” said Becky Druhan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. “No matter how big or small, you may have the missing piece that is needed.”

    Anyone with information regarding this crime should call the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program at 1-888-710-9090. People who come forward with information must provide their name and contact information, and they may be called to testify in court. All calls will be recorded.

    People who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of Nova Scotia at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

    Quick Facts:

    • the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is an additional tool to help police in major unsolved crime cases
    • the reward amount will be based on the investigative value of the information provided
    • including this case, there are now 121 active cases in the program
    • employees of law enforcement and correctional agencies are not eligible to collect this reward

    Additional Resources:

    Cases under the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program are listed at: https://novascotia.ca/just/Public_Safety/Rewards

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Man arrested by Harbour Grace RCMP for robbery and uttering threats

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Harbour Grace RCMP arrested 30-year-old Lucas Rowe of Carbonear for robbery, uttering threats, and other offences on April 28, 2025.

    Around 3:45 p.m. on Monday, Harbour Grace RCMP received a report of a residential disturbance at a home in Carbonear. A woman was leaving her home when she was met by a man outside. The man threatened her and demanded that she give him her vehicle.

    The woman went back inside her residence and the man threw a rock through the window of the home. He then proceeded to damage a vehicle that was parked in the driveway. Police responded and quickly located and arrested the man, who was identified as Lucas Rowe.

    Rowe attended court yesterday and was remanded into custody. His next court appearance is set to take place on Friday, May 2, 2025. He is charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Robbery
    • Uttering threats
    • Mischief – property damage over $5,000
    • Resisting arrest

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Carney calls for strength across the nation and protection of natural resources

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Carney calls for strength across the nation and protection of natural resources

    “CanREA looks forward to strengthening our collaboration with the Canadian government to advance clean-energy initiatives nationwide. Expanding investments in wind, solar, and energy storage technologies is essential for safeguarding Canada’s economic sovereignty while delivering affordable, reliable and clean energy solutions. The urgency to act has never been greater,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. Read more!
    The post Carney calls for strength across the nation and protection of natural resources appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Two Quebec-based companies and two individuals fined a total of $35,000 for violating the Species at Risk Act

    Source: Government of Canada News

    April 30, 2025 – Longueuil, Quebec

    Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers work across the country to enforce the laws and regulations that protect and conserve wildlife and its habitat. They work to reduce threats and harm to biodiversity.

    On April 3, 2025, at the Longueuil Courthouse, the companies Habitations Pilon Inc. and Les excavations Jacques Germain & fils Inc. pleaded guilty to one count each of violating prohibitions set out in the Emergency Order for the Protection of the Western Chorus Frog Great Lakes / St. Lawrence — Canadian Shield Population (the Emergency Order), in contravention of the Species at Risk Act (the Act). Marc-André Tarte, a Chambly resident and the construction manager for the company Habitations Pilon Inc., and Maxime Germain, an excavator operator for Les excavations Jacques Germain & fils Inc. and a Chambly resident, also pleaded guilty to one count each in connection with the same offences. They were sentenced to pay fines totalling $35,000. An amount of $30,000 will be directed to the Government of Canada’s Environmental Damages Fund and $5,000 will be paid to the Receiver General for Canada.

    On November 16, 2023, during a routine patrol, Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers observed evidence of heavy machinery traffic in the area protected by the Emergency Order. Officers also observed crushed vegetation. The visible damage covered an area of approximately 612 m2. After investigating, they were able to determine that the companies Habitations Pilon Inc. and Les excavations Jacques Germain & fils Inc. were responsible for the damage caused by heavy machinery traffic in the protected area. The companies and their employees had driven through the area where the Emergency Order applies to make changes to a billboard. In so doing, the companies and the individuals violated subsection 2(1) of the Emergency Order.

    A violation of the provisions of an emergency order constitutes an offence under the Species at Risk Act. The Emergency Order prohibits using vehicles anywhere other than on roads or paved paths. It also prohibits removing, pruning, mowing, damaging, destroying, or introducing any vegetation. In addition, the Emergency Order prohibits installing or constructing any infrastructure or performing maintenance on any infrastructure within the enforcement area. The Act prohibits killing or harming an individual of a wildlife species listed as threatened, as well as damaging or destroying the habitat of one or more species.

    Environment and Climate Change Canada has created a free subscription service to help Canadians stay current with what the Government of Canada is doing to protect the natural environment.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches Double Deposit Bonus and 100x Leverage Crypto Futures Trading No KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin prices return to around $95,000,, many analysts believe that it will enter a long-term high-volatility market. Holding spot positions may not continue to generate profits in the short term. BexBack Exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and a 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

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

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

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

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

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

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

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

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP,and 50+ others futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

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

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

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

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC and 1M USDT in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

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

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

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

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

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

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

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

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this 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.
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    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Free Parking at Hospitals, Healthcare Facilities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Patients, healthcare workers and other visitors to Nova Scotia hospitals and healthcare facilities no longer have to pay for on-site parking, effective Thursday, May 1.

    “We committed to eliminating fees for everyone parking at a Nova Scotia Health or IWK Health facility, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” said Premier Tim Houston. “I know people have been eager to see this change. Nova Scotians shouldn’t have to worry about parking fees when they’re sick and seeking healthcare or caring for our loved ones.”

    A ticket validation system will be implemented at some sites to ensure parking is used by patients, visitors, healthcare workers and staff; other parking facility users will have to pay to park. Specific details surrounding the free-parking initiative could vary or be adjusted across the province as each facility’s unique infrastructure and capacity limitations are more fully assessed.

    The total cost of free parking at healthcare facilities is approximately $19 million annually, included in Budget 2025-26.

    Quick Facts:

    • hospital foundations and other organizations that depend on parking fees for revenue will have any resulting shortfall covered by the provincial government
    • Nova Scotia Health has 97 parking lots across the province, of which 39 currently charge for parking
    • IWK Health has three parking garages, all at its main site on University Avenue in Halifax

    Additional Resources:

    A full list of investments is included in the Budget 2025-26 highlights documents available at: https://novascotia.ca/budget

    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Trahan’s Youth Poisoning Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s (D-MA-03) Youth Poisoning Protection Act, bipartisan legislation that would ban the consumer sale of products containing high concentrations of sodium nitrite, a meat-curing chemical that can be lethal when ingested. The legislation was introduced earlier this year alongside Congressmen Joe Neguse (D-CO-02) and Mike Carey (R-OH-15) as well as U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Curtis (R-UT), and Bernie Moreno (R-OH). 
    “Most Americans have never heard of Sodium Nitrite, but for families who’ve lost loved ones, it’s something they’ll never forget,” Congresswoman Trahan said. “The Youth Poisoning Protection Act would restrict sales of Sodium Nitrite above 10 percent concentration to businesses with verified industrial or commercial use.”
    CLICK HERE or the image below to view Trahan’s speech during the House’s consideration of the legislation. A transcript is embedded below.

    A 2021 New York Times investigation into an online suicide forum found that sodium nitrite was being popularized and encouraged as an easily accessible method to die by suicide. The forum, which is disguised as a safe place to discuss suicidal ideation, hosts threads where anonymous users provide detailed instructions and real-time guidance on how to die by suicide using sodium nitrite. A 2021 toxicology publication based on data from the National Poison Data System (NPDS), one of the data sources used by the CDC, points to a rise in self-poisonings using sodium nitrite in the United States since 2017.
    There is no known recreational use for highly concentrated amounts of sodium nitrite, but at the time of the Times’ investigation, highly concentrated amounts of the poison were widely available on multiple e-commerce platforms, including with free two-day shipping on Amazon. Following outcry from lawmakers and victims’ families, Amazon and a number of other online marketplaces began removing sodium nitrite listings. In May 2023, a Canadian citizen was arrested and charged for shipping packages containing lethal amounts of sodium nitrite to over 40 countries, including 272 sales to individuals in the United Kingdom, of whom at least 88 people died.
    The Youth Poisoning Protection Act bans the sale of consumer products with a concentration of sodium nitrite greater than 10 percent. The bipartisan legislation passed in the House with overwhelming bipartisan support last May.
    If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, feeling at risk of suicide, or experiencing a state of distress, it is crucial to find help immediately. There are many resources available, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline which provides free, confidential support 24/7, and the Crisis Text Line which offers free crisis counseling 24/7. Dial 988 or text HOME to 741741 to connect with these services.
    ——————————————–
    Congresswoman Lori Trahan
    Remarks As Delivered
    Floor Speech on The Youth Poisoning Protection Act
    April 28, 2025

    I thank the gentleman for yielding as well as his leadership and Chair Bilirakis on this important issue.
    Mr. Speaker, I introduced the Youth Poisoning Protection Act alongside Representative Mike Carey because we are facing an urgent and deeply troubling trend: The promotion of Sodium Nitrite, a toxic chemical, as a method to die by suicide.
    In 2022, the New York Times revealed the existence of online suicide forums that don’t just discuss suicide – they promote it. Anonymous users on these platforms encourage vulnerable children and young adults to end their lives, and they often suggest using this chemical to do it.
    Now, most Americans have never heard of Sodium Nitrite, but for families who’ve lost loved ones, it’s something they’ll never forget. In lower concentrations, it’s a chemical used safely to cure meats and fish, but in higher concentrations, it’s deadly. And for the few who have survived attempts to end their lives using Sodium Nitrite, they report agonizing pain as the chemical deprives their body of oxygen.
    After learning how easy it is to purchase high-concentration Sodium Nitrite, my office worked with retailers to limit access to businesses with a proven use for the chemical, but some sites still openly market it as part of so-called “suicide kits” to people in crisis. There is no federal law that allows us to stop this.
    That’s where this bipartisan legislation comes in. The Youth Poisoning Protection Act would restrict sales of Sodium Nitrite above 10 percent concentration to businesses with verified industrial or commercial use. That threshold is based on expert recommendations for safe handling and won’t interfere with legitimate industries like food processing.
    This bill is focused and reasonable. It targets bad actors who are exploiting a loophole to profit off tragedy, and it does so without burdening responsible businesses.
    That’s why, last Congress, this bill passed the Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously before passing it here on the floor with overwhelming support. Now, we must finish the job. I urge my colleagues to support the Youth Poisoning Protection Act, and I yield back the balance of my time.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia and Congresswoman Lisa McClain Introduce Bipartisan “Common Cents Act” to Eliminate the Penny

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Congresswoman Lisa McClain (MI-09) introduced the Common Cents Act to end the minting of the penny and require cash transactions to be rounded up or down to the nearest five cents. Full text of the bill can be found here. 

    “It doesn’t make sense to continue producing the penny, which costs three times more than it’s worth to create and distribute,” said Congressman Garcia. “As the cost of living continues to rise and with more folks tapping their phones or cards for payment, we shouldn’t be pouring millions of taxpayer dollars into a coin that is rarely used. By halting production, we would actually cut waste and boost efficiency in a common-sense way.”

    “Pennies are a waste of taxpayer dollars. It doesn’t make sense to spend millions each year minting coins that so few people actually use. President Trump’s common-sense idea should become law. We are taking a decisive step toward fiscal responsibility and updating our currency for the 21st century,” said Congresswoman McClain.

    The bill would take effect one year after its enactment and follows the successful elimination of one-cent coins in several other countries, including Australia and Canada. Additionally, a final decision on whether the U.S. Mint will cease production of the penny is currently pending. Non-cash transactions, such as credit card, debit card, mobile phone payments, and checks, would not be affected. The cost of producing a penny is roughly 3.7 times its face value, driven by rising metal prices. By eliminating the penny, this bill aims to reduce unnecessary costs, save taxpayer money, and streamline the U.S. currency system, eliminating waste and making it more efficient for both consumers and businesses.

    Congressman Garcia is dedicated to eliminating waste, improving government efficiency, and saving taxpayer dollars. On the Oversight Committee, Congressman Garcia works to ensure all government operations are effective and streamlined. Last Congress, two of Congressman Garcia’s bipartisan bills, the Eliminate Useless Reports Act and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Inspector General Parity Act aimed at improving government efficiency were signed into law, which will save taxpayer dollars and promote more accountable government operations. Congressman Garcia previously introduced the FLASH Act (Fast-Track Logistics for Acquiring Supplies in a Hurry Act) to streamline procurement processes within the Department of Health and Human Services during emergencies. This legislation would eliminate waste, reduce delays, and ultimately save taxpayer dollars while streamlining access to essential resources.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Western Communities Foundation Celebrates 20th Anniversary of National Walk and Announces New Theme Focusing on Safe Places

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HIGH RIVER, Alberta, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Western Financial Group Communities Foundation is proud to announce the 20th anniversary of its national charity walk, taking place from May 19-24, 2025. This milestone event marks two decades of dedicated efforts to support local communities across Canada with over $1 million donated to local initiatives, funding playgrounds, awarding scholarships, and transforming community spaces since its inception in 2005. This also marks a new chapter of Western’s journey and commitment to caring for communities with a new focus on Safe Places.

    Previously known as the National Walk to Support the Cause, this year’s event has been rebranded as the National Walk for Safe Places. “In a world facing increasing climate disasters, geopolitical uncertainties, rising food and housing costs, and mental health challenges, creating strong, inclusive, and resilient communities is more important than ever,” said Grant Ostir, CEO of Western Financial Group and Foundation Board President. “As a proudly Canadian company, we know the value of feeling safe and secure.”

    From May 19-24, thousands of Western team members, neighbours, and partners will walk together in over 150 communities to support creating safe places to live, play and work. This powerful act of unity highlights the importance of coming together not just as colleagues, but as Canadians who care about their hometowns.

    “Our new focus on building safe places underscores our commitment to caring for and empowering our communities,” said Nancy Green-Bolton, Western Communities Foundation Board Chair and Western Financial Group Chief Operating Officer. “We believe that by building resilient neighbourhoods, we allow our diverse communities to thrive and succeed.”

    As part of the celebrations, Western will donate $10,000 to local charities through its #StepUpAndShare Photowalk Challenge. Between May 1-24, participants are encouraged to share photos of their walking shoes or their neighbourhoods on social media using hashtag #StepUpAndShare, tagging their favourite charity. Each post enters the participant for a chance to win a $1,000 donation for their charity, terms apply. Ten winners will be announced on May 27. Participants are encouraged to visit westerngives.ca and follow along on Western’s social media pages for updates.

    “This is a remarkable opportunity to engage communities from coast to coast and showcase the powerful impact of walking together for a purpose that is both relevant and timely,” shared Michelle Mak, Director of Western Communities Foundation, “What started as a walk with just over 200 people has grown into a nationwide initiative over the past 20 years, inspiring thousands. I’m proud to be a part of a company that’s dedicated to investing in a better, brighter future for everyone.”

    Western Financial Group Communities Foundation

    Founded in 2001, the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation serves to give back to the communities where Western employees live, work and play, and foster employee pride and engagement. The Foundation’s core donation programs include community Infrastructure Grants, the Western Inspirational Awards for graduating high school students, and the Matching Grants Program. Since its inception, the Western Communities Foundation has granted more than $9 million to support local communities.

    About Western Financial Group Inc.

    Headquartered in High River, Alberta, Western Financial Group is a diversified insurance services company that has provided over one million Canadians with protection for over 100 years. Western is committed to community service, customer service, innovation, growth, and people while providing personal and business insurance through our engaged team of over 2,000 people in over 200 communities, affiliates, and various connected channels.

    Since the very beginning, supporting our local communities has guided everything we do—it’s who we are. In 2001, the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation (our non-profit charity) was created as a way for our team members to give back and positively impact the people and pride in the places where we live, work, and play. To date, we have granted over $9 million back into our communities.

    Western Financial Group is a subsidiary of Trimont Financial Ltd., a subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company. Visit https://westernfinancialgroup.ca for more.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d47e661a-c3eb-4b76-b04b-bc2881e79a13

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sidetrade publishes its 2024 annual report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sidetrade, the global leader in AI-powered Order-to-Cash applications, today publishes its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year defined by record performance, innovation in generative AI, and continued international expansion.

    Sidetrade’s 2024 Annual Report provides an in-depth analysis of the company’s ecosystem, strategic direction, and governance framework. It also reviews the key milestones that shaped the past financial year. Beyond the financial results, the report connects economic performance and non-financial impact, demonstrating Sidetrade’s commitment to responsible growth, exemplary governance, and sustainable value creation.

    This report is designed for investors, partners, customers, and stakeholders who want a deeper understanding of how Sidetrade anticipates, innovates, and shapes the future of corporate finance.

    It is available on the company’s website here.

    Philippe Gangneux, CSR Ambassador and Chief Financial Officer of Sidetrade, commented:

    “In 2024, we delivered record revenue and profitability, while expanding our AI innovation and international footprint. For the second year, we’re integrating both financial and non-financial performance to give our stakeholders a transparent, 360° view of how Sidetrade creates value. Our ability to combine sustained growth, operational excellence, and long-term impact is what sets us apart.

    “This year’s Annual Report goes beyond numbers, highlighting how our intelligent solutions, powered by the Sidetrade Data Lake, are not only accelerating cash flow performance for our customers, but helping finance leaders rethink what’s possible in the age of generative AI.”

    Next financial announcement
    Annual General Meeting: June 18, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (France, Sidetrade headquarters) First Half Year Revenue for 2025: July 16, 2025 (after the stock market closes)

    Investor relations
    Christelle Dhrif                  00 33 6 10 46 72 00           cdhrif@sidetrade.com

    Media relations @Sidetrade
    Becca Parlby               00 44 7824 5055 84         bparlby@sidetrade.com

    About Sidetrade (www.sidetrade.com)
    Sidetrade (Euronext Growth: ALBFR.PA) provides a SaaS platform designed to revolutionize how cash flow is secured and accelerated. Leveraging its next-generation AI, nicknamed Aimie, Sidetrade analyzes $7.2 trillion worth of B2B payment transactions daily in its Cloud, thereby anticipating customer payment behavior and the attrition risk of 40 million buyers worldwide. Aimie recommends the best strategies, dematerializes, and intelligently automates Order-to-Cash processes to enhance productivity, results and working capital across organizations. Sidetrade has a global reach, with 400+ talented employees based in Europe, the United States and Canada, serving global businesses in more than 85 countries. Amongst them: AGFA, BMW Financial Services, Bunzl, DXC, Engie, Inmarsat, KPMG, Lafarge, Manpower, Morningstar, Page, Randstad, Safran, Saint-Gobain, Securitas, Siemens, UGI, Veolia.
    Sidetrade is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, adhering to its principles-based approach to responsible business.
    For further information, visit us at www.sidetrade.com and follow @Sidetrade on LinkedIn.
    In the event of any discrepancy between the French and English versions of this press release, only the French version is to be taken into account.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake  — Excessive speeder ticketed by RCMP Traffic Services West

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 33-year-old man was stopped for excessive speeding by Traffic Services West on Monday.

    On April 28, 2025, police observed a vehicle travelling at speeds up to 164 km/hr in a 100 km/h zone on the Trans Canada Highway near Hampden Junction. The driver’s speed was locked in at 159km/hr. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was ticketed for excessive speeding. His license was suspended and the vehicle was impounded.

    RCMP NL continues to fill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador. We thank the public for continuing to report incidents of excessive speed, dangerous driving and crimes within their communities.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How rising wages for construction workers are shifting the foundations of the housing market

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Bahaa Chammout, Kummer I&E PhD Fellow in Civil Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Construction costs have surged in recent years, pushing homeownership further out of reach for many Americans. But this isn’t a new concern: In 1978, the U.S. Government Accountability Office warned that rising costs were threatening the American dream – at a time when the median home price was just US$44,300, less than three times the median household income. Today, that figure has climbed past $419,000, more than five times what the median American makes.

    One often-overlooked factor behind this surge? Labor costs.

    We are engineering experts, and in our latest study, we analyzed wages and workforce trends across more than 20 occupations in construction from 1999 to 2023. Interestingly, we found that unskilled workers — those in the lowest-paid roles – saw the largest wage gains. And the effects of these gains have rippled across the entire construction industry.

    A changing construction landscape

    A lot can change in 25 years, which is the last time researchers analyzed construction labor trends at this scale. Back then, construction wages were declining, driven in part by the rise of affordable trade schools and in part by falling union membership.

    Today, the landscape looks very different. The construction industry is grappling with a persistent labor shortage, facing an annual shortfall of more than a half-million workers. At the same time, wage dynamics have shifted greatly.

    The biggest gains go to the lowest-paid roles

    Construction projects rely on a wide range of roles – from highly skilled professionals like engineers and electricians to lower-skilled or unskilled workers. Unskilled workers handle physically demanding tasks like trench digging, concrete mixing and site preparation, and earn lower wages. As a result, contractors often hire more of them.

    While contractors tend to focus on expensive skilled labor when estimating project costs, our recent study found that unskilled workers have seen the largest wage gains in recent decades. Their wages rose by 2.75% to 3.5% per year — compared with under 2.5% for most skilled roles.

    The size of the construction workforce is also changing, with 88% of U.S. construction firms reporting difficulty finding workers. The shortage is especially severe among unskilled labor. For example, half as many people work as unskilled helpers now than in 1999.

    Given these trends, to avoid budgeting shortfalls and project risks, we encourage contractors to plan for higher costs for low-skilled workers. Our study also offers a simple method to help forecast wage trends, which contractors can use to estimate future labor costs.

    Wage hikes have a ripple effect

    Interestingly, not only did unskilled occupations see the biggest wage jumps, but they also influenced wage changes in other trades.

    Using econometric models, we analyzed these occupations as part of an interconnected system. We found that trades typically involved early in a project tend to influence wages for trades that come later. In particular, unskilled construction laborers – who handle tasks like site preparation and material handling – emerged as the leading drivers of wage trends across the industry. When their wages rise, others’ tend to follow.

    These insights suggest that contractors should monitor early-stage wage trends closely. When wages start rising among early-trade or unskilled workers, that is often a signal that broader labor costs are about to rise too. Planning ahead can help firms manage costs more effectively.

    Recent world events — such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war and the 2018 steel and aluminum tariffs — brought major challenges to the construction industry, which is still dealing with their aftermath. On top of that, worsening labor shortages, new tariffs and global supply chain disruptions mean the industry will continue to face significant challenges.

    However, tracking market data offers a valuable opportunity to understand emerging trends and develop strategies to respond effectively. Our research team – working closely with major U.S. contractors through the Missouri Consortium for Construction Innovation – is exploring solutions across a range of issues, including construction material costs, cross-border material trade with Canada and Mexico, and persistent labor shortages, among other critical topics.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How rising wages for construction workers are shifting the foundations of the housing market – https://theconversation.com/how-rising-wages-for-construction-workers-are-shifting-the-foundations-of-the-housing-market-255087

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. imports of major transportation fuels decreased in 2024

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    April 29, 2025

    U.S. imports of petroleum products decreased by 210,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2024 to average 1.8 million b/d. Imports of all major transportation fuels, such as motor gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, as well as other products, such as unfinished oils, decreased.

    Motor gasoline makes up the largest share of U.S. petroleum product imports because it is the most widely consumed petroleum fuel in the United States. In 2024, the United States imported 651,000 b/d of motor gasoline, about 36% of all petroleum product imports and 75,000 b/d less than in 2023. U.S. gasoline consumption in 2024 was largely unchanged from 2023; inventories fell in 2024 after they had increased in 2023, reflecting the decrease in imports.

    Although the United States imports more gasoline than any other petroleum product, the United States exported 226,000 b/d more gasoline than it imported in 2024. The United States has been a net exporter of gasoline every year since 2016.

    U.S. petroleum product exports primarily originate from the Gulf Coast due to the region’s concentrated refining capacity and proximity to major ports. U.S. Gulf Coast refinery production exceeds regional market demand, resulting in exports by waterborne tankers. Although Gulf Coast refineries have a wide distribution network, infrastructure constraints limit their ability to supply fuels to all parts of the country. Consequently, certain regions rely on imported petroleum products instead of transporting them from the Gulf Coast.

    U.S. gasoline imports came from a variety of countries, but the largest five suppliers were Canada, the Netherlands, India, the United Kingdom, and South Korea. All these countries except Korea are among the top five sources for U.S. gasoline imports over the last 10 years (2014–23). Imports from Canada are the primary source of gasoline for several northeastern states and make up a small share in other markets throughout the country.

    Canada is also the largest source of distillate imports into the United States. The United States imported 144,000 b/d of distillate fuel oil in 2024, 95% of which came from Canada. U.S. imports of distillate primarily come into the East Coast (112,000 b/d, or 78%). In addition to use as a transportation fuel, distillate imports are also the primary source of home heating oil for the U.S. Northeast.

    Jet fuel imports in 2024 totaled 109,000 b/d, down from 127,000 b/d in 2023. Jet fuel imports flowed primarily to the West Coast. South Korea supplied 77,000 b/d, or 71%, of U.S. jet fuel imports last year. The next-largest suppliers were Canada, China, India, and Kuwait.

    Imports of petroleum products other than gasoline, distillate fuel oil, and jet fuel primarily consisted of residual fuel oil for use as a marine bunker fuel and unfinished oils used as feedstock for U.S. refineries to produce other finished products.

    Principal contributor: Kevin Hack

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Applied Systems Honored with Three Stevie® Awards in 2025 American Business Awards®

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, IL., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® today announced that the company was recognized in multiple categories of the 23rd Annual American Business Awards®. Applied was named the winner of a Gold Stevie® Award for Company of the Year in the Large-Sized Insurance category. Epic Quotes Commercial Lines won a Silver Stevie® Award in the Insurance Solution category, and Applied Pay won a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Payments Solution category.

    The American Business Awards are the U.S.A.’s premier business awards program. All organizations operating in the U.S.A. are eligible to submit nominations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small. More than 3,600 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories.

    “Congratulations to Applied Systems for impressive strides in digital transformation and operational excellence within the insurance sector. The acquisition of Planck and advancements in Applied Epic and Applied Pay show commendable vision and execution,” one American Business Award® judge noted. More than 250 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.

    “It is an honor to be recognized as an indispensable partner to the insurance industry by the 2025 American Business Awards,” said Taylor Rhodes, chief executive officer, Applied Systems. “These awards underscore our commitment to leading the industry in the next generation of insurance, providing the innovative technology agents, brokers, carriers and MGAs need to drive more value in their business.”

    # # #

    The Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.

    About Applied Systems
    Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Sugar Baby Websites and Apps: Top Sugar Daddy Sites For Sugar Dating in 2025 By Sugar Daddy Meet

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vaughan,Ontario, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Understanding Sugar Dating in 2025

    We have seen so many aspects of life evolve with respect to technology, innovations, and all it aligns with the modern world today. And this has also applied in the world of finding love, companionship, or dating. Traditional dating scenes have also evolved with more people turning towards finding connections That align with their respective lifestyles, personal goals, and expectations. We are trying to talk about sugar dating, it has gained popularity over the last one decade and has become the alternative to finding a very unique relationship dynamic that focuses on emotional support, mutual understanding, financial assistance along with companionship. 

    ⇒ Join the Best Sugar Daddy Website for Free!

    The most fundamental approach of sugar dating is a consensual agreement between two individuals or adults; typically, a sugar baby is one who is considered to be younger and is seeking gifts, membership, or financial stability, whereas a sugar daddy is one who might offer these resources to the sugar baby in exchange of emotional connection, and companionship.

    What Is a Sugar Baby Website?

    It is a very non-traditional dynamic in the world of dating. Sugar dating is simply when one person dons the role of a sugar baby who is often the younger one with someone who is referred to as a sugar daddy or a sugar mommy who is often the elder one, and they are in a relationship in exchange for financial support, experiences, gifts.

    Flirt Smarter. Join SugarDaddyMeet Now – It’s Free to Start!

    How sugar dating platforms work?

    Unlike the normal dating applications, a sugar baby dating website or apps are built using unique tools to harness honest conversations. Several unique features such as identity checks, income verification, and arrangement based filtration help the users connect with their compatible matches with common relationship values. And in this world where cheating and deceit is so common, finding a sugar baby site that is not just about aesthetics or use of friendliness but also about safety and success rates is very crucial. Especially if you are someone who is just entering the world of sugar, baby dating, then finding a supportive digital experience can make a lot of difference.

    Who are sugar babies and sugar daddies?

    Sugar baby: The very meaning of sugar baby translates to a mutual benefit. A sugar baby is someone who tends to value mentorship, support, and financial security for exchange of intimacy, companionship, or emotional support. All of these dynamics are discussed, beforehand and agreed upon, which makes the whole experience empowering and not exploitative. Sugar babies tend to be younger men and women, including students or people in their earlier careers who really seek financial support from their dating arrangements.

    Sugar daddy: A sugar daddy is considered to be the person who is older, financially sound individual, who loves providing financial support, lifestyle, benefits, or gifts to their younger companion, known by the name of sugar, baby.the arrangement between a sugar daddy and a sugar baby is built purely on mutual understanding where both of the parties come to agreement of certain terms of the relationship, it could be mentorship, companionship, financial support, or emotional support.

    Don’t Chase. Attract. Join SugarDaddyMeet & Let Him Find You.

    Things to Look for in a Good Sugar Baby Website

    If you are someone who has just entered the world of sugar dating, then finding a good sugar baby website can be both empowering and exciting. These platforms have enabled opportunities for connections that are mutually beneficial, where transparency as well as consent play a vital role. However, we need to keep in mind that not every interaction can be ideal and some can be dangerous. Therefore, identifying the red flags especially on the platform where you are trying to find a sugar baby or a daddy is very crucial. Sure are a couple of things you might want to look out for while finding a good sugar baby website for yourself:

    • Safety and privacy features: it is crucial to find sugar baby websites that are of high-quality, which offer features such as control over the privacy of profile, offer encryption of messages, and come with inbuilt fraud prevention systems.
    • Verification process: user verification is the ultimate necessity when it comes to sugar baby or sugar daddy. To prevent fake profiles from registering on the website and to prevent falling prey to any scam which could potentially create safety concerns, the best sugar baby websites, verify their users through government ID checks, phone, confirmation, or photo verification.
    • Member quality (real vs fake profiles): a good sugar baby website will provide transparent intentions to its users. Such platforms support open dialogues wherein the individual from both the sites can voice out their expectations, goals, and arrangements. This helps distinguish between real profiles versus fake profiles.
    • Costs and premium features: every sugar baby website comes with its own set of unique features, and some of its primary features might come at a cost. Therefore, it is essential for you to hunt for a sugar baby website that fits your budget and alliance with every feature that you are looking out for.
    • Ease of use (mobile apps, design): an intuitive and clean design of a sugar baby website will help its users Stay more focused on meaningful communication to find their perfect sugar daddy or sugar baby to enjoy sugar dating.

    Be Bold. Be Desired. Be Spoiled. Join SugarDaddyMeet Today.

    How to Find a Sugar Daddy (The Fun + Flirty Way )

    Looking for a sugar daddy who’s generous, charming, and knows how to spoil you? You’re not alone, babe—and yes, he’s out there. Finding him isn’t about chasing—it’s about attracting. And with a little confidence and sparkle, you can have him wrapped around your finger (Rolex optional ).

    First things first: choose the right playground. Apps like SugarDaddyMeet.com are full of upscale, successful men who are ready to invest in a connection that’s as exciting as it is mutually rewarding. No more guessing games—just real men with real intentions.

    Dress your profile to impress. Flirty but classy pics, a fun and confident bio, and a hint of what makes you irresistible. Show your charm, wit, and ambition. Remember: sugar daddies love confidence and a little sass.

    When you chat, keep it light, playful, and polished. Flirt with finesse. Ask about his passions, tease him a little, and show you’re not just pretty—you’ve got presence.

    And don’t forget, sugar—it’s your world. Set your boundaries, know your worth, and only say yes to someone who makes you feel like the main character.

    Because you’re not just looking for a sugar daddy—you’re looking for your upgrade.

    Best Sugar Baby Website and App

    SugarDaddyMeet.com

    When it comes to dating and building meaningful connections, trust is important — but sometimes, it’s the little extras that make all the difference. SugarDaddyMeet.com creates a space where people can form mutually rewarding relationships without worrying about social stigma, especially when age is a factor.

    For women interested in meeting successful, generous partners, the site opens the door to connecting with confident, well-established men. Meanwhile, men in search of elegance and charm can discover genuine connections with attractive, engaging women.
    If you’re looking to explore relationships based on mutual benefit, respect, and understanding — without judgment — this platform offers a welcoming environment for just that. This platform has been around for nearly two decades and continues to perform reliably. With a user base that has grown to over 2 million people, it’s clear that many still trust and actively use the service. 
    That kind of ongoing popularity speaks volumes about its quality and consistency.

    Key Features

    Primary features of sugar daddy include:

    • Emphasising customer support: Sugardaddymeet.com gives excellent customer support to all of its members. The support team is available always to assist its users with any questions or concerns they might have using the platform. The team is efficient and well trained in handling all types of user queries. The sugardaddymeet.com platform also provides priority customer support for premium members, ensuring that their queries get priority, attention and are solved swiftly.
    • Secret photos and videos: The Sugardaddymeet.com website provides all of its members with several unique functionalities and features that immensely enhance the users online dating experience. Once such feature has to be the incredible ability to view hidden videos and photos of a particular particular user’s match. it grants them exclusive media and details, understanding the particular match’s likes, dislikes, interest, and personalities.
    • Higher search in rankings: The Sugardaddymeet.com platform offers its users, options of purchasing credit bundles, which can be unlocked to enjoy an array of premium benefits and features, including the ability to increase one’s ranking on the website. With the help of these credit bundles the users can improvise their visibility when a potential match Looks for similar interest. This feature helps users to stand out and create a strong impression on the platform.
    • Conversation starters: The Sugardaddymeet.com platform has a very distinctive system of credit which allows its users to begin conversations by using credits in multiples of tens and unlocking them in a permanent manner. This allows users to revisit conversations with their potential matching individuals without having to pay for an entire month’s subscription as in the case of other platforms. This approach has been celebrated as a very unique feature.
    • The swipe and match method: this matching game on the sugardaddymeet.com platform is very engaging and follows. A straightforward approach where the users are presented with potential profiles or pictures of sugar, daddies or sugar babies and asked if they are interested. Members can swipe right if they find the profile interesting and if they do not want to go forward with it, all they have to do is swipe left. When two users swipe right on each other’s profile, that is considered a match.

    Ready to Be Pampered? Create Your Free Profile Now.

    Pros of using Sugardaddymeet.com platform

    • Active user base: the platform has several users who live in nearby areas, this increases the likelihood of finding a suitable match which is practical.
    • User friendly interface: The platform is very easy for users to navigate and comes in an attractive design and rich functionality.
    • Successful dates in a short span of time: The platform is efficient in helping its users go on real time dates within a small time frame.
    • Comprehensive filter and search options: the platform comes with an advanced search functionality that allows its users to do filtering of potential matches in a precise manner. This makes it easier to find ideal partners quickly.
    • Privacy protection: site gives utmost importance on its users privacy by providing options to hide profiles completely or in a selective manner.
    • 24/7 live support: the customer support is available round the clock to its users to solve any issue that they might face.
    • Robust verification for credibility: several verification methods are conducted on its users, such as email, photo, and phone validations to ensure an authentic and safe dating environment.

    Cons of using sugardaddymeet.com platform

    • Unfamiliar features: the sugardaddymeet.com platform offers so many features that some users might get overwhelmed and will have difficulty in understanding how to explore it or might take time.
    • Cost of sugar babies: unlike other sugar daddy websites that charge only for sugar daddy and not for sugar babies, the sugardaddymeet.com platform charges both parties which might be a drawback.

    Who it’s best for: well, the answer to this can be limitless, but the sugardaddymeet.com platform is best for those who are on a lookout for a transparent dating relationship with common understanding. It is for the younger ones who seek financial support along with a relationship. It is also for those older ones who are longing to feel young again, but do not want to jump into relationships.

    Join the Elite Circle of Sugar Babies – Your Dream Sugar Daddy Awaits!

    Sugar Daddy Meet Customer Reviews 

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Alina M. Toronto, Canada
    I never imagined a dating site could lead to something this magical. I met Daniel here—a thoughtful, successful gentleman who sees me for who I am, not just how I look. From candlelit dinners in Yorkville to weekend getaways in the Rockies, our connection keeps deepening. SugarDaddyMeet made it feel effortless to find someone who values both luxury and genuine affection.

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Luca R. Milan, Italy
    As a busy entrepreneur, I didn’t have time to play games. SugarDaddyMeet introduced me to Sofia, a kind and ambitious woman with elegance and heart. We share more than just lavish tastes—we share values. Whether we’re sipping Barolo on the lake or talking till sunrise, she brings out the best in me. It’s not just dating, it’s an experience of romance on a whole new level.

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Chloe W. Sydney, Australia
    When I joined, I hoped for someone mature and sincere—and that’s exactly what I found. Mark is everything I didn’t know I needed: generous with both his time and heart. From sunrise walks on Bondi Beach to private dinners overlooking the harbor, every moment feels like a chapter in a love story. SugarDaddyMeet gave me the fairytale I thought only existed in movies.

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Noah J. New York City, USA
    I was searching for more than just beauty—I wanted substance wrapped in elegance. SugarDaddyMeet helped me find Ana, a smart, stylish woman with a soft heart. Our weekends in the Hamptons, shared laughter, and romantic strolls in Central Park made me believe in real, grown-up love again. This site doesn’t just match profiles—it connects soulmates.

    Don’t Wait for Him to Find You – Take Control and Join SugarDaddyMeet!

    Free vs Paid Sugar Baby Sites: Which Is Better?

    • A lot of doubts and questions pop-up for this and we are here to tell you that most of the sugar daddy websites allow users to join for free, but for the best experience a premium membership is required. It means that you will be able to set your profile and browse on the platform for free, but you might need to pay in order to send messages, unlock certain premium features, and also see as to who has viewed your profile. 
    • For the safest and most practical experience, we recommend opting for premium membership because this will ensure that you have access to premium features which helps you understand your match better and communicate without any hindrance.

    How to Stay Safe While Using Sugar Baby Apps

    • Safety must be regarded as the most important part of using a sugar daddy website. So if you’re someone who are new to the same or have been a part of such dating websites for a while, it is very important for you to understand how to protect yourself online. And it is vital for both sugar, daddies and sugar babies to spot the red flax and follow smart and effective safety habits right from the beginning.
    • Always remember to opt for public venues for your first meeting such as cafes or restaurants. It is best to avoid private residences or secluded locations for safety purposes. If possible, inform a trusted family member of Friend about your meeting whereabouts.
    •  Discuss expectations clearly as honest discussions about what is expected mutually with your such as the frequency of meetings, financial support, and boundaries. This will ensure that both of you are on the same page.

    ⇒ Join a Top-Rated Sugar Daddy Website Today

    Sugar Dating vs. Traditional Dating: What’s the Real Difference?

    When it comes to relationships, one size doesn’t fit all. Sugar dating and traditional dating offer very different experiences—and understanding those differences can help you choose the path that truly suits your lifestyle and values.

    Traditional dating often revolves around trial and error. It can mean endless swiping, unclear intentions, and investing time in people who may not share your goals. It’s romantic, yes—but sometimes frustratingly vague. You might go on several dates before figuring out if someone wants commitment, fun, or simply attention.

    Sugar dating, on the other hand, is refreshingly direct. Both sugar babies and sugar daddies (or mommies) are upfront about what they’re looking for—whether that’s companionship, mentorship, emotional connection, or financial support. There’s no pretending. Expectations are clear, and relationships are built on mutual benefit and respect.

    In sugar dating, luxury and lifestyle aren’t side perks—they’re part of the equation. It’s dating with clarity, class, and a little extra sparkle. While traditional dating often hopes to grow into something meaningful, sugar dating begins with intention and purpose.

    So if you’re tired of mixed signals and ready for a relationship that reflects your worth, sugar dating may just be the upgrade you’ve been looking for.

    ✨ Your Perfect Sugar Daddy is Waiting – Create Your Free Profile Now!

    Tips for Creating a Successful Sugar Baby Profile

    • Choosing the right photos: Posting a mix of photos and videos helps others get a clearer sense of who you are. This kind of visual insight often draws more attention to your profile and can boost the likelihood of someone reaching out to connection
    • Writing an attractive bio: providing comprehensive information. While you are registering on the platform, helps the system accurately match you with a suitable candidate. You can include everything in the bio right from why you are seeking out for a match, what are your expectations, and what you can contribute as a partner to an individual. All these will help in highlighting your profile to a potential match.
    • Messaging tips: before starting a conversation, take some time to review the profile to understand common hobbies and interests. This will help you start a more engaging conversation.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Is it legal to be a sugar baby?
    It is completely fine to be a sugar baby as long as the relationship is consensual and nothing illegal is undertaken in the arrangement.

    How much allowance do sugar babies usually get?
    This varies depending on location and relationship but according to the platform, most of the sugar babies receive anywhere between $2500-$5000 per month. Certain allowances are non-monetary such as vacations, tuition assistance, shopping spree, and so on.

    Are there sugar baby sites without upfront payment?
    Yes, there are several websites that offer free or free – trial memberships, which do not require any payment.

    What’s the best sugar baby app for beginners?
    We would highly recommend sugardaddymeet.com platform as it is safe, trusted, and comes with good user reviews.

    Is Sugar Dating Right for You as a Sugar Baby?

    Are you a woman who knows what she wants—and isn’t afraid to ask for it? If you dream of rooftop dinners, designer gifts, and deep conversations with someone who appreciates your beauty and brains, sugar dating might just be your perfect match.

    Being a sugar baby isn’t about gold digging—it’s about goal setting. Whether you’re building your career, funding your education, or simply love the finer things in life, sugar dating connects you with successful, sophisticated partners who get it. Think mentorship over meaningless swiping, and luxury over late-night “wyd” texts.

    Sugar dating is for the bold, the confident, and the classy. It’s for women who value their time and expect the same in return. It’s about mutual respect, clear expectations, and—let’s be honest—a little bit of sparkle.

    Of course, this lifestyle comes with responsibilities: setting boundaries, knowing your worth, and owning your power. But if you’re ready to step into a world where affection and ambition go hand in hand, sugar dating might be more than right for you—it might be your glow-up moment.

    Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Sugar Dating Site for You

    Sugar Daddy Meet stands out as a go-to platform for those exploring sugar dating, thanks to its simple, easy-to-use layout that makes finding local connections straightforward. While there’s room for improvement — like the addition of live customer chat — the site still offers a solid experience. Navigation is smooth, the links and features are clearly laid out, and the support team is responsive when needed.

    Getting started is quick, and the search tools are surprisingly effective, making it a good fit whether you’re new to this scene or have some experience. Many users describe it as a safe and dependable space where age-gap relationships are welcomed without judgment. For those seeking genuine arrangements without the hassle, Sugar Daddy Meet can be a refreshing change of pace. Some users have also claimed that they found real connection through these platforms who value their sense of living life without any thread attached. And that these connections have lasted for a long duration of time as the platform encourages one to express their expectations in the most honest way.

    Project name: SugarDaddyMeet.com
    10 – 8707 Dufferin St,
    Suite 160 Vaughan,
    Ontario L4J 0A6
    Canada
    Company website: https://www.sugardaddymeet.com/
    email: support@SugarDaddyMeet.com
    Content Accuracy Disclaimer
    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this article. However, due to the dynamic nature of product formulations, promotions, and availability, details may change without notice. The publisher makes no warranties or representations as to the current completeness or accuracy of any content, including product claims, pricing, or ingredient lists.
    It is the responsibility of the reader to verify product information directly through the official website or manufacturer prior to making a purchasing decision. Any reliance placed on the information in this article is done strictly at your own risk.
    Affiliate Disclosure
    This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service through these links, the publisher may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the creation of in-depth reviews and educational wellness content.
    The publisher only promotes products that have been independently evaluated and deemed potentially beneficial to readers. However, this compensation may influence the content, topics, or products discussed in this article. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliate partner or product provider.
    All product reviews and descriptions reflect the author’s honest opinion based on available public data, user feedback, and scientific references at the time of writing. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence the objectivity or integrity of the content. However, readers are encouraged to independently verify product information and consult with healthcare professionals prior to purchase or use.
    No warranties, either expressed or implied, are made about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the content provided. The publisher and all affiliated parties expressly disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of any information contained herein.
    Product and Trademark Rights
    All product names, logos, and brands mentioned are the property of their respective owners. Use of these names does not imply endorsement unless explicitly stated. SDM® , SUGARDADDYMEET® are the trademarks of its respective brand owner.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global-e to Announce Financial Results for the First Quarter 2025 on May 14, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH-TIKVA, Israel, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global-e Online Ltd. (Nasdaq: GLBE), the platform powering global direct-to-consumer e-commerce, today announced it will report financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before market open on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

    Global-e management will host a conference call to review its financial results and outlook.

    Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
    Time: 8:00 AM ET
    United States/Canada Toll Free: +1-800-717-1738
    International Toll: +1-646-307-1865
       

    Please join the call 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time, to avoid a delay in connecting. A live webcast will be available in the Investor Relations section of Global-e’s website at https://investors.global-e.com/news-events/events-presentations

    A replay of the webcast will be available in the Investor Relations section of Global-e’s website at https://investors.global-e.com/news-events/events-presentations approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 30 calendar days.

    About Global-e Online Ltd.

    Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) is the world’s leading platform enabling and accelerating global, Direct-To-Consumer e-commerce. The chosen partner of over 1,400 brands and retailers across the United States, EMEA and APAC, Global-e makes selling internationally as simple as selling domestically. The company enables merchants to increase the conversion of international traffic into sales by offering online shoppers in over 200 destinations worldwide a seamless, localized shopping experience. Global-e’s end-to-end e-commerce solutions combine best-in-class localization capabilities, big-data best-practice business intelligence models, streamlined international logistics and vast global e-commerce experience, enabling international shoppers to buy seamlessly online and retailers to sell to, and from, anywhere in the world. For more information, please visit: www.global-e.com.

    Investor Contacts:
    Alan Katz
    Investor Relations
    Global-e
    IR@global-e.com

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    IR@global-e.com
    +1 617-542-6180

    Press Contact:
    Sarah Schloss
    Headline Media
    sarah.schloss@headline.media
    +1 914-506-5104

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Voxtur Announces Financial Results for the Year and Quarter Ended December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and TAMPA, Fla., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Voxtur Analytics Corp. (TSXV: VXTR; OTCQB: VXTRF) (“Voxtur” or the “Company”), a North American technology company creating a more transparent and accessible real estate lending ecosystem, today announced its financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024. The Company’s Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the related Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) are available at www.sedarplus.ca and at www.voxtur.com.

    Financial Results:

    Continuing Operations Unaudited   Audited
      Three months ended December 31   Year ended December 31
    (In thousands of Canadian dollars)  2024   2023     2024   2023 
               
    Revenue 1 $ 9,307   $ 9,886     $ 45,737   $ 48,959  
    Gross profit 1   5,391     6,073       28,889     31,527  
    Gross profit as a % of Revenue 1   58%     61%       63%     64%  
               
               

    1 Calculations include only the results from continuing operations and do not include results of discontinued operations. On November 1, 2023, the Company finalized the sale of its wholly owned appraisal management company (“AMC”) business for $35,135 ($25,324 USD). Results of the AMC business are classified as discontinued operations.

    Throughout 2024, the Company remained focused on implementing meaningful operational improvements and driving disciplined cost management. These efforts are reflected in full-year financial results, which show that while total revenue decreased by approximately $3.2 million and total gross profit declined by approximately $2.6 million compared to fiscal 2023, the Company was able to reduce cash used in operations by approximately $13.2 million, being a year-over-year improvement of approximately 46%. The Company anticipates continued improvement in this regard into early 2025 as previously implemented efficiencies take full effect.

    Further discussion with respect to the financial results can be found in the Company’s MD&A available at www.sedarplus.ca and at www.voxtur.com.

    “Despite macroeconomic uncertainty, including persistently high mortgage rates and industry volatility, we are staying focused on the fundamentals we can control — operational efficiency, debt reduction, and strategic execution,” said Ryan Marshall, CEO. “With leadership transitions behind us, we believe 2025 is a pivotal year to reposition the business and unlock long-term value.”

    In connection with the strategic review process announced in January 2025, the Company continues to work closely with its advisor to evaluate a number of opportunities. No material updates are available at this time; however, the Company remains actively engaged in the process of evaluating the economic value and long-term alignment of each of the opportunities in front of us. The Company intends to host a shareholder call once there is material progress to report.

    “We are encouraged by the level of interest in various components of our business and continue to evaluate each opportunity with discipline,” added Marshall. “Our focus remains on pursuing outcomes that are both financially and strategically sound for the company and its stakeholders.”

    About Voxtur

    Voxtur is a proptech company. The company offers targeted data analytics to simplify the multifaceted aspects of the lending lifecycle for investors, lenders, government agencies and servicers. Voxtur’s proprietary data hub and workflow platforms more accurately and efficiently value real estate assets, providing critical due diligence that enables market participants to effectively originate, trade, or service defaults on mortgage loans. As an independent and transparent mortgage technology provider, the company offers primary and secondary market solutions in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit www.voxtur.com. 

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking information”) which reflect the expectations of management regarding the Company’s future growth, financial performance and objectives and the Company’s strategic initiatives, plans, business prospects and opportunities. These forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and the Company’s financial and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. By their very nature, forward-looking statements require management to make assumptions and involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future events, performance or results, and give rise to the possibility that management’s predictions, forecasts, projections, expectations or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that the assumptions may not be correct and that the Company’s future growth, financial performance and objectives and the Company’s strategic initiatives, plans, business prospects and opportunities, including the duration, impact of and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, will not occur or be achieved. Any information contained herein that is not based on historical facts may be deemed to constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking information may be based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release, and may be identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar expressions. Forward-looking information may include but is not limited to the anticipated financial performance of the Company and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the information is provided. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance, or achievements of the Company. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information include but are not limited to: additional costs related to acquisitions, integration of acquired businesses, and implementation of new products; changing global financial conditions, especially in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic; reliance on specific key employees and customers to maintain business operations; competition within the Company’s industry; a risk in technological failure, failure to implement technological upgrades, or failure to implement new technological products in accordance with expected timelines; changing market conditions related to defaulted mortgage loans, and the failure of clients to send foreclosure and bankruptcy referrals in volumes similar to those prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic; failure of governing agencies and regulatory bodies to approve the use of products and services developed by the Company; the Company’s dependence on maintaining intellectual property and protecting newly developed intellectual property; operating losses and negative cash flows; and currency fluctuations. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained herein. Factors relating to the Company’s financial guidance and targets disclosed in this press release include, in addition to the factors set out above, the degree to which actual future events accord with, or vary from, the expectations of, and assumptions used by, Voxtur’s management in preparing the financial guidance and targets.

    This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise this information to reflect new events or circumstances except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

    Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Voxtur’s common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol VXTR and in the US on the OTCQB under the symbol VXTRF.

    Company Contact: 

    Jordan Ross
    Tel: (416)708-9764

    jordan@voxtur.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Real Matters Reports Second Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Real Matters Inc. (TSX: REAL) (“Real Matters” or the “Company”), a leading network management services platform for the mortgage and insurance industries, today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “We posted consolidated Net Revenue(A) of $10.1 million compared with $11.5 million in the second quarter of 2024 mainly due to a double-digit decline in the addressable U.S. purchase mortgage origination market. We continue to maintain our focus on operational efficiency and leveraged our network management model to deliver U.S. Appraisal Net Revenue(A) margins of 27.3% in the second quarter, up 80 basis points sequentially. Our U.S. Title segment delivered strong year-over-year growth driven by net market share gains with clients and higher refinance origination market volumes; refinance origination revenue was up 40% year-over-year and Net Revenue(A) for the segment was up 32%,” said Real Matters Chief Executive Officer Brian Lang. “With $45.7 million in cash and no debt, Real Matters remains well positioned for current market conditions and we are primed to scale up.”

    “As we have experienced in the past, economic and financial market uncertainties can create significant opportunity for the mortgage industry. Even minor decreases in interest rates like those we saw last fall can have a significant positive impact on origination volumes – especially from today’s historical low volumes. With nearly 10 million outstanding mortgages with rates above 6%, and nearly 7 million mortgages above 6.5%, the pool of refinance candidates continues to grow,” concluded Lang. “Solid execution of our strategy continues to broaden our client base and deepen our customer relationships, particularly in U.S. Title where we have significant runway for growth, which should allow us to better capitalize on market improvements and capture more volume.”

    Q2 2025 Summary

    • Consolidated revenue of $37.3 million, down 11% year-over-year as increased volumes in our U.S. Title and Canadian segments were offset by lower year-over-year U.S. Appraisal addressable volumes
    • Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA(A) of $(1.9) million compared with $0.7 million in Q2’24
    • Net loss of $2.2 million, down from net income of $2.1 million in Q2’24
    • Launched three new clients in Q2’25
    • Real Matters’ U.S. Appraisal mortgage origination volumes down 21% year-over-year mainly due to lower U.S. addressable purchase origination market volumes
    • Real Matters’ U.S. Title mortgage origination volumes up 32% year-over-year due to net market share gains with clients and higher refinance origination market volumes
    • Cash and cash equivalents of $45.7 million and no outstanding debt as at March 31, 2025

    Financial and Operational Summary

        Quarter ended       Six months ended   %
        2025     2025     2024     2024     2024     % Change1     2025     2024     Change1
        Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Quarter
    over
    Quarter    		 Year
    over
    Year    		   March 31 March 31   Year
    over
    Year
    Consolidated                                        
    Revenue $ 37.3   $ 41.0   $ 45.6   $ 49.5   $ 42.2     -9 % -11 %   $ 78.3   $ 77.6     1 %
    Net Revenue(A) $ 10.1   $ 10.9   $ 12.0   $ 13.1   $ 11.5     -7 % -13 %   $ 20.9   $ 21.2     -1 %
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) $ (1.9 ) $ (1.7 ) $ 0.6   $ 1.7   $ 0.7     -14 % -365 %   $ (3.5 ) $ (0.4 )   -881 %
    Net (loss) income $ (2.2 ) $ 2.3   $ (0.2 ) $ 1.7   $ 2.1     -197 % -207 %   $ 0.1   $ (1.5 )   104 %
    Net (loss) income per diluted share $ (0.03 ) $ 0.03   $ –   $ 0.02   $ 0.03     -200 % -200 %   $ 0.00   $ (0.02 )   100 %
    Adjusted Net (loss) income(A) $ (1.2 ) $ (0.3 ) $ 0.9   $ 1.7   $ 1.3     -345 % -192 %   $ (1.5 ) $ 0.1     -1600 %
    Adjusted Net (loss) income(A) per diluted share $ (0.02 ) $ 0.00   $ 0.01   $ 0.02   $ 0.02     0 % -200 %   $ (0.02 ) $ 0.00     0 %
                                             
    U.S. Appraisal segment                                        
    Revenue $ 26.7   $ 29.4   $ 33.8   $ 37.5   $ 32.6     -9 % -18 %   $ 56.0   $ 59.3     -6 %
    Net Revenue(A) $ 7.3   $ 7.8   $ 9.0   $ 10.3   $ 9.2     -6 % -21 %   $ 15.1   $ 16.6     -10 %
    Net Revenue(A) margin   27.3 %   26.5 %   26.7 %   27.6 %   28.3 %           26.9 %   28.1 %    
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) $ 2.6   $ 2.4   $ 4.1   $ 5.5   $ 4.4     7 % -41 %   $ 5.0   $ 7.1     -30 %
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) margin   35.4 %   30.9 %   45.2 %   53.2 %   47.9 %           33.1 %   42.5 %    
                                             
    U.S. Title segment                                        
    Revenue $ 2.3   $ 2.5   $ 2.4   $ 2.1   $ 2.0     -11 % 11 %   $ 4.8   $ 4.1     18 %
    Net Revenue(A) $ 1.2   $ 1.4   $ 1.2   $ 0.9   $ 0.9     -13 % 32 %   $ 2.5   $ 1.9     36 %
    Net Revenue(A) margin   52.1 %   53.4 %   49.8 %   43.6 %   44.0 %           52.8 %   45.7 %    
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) $ (2.1 ) $ (1.8 ) $ (1.6 ) $ (1.9 ) $ (1.7 )   -18 % -28 %   $ (3.9 ) $ (3.3 )   -20 %
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) margin   -179.6 %   -132.3 %   -131.4 %   -209.8 %   -184.8 %           -154.3 %   -176.0 %    
                                             
                                             
    Canadian segment                                        
    Revenue $ 8.3   $ 9.1   $ 9.4   $ 9.9   $ 7.6     -8 % 11 %   $ 17.5   $ 14.2     23 %
    Net Revenue(A) $ 1.6   $ 1.7   $ 1.8   $ 1.9   $ 1.4     -8 % 11 %   $ 3.3   $ 2.7     24 %
    Net Revenue(A) margin   19.0 %   18.9 %   18.9 %   19.0 %   18.9 %           19.0 %   18.8 %    
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) $ 1.0   $ 1.1   $ 1.2   $ 1.3   $ 0.9     -8 % 17 %   $ 2.2   $ 1.6     37 %
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) margin   65.7 %   66.1 %   67.7 %   69.3 %   62.3 %           65.9 %   59.7 %    
                                             
    Corporate segment                                        
    Adjusted EBITDA(A) $ (3.4 ) $ (3.4 ) $ (3.1 ) $ (3.2 ) $ (2.9 )   0 % -15 %   $ (6.8 ) $ (5.8 )   -18 %
     

    Note 1 – Percentage change is calculated based on figures disclosed in our MD&A which are rounded to the nearest thousands of dollars.

    Conference Call and Webcast
    A conference call to review the results will take place at 10:00 a.m. (ET) on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, hosted by Chief Executive Officer Brian Lang and Chief Financial Officer Rodrigo Pinto. An accompanying slide presentation will be posted to the Investor section of our website shortly before the call.

    Conference call dial-in:

    • Participants can dial-in to the conference call; however, pre-registration is required. To register, visit: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb410bf1804714fc98c4a22b2351db181.
    • Once registered, you will receive an email including dial-in details and a unique access code required to join the live call.
    • Please ensure you have registered at least 10 minutes prior to the conference call start time.

    To listen to the live webcast of the call:

    The webcast will be archived and a transcript of the call will be available in the Investor section of our website following the call.

    (A) Non-GAAP Measures
    The non-GAAP measures used in this news release, including Net Revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS® Accounting Standards and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. These non-GAAP measures are more fully defined and discussed in the Company’s MD&A for the three and six months ended March 31, 2025 under the heading “Non-GAAP measures”, which is incorporated by reference in this Press Release and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Real Matters financial results for the three and six months ended March 31, 2025 are included in the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying MD&A, each of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, supplemental information is available on our website at www.realmatters.com.

    Net Revenue represents the difference between revenues and transaction costs. Net Revenue margin is calculated as Net Revenue divided by Revenues. The reconciling items between net income or loss and Net Revenue were as follows:

                Quarter ended   Six months ended
        Q2 2025   Q1 2025   Q4 2024   Q3 2024   Q2 2024   March 31,
    2025    		 March 31,
    2024
                                   
    Net (loss) income $ (2.2 ) $ 2.3   $ (0.2 ) $ 1.7   $ 2.1     $ 0.1   $ (1.5 )
    Operating expenses   12.1     12.7     12.6     11.8     11.2       24.6     22.8  
    Amortization   0.7     0.7     0.8     0.8     0.8       1.5     1.6  
    Restructuring expenses   –     0.4     –     –     –       0.5     –  
    Interest expense   0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1       0.2     0.2  
    Interest income   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.4 )     (1.0 )   (0.8 )
    Net foreign exchange loss (gain)   0.2     (6.1 )   1.3     (0.9 )   (2.2 )     (6.0 )   (0.2 )
    Loss (gain) on fair value                              
    of derivatives   0.6     1.7     (1.9 )   (0.1 )   0.1       2.3     (0.1 )
    Income tax (recovery) expense   (0.9 )   (0.4 )   (0.2 )   0.2     (0.2 )     (1.3 )   (0.8 )
    Net Revenue $ 10.1   $ 10.9   $ 12.0   $ 13.1   $ 11.5     $ 20.9   $ 21.2  
     

    Adjusted EBITDA represents net income or loss before stock-based compensation expense, amortization, restructuring expenses, interest expense, interest income, net foreign exchange gain or loss, gain or loss on fair value of derivatives and income tax expense or recovery. Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Net Revenue. The reconciling items between net income or loss and Adjusted EBITDA were as follows:

                Quarter ended   Six months ended
        Q2 2025   Q1 2025   Q4 2024   Q3 2024   Q2 2024   March 31,
    2025    		 March 31,
    2024
                                   
    Net (loss) income $ (2.2 ) $ 2.3   $ (0.2 ) $ 1.7   $ 2.1     $ 0.1   $ (1.5 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   0.1     0.1     1.2     0.4     0.4       0.2     1.2  
    Amortization   0.7     0.7     0.8     0.8     0.8       1.5     1.6  
    Restructuring expenses   –     0.4     –     –     –       0.5     –  
    Interest expense   0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1       0.2     0.2  
    Interest income   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.5 )   (0.4 )     (1.0 )   (0.8 )
    Net foreign exchange loss (gain)   0.2     (6.1 )   1.3     (0.9 )   (2.2 )     (6.0 )   (0.2 )
    Loss (gain) on fair value                              
    of derivatives   0.6     1.7     (1.9 )   (0.1 )   0.1       2.3     (0.1 )
    Income tax (recovery) expense   (0.9 )   (0.4 )   (0.2 )   0.2     (0.2 )     (1.3 )   (0.8 )
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (1.9 ) $ (1.7 ) $ 0.6   $ 1.7   $ 0.7     $ (3.5 ) $ (0.4 )
     

    The reconciling items between net income or loss and Adjusted Net Income or Loss were as follows:

                Quarter ended   Six months ended
        Q2 2025   Q1 2025   Q4 2024   Q3 2024   Q2 2024   March 31,
    2025    		 March 31,
    2024
                                   
    Net (loss) income $ (2.2 ) $ 2.3   $ (0.2 ) $ 1.7   $ 2.1     $ 0.1   $ (1.5 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   0.1     0.1     1.2     0.4     0.4       0.2     1.2  
    Amortization of intangibles   0.4     0.4     0.5     0.4     0.4       0.8     0.8  
    Restructuring expenses   –     0.4     –     –     –       0.5     –  
    Net foreign exchange loss (gain)   0.2     (6.1 )   1.3     (0.9 )   (2.2 )     (6.0 )   (0.2 )
    Loss (gain) on fair value                              
    of derivatives   0.6     1.7     (1.9 )   (0.1 )   0.1       2.3     (0.1 )
    Related tax effects   (0.3 )   0.9     –     0.2     0.5       0.6     (0.1 )
    Adjusted Net (Loss) Income $ (1.2 ) $ (0.3 ) $ 0.9   $ 1.7   $ 1.3     $ (1.5 ) $ 0.1  
     

    Forward-Looking Information
    This Press Release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Words such as “could”, “forecast”, “target”, “may”, “will”, “would”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “believe”, “likely” and “predict” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words.

    The forward-looking information in this Press Release includes statements which reflect the current expectations of management with respect to our business and the industry in which we operate and is based on management’s experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that management believes appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. The forward-looking information reflects management’s beliefs based on information currently available to management, including information obtained from third party sources, and should not be read as a guarantee of the occurrence or timing of any future events, performance or results.

    The forward-looking information in this Press Release is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or results anticipated by the forward-looking information. A comprehensive discussion of the factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Information Form for the year ended September 30, 2024, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking information, which reflect our expectations only as of the date of this Press Release. Except as required by law, we do not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    About Real Matters
    Real Matters is a leading network management services provider for the mortgage lending and insurance industries. Real Matters’ platform combines its proprietary technology and network management capabilities with tens of thousands of independent qualified field professionals to create an efficient marketplace for the provision of mortgage lending and insurance industry services. Our clients include top 100 mortgage lenders in the U.S. and some of the largest banks and insurance companies in Canada. We are a leading independent provider of residential real estate appraisals to the mortgage market and a leading independent provider of title services in the U.S. Headquartered in Markham (ON), Real Matters has principal offices in Buffalo (NY) and Middletown (RI). Real Matters is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol REAL. For more information, visit www.realmatters.com.

    For more information:
    Lyne Beauregard
    Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
    Real Matters
    lbeauregard@realmatters.com
    416.994.5930

    The MIL Network –