Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI: Capgemini leads paradigm shift in mainframe application modernization powered by gen AI and agentic AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Mollie Mellows
    Tel.: + 44 (0) 7342 709384
    E-mail: mollie.mellows@capgemini.com

    Capgemini leads paradigm shift in mainframe application modernization powered by gen AI and agentic AI

    New automated offering enables organizations to unlock the value trapped in their legacy systems at unprecedented speed

    Paris, May 14, 2025 – Capgemini is leading a paradigm shift in mainframe modernization with the launch of a new offering that will enable organizations to unlock greater value from their legacy systems at unprecedented speed and accuracy. Capgemini’s new approach, powered by generative and agentic AI, gives those organizations that have been wedded to complex mainframe environments the ability to gain cost savings and agility, as well as a significant improvement in data quality. It converts legacy mainframe applications into more modern, agile, and cloud-friendly formats that can run more efficiently either on or outside of a mainframe.

    Automated mainframe application refactoring involves using tools and techniques to automatically convert legacy mainframe applications, such as those written in COBOL and their respective databases and data files. Embedded with a set of generative AI assistants and AI agents, Capgemini’s new offering automates legacy code analysis and extraction of business rules, quickly transforming them into modern architecture. It is also supported with rigorous automated testing for faster, higher-quality transformations and reduced risk for businesses.

    “Many organizations have already explored various mainframe migration approaches like rehosting, but none of these lead to a mainframe exit option,” said Franck Greverie, Chief Portfolio & Technology Officer, Head of the Global Business Lines, and Group Executive Board Member at Capgemini. “Our new automated approach, built on a combination of gen AI assistants and AI agents, provides a comprehensive understanding of an enterprise’s existing legacy landscape. This approach enables the automation capabilities needed to completely refactor mainframe applications, driving greater efficiency in migrating and converting core mainframe-based systems. Designed to give enterprises opportunities to achieve greater cost efficiencies, quality and agility, it will open new business perspectives for those that have been relying on their mainframes for years.”

    Underpinned by Capgemini’s extensive experience of delivering large and complex mainframe modernization programs, market leadership in AI, deep domain knowledge and broad understanding of complex industry regulations, Capgemini’s offering has already delivered tangible results for a number of blue-chip clients including, a major life insurance firm in the USA: by intelligently extracting legacy product requirements logic for a complex life product from their mainframe code base, Capgemini significantly accelerated their conversion to a modernized Policy Admin System, achieving higher quality and accuracy with remarkable speed compared to traditional methods.

    In a recent report, The Forrester Wave™: Application Modernization and Multicloud Managed Services, Q1 2025, Capgemini was named a leader. Find out more here.

    Forrester does not endorse any company, product, brand, or service included in its research publications and does not advise any person to select the products or services of any company or brand based on the ratings included in such publications. Information is based on the best available resources. Opinions reflect judgment at the time and are subject to change. For more information, read about Forrester’s objectivity here.

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

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The best volunteers were chosen among Moscow schoolchildren and students

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    More than eight thousand students from schools, colleges and additional education centers took part in the competition for the best organization of volunteer activities of the city youth forum “Moscow – the Territory of Good Deeds”. The winners and prize winners were awarded well-deserved prizes.

    “The popularity of the volunteer movement in the capital is growing. Today, there are more than 100 thousand child volunteers in the Moscow education system – their number has increased by 10 percent compared to 2024. The number of applications submitted for the competition for the best organization of volunteer activities has tripled this year. The most active volunteers received awards for their work: for collecting humanitarian aid for those in need, organizing events, helping animals in shelters, orphans, veterans and the elderly, for writing messages and greeting cards to participants in a special military operation,” the press service of the capital said.

    Department of Education and Science.

    In the nomination “Volunteer of the Year” in the age category from six to 10 years old, the victory was won by a student of school No. 2001 Taisiya Nesterova. The winner in the age category from 11 to 14 years old was a student of school No. 709 named after twice Hero of Socialist Labor V.I. Dolgikh Ksenia Shlykova. The title of absolute winner in the nomination “Volunteer of the Year” in the age category from 15 to 18 years old was earned by a student of school No. 2120 Alexey Gubatenko.

    The Volunteer of the Year among college students was Dmitry Kapustin, a student of the College of Communications No. 54. The winner of the Volunteer of the Year nomination in additional education centers was Victoria Ermakova from the Presnya Center for the Development of Children’s and Youth Creativity.

    The best volunteer squad based on the school was the volunteer squad “Volunteers of School No. 2005”. The first place among volunteer squads of colleges was taken by the squad “In touch with good” of the College of Communications No. 54 named after P.M. Vostrukhin. The best volunteer squad in the centers of additional education was “Civilization of the Young” of the Palace of Children’s and Youth Creativity named after A.P. Gaidar.

    Olga Bolotskikh was recognized as the best leader of a volunteer squad. She supervises a volunteer squad at school No. 2005. The winner in the nomination among college representatives was Diana Movsesyan, leader of the “In touch with good” squad at P. M. Vostrukhin College of Communications No. 54. The best leader of a volunteer squad in additional education centers was Liliya Kaipova from the Presnya Center for the Development of Children’s and Youth Creativity.

    In the nomination “Best practice of organizing volunteer activities” the winners were schools No. 1542, 1474, 2005, 1273, 507, 203, Izmailovskaya school No. 1508, school No. 648 named after Hero of the Russian Federation A.G. Karlov, school No. 709 named after twice Hero of Socialist Labor V.I. Dolgikh, College of Communications No. 54 named after P.M. Vostrukhin and the Moscow College of Business Technologies. The contestants told how they organize volunteer work in their educational institutions.

    “I am overwhelmed with joy because I took first place in the Volunteer of the Year category. There was a warm atmosphere in the hall today: we were all rooting for our teammates and leaders. I want to wish all Moscow volunteers not to give up and to go towards their goals. Doing good deeds is not difficult, and everyone who wants to help and change the world for the better is great,” shared Victoria Ermakova.

    As part of the forum “Moscow – Territory of Good Deeds”, participants attended interactive educational events – master classes, speaker sessions and a meeting with a participant in a special military operation. In addition, the forum hosted a city initiation into volunteers of Moscow education. The forum “Moscow – Territory of Good Deeds” was organized by the Moscow Center for Educational Practices of the capital’s Department of Education and Science.

    Today, more than 100 thousand children have joined the volunteer movement. More than 800 volunteer units operate in schools, colleges and additional education centers. The main areas include sports, environmental, social, event, patriotic, media and zoo volunteering. The Moscow Center for Educational Practices holds events and programs for participants and leaders of volunteer units. This allows them to improve their competencies, gain social experience, exchange best practices with like-minded people and implement useful initiatives.

    You can find out more about additional education in the capital in Telegram channels “Moscow education” And“Moscow Center for Educational Practices”.

    Supplementary education programs develop creative and critical thinking in schoolchildren and develop skills that will be useful to them in their future profession. Events held within the framework of supplementary education contribute to the project “All the best for children” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

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

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153815073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez on Republican tax bill: Don’t buy the bullshit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) delivered an opening statement during the Ways and Means Committee’s markup of the Republican tax bill.

    Video of her opening statement is available HERE and the text follows:

    “Well, here we go again.

    Republicans are once again choosing billionaires and big corporations over working families. This bill that we are marking up today is an insult to every hardworking American. It sends a very clear message: that you’ll pay more, and you’ll receive fewer services – just so that billionaires can pocket another tax cut that they really don’t need.

    American families, in case you have noticed, are struggling. Under President Trump and Republican leadership, they have seen nothing but chaos. They’ve watched Elon Musk gleefully take a chainsaw to vital programs that they rely on, like Social Security, Medicare, and the VA. Travel is less safe at airports because they are left in disarray due to the cuts to our air traffic control systems.

    Prices for everyday necessities – like food, clothing, diapers, and formula – keep rising because of Trump’s tariffs. Premiums for health insurance, car insurance, and housing are going up, making it harder and harder for families to make ends meet.

    And now, rather than providing real relief, Republicans want to look at this chaos, put it into law, and call it ‘one beautiful bill.’ All to pay for more tax cuts for the rich while adding [trillions] to our national debt.

    Nearly $20 trillion in debt over the next ten years by Republicans’ own members’ own estimates. Not our estimates – their estimates. Americans are worried about their future. Consumer confidence is at a record low. People are afraid of losing their jobs, their health care, student aid, and food assistance.

    And this bill today compounds that pain. 14 million people will lose health care coverage under this plan. And for what? Again, so billionaires can get even richer while we all drown in debt. This is outrageous. Billionaires already have more money than they could ever spend. They can afford to pay their fair share.

    What’s equally disturbing is you’re not being honest about the fact that you are meting out crumbs to the most needy while you are helping the most wealthy. And don’t buy the bullshit that tax cuts for the rich create more jobs or better wages. It’s been the excuse under every Republican administration in the last half-century to pass more and more tax cuts to the rich.

    And it has failed to deliver on that promise each and every single time. The wealthy just got richer while the working families got harmed. All while piling on more debt that families will have to pay off.

    I’m outraged that this committee is focused on doing more for the richest in this country while destroying the means of survival for the poorest. And this bill doubles down on that assault on those seeking the American Dream by stealing tax benefits and services to working people who are paying taxes!

    It would deny the Child Tax Credit to 2 million U.S. citizen children. Even worse, it would deny Medicare coverage to those who’ve worked and paid into the system. How dare Republicans say they are for the working class when they’re making it harder for those struggling to get by?

    Enough is enough. My constituents are fed up. They’re sick and tired of Republican tax cuts that only benefit the ultra-wealthy. Our tax code needs to be about fairness. It needs to be about balance. It should support families, not the rich. But this bill does the exact opposite.

    To my Republican colleagues, I say: please just stop this insanity. You have to lie about what is in this bill; otherwise, probably, your constituents would be rioting in the streets. Here is an idea: how about you think about putting your constituents first for once, rather than the people who donate to your campaigns?

    But I guess that is asking a little too much from people who have completely lost their moral compass. I will be voting ‘no’ on this bill. I hope some on that side of the aisle see the light and do the same.”

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: ABN AMRO Bank posts net profit of EUR 619 million in Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABN AMRO Bank posts net profit of EUR 619 million in Q1 2025

    14 May 2025

    Key messages

    • Solid results: Net profit of EUR 619 million, with a return on equity of around 10%
    • Good business momentum: Mortgage portfolio grew by EUR 1.7 billion and corporate loans by EUR 0.9 billion
    • Resilient net interest income despite impact from lower short-term interest rates
    • Continued fee growth: Increase of 8% compared to Q1 2024, with contributions from all client units
    • Cost discipline: Underlying costs declined 5% compared to Q4 2024; guidance for full-year 2025 unchanged
    • Solid credit quality: Impairments of EUR 5 million, reflecting net additions for individual files offset by model-related releases
    • Strong capital position: Basel IV CET1 ratio of 14.7%
    • Capital Markets Day to be held in November

    Marguerite Bérard, CEO:
    “As we reflect on the first quarter of 2025, I am honoured to address you as the new CEO of ABN AMRO. I value the trust placed in me by the Supervisory Board to lead our bank in the years to come. In the coming period, my priority will be to lead a strategic review of our activities, while building upon our solid foundations and strong market positions. We will focus on enhancing our profitability, optimising our capital position, right-sizing our cost base and achieving meaningful growth. The outcome of this review will be presented at a Capital Markets Day in November this year.

    The Dutch economy continues to demonstrate resilience, with GDP growth in recent years above the Eurozone average, low unemployment and good housing market performance. Thanks to this robust foundation, the economy is well-positioned to navigate the current uncertainties around trade tensions and geopolitical developments. In these challenging times, ABN AMRO performed well, delivering another quarter of solid results and growth in our loan books. This reflects our strategic focus on key growth areas, our credit quality and our ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

    In the first quarter of 2025, we showed solid results with a net profit of EUR 619 million and a return on equity of around 10%. This performance was underpinned by resilient net interest income, continued high fee income and limited net impairments. After a few quarters of rising costs, we managed to reduce our underlying costs in Q1 compared to the previous quarter. To deliver on our guidance of keeping underlying costs broadly flat compared to last year, cost discipline remains a priority. Therefore, we enforced increased controls on consultant expenditures and external hiring.

    Though challenging for colleagues, as we all need to adjust, it will help us reassess capacity needs and optimise our resources. By collaborating and using our creativity and talents, I believe we can deliver on our strategic ambitions while becoming a more agile organisation.

    Our strong capital position, with a Basel IV CET1 ratio of 14.7%, allows us to continue investing in our strategic priorities while maintaining financial stability. In Q1, we submitted the final application to move models to less sophisticated approaches which is now reflected in our capital ratios. The simplification will bring stability and predictability to our capital position. The largest part of our balance sheet remains under advanced models, specifically mortgages, banks and financial institutions. Portfolios that required significant modelling and data efforts will be moved to the standardised approach.

    Our continued efforts to improve customer experience resulted in an increase in our Net Promoter Score for Personal & Business Banking during the first quarter of 2025. Clients especially praise our efficient and good customer services, proactive contact, and the convenience of our digital services. This was also recognised by the 2024 Digital Leaders Study, which ranked ABN AMRO among the top performers. Tikkie, with 10 million active users, is a good example of our innovative offering. During King’s Day this year, Tikkie processed a record number of almost 700,000 transactions. We also introduced the Index Mandate, an actively-managed product that invests in underlying passive instruments. With this product we aim to attract younger clients and help them begin with portfolio management.

    We remain dedicated to sustainability. In the first quarter we launched the free online Green Building Tool which helps provide commercial real estate clients with insights into opportunities to save energy and improve their energy label. We realise that making the switch to a sustainable society is not always straightforward for our clients. A survey among over 350 business clients at our decarbonisation conference revealed challenges in the energy transition, including high capital expenditure, complexity and cost impacts. We aim to support our clients towards a low-carbon future by providing financing and expertise. One example of how we can help them is our recent agreement with the EIB Group to support Dutch SMEs with favourable financing conditions. This collaboration will enhance economic growth and the sustainability efforts of our clients. It includes the largest risk-sharing agreement with the EIB Group to date, totalling EUR 1 billion.

    ABN AMRO believes that everyday represents a new beginning for our customers, and for whom we stand ready to support. I am looking forward to my ‘new beginning’, collaborating with all my colleagues to deliver results for our stakeholders in the years to come.

    This press release is published by ABN AMRO Bank N.V. and contains inside information within the meaning of article 7 (1) to (4) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation).

    Note to editors, not for publication:
    ABN AMRO Press Office: Jarco de Swart, E-mail: pressrelations@nl.abnamro.com, phone number: +31 (0)20 6288900.
    ABN AMRO Investor Relations: John Heijning, E-mail: investorrelations@nl.abnamro.com, phone number +31 (0)20 6282282.

    Operating results

    (in millions) Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Change Q4 2024 Change
    Net interest income 1,560 1,589 -2% 1,668 -7%
    Net fee and commission income 507 469 8% 500 1%
    Other operating income 79 139 -43% 72 10%
    Operating income 2,145 2,197 -2% 2,240 -4%
    Personnel expenses 725 656 10% 743 -2%
    Other expenses 584 600 -3% 871 -33%
    Operating expenses 1,309 1,257 4% 1,614 -19%
    Operating result 836 940 -11% 626 34%
    Impairment charges on financial instruments 5 3 52% 9 -44%
    Profit/(loss) before taxation 831 937 -11% 618 35%
    Income tax expense 212 263 -19% 220 -4%
    Profit/(loss) for the period 619 674 -8% 397 56%
    Attributable to:          
    Owners of the parent company 619 674 -8% 397 56%
               
    Other indicators          
    Net interest margin (NIM) (in bps) 154 162   167  
    Cost/income ratio 61.0 % 57.2 %   72.0 %  
    Cost of risk (in bps)¹ 1 -1   1  
    Return on average equity² 9.9 % 11.6 %   6.2 %  
    Earnings per share (in EUR)3, 4 0.69 0.76   0.43  
    Client assets (end of period, in billions) 346.9 347.1   344.4  
    Risk-weighted assets (end of period, in billions)5 141.5 144.2   140.9  
    Number of internal employees (end of period, in FTEs) 22,267 20,887   21,976  
    Number of external employees (end of period, in FTEs) 3,312 3,931   3,670  
    1. Annualised impairment charges on loans and advances customers for the period divided by the average loans and advances customers (excluding at fair value through P&L) on the basis of gross carrying amount and excluding fair value adjustments from hedge accounting.
    2. Annualised profit/(loss) for the period, excluding payments attributable to AT1 capital securities and results attributable to non-controlling interests, divided by the average equity attributable to the owners of the company excluding AT1 capital securities.
    3. Profit/(loss) for the period, excluding payments attributable to AT1 capital securities and results attributable to non-controlling interests, divided by the average outstanding and paid-up ordinary shares.
    4. For Q1 2025, the average number of outstanding shares amounted to 833,048,566 (Q4 2024: 833,048,566; Q1 2024: 860,275,379).
    5. As of 1 January 2025, the figures in the table are prepared in accordance with CRR III (Basel IV) regulations. The figures up to 31 December 2024 are prepared in accordance with CRR II (Basel III) regulations.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Equal Pay Amendment Act

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    The Government is committed to maintaining a process to raise and resolve pay equity claims and these changes will ensure the process is workable and sustainable.

    The changes to the Equal Pay Act through the Equal Pay Amendment Act include a better process to raise and resolve claims of sex-based undervaluation in the pay of female-dominated work when a pay equity claim is made. 

    The process will ensure parties can more confidently assess whether there is sex-based undervaluation in the pay of female-dominated work.

    While these changes will mean all current pay equity claims will be discontinued, new claims can be raised under the amended Act if they meet the new requirements. Review clauses in existing settlements will become unenforceable.

    Read more about the changes on the MBIE website:

    Equal Pay Amendment Act

    Read the Minister’s announcement from earlier this month:

    Changes to improve pay equity process(external link)  — Beehive.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPA Grants Davids’ Request, Issues Emergency Fuel Waiver to Lower Gas Prices

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    Sale of E15 fuel lowers costs at the gas pump and supports Kansas’ agricultural professionals

    This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fulfilled Representative Sharice Davids’ request by issuing a national emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of E15 – fuel blended with 10.5 to 15 percent ethanol – during the 2025 summer season in Kansas.

    Ethanol, made from locally grown crops, is a more affordable alternative to unblended gasoline. This waiver, which has been granted multiple times in recent years, will help lower gas prices for Kansans, support local farmers, and strengthen domestic supply chains.

    “I’m glad the EPA responded to my call to help lower costs for Kansans at the pump,” said Davids. “This emergency waiver will provide some immediate relief, support our local ag producers, and reduce reliance on foreign oil. It’s the right step for now — and I’ll keep working on long-term solutions to bring costs down.”

    For multiple years, Davids has urged the EPA — and sponsored federal legislation — to guarantee the sale of this E15 not only during the summer but also year-round. This would reduce our reliance on foreign oil, build U.S. energy security, and support Kansas agriculture and manufacturing.

    Davids previously visited East Kansas Agri-Energy (EKAE), a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, as part of her Farm Bill listening tour. EKAE, which received federal funding to assist with business operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, has around 40 full-time employees and relies heavily on Kansas corn producers to supply the crops needed to make the biofuel.

    Davids has taken additional actions to lower gas prices for Kansans by:

    • Voting for the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act, which allows retailers the ability to sell higher ethanol-blended fuels year-round,
    • Leading the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that expands access to lower-cost, homegrown fuel,
    • Helping to pass legislation that promotes sustainable aviation fuel, a liquid fuel that achieves significant emissions reduction compared to fossil-based jet fuel,
    • Supporting legislation that expands biofuels infrastructure, opening up new market opportunities for sustainable fuel sources and lowering energy costs for Kansas families,
    • Pushing the President to suspend the federal gas tax, providing immediate relief to Kansans at the gas pump.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Hears Testimony of Trump Defense Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Adam Telle, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, and Richard Anderson, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs during their Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) confirmation hearing. Sen. Tuberville spoke with Mr. Telle about how the Army Corps of Engineers can improve dams and waterways in Alabama so that businesses can continue utilizing them to efficiently transport goods. Sen. Tuberville spoke with Mr. Anderson about improving morale in the Air Force, and how he will support President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s mission for the Air Force Academy, if confirmed. 
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on YouTube or Rumble. 

    ON ADDRESSING ALABAMA’S WATER INFRASTRUCTURE:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, gentlemen. Mr. Telle, I enjoyed visiting you in my office, recently, about Alabama’s inland waterways. And last year, we had three of our locks fail in one year. That’s unacceptable.
    Our waterways infrastructure is operating past [its] expected lifespan and will continue to break. We’re having huge problems. Businesses depend upon our waterways to move goods, all the way down to the Port Mobile. What’s your plan to cut bureaucratic red tape and rapidly repair critical infrastructure across the system? Even though we just passed—a couple years ago—trillions of dollars’ worth of infrastructure money. We didn’t see any of that.”
    TELLE: “Senator Tuberville, thank you for the question. And as someone who grew up on the Black Warrior River in Tuscaloosa County, one of your waterways, I understand their importance. They deliver American commerce to the globe. It’s true in Alabama and it’s true throughout the country. It’s unacceptable that our infrastructure is not meeting our current demands. We have got to work across government agencies to make sure we remove red tape, coordinate, [and] communicate with you [and] stakeholders here in Congress who have the ability to help deliver some of these projects. And I look forward to working with you on the locks and other navigation and flood control infrastructure within Alabama.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. We do have a lot of red tape within the [Army] Corps of Engineers—I’ll let you know that. I look forward to working with you. I’ll [let you] know that we gotta get stuff done. We just can’t sit back…”
    TELLE: “Thank you, Senator. Couldn’t agree more.”
    ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN THE AIR FORCE:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Mr. Anderson, thank for your service. As [a] career officer in the Air Force, I’m sure you’ve had your share of both good and bad base facilities, housing units, [and] commissaries. And I believe that what happens outside of work is just as important as work itself. [Your] quality of life, family, stability, and all those things that go along with it.
    Do you believe that having a lower quality of life leads to decreased morale, readiness, and retention?”
    ANDERSON: “Absolutely, Senator.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. And how do you plan on working with your colleagues in the Air Force staff to address all these issues, because we do have problems?”
    ANDERSON: “Senator, you are correct. […] If confirmed, I intend to delve into this issue immediately. My intention is to remain at the headquarters for a period of time in order to come up to speed on these issues, and then to get into the field, if confirmed, and to see these things firsthand. I’ve read about them, and I look forward, if confirmed, by this Committee [to] working with you and with all members of the Committee in addressing these [issues].”
    ON NEW ADMISSIONS POLICY AT THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. You know, last week, Secretary Hegseth signed a memorandum requiring our service academies to adapt admission standards based solely on merit. Thank God. You know, […] recently, the President put me on the Air Force Academy Board [of Visitors], which I’m looking forward to. I’m also Chairman of the Subcommittee that oversees our academies. I welcome that change in policy. Under the previous administration we saw our nation’s premier leadership laboratories cower to woke ideologies.
    If confirmed, you will have oversight over the Air Force Academy. How do you plan on ensuring that this memorandum is thoroughly put [into effect at] our Air Force Academy?”
    ANDERSON: “Senator, based on my reading of the public media, the Air Force and specifically the organization that I hope to lead, if confirmed, has already moved aggressively on this. My understanding is that there is a certification required back by the end of the month from the superintendent of the academy. But if confirmed, I intend to delve into this completely to ensure fullest compliance with the Executive Orders, direction of the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of the Air Force as well as the existing law.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. [I] look forward to working with you too, on some things I have in mind for the Academy that possibly we could change. Number one, […] saving money, but also enhance some leadership in the Academy there. I think that we can all get together and make it better. It hasn’t changed in years. We could still go by the same old models. And again, we’re looking for leadership. That’s what the Air Force Academy and all of our academies. Represent, you know, for our military.
    I do have some more questions, but I’m out of time, but I’ll give them to you for the for the record.
    Mr. Chairman.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: In Ways and Means Committee Showdown, Rep. Gomez Fights Republican Tax Scam

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    Gomez to Republicans: “Are you for the babies—or the billionaires?”

    Watch Rep. Jimmy Gomez’s remarks blasting the “biggest wealth transfer in American history” HERE.

    WASHINGTON, DC – During a House Ways and Means Committee markup, Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) delivered a sharp rebuke of the Republican tax plan, which slashes Medicaid and food assistance programs to finance trillions of dollars in tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy.

    “I didn’t think that Republicans could get any worse. But they are. At this very moment… the American people are a witness to the biggest transfer of wealth in the history of our country,” said Rep. Gomez.

    In the Energy and Commerce Committee, just down the hall, Republicans will vote to slash billions from Medicaid—health care for the working class—in order to hand out trillions in tax breaks to the billionaires, ultra-wealthy, and the largest corporations. It’s literally stealing from the poor to give to the rich,” added the Congressman.

    Rep. Gomez outlined the real-world consequences of the proposed cuts, warning that they would fall hardest on the most vulnerable. He also called out what’s missing from the Republican plan: any meaningful effort to lower the cost of child care, provide paid family leave, or make housing more affordable. “We could be doing all of that right now. But this bill does none of it,” Rep. Gomez said.

    Rep. Gomez wrapped up his remarks forcing his Republican colleagues to reckon with the stakes of their vote. In a series of pointed questions, he laid bare the moral choice at the heart of the debate: “Are you for the babies or the billionaires? The seniors or the billionaires? The working man or woman trying to get by—or the billionaires? Your words are cheap. It’s your vote that matters.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Names announced for new science organisations

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    These new organisations, formed by merging and refocusing New Zealand’s 7 existing Crown Research Institutes, will concentrate on key areas of national importance to deliver a science system that is more connected, more commercially focused, and better aligned with the needs of New Zealand.  

    The new institutes will be:

    • New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science – advancing innovation in agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, biotechnology and manufacturing; protecting ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and developing new bio-based technologies and products.
    • New Zealand Institute for Earth Science – supporting energy security and sustainability; developing land, marine and mineral resources; and improving resilience to natural hazards and climate-related risks.
    • New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science – strengthening public health through disease detection and response; and supporting public safety through forensic science services.

    To lead this transformation, Barry Harris has been appointed Chair of the Bioeconomy Science Institute, and David Smol has been appointed Chair of the Earth Science Institute. Both bring outstanding leadership and deep sector experience and will be supported by highly capable deputy chairs and directors. 

    Kim Wallace has been appointed Deputy Chair for the Institute for Bioeconomy Science, with Candace Kinser, Andrew Morrison and Gray Baldwin as directors.

    Mary-Anne Macleod will be Deputy Chair for the Earth Science Institute alongside directors Paul Connell, Paul White, Peter Landon-Lane and Professor Chris Bumby.

    Existing governance will remain in place for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) as they refocus to become the Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science.

    See existing governance for ESR:

    Our people(external link) — ESR

    Read the Minister’s announcement:

    Bold science reforms to fuel economic growth(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Auchincloss Delivers Remarks at Energy & Commerce Committee Markup of Budget Reconciliation Text

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    May 13, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Jake Auchincloss (MA-04) delivered opening remarks at the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Markup of Budget Reconciliation Text, where Republicans will vote to take away healthcare from millions of Americans. 

    You can find a video of his full remarks here. 

    “Mr. Chairman, when 13.7 million Americans lose access to healthcare, 13.7 million Americans don’t stop getting sick. What happens instead is, losing access to primary and preventive care, they actually require more healthcare, and they visit the emergency room, and they get care that takes longer and is less comprehensive. 

    And here’s what that means for everyday Americans, middle class and working class, including those who get access to health insurance through their employer. It means that their health insurance premiums are going to go up, because when hospitals provide care to people through the emergency rooms, they have to cross-subsidize that by raising the cost that they charge to commercial payers.

    So it won’t just be the 13.7 million Americans who were kicked off health coverage, who have to pay more out of pocket to get healthcare. It’s going to be all Americans who have health insurance, who will pay more in health insurance premiums. This is after Donald Trump and Republicans promised that they were going to come in and lower prices. Down the road, the middle class and the working class are going to be paying more in taxes and through inflation because of the $7 trillion in debt that Republicans are adding with this tax cut giveaway to the wealthiest Americans, and those Americans who do end up needing Medicaid are now going to find that it cannot meet their needs. 

    My constituent, Ethan Wang, was critically injured while swimming in the ocean when he was studying abroad in March 2019. The spinal cord injury left him paralyzed, needing immediate life-saving surgeries abroad, followed by a medical evacuation back to his home in Massachusetts. Then, inexplicably, Ethan’s dad, Willis, suffered a major stroke just two years later. He also now has disabilities, but continues to work as best he can.

    I’m not sure if he meets the Republicans’ definition of work–but he is working as best as he can. All of this was possible because of Ethan and Willis’ determination and support from the Personal Care Attendant program operated through the Massachusetts Medicaid program known as MassHealth. When these cuts rolled down onto the states, though, the PCA, as well as other flexible programming, will be under threat. 

    The PCA, which allows people with disabilities to stay in their homes so they do not have to stay in expensive institutions, may come onto the chopping block. Ethan and Willis’ family never thought that they would depend on MassHealth, nor did they seek to. Nor do they want, or ask for, a handout. They had an accident. They got sick, and they needed access to healthcare. 

    The Wang family is a dual professional household in Newton with three healthy boys. Nobody knows when they will need to rely on Medicaid. But when they do, they need it to be strong and sound so that it can be a reliable system for families when they need it most. Ethan’s mom says it best: “We all live on the razor’s edge of health, and when you need assistance from the state, you see the world and our social safety net through fresh eyes.” 

    I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect Medicaid and the life-saving programs that it supports. I yield back.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APEC Officials Propel AI and Demographic Agendas Jeju, Republic of Korea | 14 May 2025 Issued by the APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting Chairing the meeting, Ambassador Seongmee Yoon emphasized Korea’s vision for a forward-looking and action-oriented APEC agenda this year.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    As global uncertainties mount and long-term challenges reshape the economic landscape, APEC economies gathered in Jeju this week to accelerate collaboration on connectivity, innovation and prosperity.

    At their two-day meeting, senior officials advanced region-wide efforts on emerging priorities such as artificial intelligence, demographic transformation and economic integration, building on recent ministerial meetings and stakeholder dialogues.

    Chairing the meeting, Ambassador Seongmee Yoon emphasized Korea’s vision for a forward-looking and action-oriented APEC agenda this year.

    “Korea’s priorities this year reflect the urgent need to future-proof our economies,” Ambassador Yoon said. “We are advancing innovation not just in technology, but in how we cooperate, how we trade and how we prepare our people for what’s next. We are strengthening connections across borders, across sectors and between generations. And we are pursuing prosperity that benefits all the people in the region.”

    “This meeting in Jeju is where we take those ideas and turn them into deliverables,” she added. “As we move toward the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Gyeongju, Korea is committed to driving meaningful, cooperative outcomes that benefit the whole APEC region.”

    The meeting opened with updates from key stakeholder groups, including the APEC Business Advisory Council, the Senior Finance Officials’ Meeting, the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council and the APEC Study Centers Consortium.

    Senior officials reviewed outcomes from recent ministerial meetings on ocean sustainability and human resources development, where ministers underscored the need for resilient labor systems and sustainable marine economies. Ministerial meetings on education and trade will follow on 14 and 15–16 May, respectively.

    They also considered the next steps for Korea’s flagship deliverables, including the proposed APEC AI Initiative, which outlines a region-wide approach to harnessing artificial intelligence for inclusive and sustainable growth. The initiative promotes a shared outlook, capacity building and investment in sustainable AI infrastructure.

    Additionally, Korea’s proposed Collaborative Framework on Demographic Changes was discussed, aiming to help economies address the implications of declining fertility rate and aging populations.

    “APEC’s strength lies in its ability to bring economies together to tackle profound challenges without losing sight of practical outcomes,” said Eduardo Pedrosa, Executive Director of the APEC Secretariat.

    “In Jeju, we’re seeing that in action; real collaboration on the future of artificial intelligence, on adapting to demographic transitions and on strengthening economic integration. These are not abstract goals. They’re essential to building a region that is more competitive, more connected and more resilient.”

    The Committee on Trade and Investment reported progress on economic integration in the region, trade facilitation and the inclusive growth agenda. Discussions also covered the evolution of APEC’s structural reform priorities, services competitiveness and the transition from informal to formal economies.

    Ambassador Yoon encouraged officials to continue building consensus and delivering tangible results ahead of upcoming sectoral ministerial meetings and APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.

    “Our work here lays the groundwork for impactful deliverables in Gyeongju,” she concluded. “Let us move forward with clarity, urgency and a commitment to deliver on our vision.” 


    For more information or media inquiries, please contact:
    [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Acquires Leading Global HVAC Solutions Provider FläktGroup

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire all shares of FläktGroup, a leading global HVAC solutions provider, for €1.5 billion from European investment firm Triton. With the global applied HVAC market experiencing rapid growth, the acquisition reinforces Samsung’s commitment to expanding and strengthening its HVAC business.
     
    “Through the acquisition of FläktGroup, an applied HVAC specialist, Samsung Electronics has laid the foundation to become a leader in the global HVAC business, offering a full range of solutions to our customers,” said TM Roh, Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “Our commitment is to continue investing in and developing the high-growth HVAC business as a key future growth engine.”
     
    FläktGroup, based in Herne, Germany, has over a century of accumulated technological expertise and design capabilities, offering diverse products and solutions tailored to each customer. FläktGroup supplies high-reliability and high-efficiency HVAC systems to a wide range of buildings and facilities, including data centers that require stable cooling, museums and libraries managing sensitive historical artifacts, airports and terminals with high foot traffic, and large hospitals where hygiene, temperature and humidity control are critically important.
     
    In the large-scale data center market globally, FläktGroup has secured high customer satisfaction through its product performance, reliability and service support, achieving substantial revenue growth over the past three years. FläktGroup’s data center solutions include its industry-leading liquid cooling and air cooling products, which have enabled customers to reduce energy consumption, contributing to achieving lower carbon footprint goals.
     
    Last year, FläktGroup won the DCS Cooling Innovation of the Year Award at the DCS Cooling Awards, in recognition of its innovative and advanced technologies.
     
    “We are extremely pleased that FläktGroup has become a part of Samsung Electronics. FläktGroup, as a global top-tier HVAC specialist with over a century of expertise, has been relied on by global large clients for its technological and product innovations,” said Trevor Young, CEO of FläktGroup. “Now, with Samsung Electronics’ global business foundation and investment, we expect to further accelerate our growth.”
     
    In addition to data centers, FläktGroup has secured a diverse portfolio of over 60 large customers, including leading pharmaceutical companies, biotech and food and beverage firms, and gigafactories.
     
     
    Samsung Investing in HVAC Business as Key Growth Engine
    The HVAC industry is expected to continue growing with demand for innovative and energy-efficient solutions that improve air quality and control temperature and humidity to provide comfort and safety. Samsung will continue to invest in the HVAC business and has recently made acquisitions and investments across robotics, medical technology and the consumer audio sectors as part of its commitment to expand into new growth businesses.
     
    According to some market research forecasts, the applied HVAC market is projected to grow from $61 billion in 2024 to $99 billion by 2030, at an annual growth rate of 8%, while the data center cooling market is expected to grow at a faster pace at an annual growth rate of 18%. The data center segment in particular has high entry barriers, requiring global supply experience and the ability to present optimal designs and solutions for customers.
     
    In its acquisition of FläktGroup, Samsung anticipates sustained growth in data center demand due to the proliferation of generative AI, robotics, autonomous driving, XR and other technologies.
     
    In addition, Samsung’s building integration control solution (b.IoT) and FläktGroup’s HVAC control solution (FläktEdge) will offer a full suite of HVAC and building energy control systems, through which the company expects an expansion of its service and maintenance business.
     
    Samsung has been expanding its HVAC business with a focus on ductless systems, which supply general and system air conditioners to residential and commercial buildings. In May 2024, Samsung formed a joint venture with Lennox International Inc. to strengthen its position in the North America HVAC market and added Lennox’s distribution channels to the company’s own sales channels.
     
    The transaction is expected to close within 2025.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s listed firms log solid Q1 earnings on thriving consumption, tech innovation

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

    Despite global economic uncertainties, China’s listed companies posted solid first-quarter performance in 2025, driven by robust consumer spending and steady advances in technological innovation.

    Among the 5,400 listed companies that have released financial reports for the first quarter (Q1), more than 70 percent were in the black, according to financial information provider Wind.

    The combined net profit attributable to shareholders of all listed firms came in at 1.49 trillion yuan (about 207 billion U.S. dollars), up 3.64 percent from a year ago, the data showed.

    According to analysts, the Q1 reports reflect a surge in emerging consumption trends and booming technological innovation among China’s listed companies, underscoring the country’s ongoing shift toward high-quality development.

    The consumer sector emerged as a bright spot in first-quarter earnings, with listed consumer companies reporting a 4.7 percent year-on-year rise in revenue and a 14.7 percent increase in net profit attributable to shareholders, both outpacing the average growth rate of non-financial firms.

    Appliance makers were among the top gainers, supported by the government-backed trade-in scheme. During the period, the household appliance and consumer electronics segments posted year-on-year growth of 22.8 percent and 107.5 percent, respectively, in net profit attributable to shareholders.

    Last year, China’s consumer goods trade-in program boosted product sales by more than 1.3 trillion yuan, according the Ministry of Commerce. Building on the achievements, the country’s central authorities have recently issued approximately 81 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, aiming to increase support for the program this year.

    New consumption models have been reshaping the market. According to Founder Securities, Chinese consumers have been spending more on holidays, ice and snow sports, and buying “guzi”– a homonym for “goods” that refers to various merchandise featuring elements of animation, comics and games (ACG) culture.

    In the first quarter, profits of firms in ice and snow tourism rose 25.8 percent year on year, while companies in the pet industry and those related to “guzi” economy saw earnings jump 58.2 percent and 93.6 percent, respectively.

    Spending on culture, entertainment and tourism also gained momentum among Chinese consumers, fueling business growth across sectors such as aviation, hospitality and film.

    Take the movie industry, for example. As of April 30, 16 film and television production companies had released their first-quarter financial reports, with six of them reporting a year-on-year doubling of net profit attributable to shareholders.

    Yan Xiang, chief economist at Founder Securities, said that the simultaneous rise in profits and revenue among consumer-related firms highlights the immense potential of China’s vast consumer market. As consumption continues to expand steadily, consumer spending is expected to play an increasingly significant role in boosting growth in the country, he added.

    Another key theme emerging from the quarterly reports was tech-driven innovation, with listed Chinese companies emphasizing advancements in smart manufacturing, digital operations and supply chain optimization as part of a broader push to spur growth through technology.

    In line with the trend, China’s listed firms have funneled more funds for research and development (R&D), with data from Wind showing that nearly half of all listed firms increased R&D investments in Q1.

    Breakthroughs in core technologies have also facilitated industrial upgrades. Companies in emerging industries accounted for 40 percent of all firms listed on the Shanghai main board, overtaking traditional sectors like finance to become the market’s leading sectors by market capitalization.

    Zheng Hongda, an analyst with Western Securities, stressed the importance of strong internal momentum among China’s technology firms in the face of a complex external environment.

    For technology companies, their investment plans for the next period should center on key areas such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence, which will galvanize the internal driving forces along the industrial chain, Zheng said. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The growth rate and potential of the Chinese market are attractive to American companies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Peng Zhenke, president of Pfizer China and chairman of the executive committee of the pharmaceutical research and development working committee of the China Association of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, recently announced Pfizer’s plans to invest another US$1 billion in China by 2030. The company has already opened a new research and development center in Beijing and an innovation center in Hangzhou.

    Zhang Jianping, deputy director of the academic committee of the Institute of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce of China, noted that investments by American companies in China can be divided into two main categories:

    First, market-oriented: companies that provide goods and services directly to the Chinese market, such as Tesla, Starbucks, and General Motors, which make significant profits in China.

    Second, global supply chain oriented: companies that use China as an important base for organizing supply chains and creating added value on a global scale, seeking maximum benefit. A typical example is Apple.

    China has enormous growth potential, making it particularly attractive to American companies, especially multinational corporations.

    Cui Shoujun, a professor at the School of International Relations at Renmin University of China, identifies three key aspects that determine the irreplaceable strategic value of the Chinese market for many American companies:

    First, the advantages of a super-large market: China, with a population of over 1.4 billion and a middle-income group of over 400 million, has huge demand. Growing urbanization in China has driven steady growth in demand for home appliances, automobiles, communications, medical services and other consumer goods.

    Secondly, the obvious advantages of the full industrial chain: China has 41 major industrial categories, 207 medium sub-categories and 666 minor sub-categories, being the only country in the world represented in all industrial sectors of the UN classification. China’s supply chain is not only comprehensive and complete, but also extremely flexible and responsive.

    Third, continuous expansion of high-level opening-up and optimization of the business environment: China creates favorable conditions for the development of foreign companies, including American ones.

    Peng Yu, director of the International Trade Research Department at the Institute of World Economy, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, stressed that the Chinese market provides American companies with many business and profit opportunities. China is the largest export market for American soybeans and cotton, the second-largest export market for integrated circuits and coal, and the third-largest export market for medical equipment and automobiles.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate and House Republicans Make Strides to Repeal Over a Dozen Biden-Era Regulations to Advance Trump’s America First Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – In a seismic victory for President Trump’s America First Agenda, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today released the following statement on Senate and House Republicans’ efforts to reverse over a dozen of Joe Biden’s nonsensical regulations using the Congressional Review Act (CRA) – a legislative tool allowing Congress to strike down federal rules and regulations with a simple majority vote.
    “While the Biden-Harris administration tried to suffocate our nation’s businesses and families with nonsensical regulation after regulation, Senate and House Republicans are tearing down these barriers to unleash American prosperity,” said Senator Marshall. “I am committed to continue working with my colleagues to ensure these CRAs allow us to boldly deliver on President Trump’s promises.”
    Among the 13 burdensome Biden-Harris-era regulations that were targeted, Senate Republicans have slashed red tape to unleash American energy, end costly green new scam mandates, strengthen digital finance, and expand personal freedoms. These actions deliver on President Donald Trump’s America First agenda by reducing consumer costs, protecting privacy, and empowering businesses.
    Promise Made: Unleash American Energy
    Promise Kept:

    S.J.Res. 11 – Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era rule that prevented offshore oil and gas drilling because of the presence of “shipwrecks and cultural resources.” 
    Why It Matters: By overturning this regulation, we can unleash American energy through expanded production capacity off American shores.
    Status: Passed and became law on March 14, 2025.

    S.J.Res. 31 – Tailpipe Emissions and Area Pollution

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era rule that requires sources of persistent and bioaccumulative hazardous air pollutants to comply with certain major source emission standards under the Clean Air Act.
    Why It Matters: By eliminating it, we’re lessening regulations and letting American industry flourish without the heavy and misguided hand of activist government bureaucrats holding it back.
    Status: Passed the Senate but has not yet passed the House.

    Promise Made: End the Green New Scam
    Promise Kept:

    H.J.Res. 24 – Walk-in Coolers and Freezers

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era regulation that defines “walk-in coolers” and “walk-in freezers” as refrigerated spaces smaller than 3,000 square feet, which would have increased costs and regulations on manufacturers and restaurants.
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    H.J.Res. 42 –Appliance Energy Efficiency

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era Department of Energy (DOE) rule that would have increased the cost of basic appliances.
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    H.J.Res. 75 –Energy Standards for Freezers and Refrigerators

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era DOE rule that attempts to amend energy conservation standards for refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and freezers, that would have increased the cost of basic appliances. It would also have put financial constraints on any business that uses these appliances, such as restaurants, grocers, and more.
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    H.J.Res. 20 – Gas Powered Water Heaters

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era rule that would have placed restrictions and regulations on gas-powered water heaters, which would have resulted in increased costs of tankless water heaters and reduced choice in the market.
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    H.J.Res. 35 – Waste Emissions Tax for Energy Producers

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule that implemented a Methane Tax on American energy producers, which would have resulted in higher costs passed onto consumers.
    Status: Passed and became law on March 14, 2025.

    H.J.Res. 61 – Rubber Tire Manufacturer Emissions

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era EPA rule that attempted to add emissions standards to rubber tire manufacturing, including them in the hazardous air pollutant (HAP) regulation requirements, which would have resulted in higher costs passed onto consumers.
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    Why They Matter: By passing resolutions to overturn these six specific rules, we’re preventing increased costs from being invariably be passed onto consumers, removing burdensome regulations that could harm businesses large and small, and allowing American families to have more choice in the market and keep more of their hard-earned money.

    Promise Made: Strengthen U.S. Leadership in Digital Finance
    Promise Kept:

    S.J.Res. 3 / H.J.Res. 25 –Crypto IRS Reporting Requirements

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era rule that mandates that brokers submit information returns and provide payee statements detailing the gross proceeds from digital asset transactions they carry out for their clients.
    Why It Matters: With the elimination of this rule, the private financial information of American citizens is further protected. 
    Status: Passed and became law on April 10, 2025.

    S.J.Res. 18 – Overdraft Fee Regulations

    What It Does: This resolution overturns an overreaching Biden-era Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) rule that limited overdraft fees.
    Why It Matters: Overturning this ensures that banks and financial institutions can negotiate their own relationships with customers with limited government interference. 
    Status: Passed and became law on April 10, 2025.

    S.J.Res. 28 – Digital Payment Providers

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a burdensome and overreaching Biden-era CFPB rule that would have threatened Americans’ privacy interests.
    Why It Matters: The rule, if left intact, could stifle innovation and impose undue burdens on digital payment providers like Venmo or PayPal. 
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    S.J.Res. 13 –Bank Merger Application Review

    What It Does: This resolution overturns a Biden-era rule from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) that would have made more stringent the government’s review of bank mergers.
    Why It Matters: Overturning this rule will allow American financial institutions to make decisions that work best for their customers. 
    Status: Passed the Senate but has not yet passed the House.

    Promise Made: Eliminate Burdensome Regulations
    Promise Kept:

    H.J.Res. 60 – Regulations for ATV Usage

    What It Does: This resolution will make minor changes to a Biden-era regulation that will result in improved management of motorized uses in the Orange Cliffs Special Management Unit, including:

    Prohibiting the use of ORVs and street-legal ATVs on an 8-mile segment of the Poison Spring Loop located on Route 633 proceeding north to Route 730.
    Eliminating the superintendent’s authority to potentially allow ORVs and street-legal ATVs on the upper portion of the Flint Trail.

    Why It Matters: By improving this regulation, we will give Americans greater freedom to traverse the great outdoors, without the government needlessly telling them how to do it. 
    Status: Passed, but not yet signed by the President.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Addressing New Zealand’s infrastructure asset management challenge

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    The Government has launched a new work programme to improve public infrastructure asset management, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.

    “We need to be honest about the fact that we’ve done asset management poorly in the public sector for decades. We rank fourth to last in the OECD for asset management, with a number of government agencies reporting non-compliance with Cabinet expectations relating to depreciation funding, asset management plans and asset registers. The public sector performs poorly compared with the private sector.

    “Poor asset management results in expensive renewals and emergency works, poor infrastructure quality, asset failures, and less funding for new services. The Infrastructure Commission estimates that for every $40 spent on new infrastructure, we should be investing $60 in maintenance and renewals.

    “In practice, years of poor asset management means leaky hospitals and schools, mould in police stations and courthouses, service outages on commuter rail, and poor accommodation for Defence Force personnel and their families. It’s not good enough. New Zealanders deserve better.

    “To ensure we get the most out of every dollar we invest, Cabinet has agreed to an all-of-Government work programme that will improve central government asset management and performance, with a focus on infrastructure. 

    “The objective of the programme is to strengthen the infrastructure system to lift asset performance and service outcomes for New Zealanders, ensure there is adequate investment in planned asset maintenance and renewal activities, ensure new investment decisions can be made within the overall context of agencies’ asset management plans, and improve accountability, capability, and oversight of our infrastructure. 

    The work programme will be broken up into two phases: 

    Phase One (short term improvements), including:

    • Continued work to update to the Better Business Case (BBC) and Gateway frameworks.
    • Self-assessment of New Zealand policy and institutional settings against the IMF Public Investment Management Assessment framework.
    • Improved asset management and long-term planning performance indicators and guidance – providing more detailed guidance on expected asset management and long-term planning practice, including which indicators will provide Ministers, stakeholders and the public with confidence that agencies are delivering value for money.
    • Supporting the growth of a “Community of Practice” to build capability – the Infrastructure Commission is partnering with Āpōpō to build a ‘community of practice’ through collaborative events for public service asset management professionals.
    • A possible national Underground Asset Register – officials are providing advice on opportunities to scale the Wellington City Council underground asset register for use across New Zealand.

    Phase Two (beyond December 2025):

    Phase two will consider more fundamental changes to system settings to ensure that asset management outcomes improve, and will include:

    • The development of the 30-year National Infrastructure Plan (NIP) to ensure greater stability of infrastructure priorities that help New Zealand plan, fund and deliver important infrastructure. As part of their work developing this plan, the Infrastructure Commission will recommend system changes to strengthen investment and asset management outcomes.
    • Investigating legislative requirements for the development of ten-year investment plans by capital intensive agencies and performance reporting requirements.
    • A refresh of the Cabinet Office circular CO (23) 9, to give effect to broader changes across the IMS and restate Cabinet’s expectations on investment planning, assurance, and asset management practices. The refresh of the Circular will be undertaken in parallel with the NIP, to allow the refreshed Circular to take into account the NIP recommendations.

    “The draft 30-year National Infrastructure Plan is expected to be published in June this year and it will then go out for public consultation.

    “I intend to consider proposed recommendations from the Infrastructure Commission as part of the Government’s response to the Plan in 2026.

    “Making improvements to our investment management system will ensure New Zealanders’ infrastructure investments are well-managed. These improvements will enable greater economic growth and deliver efficient infrastructure which will have long-term impacts on the cost-of-living,” Mr Bishop says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to Apōpō Congress: Addressing New Zealand’s infrastructure asset management challenge

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Good morning. It’s great to be here – in spirit – at the 2025 Apōpō Congress.
    I am a fierce proponent of asset management, and I also enjoy the Te Pae Convention Centre, so it’s a shame I can’t be there with you all in person. 
    I’d like to thank Apōpō for hosting this congress and for keeping the conversation on asset management learnings and best-practice going for over 75 years.
    Better asset management is key to the success of the Government’s plan to go for economic growth and enhance New Zealanders’ quality of life.
    Asset management may not be the sexiest aspect of the infrastructure system – as it has to compete with new, big, and exciting projects – but everyone knows, if you don’t paint the weatherboards on your house, the wood will rot. 
    And billion-dollar infrastructure is fundamentally no different.
    Looking after what we have means our infrastructure will last longer, be more reliable, and be more resilient to shocks and stresses. For me, good asset management is a minimum requirement, not an optional extra.
    So, today I am announcing a comprehensive work programme that Cabinet has agreed to that will improve asset management practice across central government. 
    The aim of this work is to provide safer, longer lasting and more reliable infrastructure services; and to achieve better value for money by making the most of what we have.
    But before I get into that, let me briefly touch on my six infrastructure priorities and where the Government is at on each of them. 
    My six priorities as Minister for Infrastructure
    Last year, I mapped out what I want from the infrastructure system.
    I want the private sector to invest and build here, because they are confident in the pipeline and are enabled to get on with it by an efficient and fair consenting system. 
    And I want the public to enjoy infrastructure that is safe, reliable, accessible, and good value for money. 
    To achieve this, I’m focused on six priorities as Infrastructure Minister:

    Establishing National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Ltd,
    Developing a 30-year National Infrastructure Plan,
    Improving infrastructure funding and financing,
    Improving the consenting framework,
    Improving education and health infrastructure, and last but not least –
    Strengthening asset management.

    These priorities are in response to what the coalition Government has heard from industry and infrastructure experts, both in New Zealand and overseas.
    National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Ltd
    Let’s start with National Infrastructure Funding and Financing, which we call NIFFCo. 
    On the 1st of December last year, we established NIFFCo to:

    Act as the Crown’s ‘shopfront’ to facilitate private sector investment in infrastructure – including receiving and evaluating Market Led Proposals.
    Partner with agencies, and in some cases, local government, on projects involving complex procurement, alternative funding mechanisms, and private finance – including Public Private Partnerships (PPPs).
    Administer central government infrastructure funds.

    NIFFCo has already started lifting the government’s commercial capability and has deployed expertise into agencies that are working on complex Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects including the Northland Road of National Significance and Christchurch Men’s Prison. 
    Off the back of the New Zealand Infrastructure Investment Summit, NIFFCo has also started engaging with domestic and international debt and equity markets to help connect New Zealand projects to suitable capital.
    Developing a 30-year National Infrastructure Plan
    Now, let’s move to my second priority, the 30-year National Infrastructure Plan.
    The industry has asked for a long-term plan and pipeline so that they can invest in people and equipment. We have heard them, it’s the right thing to do, and we are doing it.
    The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission is developing the Plan, which will outline an independent and expert view on New Zealand’s infrastructure needs over the next 30 years, planned investments over the next 10 years, and recommendations on priority projects and reforms that can fill the gap between what we have and what need.
    The draft plan is on track to go out for public consultation next month, with the final plan due to me by the end of this year. 
    I encourage you to provide feedback on the Plan, particularly in the areas of asset management. 
    Improving infrastructure funding and financing 
    Now, let’s talk about my third priority, Improving infrastructure funding and financing. 
    Public infrastructure in New Zealand has historically been primarily funded by taxpayers or ratepayers. 
    But our heavy reliance on this blunt approach is not serving New Zealand well and has led to perverse outcomes including congestion, run-down assets, and the unresponsive provision of enabling infrastructure – contributing to unaffordable housing.
    Last year, we released a suite of new and improved frameworks and guidance including:

    Treasury’s new Funding and Financing framework,
    The Government’s refreshed PPP policy,
    Strategic Leasing Guidance, and
    Guideline for Market Led Proposals. 

    The collective purpose of these documents is to help the Government use its balance sheet more strategically, apply good commercial disciplines to investment, and be a more sophisticated client of infrastructure. 
    This year I have focused on establishing new funding and financing tools. In February, I announced five specific changes to New Zealand’s funding and financing toolkit to make it easier for councils and central government to provide infrastructure to support urban growth. 
    I won’t cover all of these, but the most relevant to people here, is that we are shifting away from Development Contributions to a new Development Levy System that will enable council to fully recover the costs of housing growth from growth.
    This change means ratepayers will no longer need to cross subsidise growth to the same extent (if at all) – freeing up rates to go towards maintenance backlogs. 
    The Government is progressing amendments to the Local Government Act 2002 this year, so that Councils will be able to move to the new Development Levy System through their 2027 Long-Term Plan cycle.
    Improving the consenting framework
    Now, let’s move onto my fourth priority, improving the consenting framework. 
    As many of you will know, the resource management system is broken. 
    It achieves the worst of both worlds: it stifles development and fails to protect the environment. In many ways, our currently planning system is one of the root causes of our infrastructure deficit.
    So, we are taking action. 
    In 2023, we repealed the Natural and Built Environment Act and Spatial Planning Act.
    In 2024, we introduced the Fast Track Approvals Act, which provides a one-stop shop for projects with significant regional and national benefits to apply for and access approvals, resource consents, and permits across nine different Acts, all in the one process.
    The Government listed 149 projects in the Act itself, fast-tracking them in the fast-track process. More projects can be referred into the process too.  
    These 149 projects represent up to 55,000 new homes; 180 kilometres of new road, rail, and public transport routes; three gigawatts in additional generation capacity; and multiple mining and aquaculture projects. 
    And this year, the Government is replacing the entire resource management system – 
    We will put a new system in place that is effects based and embraces standardisation, meaning fewer and faster consents. We plan to have the two Acts introduced to Parliament mid-this year. 
    Improving education and health infrastructure
    I won’t go into too much detail of my, fifth priority, improving education and health infrastructure. I will just quickly say that this government is moving towards: 

    More standardised, repeatable designs,
    More modular and staged builds, and
    More strategic procurement – including by using a panel of contractors and partners for large programmes or packages of work.

    Poor asset management practices 
    Now, let’s talk in detail about my sixth priority – strengthening asset management. 
    I think we need to be honest about the fact that we’ve done asset management poorly in central government for decades.
    Too often we see the result of a lack of care in managing the infrastructure assets entrusted to agencies. 
    I can rattle off too many examples of things gone wrong:

    Schools in Auckland with leaking roofs and rotting buildings;
    Half of justice buildings reported to be in “poor” or “very poor” condition;
    Military homes in Waiouru infested with black mould;
    A police custody suite in Hawke’s Bay with so many leaks that the roof had to be covered with plastic tarpaulin; and
    A hospital in Whangārei where the roof leaked when it rained, the surgical wing was on a lean, raw sewage was found seeping into the walls, and – to top it all off – those walls were riddled with asbestos. 

    This is simply not good enough for New Zealanders. 
    It would be comforting to pretend that these are isolated anecdotes of poor outcomes. And it would be easy to say that “all we need is a bit more funding for emergency repairs to plug some leaks and patch up some roofs”. 
    But this pattern of ‘build and forget’ repeats too often for this to be anything other than a systematic issue. 
    And you don’t need to take my word for it. 
    There is a growing analytical evidence base of unacceptable asset management practice:

    New Zealand ranks fourth to last for asset management in the OECD’s infrastructure survey, and
    Several central government agencies do not comply with mandatory requirements set out by Cabinet as outlined in Cabinet Office circular (23) 9 – including requirements related to depreciation funding, asset management plans, and asset registers.

    The contrast between the performance of central government and that of the private sector, regulated utilities, and even local government is also stark. Let’s use the ratio of annual spending on renewals and maintenance, relative to asset depreciation, as a proxy for asset management performance.
    The private sector and local government have ratios of approximately [1] and [0.75] respectively. 
    For central government agencies, this metric is often impossible to measure, because it isn’t being recorded and reported. And where the data does exist, such as for state highways, the results are significantly worse, with a ratio of [0.35].
    These poor asset management practices are undermining this Government’s infrastructure objectives and contributing to our significant infrastructure deficit – which is expected to grow to around $210 billion by 2050.
    Our maintenance and renewal challenge
    In fact, one of the biggest challenges facing New Zealand’s infrastructure sector is the cost and resources needed to repair and replace assets that are wearing out. 
    The Infrastructure Commission tells me that for every $40 spent on new infrastructure, we should be investing $60 in maintenance and renewals.
    If we don’t prioritise and deliver this spending and sort our asset management practices now, our problems are only going to get bigger. 
    This is driven by three macro trends.
    For one, the amount New Zealand needs to spend on asset management will continue to increase as the assets built during the post-war investment boom of the 1950s to 1990s wear out.
    Second, asset management needs will increase in some sectors as demographics change – for example, more focus will be needed on health facilities as our population ages.
    Third, the risks we face from natural hazards will continue to become more acute. New Zealand already ranks second in the OECD in expected annual losses from natural hazards. And asset owners won’t be able to make informed trade-offs between insurance, relocation, and resilience if they don’t have a strong base of asset management practice to build from – including knowing what they own, where it is, what conditions it’s in, and what risks it faces.
    I feel like I am preaching to the choir – but, as you know – it is important to get asset management right.
    And some sectors do get asset management more right than others. 
    For example, regulated utilities like energy perform well due to economic incentives, and regulatory regimes with strong transparency, oversight and audit requirements.
    Taking a step back – regulated utilities, local government, and central government all have different rules and enforcement mechanisms that impact asset performance, with central government holding the regulated and local government sectors to a higher standard than it does itself.  
    The private sector is characterised by oversight through market discipline, economic regulation, and minimum service quality standards.
    Local government has strong legislative requirements for planning and asset management, supported by audit and transparency requirements. For example, the Local Government Act requires reporting on infrastructure spending by category including maintenance and renewal, which is then audited by the Office of the Auditor General.
    In central government we primarily rely on the requirements set through the Cabinet Office circular on Investment Management and Asset Performance in Departments and Other Entities, or, more commonly known as CO (23) 9. 
    External transparency on central government infrastructure (like age, condition, location, and utilisation) is limited at best, making it difficult for the public to be confident that it is being managed appropriately.
    This is a very complex system to fix. There is no single factor or actor that accounts for why central government is struggling so much to manage its assets effectively. 
    To be clear, it’s not that we don’t have hard-working asset management professionals. Because I know we have some brilliant asset managers doing fantastic work. 
    But too many of you are frustrated by a system that simply isn’t set up to empower you to do what is needed.
    In my view, our asset management performance is the result of four complex inter-related issues. 
    First, central government does not treat asset management as a fundamental component of service delivery. Top-down fiscal constraints, changing service expectations and stakeholder pressures mean that asset management is often de-prioritised in favour of new investment or new operating spending. 
    Second, agencies do not have good enough information on their assets. So, decision-makers like agency officials, and Ministers like me lack the information needed to make good decisions and to be held accountable for them.
    Third, governance is weak. Compared to regulated utilities and local government, our systems, processes, and rules for ensuring that asset management is being carried out properly are not strong enough.
    Fourth, visibility and support for asset management is lacking at senior levels within agencies. Nobody in the audience will be shocked to hear me say that awareness, visibility, and support for asset management is often lacking at senior levels. We simply don’t invest enough in our people. This is true in some parts of the private sector and local government, but it is particularly true in central government. 
    Improving central government asset management 
    So, that’s the doom and gloom part over. Let’s get onto how we plan to fix the system. 
    Today, I am excited to announce that Cabinet has agreed to an all-of-Government work programme that will improve central government asset management and performance, with a focus on infrastructure.
    My goal is to provide safer and more reliable infrastructure services to New Zealanders; and to achieve better value for money by making the most of what we have.
    This work programme will take place across two phases. 
    Phase 1 will roll out this year, delivering quick wins that drive real improvements. But that is just the start. Next year, we start on Phase 2, which will deliver more fundamental changes to how we look after our assets.
    Phase 1
    Let’s start with Phase 1. Phase 1 is about providing clarity on what ‘good’ looks like and ensuring that there are better tools to help central government agencies succeed. 
    The Infrastructure Commission has three actions under Phase 1.
    First, the Commission is assessing New Zealand’s investment and asset management settings for central government using the ‘Public Investment Management Assessment’ (PIMA). This international best-practice framework was developed by the IMF in 2015.
    The Commission will release the PIMA ‘self-assessment’ report alongside the National Infrastructure Plan later this year. It will be an invaluable source of evidence on how we can improve our investment systems – more on that soon.
    Second, the Commission will publish detailed guidance that agencies will need to follow on asset management; long-term planning; and related performance, assurance, and accountability indicators.
    At the moment, Treasury sets out high-level investment management and asset performance requirements for departments, Crown entities, and companies listed in Schedule 4A of the Public Finance Act through Cabinet Office circular CO (23) 9. 
    Over and above Cabinet setting clear rules for asset management it is crucial that we help agencies understand how they meet their obligations. Currently, there is limited detailed guidance showing agencies what good looks like. 
    More detailed guidance can help fill this gap and will help agencies to provide useful and consistent information to decision makers and the public – including indicators that will show whether agencies are delivering value for money from their planning and investment activities.
    Third, the Commission is partnering with Āpōpō to build a new ‘community of practice’ that will lift the capability of public service asset management professionals through events.  
    Phase 1 of this work programme, also includes:

    the Treasury continuing work to update their Better Business Case and Gateway Frameworks, and
    Potentially developing a National Underground Asset Register – Officials will provide me advice on opportunities to scale the Wellington City Council’s  underground asset register for use across New Zealand.

    Phase 2
    Phase 2 is about driving more fundamental changes to system settings to ensure that we see sustained improvements in asset management.
    Phase 2 will be informed by the National Infrastructure Plan but will ultimately be implemented through the Government response to the Plan, which I expect will include changes to the Investment Management System.
    The Commission is currently developing the National Infrastructure Plan to ensure greater stability of infrastructure priorities and to help New Zealand plan, fund, and deliver important infrastructure. 
    The Commission has informed me that the Plan will include recommendations on how to strengthen central government’s Investment Management System.
    The Commission are thinking of issues such as: 

    Strengthening the Public Finance Act to require agencies to periodically develop long-term investment plans (including asset management) and strengthening reporting requirements to increase transparency on spending on maintenance and renewals.
    Strengthening non-legislative reporting requirements to improve transparency over asset management outcomes.
    Establishing oversight and review requirements for asset management planning.
    Explicitly incorporating assessments of bottom-up infrastructure needs, including spending on asset management and renewals, into fiscal strategies
    And strengthening incentives for better asset management practice by, for example, linking investment decision making to agency asset management capability or ringfencing depreciation funding. 

    It is important to note that the National Infrastructure Plan is a ‘strategy report’ and is rightly produced independently from Government. 
    As such, I will consider the final recommendations made by the Commission and will implement Phase 2 of the Asset Management Work Programme through the Government’s response to the Plan in 2026.
    Over the next year, the Treasury is also working to update Cabinet Office circular CO (23) 9. The update of CO (23) 9 is a great opportunity to take on evidence and findings from the National Infrastructure Plan to strengthen Cabinet’s expectations on investment planning, assurance, and asset management practices.
    I have asked Treasury officials to consider the findings of the National Infrastructure Plan when updating the Circular.
    But to be clear, all options remain on the table to improve asset management – including changes to the law. 
    Conclusion
    To conclude, I would like to say thank you again for inviting me to speak. 
    Getting asset management right is one of my top priorities as Minister for Infrastructure, and I will need your help to do it.
    The size of the prize is significant – 
    Improving how we look after our assets will improve the lives of New Zealanders through safer and more resilient infrastructure services. It will drive better value for money from our investments – putting downward pressure on the cost-of-living and freeing up funds for other Government priorities.
    Better asset management is also good for economic growth, as higher-quality infrastructure will reduce disruptions, encourage investment, and improve productivity.
    It won’t be a quick fix.
    The challenges we face are deep-rooted and systemic. But they are not insurmountable, if we ambitious enough to take them on, and disciplined enough to overcome them. 
    Thank you. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Brat to business: Gen Z and Millennials turn bold ideas into business start-ups – CBA

    Source: COmmonwealth Bank of Australia – CBA

    New data shows Millennials and Gen Z continue to be the driving force behind new business in Australia, as CommBank shows support for young entrepreneurs through its sponsorship of AFC Australian Fashion Week.

    New CommBank research shows that Millennials and Gen Z business owners continue to drive Australian entrepreneurship, together accounting for 62 per cent of new business account openings in the last 12 months, with retail trade, personal and business services, and construction being the most popular sectors for these age groups.

    CommBank data shows that Millennials alone made up 49 per cent of new businesses in the year to 31 March 2025, while Gen Z accounted for 13 per cent, Gen X for 27 per cent and Baby Boomers made up 10 per cent of new businesses.

    Looking at Gen Z, retail trade is the second most popular sector for new businesses after construction, while Millennials favour property and business services before construction and retail.

    While the age breakdown of new business transaction account openings has remained fairly steady since the pandemic, it is likely the Gen Z cohort will grow in the coming years as they get older, and other age groups focus on the growth stage of their business.

    The research comes as CommBank announces its sponsorship of the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) Australian Fashion Week which kicked off in Sydney this week, championing young entrepreneurs, First Nations designers, and the Australian creative industry more broadly.

    CommBank Small Business Banking Executive General Manager, Rebecca Warren, said the various headwinds businesses had encountered over recent years did not appear to be dissuading too many younger entrepreneurs.

    “Gen Z and Millennials account for 72 per cent of all new businesses in retail trade, showing younger Australians are willing to pursue their passion despite the challenging environment this sector has faced and continues to tackle,” Ms Warren said.

    “Australian small businesses have dealt with many challenges over the last few years, and their resilience has never been more evident than in the way they’ve been navigating the challenging market, the impacts of the election, tariffs and changes to rates.

    “It is great to see the entrepreneurial spirit in Australia is very much alive, with under 45s continuing to lead on new business start-ups. We are proud to be supporting Australian small business owners achieve their goals, whether they’re just starting out, or growing their business.”

    Recent data from CommBank’s Household Spending Insights Index^ also shows significant gains in Household Goods spending in the year to March were driven by online marketplace and department stores, followed by clothing and furniture stores.

    This year the AFC Australian Fashion Week will have over 30 designers showcasing their collections, including Aje, Romance Was Born, ESSE, Farage, Lee Mathews, NICOL & FORD, and Carla Zampatti. CommBank will be the presenting partner of The Frontier, and First Nations shows Liandra, Ngali, and Joseph & James.

    Kellie Hush, CEO AFC Australian Fashion Week presented by Shark Beauty, said:

    “We are thrilled to have the Commonwealth Bank’s incredible support in 2025. CBA understands how important it is to nurture small and medium businesses in the early stages of growth. The business of fashion continues to be an exciting but challenging industry, which is why Australian Fashion Week must continue to grow and support the industry. AFC Australian Fashion Week 2025 will showcase a diverse, creative, and a distinctly Australian fashion spirit.

    “The fashion industry is also a major employer of women in Australia, with 77 per cent of our industry being women. The figure makes fashion one of the few professional industries dominated by women, providing opportunity for them to flourish and finesse their specialisations.”

     

    ^CommBank Household Spending Insights (HSI) Index for March 2025, released on 11 April 2025. Full report can be accessed here: https://www.commbankresearch.com.au/apex/researcharticleviewv2?id=a0NDo000000wJLh

    Note about the research: Figures in this media release are based on CommBank Business Transaction Account openings between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025. The term Gen Z refers to those born between 1997 and 2012; Millennial refers to individuals born between 1981 and 1996; Gen X refers to those born between 1965 and 1980; Baby Boomer refers to those born between 1946 – 1964.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Condemns GOP’s Cruel Proposal to Kick Millions Off Medicaid: ‘You’re Going to Make All Those People Go to An Emergency Room?’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    05.13.25
    Cantwell Condemns GOP’s Cruel Proposal to Kick Millions Off Medicaid: ‘You’re Going to Make All Those People Go to An Emergency Room?’
    GOP proposal would cancel health coverage and drive-up co-pays for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, delivered a speech on the Senate floor condemning the House GOP’s ill-conceived proposal to cut health care by $715 billion to help pay for a tax break for the ultra-rich and corporations, forcing at least 13.7 million Americans off their health insurance.
    “House Republicans say that these cuts are about waste, fraud, and abuse — but the real fraud is telling the American people that by implementing these requirements, that somehow these policies are going to save money. The truth is, it’s just making it harder on Americans to stay on Medicaid,” Sen. Cantwell said.
    “In 2018 Arkansas tried the same thing that the House of Representatives are now suggesting. They became the first state to establish a work requirement for certain Medicaid enrollees. It took just four months, and the new requirement got 18,000 people kicked off Medicaid. Where do you think those people go? You think they don’t have any health care needs? You don’t think they go to the hospital and cost us all a bunch load more money?” she continued.
    “So I ask my colleagues to make sure that we are fighting these cuts to Medicaid. Our communities are demanding it. They are watching.”
    Video of her speech is available HERE and a full transcript is HERE.
    On Sunday, the Republican leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives released a draft proposal to cut $912 billion from the Energy and Commerce Committee budget — the committee that oversees Medicaid, the federal program that insures many low-income adults and children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. Their proposal would institute new co-pays and onerous work requirements, ultimately blocking access to health care for the people who need it most.
    Medicaid, also known as Apple Health in Washington state, covers 1.9 million Washingtonians. On May 2, Sen. Cantwell released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Washington state’s highly-ranked long-term care system for seniors and people with disabilities. In February, she additionally released a snapshot report that demonstrated how cuts would harm health care access in Washington state, and followed up with a report in March that dove into impacts on the Puget Sound region.
    Highlights of those snapshot reports include:
    In Washington state, WA-04 (Central Washington) and WA-05 (Eastern Washington) have the highest proportions of adults and total population on Medicaid (Apple Health). In District 4, 70% of children are on Medicaid.
    In the Puget Sound, children in Seattle’s blue-collar strongholds would feel the deepest pain from Medicaid cuts. More than half of children in Burien, SeaTac, Kent, Federal Way, Auburn, Renton, and Rainier Valley depend on Medicaid.
    In an exclusive new survey of 68 WA nursing homes, 67 of 68 would cut services if Medicaid were cut by 5% or more, and 65% would consider closing.
    Over the past two months, Sen. Cantwell also took a tour around the state to hear from folks who would be directly impacted by cuts to Medicare. Doctors, patients, and health care providers in Seattle, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and Wenatchee warned that such cuts would devastate Washington state’s health care system and limit access to lifesaving care.
    Last week, a coalition of Washington state hospital leaders and Republican elected officials sent a letter opposing any cuts to Medicaid. The group included the CEOs of Skyline Health and Klickitat Valley Hospital, as well as multiple Republican members of the Washington state legislature, leaders of Klickitat County, and councilmembers of White Salmon and Goldendale. The letter emphasized that hospitals in rural areas are especially reliant on Medicaid, and any funding reductions would result in loss of services or even hospital closures. The letter warned, “Any reduction in funding from any source will undoubtedly result in a reduction of services, reduction of access or worse – hospital closures,” and further that “Policy decisions that put a community’s access to healthcare in jeopardy are a sure way to hasten the demise of rural Washington State.”  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: African Development Bank strengthens strategic partnership with South African suppliers

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The African Development Bank Group’s Regional Development and Business Delivery Office for Southern Africa last week brought together more than 30 key service providers to strengthen collaboration and showcase business opportunities across the continent at its annual Strategic Partners Breakfast Meeting.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • Markets decline over 1% on profit booking after record rally

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock markets declined on Tuesday as investors opted to book profits following a sharp rally in the previous session. Concerns over the progress of US-China trade talks also contributed to the cautious sentiment, pulling down the benchmark indices after their best performance in over four years.

    The BSE Sensex closed 1,281.68 points, or 1.5 per cent, lower at 81,148.22. The NSE Nifty also slipped, ending the day at 24,578.35, down 346.35 points or 1.39 per cent. The correction came a day after markets soared nearly 4 per cent on easing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Analysts noted that much of Monday’s gains were driven by short covering, leading to profit booking on Tuesday.

    Despite the weakness in headline indices, broader market indices managed to hold firm. The BSE Midcap index edged up 0.17 per cent, while the BSE Smallcap index rose 0.99 per cent, suggesting some resilience in mid- and small-cap stocks.

    Sectoral performance, however, was mixed. Major indices such as Nifty Auto, Financial Services, FMCG, and IT ended with losses of over 1 per cent. Other segments including Nifty Bank, Metal, Oil and Gas, Realty, and Consumer Durables also ended lower. In contrast, indices tracking PSU banks, media, pharma, and healthcare sectors posted gains, with the Nifty PSU Bank index rising as much as 1.66 per cent.

    Among the Sensex constituents, Infosys was the top laggard, falling 3.57 per cent. Eternal, Power Grid, HCL Technologies and TCS also registered losses ranging between 2.88 per cent and 3.4 per cent. On the other hand, Sun Pharmaceutical, Adani Ports, Bajaj Finance, State Bank of India and Tech Mahindra closed with modest gains of up to 1 per cent.

    Market volatility eased slightly, with the India VIX dipping 1.05 per cent to 18.20. Analysts noted that geopolitical uncertainties remained on investors’ radar, with the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan keeping participants cautious.

    “Geopolitical tensions remained in focus as market participants monitored the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, adding to the cautious sentiment,” said Sundar Kewat of Ashika Institutional Equity.

    Ajit Mishra, SVP at Religare Broking Ltd, said the decline reflected a sense of caution despite stable global cues and easing regional tensions. “However, we expect the overall tone to remain positive, given the noticeable support in the 24,400–24,600 zone. The focus should remain on identifying key sectors and themes showing relative strength and using intermediate pauses to accumulate quality stocks,” he added.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Warren, Nadler Press Pepsi on Potentially Illegal Price Discrimination Against Small, Independently-Owned Grocery Stores

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY), wrote to Ramon Laguarta, CEO of PepsiCo, Inc. (Pepsi) demanding an explanation for the company’s potentially illegal price discrimination against small and independent grocery stores. The lawmakers are the top Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, and House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrate State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust, respectively. 
    In recent months, Pepsi has faced legal action from convenience stores and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a government regulator responsible for enforcing federal consumer protection laws and antitrust laws. In January 2025, the FTC sued Pepsi, accusing it of violating the Robinson-Patman Act (RPA), which prohibits sellers from engaging in anticompetitive price discrimination. The FTC claimed that for years, Pepsi has disadvantaged retailers – including local convenience stores – by consistently giving benefits and advantages, such as promotional payments, to a big-box store, while denying those same benefits to the store’s competitors.
    In February 2025, two small, family-owned convenience stores accused Pepsi and its subsidiary Frito-Lay of violating the RPA, claiming the corporation charged independent retailers more “for identical bags of snack chips” compared to what it charged chain stores. The plaintiffs claimed they were charged as much as 50 percent more for those goods, and that the “discriminatory pricing” forced them to pass on the higher costs to consumers. 
    “The Robinson-Patman Act is an important tool for the FTC to combat illegal price discrimination and concentration, and to provide a level playing field to all businesses…Charging discriminatory, high prices to smaller, independent retailers harms those retailers’ ability to compete, and often forces consumers to endure unfair price increases,” wrote the lawmakers. 
    The RPA forbids sellers from charging competing buyers different prices for the same goods when the price discrimination may lessen or harm competition. The law also prohibits special promotional payments, discounts, rebates, allowances, or services to one buyer unless they are made available to all competing buyers.
    “As food prices remain sky-high, the FTC should continue to enforce the RPA to promote fair competition in the food industry,” urged the lawmakers. 
    The bicameral coalition asked Pepsi to explain, by May 25, 2025, its pricing strategies, any discrepancies between what it charges chain retailers and small, independent retailers, how these price discrepancies affect shopping options for consumers, and the company’s lobbying efforts to refute price discrimination allegations.  
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: TWFG Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE WOODLANDS, Texas, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — – Total Revenues increased 16.6% for the quarter over the prior year period to $53.8 million
    – Total Written Premium increased 15.5% for the quarter over the prior year period to $371.0 million
    – Organic Revenue Growth Rate* of 14.3% for the quarter –
    – Net income of $6.9 million for the quarter
    – Adjusted EBITDA* increased 35.3% for the quarter over the prior year period to $12.2 million

    THE WOODLANDS, Texas, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – TWFG, Inc. (“TWFG”, the “Company” or “we”) (NASDAQ: TWFG), a high-growth insurance distribution company, today announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Total revenues for the quarter increased 16.6% to $53.8 million, compared to $46.1 million in the prior year period
    • Commission income for the quarter increased 14.7% to $48.8 million, compared to $42.5 million in the prior year period
    • Net income for the quarter was $6.9 million, compared to $6.6 million in the prior year period, and net income margin for the quarter was 12.7%
    • Diluted Earnings Per Share for the quarter was $0.09 and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share* for the quarter was $0.16
    • Total Written Premium for the quarter increased 15.5% to $371.0 million, compared to $321.3 million in the prior year period
    • Organic Revenue Growth Rate* for the quarter was 14.3%
    • Adjusted Net Income* for the quarter increased 14.3% from the prior year period to $9.2 million, and Adjusted Net Income Margin* for the quarter was 17.1%
    • Adjusted EBITDA* for the quarter increased 35.3% over the prior year period to $12.2 million, and Adjusted EBITDA Margin* for the quarter was 22.6% compared to 19.5% in the prior year period

    *Organic Revenue Growth Rate, Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Net Income Margin, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share are non-GAAP measures. Reconciliations of Organic Revenue Growth Rate to total revenue growth rate, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EBITDA to net income, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share to diluted earnings per share, and Adjusted Free Cash Flow to cash flow from operating activities, the most directly comparable financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP, are outlined in the reconciliation table accompanying this release.

    Gordy Bunch, Founder, Chairman, and CEO said “Our strong first quarter performance reflects the continued execution of our strategy and strength of our business model. Total revenues grew 16.6% year-over-year, and Adjusted EBITDA increased by 35.3%, and Adjusted EBITDA Margin expansion grew to 22.6%. Organic Revenue Growth of 14.3% underscores the productivity of our agents and the enduring value we deliver to our carrier partners and clients.

    Our recruiting momentum remains robust as we continue to expand our national footprint. During the quarter, we completed the acquisition of two new corporate locations, one in Ohio and one in Texas, expanded into New Hampshire, and added 17 branches across the U.S. The new locations are in line with our acquisition expectations for both revenue and EBITDA.

    As a reminder to our shareholders, newly onboarded agents typically take two to three years to reach full productivity.”

    First Quarter 2025 Results

    Total Written Premium for the first quarter of 2025 was $371.0 million, representing an increase of 15.5% compared to the prior year period. Total revenues were $53.8 million, an increase of 16.6% year-over-year.

    Organic Revenue, a non-GAAP measure that excludes contingent income, non-policy fee income, and other income, was $49.2 million for the first quarter of 2025, compared to $41.6 million in the prior year period. Organic Revenue Growth Rate was 14.3%, driven by robust new business production, moderating retention levels, rate increases, and continued growth in new business activity within one of our managing general agency (MGA) programs.

    Commission expense for the quarter totaled $31.8 million, an increase of 20.3% compared to $26.4 million in the prior year period. This increase reflects the continued growth of our business, partially offset by the one-time favorable adjustment in prior year period due to the branch conversions.

    Salaries and employee benefits were $8.2 million, an increase of 31.1% compared to $6.3 million in the first quarter of 2025. The increase includes $1.2 million of equity compensation expense and $0.7 million related to increased headcount and overall business growth.

    Other administrative expenses were $4.7 million in the quarter, up 50.9% from the prior year period. The increase reflects investments to support business growth and the absorption of public company operating costs.

    Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $6.9 million, compared to $6.6 million in the prior year period. Net income margin was 12.7%, compared to 14.4% a year ago. Adjusted Net Income was $9.2 million for the quarter, compared to $8.1 million in the same period last year. Adjusted Net Income Margin was 17.1%, versus 17.5% in the prior year period.

    Adjusted EBITDA was $12.2 million for the first quarter, an increase of 35.3% year-over-year. Adjusted EBITDA Margin expanded to 22.6%, compared to 19.5% in the first quarter of 2024.

    Cash flow from operating activities was $15.6 million, up from $9.8 million in the prior year period. Adjusted Free Cash Flow for the quarter was $13.6 million, compared to $7.3 million in the same period a year ago.

    Liquidity and Capital Resources

    As of March 31, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $196.4 million. We had full unused capacity on our revolving credit facility of $50.0 million as of March 31, 2025. The total outstanding term notes payable balance was $5.4 million as of March 31, 2025.

    2025 Adjusted Outlook

    Based on our strong first quarter results, the Company has updated its full-year 2025 guidance by raising the range of the outlook across all key metrics to reflect the improved visibility and confidence in the Company’s execution.

    • Organic Revenue Growth Rate*: Expected to be in the range of 12% to 16% (prior: 11% to 16%)
    • Adjusted EBITDA Margin*: Expected to be in the range of 20% to 22% (prior: 19% to 21%)
    • Total Revenues: Expected to be between $240 million and $255 million (prior: $235 million to $250 million)

    The Company is unable to provide a reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP measures without unreasonable efforts due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting the timing of items that have not yet occurred, as well as quantifying certain amounts that are necessary for such reconciliation.

    *For a definition of Organic Revenue Growth Rate and Adjusted EBITDA Margin, see “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

    Conference Call Information

    TWFG will host a conference call and webcast tomorrow at 9:00 AM ET to discuss these results.

    To access the call by phone, participants should register at this link, where they will be provided with the dial in details. A live webcast of the conference call will also be available on TWFG’s investor relations website at investors.twfg.com. A webcast replay of the call will be available at investors.twfg.com for one year following the call.

    About TWFG

    TWFG (NASDAQ: TWFG) is a high-growth, independent distribution platform for personal and commercial insurance in the United States and represents hundreds of insurance carriers that underwrite personal lines and commercial lines risks. For more information, please visit twfg.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “outlook,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue,” the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, may include projections of our future financial performance, our anticipated growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including those factors discussed under the captions entitled “Risk factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, any Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the other documents that the Company files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. You should specifically consider the numerous risks outlined under “Risk factors” in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Performance Indicators

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Organic Revenue, Organic Revenue Growth, Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Net Income Margin, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin and Adjusted Free Cash Flow included in this release are not measures of financial performance in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and should not be considered substitutes for GAAP measures, including revenues (for Organic Revenue and Organic Revenue Growth), net income (for Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Net Income Margin, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin), diluted earnings per share (Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share), and cash flow from operating activities (for Adjusted Free Cash Flow), which we consider to be the most directly comparable GAAP measures. These non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools, and when assessing our operating performance, you should not consider these non-GAAP financial measures in isolation or as substitutes for revenues, net income, operating cash flow or other consolidated financial statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate any or all of these non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures.

    Organic Revenue. Since the first quarter of 2025, we have utilized the revised calculation methodology for Organic Revenue to include policy fee income as it is directly correlated to MGA commission income. Our legacy calculation methodology removed policy fee income from Organic Revenue. Organic Revenue is total revenue (the most directly comparable GAAP measure) for the relevant period, excluding contingent income, non-policy fee income, other income and those revenues generated from acquired businesses with over $0.5 million in annualized revenue that have not reached the twelve-month owned mark.

    Organic Revenue Growth. Organic Revenue Growth is the change in Organic Revenue period-to-period, with prior period results adjusted to include revenues that were excluded in the prior period because the relevant acquired businesses had not reached the twelve-month-owned milestone but have reached the twelve-month owned milestone in the current period. We believe Organic Revenue Growth is an appropriate measure of operating performance because it eliminates the impact of acquisitions, which affects the comparability of results from period to period.

    Adjusted Net Income. Adjusted Net Income is a supplemental measure of our performance and is defined as net income (the most directly comparable GAAP measure) before amortization, non-recurring or non-operating income and expenses, including equity-based compensation, adjusted to assume a single class of stock (Class A) and assuming noncontrolling interests do not exist. We believe Adjusted Net Income is a useful measure because it adjusts for the after-tax impact of significant one-time, non-recurring items and eliminates the impact of any transactions that do not directly affect what management considers to be our ongoing operating performance in the period. These adjustments generally eliminate the effects of certain items that may vary from company to company for reasons unrelated to overall operating performance.

    We are subject to U.S. federal income taxes, in addition to state, and local taxes, with respect to our allocable share of any net taxable income of TWFG Holding Company, LLC. Adjusted Net Income pre-IPO did not reflect adjustments for income taxes since TWFG Holding Company, LLC is a limited liability company and is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Post-IPO, the calculation incorporates the impact of federal and state statutory tax rates on 100% of our adjusted pre-tax income as if the Company owned 100% of TWFG Holding Company, LLC.

    Adjusted Net Income Margin. Adjusted Net Income Margin is Adjusted Net Income divided by total revenues. We believe that Adjusted Net Income Margin is a useful measurement of operating profitability for the same reasons we find Adjusted Net Income useful and also because it provides a period-to-period comparison of our after-tax operating performance.

    Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share. Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share is Adjusted Net Income divided by diluted shares outstanding after adjusting for the effect of (i) the exchange of 100% of the outstanding Class B common stock of the Company (the “Class B Common Stock”) and Class C common stock of the Company (the “Class C Common Stock”) (together with the related limited liability units in TWFG Holding Company, LLC (the “LLC Units”)) into shares of Class A common stock of the Company (“Class A Common Stock”) and (ii) the vesting of 100% of the unvested equity awards and exchange into shares of Class A Common Stock. This measure does not deduct earnings related to the noncontrolling interests in TWFG Holding Company, LLC for the period prior to July 19, 2024, when we did not own 100% of the business. The most directly comparable GAAP financial metric is diluted earnings per share. We believe Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share may be useful to an investor in evaluating our operating performance and efficiency because this measure is widely used by investors to measure a company’s operating performance without regard to items excluded from the calculation of such measure, which can vary substantially from company to company depending upon acquisition activity and capital structure. This measure also eliminates the impact of expenses that do not relate to core business performance, among other factors.

    Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is a supplemental measure of our performance and is defined as EBITDA adjusted to reflect items such as equity-based compensation, interest income, other non-operating and certain nonrecurring items. EBITDA is defined as net income (the most directly comparable GAAP measure) before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is an appropriate measure of operating performance because it adjusts for significant one-time, non-recurring items and eliminates the ongoing accounting effects of certain capital spending and acquisitions, such as depreciation and amortization, that do not directly affect what management considers to be our ongoing operating performance in the period. These adjustments eliminate the effects of certain items that may vary from company to company for reasons unrelated to overall operating performance. Our measure of Adjusted EBITDA is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to potential inconsistencies in the methods of calculation.

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is Adjusted EBITDA divided by total revenue. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA Margin is a useful measurement of operating profitability for the same reasons we find Adjusted EBITDA useful and also because it provides a period-to-period comparison of our operating performance.

    Adjusted Free Cash Flow. Adjusted Free Cash Flow is a supplemental measure of our performance. We define Adjusted Free Cash Flow as cash flow from operating activities (the most directly comparable GAAP measure) less cash payments for tax distributions, purchases of property and equipment and acquisition-related costs. We believe Adjusted Free Cash Flow is a useful measure of operating performance because it represents the cash flow from the business that is within our discretion to direct to activities including investments, debt repayment, and returning capital to stockholders.

    The reconciliation of the above non-GAAP measures to their most comparable GAAP financial measure is outlined in the reconciliation table accompanying this release.

    Key Performance Indicators

    Total Written Premium. Total Written Premium represents, for any reported period, the total amount of current premium (net of cancellation) placed with insurance carriers. We utilize Total Written Premium as a key performance indicator when planning, monitoring, and evaluating our performance. We believe Total Written Premium is a useful metric because it is the underlying driver of the majority of our revenue.

    Contacts
    Investor Contact:
    Gene Padgett, CAO for TWFG
    Email: gene.padgett@twfg.com

    PR Contact:
    Alex Bunch, CMO for TWFG
    Email: alex@twfg.com


    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (Unaudited)
    (Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Revenues        
    Commission income(1)   $ 48,785     $ 42,545  
    Contingent income     1,663       1,076  
    Fee income(2)     3,011       2,232  
    Other income     364       290  
    Total revenues     53,823       46,143  
    Expenses        
    Commission expense     31,814       26,443  
    Salaries and employee benefits     8,196       6,254  
    Other administrative expenses(3)     4,724       3,130  
    Depreciation and amortization     3,359       3,013  
    Total operating expenses     48,093       38,840  
    Operating income     5,730       7,303  
    Interest expense     83       842  
    Interest income     1,863       170  
    Other non-operating expense     1       2  
    Income before tax     7,509       6,629  
    Income tax expense     656        
    Net income     6,853       6,629  
    Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests     5,515       6,629  
    Net income attributable to TWFG, Inc.     1,338        
             
    Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding:        
    Basic     14,889,739      
    Diluted     15,055,553      
    Earnings per share:        
    Basic   $ 0.09      
    Diluted   $ 0.09      
             

    (1) Commission income – related party of $3,135 and $1,109 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively
    (2) Fee income – related party of $834 and $354 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively
    (3) Other administrative expenses – related party of $770 and $401 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively

    The following table presents the disaggregation of our revenues by offerings (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Insurance Services        
    Agency-in-a-Box   $ 35,996     $ 31,729  
    Corporate Branches     8,223       7,276  
    Total Insurance Services     44,219       39,005  
    TWFG MGA     9,195       6,794  
    Other     409       344  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
             

    The following table presents the disaggregation of our commission income by offerings (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Insurance Services        
    Agency-in-a-Box   $ 33,358     $ 29,900  
    Corporate Branches     8,214       7,250  
    Total Insurance Services     41,572       37,150  
    TWFG MGA     7,213       5,395  
    Total commission income   $ 48,785     $ 42,545  
             

    The following table presents the disaggregation of our fee income by major sources (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Policy fees   $ 1,051     $ 513  
    Branch fees     1,256       1,131  
    License fees     608       515  
    TPA fees     96       73  
    Total fee income   $ 3,011     $ 2,232  
             

    The following table presents the disaggregation of our commission expense by offerings (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Insurance Services        
    Agency-in-a-Box   $ 25,954       22,028  
    Corporate Branches     1,105       862  
    Total Insurance Services     27,059       22,890  
    TWFG MGA     4,726       3,535  
    Other     29       18  
    Total commission expense   $ 31,814     $ 26,443  
             


    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited)
    (Amounts in thousands, except share/unit data)

        March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets        
    Current assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 196,424     $ 195,772  
    Restricted cash     11,853       9,551  
    Commissions receivable, net     23,575       27,067  
    Accounts receivable     8,053       7,839  
    Other current assets, net     1,500       1,619  
    Total current assets     241,405       241,848  
    Non-current assets        
    Intangible assets, net     80,919       72,978  
    Property and equipment, net     3,364       3,499  
    Lease right-of-use assets, net     4,307       4,493  
    Other non-current assets     535       610  
    Total assets   $ 330,530     $ 323,428  
             
    Liabilities and Equity        
    Current liabilities        
    Commissions payable   $ 16,303     $ 13,848  
    Carrier liabilities     14,710       12,392  
    Operating lease liabilities, current     1,124       1,013  
    Short-term bank debt     1,927       1,912  
    Deferred acquisition payable, current     1,956       601  
    Other current liabilities     6,842       9,851  
    Total current liabilities     42,862       39,617  
    Non-current liabilities        
    Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion     3,119       3,372  
    Long-term bank debt     3,519       4,007  
    Deferred acquisition payable, non-current     973       1,122  
    Other non-current liabilities           24  
    Total liabilities     50,473       48,142  
    Commitment and contingencies (see Note 14)        
    Stockholders’/Members’ Equity        
    Class A common stock ($0.01 par value per share – 300,000,000 authorized, 14,904,083 and 14,811,874 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively )     149       148  
    Class B common stock ($0.00001 par value per share – 100,000,000 authorized, 7,277,651 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024)            
    Class C common stock ($0.00001 par value per share – 100,000,000 authorized, 33,893,810 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024)            
    Additional paid-in capital     58,374       58,365  
    Retained earnings     16,626       15,288  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income     65       83  
    Total stockholders’ equity attributable to TWFG, Inc.     75,214       73,884  
    Noncontrolling interests     204,843       201,402  
    Total stockholders’ equity     280,057       275,286  
    Total liabilities and equity   $ 330,530     $ 323,428  
             


    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    A reconciliation of Organic Revenue and Organic Revenue Growth Rate to Total Revenue and Total Revenue Growth Rate, the most directly comparable GAAP measures, is as follows (in thousands):

    Revised Calculation Methodology Applied to Current Period
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
    Acquisition adjustments(1)     (610 )     (1,467 )
    Contingent income     (1,663 )     (1,076 )
    Fee income     (3,011 )     (2,232 )
    Policy fee income     1,051       513  
    Other income     (364 )     (290 )
    Organic Revenue   $ 49,226     $ 41,591  
    Organic Revenue Growth(2)   $ 6,169     $ 4,780  
    Total Revenue Growth Rate(3)     16.6 %     15.8 %
    Organic Revenue Growth Rate(2)     14.3 %     13.0 %
             

    (1) Represents revenues generated from the acquired businesses during the first 12 months following an acquisition.
    (2) Revised Organic Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, used to calculate Organic Revenue Growth for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, was $43.1 million and $36.8 million, respectively, which is adjusted to reflect revenues from acquired businesses with over $0.5 million in annualized revenue that reached the twelve-month owned mark during the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Organic Revenue Growth Rate represents the period-to-period change in Organic Revenue divided by the total adjusted Organic Revenue in the prior period.
    (3) Represents the period-to-period change in total revenues divided by the total revenues in the prior period.

    Legacy Calculation Methodology Applied to Current Period
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
    Acquisition adjustments(1)     (610 )     (1,467 )
    Contingent income     (1,663 )     (1,076 )
    Fee income     (3,011 )     (2,232 )
    Other income     (364 )     (290 )
    Organic Revenue   $ 48,175     $ 41,078  
    Organic Revenue Growth(2)   $ 5,630     $ 4,822  
    Total Revenue Growth Rate(3)     16.6 %     15.8 %
    Organic Revenue Growth Rate(2)     13.2 %     13.3 %
             

    (1) Represents revenues generated from the acquired businesses during the first 12 months following an acquisition.
    (2) Organic Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, used to calculate Organic Revenue Growth for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, was $42.5 million and $36.3 million, respectively, which is adjusted to reflect revenues from acquired businesses with over $0.5 million in annualized revenue that reached the twelve-month owned mark during the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Organic Revenue Growth Rate represents the period-to-period change in Organic Revenue divided by the total adjusted Organic Revenue in the prior period.
    (3) Represents the period-to-period change in total revenues divided by the total revenues in the prior period.

    A reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Net Income Margin to Net income and Net income Margin, the most directly comparable GAAP measures, for each of the periods indicated is as follows (in thousands):

    Revised Calculation Methodology Applied to Current Period
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
    Net income   $ 6,853     $ 6,629  
    Income tax expense     656        
    Acquisition-related expenses     33        
    Equity-based compensation     1,204        
    Other non-recurring items(1)           (1,477 )
    Amortization expense     3,210       2,917  
    Adjusted income before income taxes     11,956       8,069  
    Adjusted income tax expense(2)     (2,736 )      
    Adjusted Net Income   $ 9,220     $ 8,069  
    Net Income Margin     12.7 %     14.4 %
    Adjusted Net Income Margin     17.1 %     17.5 %
             
    Legacy Calculation Methodology Applied to Current Period
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
    Net income   $ 6,853     $ 6,629  
    Income tax expense     656        
    Acquisition-related expenses     33        
    Equity-based compensation     1,204        
    Other non-recurring items(1)           (1,477 )
    Adjusted income before income taxes   $ 8,746     $ 5,152  
    Adjusted income tax expense(2)     (2,001 )      
    Adjusted Net Income   $ 6,745     $ 5,152  
    Net Income Margin     12.7 %     14.4 %
    Adjusted Net Income Margin     12.5 %     11.2 %
             

    (1) Represents a one-time adjustment reducing commission expense, which resulted from the branch conversions. In January 2024, nine of our Branches converted to Corporate Branches. Upon conversion, agents of the newly converted Corporate Branches became employees and received salaries, employee benefits, and bonuses for services rendered instead of commissions. As a result, we released a portion of the unpaid commissions related to the converted branches that we no longer are required to settle.
    (2) Post-IPO, we are subject to United States federal income taxes, in addition to state, local, and foreign taxes, with respect to our allocable share of any net taxable income of TWFG Holding Company, LLC. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, the calculation of adjusted income tax expense is based on a federal statutory rate of 21% and a blended state income tax rate of 1.88% on 100% of our adjusted income before income taxes as if we owned 100% of the TWFG Holding Company, LLC.

    A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin to Net income and Net income margin, the most directly comparable GAAP measures, for each of the periods indicated is as follows (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Total revenues   $ 53,823     $ 46,143  
    Net income   $ 6,853     $ 6,629  
    Interest expense     83       842  
    Interest income     (1,863 )     (170 )
    Depreciation and amortization     3,359       3,013  
    Income tax expense     656        
    EBITDA     9,088       10,314  
    Acquisition-related expenses     33        
    Equity-based compensation     1,204        
    Interest income     1,863       170  
    Other non-recurring items(1)           (1,477 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 12,188     $ 9,007  
    Net Income Margin     12.7 %     14.4 %
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     22.6 %     19.5 %
             

    (1) Represents a one-time adjustment reducing commission expense, which resulted from the branch conversions. In January 2024, nine of our Branches converted to Corporate Branches. Upon conversion, agents of the newly converted Corporate Branches became employees and received salaries, employee benefits, and bonuses for services rendered instead of commissions. As a result, we released a portion of the unpaid commissions related to the converted branches that we no longer are required to settle.

    A reconciliation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow to Cash Flow from Operating Activities, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, for each of the periods indicated is as follows (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Cash Flow from Operating Activities   $ 15,645     $ 9,754  
    Purchase of property and equipment     (15 )     (8 )
    Tax distribution to members(1)     (2,024 )     (2,420 )
    Acquisition-related expenses     33        
    Adjusted Free Cash Flow   $ 13,639     $ 7,326  
             

    (1) Tax distributions to members represents the amount distributed to the members of TWFG Holding Company, LLC in respect of their income tax liability related to the net income of TWFG Holding Company, LLC allocated to its members.

    A reconciliation of Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share to diluted earnings per share, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, is as follows:

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025  
    Earnings per share of common stock – diluted   $ 0.09  
    Plus: Impact of all LLC Units exchanged for Class A Common Stock(1)     0.03  
    Plus: Adjustments to Adjusted net income(2)     0.04  
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share   $ 0.16  
         
    Weighted average common stock outstanding – diluted     15,055,553  
    Plus: Impact of all LLC Units exchanged for Class A Common Stock(1)     41,171,461  
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share diluted share count     56,227,014  
         

    (1) For comparability purposes, this calculation incorporates the net income that would be distributable if all shares of Class B Common Stock and Class C Common Stock, together with the related LLC Units, were exchanged for shares of Class A Common Stock. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, this includes $5.5 million of net income on 56,227,014 weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding – diluted. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, 41,260,844 weighted average outstanding Class B Common Stock and Class C Common Stock were considered dilutive and included in the 56,227,014 weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding – diluted within diluted earnings per share calculation.
    (2) Adjustments to Adjusted Net Income are described in the footnotes of the reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income to Net Income in “Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Net Income Margin”, which represent the difference between Net Income of $6.9 million and Adjusted Net Income of $9.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share include adjustments of $2.4 million to Adjusted Net Income on 56,227,014 weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding – diluted for the period presented.

    Key Performance Indicators

    The following presents the disaggregation of Total Written Premium by offerings, business mix and line of business (in thousands):

        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
        Amount   % of Total   Amount   % of Total
    Offerings:                
    Insurance Services                
    Agency-in-a-Box   $ 249,475     68 %   $ 218,936     68 %
    Corporate Branches     68,098     18       57,884     18  
    Total Insurance Services     317,573     86       276,820     86  
    TWFG MGA     53,389     14       44,446     14  
    Total written premium   $ 370,962     100 %   $ 321,266     100 %
                     
    Business Mix:                
    Insurance Services                
    Renewal business   $ 244,845     66 %     214,477     67 %
    New business     72,728     20       62,343     19  
    Total Insurance Services     317,573     86       276,820     86  
                     
    TWFG MGA                
    Renewal business     36,375     9       35,464     11  
    New business     17,014     5       8,982     3  
    Total TWFG MGA     53,389     14       44,446     14  
        Total written premium   $ 370,962     100 %   $ 321,266     100 %
                     
    Written Premium Retention:                
    Insurance Services       88 %       97 %
    TWFG MGA       82         81  
    Consolidated       88         94  
                     
    Line of Business:                
    Personal lines   $ 298,289     80 %   $ 254,864     79 %
    Commercial lines     72,673     20       66,402     21  
    Total written premium   $ 370,962     100 %   $ 321,266     100 %
                     

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Morocco’s Ambassador Visits Edinburgh to Spark Energy and Agriculture Partnerships

    SOURCE: Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA)

    The Ambassador’s visit will include meetings with key stakeholders from government, industry and academia, as well as a number of roundtables and site visits with Scottish businesses eager to explore opportunities in Morocco
    ABERDEEN, Scotland, May 13, 2025 – The Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) (www.AfricaScot.com) is delighted to announce the forthcoming visit of His Excellency Hakim Hajoui, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Kingdom, to Scotland. This high-level visit will focus on strengthening partnerships between Scotland and Morocco across the energy, renewable energy and agriculture sectors.

    The Ambassador’s visit will include meetings with key stakeholders from government, industry and academia, as well as a number of roundtables and site visits with Scottish businesses eager to explore opportunities in Morocco – one of Africa’s most dynamic and forward-looking economies.

    Morocco has established itself as a renewable energy leader in Africa, with a goal of sourcing over 50% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. Major investment opportunities exist in solar, wind, green hydrogen and grid infrastructure. The country is also undertaking significant modernisation of its agriculture sector, with a focus on sustainable farming, water management, and agri-tech innovation — all areas where Scottish companies and research institutions have exceptional capabilities.

    Education and skills training will also be a key focus of the visit, as both Scotland and Morocco recognise the importance of developing human capital to drive forward innovation and economic growth. Scottish universities and training institutions have a long history of providing world-class education, and through new partnerships, there is a real opportunity to support Morocco’s workforce development in line with its evolving industrial needs.

    Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer of the Scottish Africa Business Association, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Ambassador of Morocco to Scotland. This visit comes at a pivotal time as Morocco accelerates its ambitious green energy transition and advances major agricultural reforms. Scotland’s world-class expertise in renewable energy, offshore wind, green hydrogen and agricultural innovation is a perfect match for Morocco’s ambitions. We see enormous opportunities for Scottish businesses to partner with Moroccan counterparts, share know-how and co-create solutions that will benefit both nations.”

    The visit will serve as a catalyst for building new partnerships, enhancing trade and investment and cultivating knowledge exchange between Scotland and Morocco.

    Companies can register to attend at https://apo-opa.co/456agPk                
    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA).

    About the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA):
    SABA is the preeminent non-political, Africa focussed, members trade organisation with an unrivalled board of experienced directors which promotes trade, investment and knowledge sharing between Scotland’s world class expertise and Africa’s priority sectors including energy, agriculture, the blue economy, healthcare, skills training and education by leveraging extensive commercial, trade, political and government contacts across Scotland and Africa.

    As part of this, our team organises private meetings, round tables, seminars, conferences, global trade missions and offers market research, intelligence sharing and consultancy services.          

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Largest number ever of around 200 Japanese companies to participate in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Business Expo & Conference

    SOURCE: Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

    Seeking opportunities in African markets with diverse business contents

    TOKYO, Japan, May 13, 2025 – Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO; Chairman and CEO: ISHIGURO Norihiko; Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo) (www.JETRO.go.jp) is pleased to announce that it will host the TICAD Business Expo & Conference from 20 to 22 August 2025, as one of the Thematic Events of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).

    This event will comprise four zones – Japan Fair, Africa Lounge, Event Stage, and Thematic Exhibitions – bringing together diverse content in one venue in a new style of event organisation. A total of 196 Japanese companies and organisations (including 107 small and medium enterprises (SMEs)) will be participating in Japan Fair, the largest number ever, making the TICAD business Expo & Conference the largest-ever Africa-related event to be organised by JETRO.

    Download Exhibitor List: https://apo-opa.co/3F6KiAM

    TICAD9 will be held in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture from 20 to 22 August 2025, led by the Government of Japan and co-hosted by United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), African Union Commission (AUC) and World Bank. In conjunction with TICAD9, JETRO has planned the TICAD Business Expo & Conference as a new style of business events that brings together diverse exhibits and opportunities for interaction. In order to support the proactive initiatives of Japanese companies to grasp expanding business opportunities in the African market, JETRO has updated its event model from a conventional exhibition to provide a more practical venue for business exchanges.

    Japan Fair aims to create new business opportunities in the African market by introducing excellent products, technologies, and the services of Japanese companies to government officials and business leaders visiting Japan from African countries. The exhibition is comprised of eight thematic zones, based on the African Union’s Agenda 2063, including “Infrastructure,” “Health and Sanitation Improvement,” and “Food Value Chain.” A totally new addition for TICAD9 will be a “Pop Culture” zone.

    Africa Lounge will feature the presentation of investment and business information from African governments for Japanese businesspeople interested in doing business in Africa.

    The Event Stage will feature seminars based on business themes and thematic panel discussions by Japanese companies. JETRO is also planning panel discussions that bring together key persons from the African business community, as well as other pop culture and innovation-themed events.

    At the Thematic Exhibitions JETRO will be showcasing the two themes of “Pop Culture” and “Innovation.” The Pop Culture exhibition will highlight the potential for business development utilising content originating from Japan, and the Innovation exhibition will introduce groundbreaking ideas and technology that promise to open up a new future for Africa and Japan.

    In addition to the record number of exhibiting companies and organisations at Japan Fair, the TICAD Business Expo & Conference will incorporate new approaches to exhibitions and planning, including pop culture and innovation, seeking to invigorate business exchanges with Africa in new and unprecedented ways. The event will bring together diverse stakeholders from Japan and Africa and is expected to create new partnerships and business matching opportunities.

    JETRO will use this event as an opportunity to continue to support Japanese companies in raising their visibility and expanding their businesses in the African market.

    Overview

    TICAD9

    Name: Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9)
    Date: Wednesday 20 – Friday 22 August 2025
    Organiser: Led by the Government of Japan, and co-hosted by the United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), African Union Commission, and the World Bank
    Location: Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
    Official website: (English) https://apo-opa.co/4meBrh8
    (Japanese) https://apo-opa.co/4jSsIzF

    TICAD Business Expo & Conference

    Date: Wednesday 20 – Friday 22 August 2025
    Organiser/Co-Organiser: JETRO, Japan Business Council for Africa (JBCA)
    Supported by: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
    Venue: Pacific Yokohama, Hall B & C (Minato-Mirai 1-1-1, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012)
    Total area: 10,000 m2  
    Zones: Japan Fair, Africa Lounge, Event Stage, Thematic Exhibitions

    About Japan Fair

    Expected exhibitors: 196 companies and organisations (as of May 13) (excluding duplicates) (including in-booth exhibits)

    *Of the above number, 107 participants are SMEs

    *Participants from 30 Japanese prefectures.
    Yamagata (1), Fukushima (1), Ibaraki (1), Gunma (1), Saitama (2), Chiba (2), Tokyo (111), Kanagawa (18), Niigata (1), Ishikawa (2), Yamanashi (1), Nagano (6), Gifu (1), Shizuoka (2), Aichi (6), Shiga (1), Kyoto (7), Osaka (15), Hyogo (13), Nara (1), Okayama (1), Hiroshima (2), Tokushima (1), Kagawa (2), Ehime (2), Fukuoka (1), Saga (1), Kumamoto (2), Miyazaki (1), Okinawa (2). (Figures in parenthesis indicate number of companies/organisations. Includes companies/organisations with more than one location.)

    *Number of participants by zone:
    Japanese Companies Driving Growth in Africa: 63
    Transforming Infrastructure: 55
    Advancing Healthcare and Sanitation Standards: 24
    Food Value Chain: 23
    Skills for the Future: 14
    Climate Solutions: 14
    Sustainable Urban Development Solutions: 3
    Pop Culture: 2

    Overview and outcomes of Japan-Africa Business Expo held at TICAD7 in 2019

    Date: 28-30 August 2019
    Total area: 6,700 m2
    No. of visitors: Approx. 21,000
    No. of Japan Fair exhibitors: 156 companies/organisations (including 81 SMEs)
    No. of exhibiting countries in Africa Lounge: 45

    Attachment

    List of expected participating companies/organisations  

    About JETRO:
    JETRO is a policy implementation organisation that aims to contribute to the further development of Japan’s economy and society through trade and investment promotion and research on developing countries. With an international and domestic network comprising over 70 overseas offices and approximately 50 domestic operating hubs, including Tokyo Headquarters, JETRO Osaka, the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE) and regional offices, JETRO contributes to Japan’s corporate activities and trade policy through surveys and studies, working agilely and efficiently to support the creation of innovation, exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and foodstuffs, and the overseas expansion of Japanese enterprises.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: RBNZ Stats Alert Business Expectations Survey: Launch of regular publication set for 21 May

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    RBNZ stats alert: 14 May 2025 – Kia ora koutou, On 21 May 2025 we will be launching the Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey (BES), publishing results for the June quarter. Publication will be in advance of the 28 May Monetary Policy Statement, in line with the timing of our other expectations surveys.

    We would like to thank all the businesses that have made the development and launch of the new Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey possible and enabled us to build a representative sample survey of New Zealand businesses.

    This new survey includes several hundred businesses from different sectors around the country, from small to large firms. It is separate from the existing Survey of Expectations focusing on expert forecasters and economists, and industry leaders (Table M14, from 1987 onwards), which will continue.

    Business Expectations Survey publication on 21 May, after 3pm

    The launch of BES marks the beginning of the regular quarterly publication of the survey and the conclusion of a successful development phase that involved public consultation and pilots to build the sample and test content and methodology. The launch will feature a new web table with population estimates of economy-wide expectations:

    M15 Business Expectations Survey

    The sample size and design enable new breakdowns by business size and industry, which will be published in the data file accompanying Table M15. The initial publication will include our Stats Insight, a background note as a guide to interpret the new survey results, and a description of our survey methodology.

    It should be noted that while this survey represents a significant uplift in our expectations data, more observations are needed (beyond the short historical timeseries that will be available at launch) to enable us to estimate the relationship between these data and ultimate inflation outcomes. We anticipate that the results of this survey will become key statistical series used by central banks, researchers, financial institutions and commentators.

    Background information

    Inflation expectations are important because households and businesses reflect their expectations in their price- and wage-setting decisions. Improving the quality of our expectation surveys is part of the wider response to our 2022 review of how we formulate and implement our monetary policy. In this review, we identified several areas where better data could support high quality monetary policy decision-making.

    For further information please see: Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Survey design and development: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=b66e552e95&e=f3c68946f8

    RBNZ’s existing expectations surveys:
    Survey of expectations (M14): https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=16ac7517ae&e=f3c68946f8
    Household inflation expectations (H1): https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=da9067ab97&e=f3c68946f8
     

    Additional wholesale interest rate data now being published

    From 12 May 2025, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua began publishing two new daily series on Table B2, making more data available on wholesale interest rates that apply to large institutions in New Zealand markets.

    The new daily series on Table B2 are:

    Overnight Deposit Rate: the rate of remuneration ESAS account holders receive for funds that are held overnight in their account at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua. For further information please see: What is ESAS
     
    Overnight Reverse Repo Rate: the rate that is charged to borrow funds lent overnight via the Reserve Bank’s Overnight Reverse Repo Facility (ORRF). For further information on the key standing facilities provided to market participants, including the ORRF, please see: Facilities at a glance – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua

    This data will add to the wide range of information that is available to support the analysis of the New Zealand financial system and understanding the transmission of monetary policy through wholesale interest rates quoted in New Zealand markets.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads Bipartisan Bill to Support Small Businesses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Improving Access to Small Business Information Act, a bipartisan bill to reduce red tape and streamline the process to gather timely information at the Securities and Exchanges Commission (SEC) Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation. 

    The Improving Access to Small Business Information Act would amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions—like conducting field surveys—of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paper Reduction Act (PRA).  

    “The better information the federal government can gather, the better Congress and the public can identify policy gaps and help small businesses access capital they need,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “I’m proud to lead a bipartisan bill to streamline small business information gathering so our policies can keep up with economic growth and help entrepreneurs across the nation. This simple bill can hopefully make a big difference in helping our government work better for entrepreneurs who keep our economies running.”  

    “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities in Jersey. That’s why I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Improving Access to Small Business Information Act, which cuts outdated red tape and ensures that the federal government can better understand how to support small business owners from all backgrounds,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “In Congress, I’m dedicated to making our government more efficient so that we can improve access to capital for small businesses, create good-paying jobs, and unleash more economic opportunity.” 

    Read the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Urges Fiscal Responsibility and Against Healthcare Cuts in Republican Tax Plan Committee Consideration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

     

    [embedded content]

    Washington D.C. – Today, at an Energy & Commerce Committee meeting on the Republican tax plan, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) urged his colleagues to not go through with their extreme cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act to pay for tax cuts to wealthy individuals and corporations that do not need them. The Republican plan, which will not reduce the federal debt or deficit, would kick 13.7 million people off of their health insurance according to a new analysis by the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office.

    During his remarks, Rep. Peters also shared the story of his constituent, Jesus Acosta, who is an in-home care provider for his mother who was disabled after being hit by a car. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus would no longer be able to provide this care and pay the bills that keep their family together in their home.

    Rep. Peters began his remarks by stating, “This Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here. Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history. When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year. That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    He continued, “The bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide. In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up. Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.”

    And he concluded, “Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts. When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.”

    CA-50 Medicaid Facts:

    • 156,100 people in the district rely on Medicaid for health coverage—that’s 20 percent of all district residents.
      • 34,700 children in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 17,700 seniors in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 64,900 adults in the district have Medicaid coverage through Medicaid expansion—that includes pregnant women who are able to access prenatal care sooner because of Medicaid expansion, parents, caretakers, veterans, people with substance use disorder and mental health treatment needs, and people with chronic conditions and disabilities.
    • At least five hospitals in the district had negative operating margins in 2022. These hospitals would be especially hard-hit by cuts to Medicaid. For example:
      • Scripps Mercy Hospital had a negative 25.3 percent operating margin—and nearly 22 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • Sharp Coronado Hospital had a negative 3.5 percent operating margin—and over 36 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • University of California San Diego Medical Center had a negative 2.4 percent operating margin—and nearly 19 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
    • There are 54 health center delivery sites in the district that serve 529,944 patients.
    • Those health centers and patients rely on Medicaid—statewide, 69 percent of health center patients rely on Medicaid for coverage.
    • Health centers will not be able to stay open and provide the same care that they do today, with more uninsured and underinsured patients. They are already operating on thin margins—in 2023, nationally, nearly half of health centers had negative operating margins.
    • Medicaid cuts put health centers at risk, including:
      • Family Health Centers of San Diego
      • Neighborhood Healthcare
      • North County Health Project
      • San Diego American Indian Health Centers
      • St. Vincent De Paul Village

     Jesus’s Story:

    Jesus Acosta is a home care provider and member of United Domestic Workers, UDW/AFSCME, in San Diego. Jesus became a care provider after his mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled. She was a single mother who worked hard to provide for Jesus and his siblings. After her accident, Jesus felt it was his responsibility to care for the woman who always cared for him — and he’s proud to do it.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. The responsibilities that come with her care — medication management, feeding her, bathing her, taking her to doctor’s appointments, helping her with her physical therapy and to live a fulfilling life with her family — has made it difficult for Jesus to maintain full-time employment. But he is able to take care of himself and pay the bills for his family thanks to Medicaid. The program also pays for his mother’s wheelchair and doctors’ visits. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and they would be separated

    Rep. Peters’ Full Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:

    Jesus is one of my constituents from San Diego. His mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. He manages her medications, feeds her, bathes her, takes her to doctor appointments, and helps with her physical therapy.

    If these Medicaid cuts take effect, this work – this very had work — will not meet the so-called work requirements Republicans want to impose. Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and live separated, and they will lose their health care.

    Mr. Chairman, this Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here.

    Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history.

    When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year.

    That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    Yet, that’s what we are being asked to do today.  The Budget Committee instructed the Ways and Means Committee to cut taxes by $4.5 trillion and has asked our committee to come up with $880 billion in cuts to make up the shortfall.  That’s it. That’s what this is about.

    To do that, the bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide.

    In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up.

    Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.

    At home I hear from people concerned about national debt and deficits and they say to me, “hey Scott we have to make cuts to address the deficit.”  But that is not what is happening here.  Because Republicans will continue to run $2 trillion annual budget deficits and we will see the national debt grow from 36 to 38 to 40 to 42 trillion.  And they will vote for a $5 trillion increase in the debt limit to make this borrowing possible, even though many of them swore a blood oath that they’d never vote to increase the debt.  They will enact a budget that according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget will increase the federal debt by $37 trillion over 30 years. 

    Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts.

    When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.

    I urge my colleagues to vote no.

    Thank you, I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Spotlights NY-20 Family’s Medicaid Story During Markup of GOP Budget

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — During an Energy and Commerce Committee Markup on the Republican budget today, which includes massive cuts to health care for millions of Americans, Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) shared the story of a local Albany family in their own words about what Medicaid means to them.

    Tonko spoke directly with parents Noëlle and Nathan about the impact of Medicaid in providing support for their 12-year-old daughter, Isla. Their conversation can be viewed HERE.

    Tonko’s full remarks can be viewed HERE or read below as prepared for delivery:

    I’m here today fighting for people like Noëlle and Nathan, constituents of mine who are raising their family in Albany, New York. Their 12-year-old daughter Isla has a rare genetic disorder and has received healthcare through Medicaid for almost eight years because of her disabilities.  

    Through Medicaid, Isla is in a program where she has self-directed care, which means she has a budget for a caregiver, classes, respite care and more to best support Isla and her family.  

    Noëlle and Nathan shared with me that one of their first reactions when they heard about Republicans plans was fear of how it would impact Isla’s care.  

    In Noëlle’s words, “Medicaid changed our life. I can’t imagine what our life would be like without Medicaid. It is not only the direct impact it has on Isla’s quality of life but our entire family’s quality of life. I know our story is just one of millions of families who would be devastated by the loss of Medicaid.  

    Nathan added, “on the human level it has been life changing for us. On an economic level it allows us to work.  

    To lose it would be awful not only for our family but also for all the people we serve through our work.”  

    They explained to me that when you have a child with complex medical needs and disabilities you are constantly navigating systems to advocate for your child in educations settings, in healthcare settings and in dealing with insurance.  

    Noëlle described how as a parent of a child with disabilities you are often pushing through all the red tape for your child’s needs to be respected.  

    Let’s not add more red tape for this family.

    Noëlle also described how Medicaid provides Nathan and her with a breath of relief of thinking about these supports for Isla as she gets older and enters adulthood.  

    Noëlle’s shared a friend’s sentiment that Isla doesn’t need to change for the world, the world needs to change for Isla. I could not agree more.  

    Noëlle asked Members of this Committee to rethink these devastating cuts and instead provide respect and dignity for families and individuals living with disabilities.  

    On behalf of Isla and her family and families like hers across my district, New York State and the nation, I demand that we reverse course on all the cuts to Medicaid and additional red tape that would hurt so many people.  

    With that, let’s say ‘NO’ to lining the pockets of billionaires and ‘YES’ to providing access to affordable healthcare via Medicaid for so many.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS AND PRESIDENT TRUMP UNVEIL THEIR PLAN TO TRADE AWAY AMERICANS’ HEALTH COVERAGE FOR TAX CUT FOR THE WEALTHY

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    TAMPA, FL — Before heading back to Washington, D.C., where her Republican Energy and Commerce colleagues plan to rip health care away from millions of Americans and make life more expensive for everyone to fund tax breaks for the wealthy, Castor stood with local health care advocates to demand that Republicans keep their hands off our health coverage, which is life or death for many Floridians. 

    “Millions of families rely on Medicaid for their health care. I am thinking of your grandparents, who are not on the street, because Medicaid is helping them live in an assisted living facility. I am thinking about pregnant mothers who use Medicaid to ensure they have healthy births. I am thinking about children who have complex medical conditions who literally need Medicaid to survive,” said Rep. Castor.

    This is not just a debate in Washington, D.C., this is a debate that will impact whether certain people will be able to live. Medicaid has always ensured that no matter where you stand in life, you never have to suffer. For the grace of God, this could be you, and you will need to think about whether your child can have a decent quality of life, or if you can afford the doctor or medications you need to stay alive.”

    In Florida, 3.9 million people rely on Medicaid. Over 4.7 million Floridians rely on the Affordable Care Act, which Republicans want to make more expensive. The independent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) determines that at least 13.7 million more Americans will go uninsured on Trump and Congressional Republicans’ watch.  The massive financial pain will hurt all Floridians, all Americans.

    New analysis from the nonpartisan CBO found the health provisions in the Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans’ bill will cut at least $715 billion and will result in at least 8.6 million more Americans going uninsured as a result of cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. The analysis was completed at the request of Democratic Committee leaders. 

    In additional analysis, CBO determined that 5.1 million more Americans will go uninsured as a result of Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits.

    Castor continued, “Let’s stick with our all-American values. We don’t need to gut health care so billionaires like Elon Musk can buy another private jet. Let’s take care of our neighbors.”

    Castor was joined by CEO and President of Tampa Family Health Centers, Sherry Hoback, CEO and President of Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete, Dr. Kanika Tomalin and CEO and President of Evara Health, Elodie Dorso.

    Photos from the event are available here.

    Watch the press conference here.

    MIL OSI USA News