Source: African Development Bank Group
That smile — the one that starts deep within and lights up when something good is happening — is instantly recognizable. That distinctive smile graced Mama Naumi Kamau’s face as she stood in her maize field in Nakuru, Kenya on a November morning. The ears of maize were plump white grains, glowing.
Category: Economics
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MIL-OSI Economics: The field officer and the farmer: how African Fertilizer Financing Mechanism-backed investments foster enduring partnerships
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MIL-OSI Economics: IDEV Highlights Role of Evaluation in Unlocking Africa’s Financial Capital at AfDB 2025 Annual Meetings
Source: African Development Bank Group
(L-R) Rufus N. Darkortey, Executive Director at the African Development Bank representing The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Sudan, alongside Neil Cole, Financing Manager for South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Project Management Unit, Office of the President, Guillaume Le Bris, Head of Infrastructure and Energy, ILX Fund Management, Karen Rot-Münstermann, Evaluator General at African Development Bank Group, Adesoji Adelaja, John A. Hannah Distinguished Professor in Land Policy, Michigan State University and Global Fellow, Woodrow Wilson Center, David Kevin (DKL) Lumbila, Division Manager at the African Development Bank, Dr. Eric Kehinde Ogunleye as Director of African Development Institute, African Development Bank, during AM2025: Harnessing Africa’s Financial Capital.
Independent evaluations are essential to unlocking Africa’s domestic financial capital and driving reforms that deliver real development impact. This was the central message from a side event organized by the Independent Development Evaluation (IDEV) function of the African Development Bank Group, held during the Bank’s 2025 Annual Meetings in Abidjan.
The event, titled “Harnessing Africa’s Financial Capital for Development: Evidence from Independent Evaluations,” brought together evaluators, policymakers, economists, finance professionals, and private sector actors to explore how evaluation findings can strengthen resource mobilization, public financial management, and the efficient use of capital.
Opening the session, Karen Rot-Münstermann, Evaluator General of the Bank, emphasized the urgency of tapping Africa’s vast domestic capital in light of declining foreign aid and investment flows. Drawing from the Bank’s 2025 African Economic Outlook, she cited an annual loss of around $600 billion due to illicit financial flows and inefficiencies, while underscoring Africa’s potential to mobilize and retain up to about $1.43 trillion annually through better policies. “There is money in Africa,” she said, quoting AfDB Vice President and Chief Economist, Professor Kevin Urama. “It’s about mobilizing and valorizing it.”
Madhusoodhanan Mampuzhasseril, Division Manager at IDEV, presented key findings from three recent evaluations: a synthesis on public financial management, an impact evaluation of a public finance modernization project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and an evaluation of the Bank’s use of its public-private partnership mechanism. These findings emphasized the need for robust legal frameworks, effective IT systems, strong coordination mechanisms, and adaptation to local contexts.
A panel discussion moderated by Dr. Eric Ogunleye, Director of the Bank’s African Development Institute, featured diverse perspectives.
Rufus N. Darkortey, Executive Director at the Bank, illustrated how evaluation has driven impactful reforms in his constituency including The Gambia and Liberia, where it supported reforms that doubled the tax-to-GDP ratio and improved fiscal management. “All of that would not have been possible if evaluation had not been playing a driving role,” he emphasized.
Neil Cole, representing South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Unit, emphasized that resource mobilization must be matched with effective absorption and alignment with national priorities. “Evaluation helps us detect capacity gaps before we act,” he noted, calling for reforms grounded in evidence and institutional realities.
Representing the private sector, Guillaume Le Bris of the ILX Fund emphasized that pension-backed investments rely on credible data and institutional trust. “Evaluation is essential to de-risking investment and aligning capital with development outcomes,” he said. ILX, which has mobilized over $1.7 billion from Dutch and Danish pension funds, co-invests exclusively with multilateral development banks in emerging markets. Le Bris noted that robust evaluation systems are essential to attracting and retaining large-scale private capital.
Kevin Lumbila, Division Manager in the Bank’s Governance and Economic Reforms Department, shared results from a public finance modernization project in the DRC where integrated financial systems, new tax offices, and improved working conditions for staff led to better service delivery and a 10 percent average annual increase in revenue in participating provinces. “When citizens saw improvements like roads and waste collection, their willingness to pay taxes grew,” he explained. These outcomes, later captured in IDEV’s evaluation, demonstrate the power of adaptive, context-aware design in driving reform.
Prof. Soji Adelaja of Michigan State University, emphasized that evaluation must be embedded from the design stage, enabling meaningful adaptation. “You can’t evaluate what you didn’t set up to learn from,” he said, describing evaluation as not only a tool for accountability but also a strategic instrument for storytelling that builds public trust and boosts both public and private financing.
Panelists discussed the role of civil society and high-net-worth individuals in financing development. Prof Adelaja pointed to Nigeria’s successful raising of $340 million in a single day from private citizens, citing trust and transparency as key enablers.
Closing the session, Dr. Ogunleye urged stronger domestic resource mobilization and institutional capacity, noting that no country has developed solely on external aid. “Evaluation is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Smarter policies, better implementation, and fairer outcomes all begin with evidence,” he stressed.
The session made a compelling case for elevating evaluation as a central pillar in Africa’s financial reform agenda. It reaffirmed IDEV’s commitment to connecting evaluation with action that enhances Africa’s financial resilience and development effectiveness.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Senegal and Kenya Top African Development Bank’s Electricity Regulatory Index, as Regulators Drive Tangible Reforms
Source: African Development Bank Group
Kenya and Senegal have claimed the top spots in the African Development Bank’s 2024 Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI), demonstrating exceptional progress in power sector governance and regulatory outcomes. The comprehensive assessment, officially unveiled today at the Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, evaluates regulatory frameworks across 43 African countries.
Uganda, Liberia and Niger round out the top five performers, with Niger registering one of the biggest gains, underlining the strong impact of sustained reforms and political commitment to power sector development.
The ERI evaluates three dimensions—Regulatory Governance, Regulatory Substance, and Regulatory Outcomes (ROI). Notably, the ROI, which tracks service delivery and utility performance, recorded the most substantial improvement across the continent.
Key findings from the 2024 ERI:
- Kenya and Senegal led with a score of 0.892, reflecting standout progress in tariff reform, regulatory outcomes, and utility performance.
- A remarkable 41 out of 43 participating countries achieved RGI scores above 0.5, representing a significant increase from 24 countries in 2022.
- Countries scoring below 0.500 reduced significantly from 19 in 2022 to just 6 in 2024.
- Even the lowest-performing country tripled its score—from about 0.10 to 0.33.
- The ROI surged from roughly 0.40 in 2022 to 0.62 in 2024, showing that reforms are delivering tangible service improvements on the ground.
Now in its seventh edition, the ERI shows strong momentum toward more effective, transparent, and impactful regulation, with real-world results beginning to emerge.
“The 2024 ERI shows that Africa’s regulators are stepping up. We are now seeing stronger institutions delivering real results for utilities and consumers. This shift is critical if we are to achieve Mission 300 and connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030,” says Dr. Kevin Kariuki, AfDB Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth.
For the first time, the 2024 ERI also assessed regional regulatory bodies, recognizing their growing role in harmonizing technical standards and enabling cross-border electricity trade.
As the backbone of Mission 300, ERI continues to inform the design and implementation of national energy compacts—currently active in 12 countries, with another 20 in development.
Bridging the Gap – Addressing Ongoing Challenges
While celebrating regulatory progress, the report calls for greater focus on regulatory independence, the financial viability of utilities, and the integration of off-grid and mini-grid systems into national frameworks. The ERI underscores that regulation must translate into better access, affordability, and reliability, especially for underserved rural populations.
The report outlines priority areas for enhancing regulatory effectiveness:
- Strengthening regulatory independence
- Enhancing accountability mechanisms
- Promoting transparency and predictability
- Improving stakeholder participation
- Deepening economic regulation and advancing cost-reflective tariff methodologies.
“The ERI 2024 tells a hopeful story. African countries are not just passing laws—they are implementing them. Regulators are transforming from administrative bodies into strategic institutions with measurable influence. However, challenges related to independence, financing, and enforcement persist,” said Wale Shonibare, Director for Energy Financial Solutions, Policy and Regulation at the Bank Group.
Launched in 2018, the ERI is a diagnostic and policy tool used by governments, regulators, and development partners to identify gaps, track progress, and prioritize reform efforts. The 2024 edition incorporates extensive feedback from utilities, regulators, and regional energy bodies.
The full ERI 2024 report will be available here.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung UK hosts Living Well: Tech for a Happier, Healthier World at Big Bang Fair
Source: Samsung
Images captured at Big Bang Fair
LONDON, U.K.– June 20, 2025 – Samsung Electronics UK, welcomed students to join their living well themed stand at Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair, which took place earlier this week at Birmingham NEC.
Students and teachers joined Samsung for an immersive learning experience where they explored how technology can enhance wellbeing and inspire a healthier life. Students discovered real examples of how technology is making the world a better place and through creative problem solving, came up with their very own tech-for-good solutions in a design sprint.
Image captured at Big Bang Fair
Over 442 tech for good ideas were submitted across the three-day event, including smart trainers which monitor step count and offer health tracking, a smart first-aid kit detecting injuries, and a gender-neutral bracelet that helps monitor your emotions regulate how you feel. Each day of the event, one idea will be selected to win a pair of Galaxy buds for the individual or groups of up to three people. Winners will be notified next week.
Image captured at Big Bang Fair
Jessie Soohyun Park, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Samsung UK, said: “It was great to welcome so many passionate young people to our stand at Big Bang Fair. We were blown away by their innovative tech for good ideas that really could make a meaningful difference to people’s lives. Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Next Gen is all about inspiring the next generation of innovators – we’re encouraging secondary schools across the UK to sign up for the free resources and join our tech for good challenge.”
Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Next Gen programme is designed for 11-15 year olds to inspire the next generation of innovators. Reaching over a third of secondary schools across the UK and Ireland, the programme offers interactive video lessons, design thinking, online safety and careers resources for teachers to use with their students, and a fun challenge where students and their schools can win fantastic tech prizes. Schools can register for the free programme here and submit their challenge entries before 25th July 2025. -
MIL-OSI Economics: The Secretary-General of ASEAN Graces Event Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Indian Mission to ASEAN
Source: ASEAN
JAKARTA, 20 June 2025 – The Indian Mission to ASEAN convened a commemorative event marking a decade of its establishment today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, graced the event as Chief Guest and delivered congratulatory remarks, underscoring the important role of the Indian Mission to ASEAN in facilitating the advancement of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The Indian Mission to ASEAN was established in April 2015 as a testament to the growing significance of the ASEAN-India relations and cooperation. The Mission was inaugurated by the then Minister of External Affairs of India, Smt. Sushma Swaraj, and has since played a pivotal role in enhancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural links between ASEAN and India. Over the past decade, the Mission has facilitated a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering cooperation in various sectors, including political-security cooperation, socio-cultural cooperation, trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.
The event was organised as the initiative of the Indian Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta, and participated by Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, P. Kumaran, and Ambassador of India to ASEAN, Jayant N. Khobragade, as well as members of the Committee of Permanent of Representatives to ASEAN or their representatives, the ASEAN Secretariat, representatives from Timor-Leste, staff of the Indian Mission to ASEAN and other invited guests.
***The post The Secretary-General of ASEAN Graces Event Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Indian Mission to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Fiji: 2025 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; and Staff Report
Source: International Monetary Fund
Summary
Economic recovery has continued, driven mainly by tourism. Inflation decelerated sharply in 2024 as the impact of the 2023 VAT hike faded. The fiscal stance was tightened, but monetary and financial conditions remain highly accommodative. Progress has been made in enhancing the business environment and addressing near-term constraints to growth, but significant structural challenges remain.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum
Source: Rosneft
Headline: Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum
Start: June 21, 10 a.m.
The broadcast of the Energy Panel will be organized on internal television (channel F3) and the Roscongress news channel.
Energy consumption and progress have always been interconnected. The higher mankind climbed up the ladder of development, the more energy was required for new achievements – from the campfires of primitive times to the nuclear power plants of today.
Our civilization is at a critical stage now – the global energy industry is facing a large-scale transformation, the energy consumption model is changing. Against this background, every country faces the issue of the need to ensure energy security.
What will the energy industry of the future look like and what factors will determine its development? What role will new technologies play in this process? Which country will be the first to ensure the transition to a new energy sector? And what is in store for the oil industry against the backdrop of these changes?
The answers to these and other questions will be revealed during the broadcast of the Energy Panel.
Keynote Speech:
● Igor Ivanovich Sechin, Chief Executive Officer, Rosneft Oil CompanyModerator:
● Rick Sanchez, RT anchorDepartment of Information and Advertising
Rosneft Oil Company
June 20, 2025 -
MIL-OSI Economics: Review of Priority Sector Lending norms – Small Finance Banks
Source: Reserve Bank of India
RBI/2025-26/61
DOR.LIC.REC.36/16.13.218/2025-26June 20, 2025
All Small Finance Banks
Madam/ Dear Sir,
Review of Priority Sector Lending norms – Small Finance Banks
Please refer to the ‘Guidelines for Licensing of Small Finance Banks in Private Sector’ dated November 27, 2014 and the ‘Guidelines for ‘on-tap’ Licensing of Small Finance Banks in Private Sector’ released by Reserve Bank on December 5, 2019. In terms of paragraph II (9) of the aforesaid Licensing Guidelines, a small finance bank (SFB) is required to extend 75 per cent of its Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) to the sectors eligible for classification as priority sector lending (PSL) by the Reserve Bank. Further, while 40 per cent of its ANBC should be allocated to different sub-sectors under PSL as per the extant PSL prescriptions, the bank can allocate the balance 35 per cent to any one or more sub-sectors under the PSL where it has competitive advantage.
Revised provisions
2. On a review, it has been decided that financial year 2025-26 onwards, the additional component (35 per cent) of PSL shall be reduced to 20 per cent, thereby making the overall PSL target as 60 per cent of ANBC or Credit Equivalent of Off-Balance Sheet Exposures (CEOBE), whichever is higher. The SFB shall continue to allocate 40 per cent of its ANBC or CEOBE, whichever is higher, to different sub-sectors under PSL as per the extant PSL prescriptions, while the balance 20 per cent shall be allocated to any one or more sub-sectors under the PSL where the bank has competitive advantage.
3. These instructions are issued in exercise of the powers conferred on the Reserve Bank of India under Section 22 (1) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Yours faithfully,
(Manoranjan Padhy)
Chief General Manager -
MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN and India reaffirm commitment to strengthen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
JAKARTA, 20 June 2025 – The Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN held an informal meeting with Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, P. Kumaran, today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The Meeting exchanged views on the progress of ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).
The Meeting took note of the substantive, meaningful and mutually beneficial ASEAN-India CSP, and highlighted the progress of cooperation across various sectors. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the CSP through various frameworks of cooperation and commended the substantial progress in implementing the Plan of Action to Implement the ASEAN-India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (POA) 2021-2025 and its Annex. The Meeting looked forward to the adoption of the succeeding POA that will guide both sides in realising the full potential of ASEAN-India CSP over the next five years, with a view to bringing tangible benefits to the people of both sides.
Looking ahead, the Meeting agreed to continue their close engagement and consultations to further advance the ASEAN-India CSP, and looked forward to explore opportunities to further enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest such as defence; maritime; combatting transnational crimes; cybersecurity, trade and investment; agriculture; science and technology, including space technology; connectivity, including land, air, sea and people-to-people connectivity; digital economy and infrastructure; artificial intelligence; tourism; culture; health; education; youth; sustainable development; renewable energy; climate change; disaster management; capacity-building initiatives; and people-to-people exchanges.
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MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Fino Payments Bank Limited
Source: Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated June 06, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹29.60 lakh (Rupees Twenty Nine Lakh Sixty Thousand only) on Fino Payments Bank Limited (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Licensing of Payments Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
The Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE 2024) of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions.
After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:
The bank breached the regulatory ceiling of end of the day balance, as applicable for a payments bank, in certain accounts on several occasions.
The action is based on the deficiencies in the regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.
(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General ManagerPress Release: 2025-2026/574
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MIL-OSI Economics: You’re Invited: Join the First-Ever Virtual Samsung Members Connect from Anywhere in India
Source: Samsung
No matter where you are, step into the world of Galaxy AI, the Galaxy Ecosystem, and more, online this 25th June.
For the very first time, Samsung Members Connect is going virtual and every Galaxy user across India is invited.
At Samsung, we’re always listening. Over the years, many of you especially those outside Delhi-NCR have expressed your desire to be part of the Members Connect experience.
We heard you. This year, we’re opening the doors to everyone. Whether you’re in Guwahati or Goa, Himachal or Hyderabad, you can now be a part of this exciting journey from the comfort of your home.
What to Expect on 25th June 2025
The Virtual Samsung Members Connect will be an immersive, content-rich experience that brings together the latest from the world of Galaxy:
Galaxy AI – Explore how AI is reshaping creativity, communication, and productivity on Galaxy devices.
Galaxy Ecosystem – Discover the power of connected living across your phone, tablet, watch, and more.
Samsung Wallet – Learn how to simplify your daily life with digital payments and more.
Samsung Health – Dive into features that are helping millions lead healthier lifestyles.
Camera Deep Dive – Get tips, tricks, and insights to shoot like a pro with your Galaxy camera.
Samsung SmartThings – Explore how an AI-powered home makes life more comfortable
Whether you’re a power user, a curious explorer, or someone looking to get more out of your Galaxy device—there’s something for everyone.
Why You Should Join
No location barriers – Attend from anywhere in India
Curated sessions led by Samsung experts
Engaging activities, surprises and community interaction
Be among the first to hear what’s next for Galaxy AI and more
How to Register
Head to the Samsung Members app and look for the “Virtual Samsung Members Connect” banner.
Register now – It’s free and open to all Galaxy users.
Once registered, you’ll receive the event link on your registered email ID before the event.
This is more than just a virtual session—it’s your front-row seat to the Galaxy universe.
Don’t miss out. Be there on 25th June 2025. -
MIL-OSI Economics: You’re Invited: Join the First-Ever Virtual Samsung Members Connect from Anywhere in India
Source: Samsung
No matter where you are, step into the world of Galaxy AI, the Galaxy Ecosystem, and more, online this 25th June.
For the very first time, Samsung Members Connect is going virtual and every Galaxy user across India is invited.
At Samsung, we’re always listening. Over the years, many of you especially those outside Delhi-NCR have expressed your desire to be part of the Members Connect experience.
We heard you. This year, we’re opening the doors to everyone. Whether you’re in Guwahati or Goa, Himachal or Hyderabad, you can now be a part of this exciting journey from the comfort of your home.
What to Expect on 25th June 2025
The Virtual Samsung Members Connect will be an immersive, content-rich experience that brings together the latest from the world of Galaxy:
Galaxy AI – Explore how AI is reshaping creativity, communication, and productivity on Galaxy devices.
Galaxy Ecosystem – Discover the power of connected living across your phone, tablet, watch, and more.
Samsung Wallet – Learn how to simplify your daily life with digital payments and more.
Samsung Health – Dive into features that are helping millions lead healthier lifestyles.
Camera Deep Dive – Get tips, tricks, and insights to shoot like a pro with your Galaxy camera.
Samsung SmartThings – Explore how an AI-powered home makes life more comfortable
Whether you’re a power user, a curious explorer, or someone looking to get more out of your Galaxy device—there’s something for everyone.
Why You Should Join
No location barriers – Attend from anywhere in India
Curated sessions led by Samsung experts
Engaging activities, surprises and community interaction
Be among the first to hear what’s next for Galaxy AI and more
How to Register
Head to the Samsung Members app and look for the “Virtual Samsung Members Connect” banner.
Register now – It’s free and open to all Galaxy users.
Once registered, you’ll receive the event link on your registered email ID before the event.
This is more than just a virtual session—it’s your front-row seat to the Galaxy universe.
Don’t miss out. Be there on 25th June 2025. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Monetary Policy Committee Decision – June 2025
Source: Bank of Botswana
At the meeting held on 19 June 2025, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Botswana maintained the Monetary Policy Rate (MoPR) at 1.9 percent, while it increased the repurchase agreement (repo) tenure from up to 7 days to up to one month.
Monetary Policy Decision -June 2025.pdf
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MIL-OSI Economics: Monetary Policy Committee Decision – June 2025
Source: Bank of Botswana
At the meeting held on 19 June 2025, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Botswana maintained the Monetary Policy Rate (MoPR) at 1.9 percent, while it increased the repurchase agreement (repo) tenure from up to 7 days to up to one month.
Monetary Policy Decision -June 2025.pdf
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MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology of the Philippines
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with H.E. Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology of the Philippines and AMMSTI Philippines, on the sidelines of the AMMSTI-21, in Jakarta, Indonesia.
SG Dr. Kao commended the Philippines for its proactive and sustained leadership in advancing ASEAN’s STI agenda—including its decade-long stewardship of the ASEAN Network for Drugs, Diagnostics, Vaccines, and Traditional Medicines Innovation (ASEAN-NDI), and strategic contributions to health and disaster resilience. They also discussed preparations for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, including Priority Economic Deliverables on artificial intelligence for health and a regional initiative on sustainable outer space. SG Dr. Kao reaffirmed ASEAN’s full support in fostering a resilient, innovative, and future-ready ASEAN.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology of the Philippines appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers remarks and launches APASTI at the Opening Ceremony of AMMSTI-21
Source: ASEAN
At the Opening Ceremony of the 21st ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI-21) in Jakarta this morning, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, delivered Opening Remarks and officiated the Launch of the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) 2026–2035, alongside other Ministers and representatives from ASEAN Member States. APASTI envisions “An integrated ASEAN powered by STI, fostering seamless collaboration, global competitiveness through enhanced innovative performance, sustainability and economic growth for a prosperous future.”
At the same event, AMMSTI also launched the ASEAN-Japan NEXUS Programme, with Japan committed USD 100 million to strengthen STI cooperation, and unveiled the ASEAN Regional Research Infrastructure Landscape Study, laying the foundation for shared research capacity and regional innovation hubs.Download the full opening remarks here.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers remarks and launches APASTI at the Opening Ceremony of AMMSTI-21 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers remarks and launches APASTI at the Opening Ceremony of AMMSTI-21
Source: ASEAN
At the Opening Ceremony of the 21st ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI-21) in Jakarta this morning, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, delivered Opening Remarks and officiated the Launch of the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) 2026–2035, alongside other Ministers and representatives from ASEAN Member States. APASTI envisions “An integrated ASEAN powered by STI, fostering seamless collaboration, global competitiveness through enhanced innovative performance, sustainability and economic growth for a prosperous future.”
At the same event, AMMSTI also launched the ASEAN-Japan NEXUS Programme, with Japan committed USD 100 million to strengthen STI cooperation, and unveiled the ASEAN Regional Research Infrastructure Landscape Study, laying the foundation for shared research capacity and regional innovation hubs.Download the full opening remarks here.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers remarks and launches APASTI at the Opening Ceremony of AMMSTI-21 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on June 19, 2025
Source: Reserve Bank of India
(Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
Volume
(One Leg)Weighted
Average RateRange A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,99,265.81 5.18 3.50-6.55 I. Call Money 14,174.25 5.26 4.70-5.35 II. Triparty Repo 3,96,475.35 5.18 5.14-5.25 III. Market Repo 1,86,372.11 5.16 3.50-6.24 IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,244.10 5.47 5.38-6.55 B. Term Segment I. Notice Money** 60.04 5.21 5.00-5.30 II. Term Money@@ 440.50 – 5.50-6.00 III. Triparty Repo 1,275.00 5.24 5.15-5.29 IV. Market Repo 750.00 5.40 5.40-5.40 V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – – Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
Cut off RateC. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) I. Today’s Operations 1. Fixed Rate 2. Variable Rate& (I) Main Operation (a) Repo (b) Reverse Repo (II) Fine Tuning Operations (a) Repo (b) Reverse Repo 3. MSF# Thu, 19/06/2025 1 Fri, 20/06/2025 1,323.00 5.75 4. SDFΔ# Thu, 19/06/2025 1 Fri, 20/06/2025 3,22,568.00 5.25 5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]* -3,21,245.00 II. Outstanding Operations 1. Fixed Rate 2. Variable Rate& (I) Main Operation (a) Repo (b) Reverse Repo (II) Fine Tuning Operations (a) Repo (b) Reverse Repo 3. MSF# 4. SDFΔ# D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$ 7,157.31 E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]* 7,157.31 F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]* -3,14,087.69 G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks (i) Cash balances with RBI as on June 19, 2025 9,46,312.30 (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending June 27, 2025 9,54,173.00 H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ June 19, 2025 0.00 I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 30, 2025 5,84,684.00 @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL). – Not Applicable / No Transaction. ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor. @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor. $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI. & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020. Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022. * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF. ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015. # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023. Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)Press Release: 2025-2026/566 -
MIL-OSI Economics: Every Decision Is a Health Decision: How We’re Helping People’s Wellbeing Through Intentional Health Technology Innovation
Source: Samsung
I’ve spent years witnessing technology change the way people live their lives. The way we work, connect and make decisions is entirely different from a generation ago; but until recently, eating routines, movement, and rest have largely been unchanged.
Technology today, in particular the rise of wearables, is now helping us also become aware of our health and track many elements of it. Everything from when to sleep and exercise and even what to eat. We’re at the dawn of truly predictive, personalised health intelligence.
This seismic shift is where every mouthful of food, every step taken, every wink of sleep is not just a mundane choice, but an act of self-care. Where technology moves from passive companion to active guardian – anticipating our needs and nudging us towards our goals.
What’s more, younger generations are running away from unhealthy choices. Recent data suggests run clubs have seen a 59% increase in global participation in 2024[1], with people making friendships, and one in five of them resulting in a date. Health technology is not a passing fad or trend but something that is accelerating every day and making a real difference to people’s well-being.
This week, at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, we announced new Samsung Health features[2] to help improve sleep, heart health, fitness, and nutrition. These new features are designed to help empower our consumers to lead healthier lives through proactive care and holistic health management.
My colleague Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President and Head of Digital Health Team, Mobile eXperience, talks about how sleep is the cornerstone of our approach to health, as it influences physical and mental well-being, social relationships, and even work performance.
Picture waking up, like many of us do, and checking your watch or ring. Instead of telling you how you slept, it guides your next choices by telling you “here’s why you slept well, and here’s what to do next”, or flagging any potential sleep issues.
The next frontier is preventative health, where technology doesn’t just monitor our wellbeing, it helps shape it. It’s happening all around us now, thanks to a seismic cultural shift which at Samsung, we are adapting to quickly.
A groundbreaking new Galaxy Watch feature we announced this week will measure vascular load[3], the amount of stress on your vascular system while sleeping. The vascular system carries blood throughout the body to deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove waste, making it a strong indicator to determine good heart health.
I also spoke this week about our new Antioxidant Index[4] – an industry first feature to measure carotenoids. Antioxidants are the nutrients found in many healthy foods, which help prevent chronic illnesses and promote healthy ageing. Importantly, antioxidants neutralise free radicals, which damage cells and accelerate aging. Behavioural factors, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, UV exposure, stress and lack of sleep, can accelerate aging by increasing free radicals in the body.
You will be able to use your Galaxy Watch and its advanced, light-activated BioActive sensor to measure carotenoids in just five seconds, which are antioxidants found in green and orange vegetables and fruits, stored in your skin.
You’ll quickly see how these insights reflect behavioural changes. For example, drinking carrot juice can show changes in the index. This transforms abstract nutrition into measurable outcomes that drive sustained healthy behaviours.
So, as we look ahead to the future of health tech, one thing is becoming undeniably clear: health will become the filter through which we make every choice. Not just the big decisions, like how we treat illness or manage fitness, but the small, everyday ones. What we watch. What we eat. What we buy. Because soon, the data will be right there with us, moment by moment, guiding us toward what our bodies and minds actually need.
And in that world, brands will have a new kind of responsibility. It won’t be enough to be relevant by trend or preference. Brands will need to prove their role in supporting people’s well-being—in showing how they truly fit into a better, healthier life.
That’s where we’re headed. We will continue to be more intentional with our health tech innovation. It will be deeply human focused, rooted in biology, mood, need, and real-time context.
At Samsung, we’re not just creating products that cut through the noise. We’re creating technology that cares. Because in the end, the greatest innovation isn’t in what we build, but in how we help people truly thrive.
Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product & Marketing, Samsung UK&I.
[1]https://press.strava.com/articles/strava-releases-annual-year-in-sport-trend
[2]Health features are intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice. Samsung account login required. Vascular Load, Running Coach and Antioxidant Index are available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or later). Vascular Load and Antioxidant index are Labs features that you can preview before its official launch. If you don’t want to use these experimental features, you can turn them off in Samsung Health settings.
[3]Vascular Load is available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (V6.30 or above). Samsung account login is required. To measure vascular load, it is required to wear Galaxy Watch (Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch8 and later release Galaxy Watch series) when sleeping for at least 3 days out of recent 14 days. Vascular load monitoring is for fitness and wellness only. If you have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or are recovering from surgery, be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or diseases. This is a Labs feature that you can preview before its official launch. If you don’t want to use this feature, you can turn if off in Samsung Health settings.
[4]To measure, place the centre of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Anti-oxidant index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for most accurate result. Repeat measurement if there is uneven placement of finger. Requires Samsung Account login and Samsung Health app 6.27 or later. Available on devices with Android OS 10 (Q OS) or later. AGEs is supported in Samsung Galaxy Watch7 and later released Samsung Galaxy Watch models only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition. Anti-oxidant monitoring is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Performance of Private Corporate Business Sector during Q4:2024-25
Source: Reserve Bank of India
Today, the Reserve Bank released data on the performance of the private corporate sector during the fourth quarter of 2024-25, drawn from abridged quarterly financial results of 2,936 listed non-government non-financial companies. This summary position also includes comparable data for Q4:2023-24 and Q3:2024-25 to enable study of sequential (q-o-q) and annual (y-o-y) change (web-link https://data.rbi.org.in/DBIE/#/dbie/reports/Statistics/Corporate%20Sector/Listed%20Non-Government%20Non-Financial%20Companies).
Highlights
Sales
-
Sales of listed private non-financial companies registered 7.1 per cent growth (y-o-y) during Q4:2024-25 as compared to 8.0 per cent growth in the previous quarter (6.9 per cent in Q4:2023-24) (Table 1A).
-
Aggregate sales growth (y-o-y) of 1,659 listed private manufacturing companies moderated to 6.6 per cent during Q4:2024-25 from 7.7 per cent during the previous quarter; even as major industries such as electrical machinery, chemicals, food products and pharmaceuticals industries recorded double digit sales growth; weak performance of petroleum industry pulled down the sector’s sales growth (Table 2A and 5A, Chart 1).
-
On annual basis, sales growth (y-o-y) of IT companies improved further to 8.6 per cent in Q4 from 6.8 per cent in the previous quarter and 3.1 per cent a year ago.
-
Sales of non-IT services companies continued to grow in double digits at 10.9 per cent in Q4, on the back of good performance of telecommunication and transport & storage companies.
Expenditure
-
Manufacturing companies’ expenses on raw material rose by 8.3 per cent (y-o-y) in tandem with their sales growth, however, raw material to sales ratio broadly remained stable during Q4 from the previous quarter (Table 2A and 2B).
-
Staff cost of manufacturing, IT and non-IT services companies rose by 10.0 per cent, 6.4 per cent and 9.5 per cent, respectively, during Q4:2024-25. Staff cost to sales ratio for manufacturing, IT and non-IT services companies broadly remained stable at 5.5 per cent, 48.0 per cent, and 10.1 per cent, respectively, during Q4:2024-25.
Pricing power
-
Operating profit of manufacturing and non-IT services companies rose by 8.1 per cent and 18.4 per cent, respectively, during Q4, while it increased modestly by 2.4 per cent for IT companies (Table 2A).
-
Operating profit margin improved for manufacturing and non-IT services companies sequentially to 14.7 per cent and 23.0 per cent, respectively, during Q4, while it moderated for IT companies by 190 bps to 21.3 per cent in Q4 from the previous quarter (Table 2B and Chart 2).
Interest expenses
- With sequential rise in profits, manufacturing companies’ interest coverage ratio (ICR)1 improved to 8.7 in Q4:2024-25 from 7.6 in the previous quarter. ICR for non-IT services companies remained steady and continued to stay above unity, while it improved for IT service companies during Q4 (Table 2B).
List of Tables
Table No. Title 1 A Performance of Listed Non-Government Non-Financial Companies Growth Rates B Select Ratios 2 A Performance of Listed Non-Government Non-Financial Companies – Sector-wise Growth Rates B Select Ratios 3 A Performance of Listed Non-Government Non-Financial Companies according to Size of Paid-up-Capital Growth Rates B Select Ratios 4 A Performance of Listed Non-Government Non-Financial Companies according to Size of Sales Growth Rates B Select Ratios 5 A Performance of Listed Non-Government Non-Financial Companies according to Industry Growth Rates B Select Ratios Explanatory Notes Glossary Notes:
-
The coverage of companies in different quarters varies, depending on the date of declaration of results; this is, however, not expected to significantly alter the aggregate position.
-
Explanatory notes detailing the compilation methodology, and the glossary (including revised definitions and calculations that differ from previous releases) are appended.
(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General ManagerPress Release: 2025-2026/565
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MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with AMMSTI Chair 2025
Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, today met with H.E. Laksana Tri Handoko, ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI) Chair 2025 and Chairman of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of the Republic of Indonesia, on the sidelines of the AMMSTI-21, in Jakarta, Indonesia. They recognised Indonesia’s strong leadership in shaping ASEAN’s STI future, including through the launch of ASEAN Plan of Action on STI (APASTI) 2026–2035, among others. SG Dr. Kao also tabled a proposal for an AMMSTI–Dialogue Partner platform at the ministerial level to secure deeper global partnership. Both sides reaffirmed STI as a vital force for a resilient, competitive, and future-ready ASEAN.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with AMMSTI Chair 2025 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon announces pricing terms of its private exchange offers for 10 series of notes and related tender offers open to certain investors
Source: Verizon
Headline: Verizon announces pricing terms of its private exchange offers for 10 series of notes and related tender offers open to certain investors
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Verizon Communications Inc. (“Verizon”) (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) today announced the pricing terms of its two previously announced related transactions to repurchase 10 series of its outstanding notes listed in the tables below.
Exchange Offers
The first transaction consists of 10 separate private offers to exchange (the “Exchange Offers”) any and all of the outstanding series of notes listed in the table below (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers (as defined below), collectively the “Old Notes”) in exchange for newly issued debt securities of Verizon (the “New Notes”), on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum dated June 12, 2025 (the “Offering Memorandum”), the eligibility letter (the “Eligibility Letter”) and the accompanying exchange offer notice of guaranteed delivery (the “Exchange Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery” which, together with the Offering Memorandum and the Eligibility Letter, constitute the “Exchange Offer Documents”). Only a holder who has duly completed and returned an Eligibility Letter certifying that it is either (1) a “qualified institutional buyer” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”)); or (2) a person located outside the United States who is (i) not a “U.S. person” (as defined in Rule 902 under the Securities Act), (ii) not acting for the account or benefit of a U.S. person and (iii) a “Non-U.S. qualified offeree” (as defined below), are authorized to receive the Offering Memorandum and to participate in the Exchange Offers (such holders, “Exchange Offer Eligible Holders”).
The Exchange Offers will each expire at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) today, June 18, 2025 (such date and time with respect to an Exchange Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Exchange Offer, the “Exchange Offer Expiration Date”). Old Notes tendered for exchange may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) today, June 18, 2025 (such date and time with respect to an Exchange Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Exchange Offer, the “Exchange Offer Withdrawal Date”), but not thereafter, unless extended by Verizon. The “Exchange Offer Settlement Date” with respect to an Exchange Offer will be promptly following the Exchange Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be June 25, 2025.
Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used under the heading Exchange Offers have the respective meanings assigned thereto in the Exchange Offer Documents.
The table below indicates, among other things, the applicable Exchange Offer Yield and Total Exchange Price (each as defined in the Offering Memorandum) for each series of Old Notes, as calculated at 11:00 a.m. (Eastern time) today, June 18, 2025 (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers (as defined below), the “Price Determination Date”).
Acceptance Priority Level(1)
Title of Security
CUSIP
Number(s)Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityYield of Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityFixed Spread
(basis points) (2)Floating Rate Note Total Exchange Price(3)
Fixed Rate Note Exchange Offer Yield
Fixed Rate Note Total Exchange Price
1
1.450% Notes due 2026
92343VGG3
4.625% due March 15, 2026
4.225%
+0
N/A
4.225%
$980.07
2
Floating Rate Notes due 2026
92343VGE8
N/A
N/A
N/A
$1,006.00
N/A
N/A
3
4.125% Notes due 2027
92343VDY7
3.875% due May 31, 2027
3.929%
+15
N/A
4.079%
$1,000.71
4
3.000% Notes due 2027
92343VFF6
3.875% due May 31, 2027
3.929%
+15
N/A
4.079%
$982.00
5
4.329% Notes due 2028
92343VER1/
92343VEQ3/
U9221ABK3
3.875% due June 15, 2028
3.869%
+20
N/A
4.069%
$1,007.76
6
2.100% Notes due 2028
92343VGH1
3.875% due June 15, 2028
3.869%
+15
N/A
4.019%
$950.62
7
4.016% Notes due 2029
92343VEU4/
92343VET7/
U9221ABL1
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+30
N/A
4.252%
$990.52
8
3.150% Notes due 2030
92343VFE9
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+35
N/A
4.302%
$951.02
9
1.680% Notes due 2030
92343VFX7/
92343VFN9/
U9221ABS6
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+55
N/A
4.502%
$867.19
10
7.750% Notes due 2030
92344GAM8/
92344GAC0
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+60
N/A
4.552%
$1,152.36
(1) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Exchange Offers described in the Offering Memorandum, if the New Notes Capacity Condition (as defined below) and/or the corresponding Cash Offer Completion Condition (as defined below) is not satisfied with respect to every series of Old Notes, Verizon will accept Old Notes for exchange in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Level specified in the table above (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, each an “Acceptance Priority Level,” with 1 being the highest Acceptance Priority Level and 10 being the lowest Acceptance Priority Level). It is possible that a series of Old Notes with a particular Acceptance Priority Level will not be accepted for exchange even if one or more series with a higher or lower Acceptance Priority Level are accepted for purchase.
(2) The Total Exchange Price payable per each $1,000 principal amount of a series of Old Notes validly tendered for exchange other than the Floating Rate Notes (as defined below) (the “Fixed Rate Notes”) will be payable in a specified principal amount of New Notes and will be based on the fixed spread specified in the table above (the “Fixed Spread”) for the applicable series of Fixed Rate Notes, plus the yield of the specified Reference U.S. Treasury Security for that series as of the Price Determination Date. The Total Exchange Price does not include the applicable Accrued Coupon Payment (as defined below), which will be payable in cash in addition to the applicable Total Exchange Price.
(3) The Total Exchange Price payable per each $1,000 principal amount of floating rate notes due 2026 (the “Floating Rate Notes”) validly tendered for exchange and not validly withdrawn will be payable in a specified principal amount of New Notes. Any Floating Rate Notes validly tendered and accepted by us, will receive the Total Exchange Price listed above for the Floating Rate Notes.
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Exchange Offer Documents, Exchange Offer Eligible Holders who (i) validly tender, and who do not validly withdraw, Old Notes at or prior to the Exchange Offer Expiration Date or (ii) deliver a properly completed and duly executed Exchange Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery and all other required documents at or prior to the Exchange Offer Expiration Date and validly tender their Old Notes at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on the second business day after the applicable Exchange Offer Expiration Date pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures, and whose Old Notes are accepted for exchange by us, will receive the applicable Total Exchange Price for each $1,000 principal amount of such Old Notes, which will be payable in principal amount of New Notes.
Verizon is offering to accept for exchange validly tendered Old Notes using a “waterfall” methodology under which such Old Notes of different series will be accepted in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Levels as listed in the table above, subject to a $2.5 billion cap on the maximum aggregate principal amount of New Notes that Verizon will issue in all of the Exchange Offers (the “New Notes Maximum Amount”). However, subject to applicable law, Verizon, in its sole discretion, has the option to waive or increase the New Notes Maximum Amount at any time.
Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Exchange Offers described in the Offering Memorandum, Verizon will, in accordance with the Acceptance Priority Levels, accept for exchange all Old Notes of each series validly tendered and not validly withdrawn, so long as (1) the Total Exchange Price for all validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Old Notes of such series, plus (2) the Total Exchange Price for all validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Old Notes of all series having a higher Acceptance Priority Level than such series of Old Notes is equal to, or less than, the New Notes Maximum Amount; provided, however, Verizon may: (x) waive the New Notes Capacity Condition with respect to one or more Exchange Offers and accept all Old Notes of the series sought in such Exchange Offer, and of any series of Old Notes sought in Exchange Offers with a higher Acceptance Priority Level, validly tendered and not validly withdrawn; or (y) skip any Exchange Offer for Old Notes that would have caused the New Notes Maximum Amount to be exceeded and exchange all Old Notes of a given series in an Exchange Offer having a lower Acceptance Priority Level so long as Verizon is able to exchange the full amount of validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Notes in such Exchange Offer without exceeding the New Notes Maximum Amount. Subject to applicable law, Verizon may waive or increase the New Notes Maximum Amount at any time.
In addition to the applicable Total Exchange Price, Exchange Offer Eligible Holders whose Old Notes are accepted for exchange will receive a cash payment equal to the accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes from and including the immediately preceding interest payment date for such Old Notes to, but excluding, the Exchange Offer Settlement Date (the “Accrued Coupon Payment”). Interest will cease to accrue on the Exchange Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes accepted in the Exchange Offers, including those Old Notes tendered through the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures.
The New Notes will mature on July 2, 2037. The table below indicates the interest rate (the “New Notes Coupon”) for the series of New Notes to be issued by Verizon pursuant to the Exchange Offers (as calculated at the Price Determination Date in accordance with the Offering Memorandum).
New Notes
Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityReference Yield of Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityFixed Spread
(basis points)New Notes Coupon
New Notes due 2037
4.250% due May 15, 2035
4.351%
+105
5.401%
Pursuant to the Minimum Issue Requirement, Verizon will not complete the Exchange Offers if the aggregate principal amount of New Notes to be issued would be less than $750 million. Verizon may not waive the Minimum Issue Requirement.
In addition to the Minimum Issue Requirement, Verizon’s obligation to accept any series of Old Notes tendered in the Exchange Offers is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions applicable to the Exchange Offer for such series as described in the Offering Memorandum, including, among others, the New Notes Capacity Condition and the Cash Offer Completion Condition. Verizon expressly reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive any and all conditions to any Exchange Offer, other than conditions described by Verizon as non-waivable.
Notwithstanding any other provision in the Offering Memorandum to the contrary, if at the Exchange Offer Expiration Date, for a particular Exchange Offer, the Total Exchange Price payable for all validly tendered Old Notes of a particular series is greater than the New Notes Maximum Amount (after exchanging all validly tendered Old Notes of each series with a higher Acceptance Priority Level), then Verizon will not be obligated to accept for exchange, or issue any New Notes in exchange for, such series of Old Notes and may terminate the Exchange Offer with respect to such series of Old Notes (the “New Notes Capacity Condition”) in accordance with the Acceptance Priority Procedures described in the Offering Memorandum.
Each series of Old Notes that is subject to an Exchange Offer pursuant to the Exchange Offer Documents is also subject to a corresponding Cash Offer pursuant to the Offer to Purchase (as defined below), which Cash Offer is only available to holders of the Old Notes that are not Exchange Offer Eligible Holders. The Acceptance Priority Levels set forth in the Offer to Purchase correspond to the Acceptance Priority Levels set forth in the Offering Memorandum. Verizon’s obligation to complete an Exchange Offer with respect to a particular series of Old Notes is conditioned on the timely satisfaction or waiver of all conditions precedent to the completion of the corresponding Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes (with respect to each Exchange Offer, the “Cash Offer Completion Condition”), and Verizon’s obligation to complete a Cash Offer with respect to a particular series of Old Notes is subject to various conditions, as set forth in the Offer to Purchase, including (i) that all of the conditions precedent to the completion of the corresponding Exchange Offer are timely satisfied or waived and (ii) that the aggregate amount of cash (excluding the Accrued Coupon Payment) that would have to be paid to purchase any and all of the validly tendered Old Notes of such series in such Cash Offer does not exceed the applicable maximum cash amount specified in the Offer to Purchase. Verizon will terminate an Exchange Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes, and Verizon will terminate the Cash Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes. The termination of a Cash Offer for a series of Old Notes will not impact the Exchange Offers for any other series of Old Notes. The Cash Offer Completion Condition cannot be waived by Verizon. If Verizon extends any Cash Offer for a series of Old Notes for any reason, Verizon will extend the corresponding Exchange Offer for such series Old Notes.
If and when issued, the New Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws. Therefore, the New Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. Verizon will enter into a registration rights agreement with respect to the New Notes.
Global Bondholder Services Corporation is acting as the Information Agent and the Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Exchange Offers or for additional copies of the Exchange Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (212) 430-3774.You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Exchange Offers. The Exchange Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: https://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/verizon.
Cash Offers
The second transaction consists of 10 separate offers to purchase for cash (the “Cash Offers”) any and all of each series of Old Notes, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase dated June 12, 2025 (the “Offer to Purchase”), the certification instructions letter (the “Certification Instructions Letter”) and the accompanying cash offer notice of guaranteed delivery (the “Cash Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery” which, together with the Offer to Purchase and the Certification Instructions Letter, constitute the “Tender Offer Documents”). Only holders who are not Exchange Offer Eligible Holders (“Cash Offer Eligible Holders”) are eligible to participate in the Cash Offers. Holders of Old Notes participating in the Cash Offers will be required to complete the Certification Instructions Letter and certify that they are Cash Offer Eligible Holders.
The Cash Offers will each expire at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) today, June 18, 2025 (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Cash Offer, the “Cash Offer Expiration Date”). Old Notes tendered for purchase may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) today, June 18, 2025 (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Cash Offer, the “Cash Offer Withdrawal Date”), but not thereafter, unless extended by Verizon. The “Cash Offer Settlement Date” with respect to a Cash Offer will be promptly following the Cash Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be June 25, 2025.
Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used under the heading Cash Offers have the respective meanings assigned thereto in the Tender Offer Documents.
The table below indicates, among other things, the applicable Cash Offer Yield and Total Consideration (as defined in the Offer to Purchase) for each series of Old Notes, as calculated at the Price Determination Date in accordance with the Offer to Purchase.
Acceptance Priority Level(1)
Title of Security
CUSIP
Number(s)Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityYield of Reference U.S.
Treasury SecurityFixed Spread
(basis points) (2)Floating Rate Note Total Consideration(3)
Cash Offer Yield
Fixed Rate Note Total Consideration
1
1.450% Notes due 2026
92343VGG3
4.625% due March 15, 2026
4.225%
+0
N/A
4.225%
$980.07
2
Floating Rate Notes due 2026
92343VGE8
N/A
N/A
N/A
$1,006.00
N/A
N/A
3
4.125% Notes due 2027
92343VDY7
3.875% due May 31, 2027
3.929%
+15
N/A
4.079%
$1,000.71
4
3.000% Notes due 2027
92343VFF6
3.875% due May 31, 2027
3.929%
+15
N/A
4.079%
$982.00
5
4.329% Notes due 2028
92343VER1/
92343VEQ3/
U9221ABK3
3.875% due June 15, 2028
3.869%
+20
N/A
4.069%
$1,007.76
6
2.100% Notes due 2028
92343VGH1
3.875% due June 15, 2028
3.869%
+15
N/A
4.019%
$950.62
7
4.016% Notes due 2029
92343VEU4/
92343VET7/
U9221ABL1
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+30
N/A
4.252%
$990.52
8
3.150% Notes due 2030
92343VFE9
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+35
N/A
4.302%
$951.02
9
1.680% Notes due 2030
92343VFX7/
92343VFN9/
U9221ABS6
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+55
N/A
4.502%
$867.19
10
7.750% Notes due 2030
92344GAM8/
92344GAC0
4.000% due May 31, 2030
3.952%
+60
N/A
4.552%
$1,152.36
(1) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Cash Offers described in the Offer to Purchase, including if the Maximum Total Consideration Condition (as defined below) is not satisfied with respect to every series of Old Notes, Verizon will accept Notes for purchase in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Level specified in the table above. It is possible that a series of Old Notes with a particular Acceptance Priority Level will not be accepted for purchase even if one or more series with a higher or lower Acceptance Priority Level are accepted for purchase.
(2) The Total Consideration for each series of Fixed Rate Notes (such consideration, the “Fixed Rate Note Total Consideration”) validly tendered will be determined in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase, to result in a Total Consideration payable per each $1,000 principal amount of each series of Fixed Rate Notes that equates to a yield to the maturity date (or Par Call Date, if applicable) in accordance with the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, for the applicable series of Fixed Rate Notes, equal to the sum of (i) the yield corresponding to the bid side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified in the table above for such series of Fixed Rate Notes at the Price Determination Date plus (ii) the applicable Fixed Spread specified in the table above for such series of Fixed Rate Notes. The Total Consideration does not include the applicable Accrued Coupon Payment (as defined below), which will be payable in cash in addition to the applicable Total Consideration.
(3) Payable per each $1,000 principal amount of Floating Rate Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the Cash Offer Expiration Date or the Cash Offer Guaranteed Delivery Date (as defined below) pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures and accepted for purchase (such amount, the “Floating Rate Note Total Consideration”).
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Tender Offer Documents, Cash Offer Eligible Holders who (i) validly tender, and who do not validly withdraw, Old Notes at or prior to the Cash Offer Expiration Date or (ii) deliver a properly completed and duly executed Cash Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery at or prior to the Cash Offer Expiration Date and validly tender their Old Notes at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on the second business day after the applicable Cash Offer Expiration Date (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Cash Offer, the “Cash Offer Guaranteed Delivery Date”) pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures, and whose Old Notes are accepted for purchase by Verizon, will receive the applicable Total Consideration for each $1,000 principal amount of Old Notes, which will be payable in cash.
Verizon is offering to purchase validly tendered Old Notes using a “waterfall” methodology under which such Old Notes of different series will be accepted in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Levels as listed in the table above, subject to the Maximum Total Consideration Condition (as defined below) and the Exchange Offer Completion Condition (as defined below). However, subject to applicable law, Verizon, in its sole discretion, has the option to waive or increase the Maximum Total Consideration Condition at any time.
Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Cash Offers described in the Offer to Purchase, Verizon will, in accordance with the Acceptance Priority Levels as listed in the table above, accept for purchase all Old Notes of each series validly tendered and not validly withdrawn, so long as the Total Consideration, excluding the Accrued Coupon Payment, for all validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Notes of all series having a higher Acceptance Priority Level than such series of Old Notes is equal to, or less than, the Maximum Total Consideration Amount; provided, however, Verizon may: (x) waive the Maximum Total Consideration Condition with respect to one or more Cash Offers and accept all Old Notes of the series sought in such Cash Offer, and of any series of Old Notes sought in Cash Offers with a higher Acceptance Priority Level, validly tendered and not validly withdrawn; or (y) skip any Cash Offer for Old Notes that would have caused the Maximum Total Consideration Amount to be exceeded and purchase all Old Notes of a given series in an Cash Offer having a lower Acceptance Priority Level so long as Verizon is able to purchase the full amount of validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Notes in such Cash Offer without exceeding the Maximum Total Consideration Amount.
In addition to the applicable Total Consideration, Cash Offer Eligible Holders whose Old Notes are accepted for purchase will be paid accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes from and including the immediately preceding interest payment date for such Old Notes to, but excluding, the Cash Offer Settlement Date (the “Accrued Coupon Payment”). Interest will cease to accrue on the Cash Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes accepted in the Cash Offers, including those Old Notes tendered through the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures.
Verizon’s obligation to accept any series of Old Notes tendered in the Cash Offers is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions applicable to the Cash Offer for such series as described in the Offer to Purchase, including the Maximum Total Consideration Condition and the Exchange Offer Completion Condition. Verizon expressly reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive any and all conditions to any Cash Offer, other than conditions described by Verizon as non-waivable.
Verizon’s obligation to complete a Cash Offer with respect to a particular series of Old Notes validly tendered is conditioned (the “Maximum Total Consideration Condition”) on aggregate Total Consideration, excluding the Accrued Coupon Payment, payable for Old Notes purchased in the Cash Offers (the “Aggregate Purchase Consideration”) not to exceed $300 million (the “Maximum Total Consideration Amount”). Verizon’s obligation to complete a Cash Offer with respect to a particular series of Old Notes validly tendered is conditioned on the Maximum Total Consideration Amount being sufficient to pay the Total Consideration, excluding the Accrued Coupon Payment, for all validly tendered Notes of such series (after accounting for all validly tendered Notes that have a higher Acceptance Priority Level).
Verizon reserves the right, but are under no obligation, to increase or waive the Maximum Total Consideration Amount, in our sole discretion subject to applicable law, with or without extending the Cash Offer Withdrawal Date. No assurance can be given that Verizon will increase or waive the Maximum Total Consideration Amount. If Cash Offer Eligible Holders tender more Old Notes in the Cash Offers than they expect to be accepted for purchase based on the Maximum Total Consideration Amount and Verizon subsequently accepts more than such Cash Offer Eligible Holders expected of such Old Notes tendered as a result of an increase of the Maximum Total Consideration Amount, such Cash Offer Eligible Holders may not be able to withdraw any of their previously tendered Notes. Accordingly, Cash Offer Eligible Holders should not tender any Old Notes that they do not wish to be accepted for purchase.
If the Maximum Total Consideration Condition is not satisfied with respect to each series of Old Notes, for (i) a series of Old Notes (the “First Non-Covered Notes”) for which the Maximum Total Consideration Amount is less than the sum of (x) the Aggregate Purchase Consideration for all validly tendered First Non-Covered Notes and (y) the Aggregate Purchase Consideration for all validly tendered Notes of all series, having a higher Acceptance Priority Level as set forth on the cover of the Offer to Purchase (with 1 being the highest Acceptance Priority Level and 10 being the lowest Acceptance Priority Level) than the First Non-Covered Notes, and (ii) all series of Old Notes with an Acceptance Priority Level lower than the First Non-Covered Notes (together with the First Non-Covered Notes, the “Non-Covered Notes”), then Verizon may, at any time on or prior to the Cash Offer Expiration Date: (x) waive the Maximum Total Consideration Condition with respect to one or more Cash Offers and accept all Old Notes of the series sought in such Cash Offer, and of any series of Old Notes sought in Cash Offers with a higher Acceptance Priority Level, validly tendered and not validly withdrawn; or (y) skip any Cash Offer for Old Notes that would have caused the Maximum Total Consideration Amount to be exceeded and purchase all Old Notes of a given series in an Cash Offer having a lower Acceptance Priority Level so long as Verizon is able to purchase the full amount of validly tendered and not validly withdrawn Notes in such Cash Offer without exceeding the Maximum Total Consideration Amount.
Verizon’s obligation to complete any Cash Offer with respect to a given series of Old Notes is conditioned on the completion of the corresponding Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes (with respect to each Cash Offer, the “Exchange Offer Completion Condition”). Verizon will terminate the Cash Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes, and it will terminate the Exchange Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes. The termination of an Exchange Offer for a series of Old Notes will not impact the Cash Offer for any other series of Old Notes. If Verizon extends the Exchange Offer for a series of Old Notes for any reason, Verizon will extend the corresponding Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes. The Exchange Offer Completion Condition cannot be waived by Verizon.
Global Bondholder Services Corporation is acting as the Information Agent and the Tender Agent for the Cash Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Cash Offers or for additional copies of the Tender Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (212) 430-3774. You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Cash Offers. The Tender Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: https://www.gbsc-usa.com/verizon.
Verizon refers to the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, collectively, as the “Offers.”
If Verizon terminates any Offer with respect to one or more series of Old Notes, it will give prompt notice to the Tender Agent or Exchange Agent, as applicable, and all Old Notes tendered pursuant to such terminated Offer will be returned promptly to the tendering holders thereof. With effect from such termination, any Old Notes blocked in DTC will be released.
Holders are advised to check with any bank, securities broker or other intermediary through which they hold Old Notes as to when such intermediary needs to receive instructions from a holder in order for that holder to be able to participate in, or (in the circumstances in which revocation is permitted) revoke their instruction to participate in, the Exchange Offers or Cash Offers, as applicable, before the deadlines specified herein and in the Exchange Offer Documents or the Tender Offer Documents, as applicable. The deadlines set by any such intermediary and each clearing system for the submission and withdrawal of exchange instructions will also be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified herein and in the Exchange Offer Documents or the Tender Offer Documents, as applicable.
This announcement is for informational purposes only. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any Old Notes. The Exchange Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offering Memorandum and related documents and the Cash Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and related documents. The Offers are not being made to holders of Old Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction in which the securities laws or blue sky laws require the Offers to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Offers will be deemed to be made on behalf of Verizon by the dealer managers or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.
This communication and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers have not been approved by an authorized person for the purposes of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”). Accordingly, this announcement is not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, persons within the United Kingdom save in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. Accordingly, this communication is only addressed to and directed at persons who are outside the United Kingdom and (i) persons falling within the definition of investment professionals (as defined in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Financial Promotion Order”)), or (ii) within Article 43 of the Financial Promotion Order, or (iii) high net worth companies and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Financial Promotion Order, or (iv) to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (such persons together being “relevant persons”). The New Notes are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such New Notes will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on any document relating to the Exchange Offers or any of their contents.
This communication and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in member states of the European Economic Area (the “EEA”), who are “Qualified Investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129. The New Notes are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such New Notes, will be engaged in only with, Qualified Investors. The Exchange Offer is only available to Qualified Investors. None of the information in the Offering Memorandum and any other documents and materials relating to the Exchange Offer should be acted upon or relied upon in any member state of the EEA by persons who are not Qualified Investors.
“Non-U.S. qualified offeree” means:
(i) in relation to any investor in the European Economic Area (the “EEA”), a qualified investor as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended or superseded) that is not a retail investor. For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (a) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU (as amended, “MiFID II”); or (b) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II;
(ii) in relation to any investor in the United Kingdom, a qualified investor as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 that is not a retail investor and that (a) has professional experience in matters relating to investments and qualifies as an investment professional within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Financial Promotion Order”), (b) is a person falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.”) of the Financial Promotion Order, or (c) is a person to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”)) in connection with the issue or sale of any notes may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (x) a retail client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) No 2017/565 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (“EUWA”); or (y) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the FSMA and any rules or regulations made under the FSMA to implement Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA; or
(iii) any entity outside the U.S., the EEA and the United Kingdom to whom the Exchange Offer may be made in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations of any applicable jurisdiction without registration of the Exchange Offer or any related filing or approval.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
In this communication Verizon has made forward-looking statements, including regarding the conduct and completion of the Offers. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but only predictions and generally can be identified by use of statements that include phrases such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan,” “appear,” “project,” “estimate,” “hope,” “intend,” “target,” “forecast,” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals also are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated, including those discussed in the Offering Memorandum and Offer to Purchase under the heading “Risk Factors” and under similar headings in other documents that are incorporated by reference in the Offering Memorandum and Offer to Purchase. Holders are urged to consider these risks and uncertainties carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and Verizon undertakes no obligation to update publicly these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events might or might not occur. Verizon cannot assure you that projected results or events will be achieved.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Christine Lagarde: Strengthening economies in a stormy and fragmenting world
Source: European Central Bank
Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the ninth Annual Research Conference “Economic and financial integration in a stormy and fragmenting world” organised by the National Bank of Ukraine and Narodowy Bank Polski in Kyiv, Ukraine
Kyiv, 19 June 2025
It is an honour to be here in Kyiv – a city that has come to symbolise resilience, dignity and the enduring spirit of freedom. Kyiv stands not only as the heart of Ukraine, but as a beacon of what it means to hold fast to democratic values in the face of immense challenge.
As the great Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko once wrote, “In your own house – your own truth. Your own strength and freedom.” Ukraine’s fight today reminds all of Europe of this powerful truth: our security and prosperity rely on unity, on integration with our neighbours.
In the face of Russia’s unjustified war of aggression, Ukrainians have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in defence of their country.
In my remarks today, and in keeping with the theme of this conference, I would like to reflect on the historical lessons we have learned about strengthening and integrating economies in an increasingly stormy and fragmented world.
Experience shows that closer ties with the European neighbourhood can provide a strong foundation for Ukraine to rebuild and emerge stronger. And as geopolitical tensions rise and global supply chains fragment, the case for deeper regional cooperation has never been clearer.
Europe’s own long history of integration offers valuable insights that can help guide Ukraine’s path forwards. Two key lessons stand out.
First, while deeper integration increases the potential rewards, it also raises the risks if not managed wisely. Sound domestic policy frameworks are essential to maximise growth and safeguard stability.
Second, the benefits of integration are neither automatic nor permanent. Maintaining them depends on continuous reform – but reforms must also deliver tangible improvements for people’s lives, and do so relatively quickly.
The benefits of integration in a fragmenting world
During the Cold War, the Iron Curtain fractured the European economy. Trade between East and West fell by half. This division was like imposing a 48% tariff – leading to immense welfare losses and isolating the Eastern bloc from global markets.[1]
But the transformation since Europe’s eastern enlargement has been nothing short of remarkable. On average, countries that joined the EU in 2004 have nearly doubled their GDP per capita over the past two decades.
Critically, this was not just about catching up from a low base. Between 2004 and 2019, the EU’s new Member States saw their GDP per capita grow 32% more than comparable non-EU countries.[2] The difference was deeper economic integration – and those that were already highly embedded in the regional economy gained the most.
While all new members experienced gains, countries with stronger integration into regional value chains recorded nearly 10 percentage points higher GDP per capita growth compared with less integrated peers – regardless of geographic proximity.[3]
This difference was driven mainly by technology and productivity spillovers. ECB research shows that a 10% increase in productivity among western EU firms translated into a 5% productivity gain for central and eastern European firms linked to their supply chains.[4]
The case for regional integration is therefore clear – and in today’s increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape, it has become even more compelling.
First, regional integration underpins growth.
European economies are highly open, which means a world splintering into rival trading blocs poses clear risks to prosperity. Yet Europe’s most important trading partner is Europe itself: around 65% of euro area exports go to other European countries, including the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway. For Ukraine too, Europe is the principal trading partner, accounting for over 50% of its goods trade in 2024.
By deepening economic ties – more closely linking neighbouring economies – we can reduce our exposure to external shocks. Rising trade within our region can help offset losses in global markets.
Second, regional integration strengthens resilience.
One consequence of geopolitical fragmentation is the realignment of supply chains toward trusted partners. Nearly half of firms involved in external trade have already revised their strategies – or intend to do so – including relocating parts of their operations closer to home.[5] While this trend reduces strategic dependencies, it can also raise costs.
Yet large integrated regions can mitigate these costs by replicating many of the benefits of globalisation at the regional level. Supply chains can be reorganised regionally, allowing each country to specialise based on its comparative advantage within regional value chains.
Ukraine stands to benefit significantly from expanding these networks across the region – and the EU stands to benefit, too, from having Ukraine as a partner.[6]
In the automotive sector, for example, Ukrainian firms already produce around 7% of all wire harnesses used in EU vehicles.[7] As the industry shifts towards electric vehicles, which require more complex wiring systems, Ukraine’s manufacturing base is well positioned to scale up and play a larger role in the EU value chain.
Equally transformative is Ukraine’s drone industry, which has become one of the most advanced in the region. Drones are not only a critical component of modern warfare, but also a technology with substantial spillover effects and far-reaching dual-use applications.
Indeed, the country’s ambitious goal of producing 4.5 million drones by 2025 has accelerated innovation in materials science, battery technology and 3D printing. These advances are already finding civilian applications in sectors such as logistics, agriculture and emergency response.
In short, for both existing EU members and neighbouring countries like Ukraine, regional integration is both a path to prosperity and a strategic anchor in an increasingly fragmented world.
Managing the risks of integration
But examining the experience of countries that have used regional integration as a platform for growth and reform reveals two important lessons.
The first is that if integration is not accompanied by appropriate reforms, it can create new vulnerabilities – especially in the financial sphere.
Financial integration often brings volatile capital inflows, which can make it difficult to distinguish sustainable growth from unsustainable excesses in real time.
One way this can happen is when productivity gains in tradable sectors, such as manufacturing, drive up wages in those sectors, which then spill over into higher wages in non-tradable sectors and push up overall inflation.[8]
While this effect is a normal feature of catching-up, it can make it easy to mistake genuine convergence for economic overheating. If foreign capital is in fact driving financial imbalances – such as unsustainable real estate booms – countries may exhibit the same patterns of rising wages and inflation, masking underlying vulnerabilities.
Another potential distortion is that capital inflows can significantly affect government fiscal positions by boosting tax revenues and creating the illusion of permanently greater fiscal space. This often leads to procyclical fiscal policies, with governments increasing spending or cutting taxes during boom periods – only to face fiscal stress when inflows reverse or growth slows.
Both dynamics have been visible during Europe’s recent experience with regional integration.
After the eastern enlargement, financial integration accelerated rapidly. Between 2003 and 2008, the new Member States experienced an extraordinary surge in capital inflows, averaging over 12% of GDP annually – twice the typical level for emerging markets globally.[9]
Initially, this rapid financial integration brought clear benefits: it expanded access to credit, fuelled growth and enabled much-needed development. However, in many countries, foreign capital was disproportionately channelled into consumption and construction booms, while tax revenues rose sharply on the back of property transactions and buoyant domestic demand.[10] This led to widespread misallocation of private capital and inefficient public spending.
Capital flows then reversed sharply when the global financial crisis struck, exposing these imbalances. Between December 2008 and May 2013, external bank liabilities in non-euro area central and eastern European countries declined by an average of 27% – with some countries experiencing drops of more than 50%.[11]
Yet the risks associated with financial integration can be avoided. Not all countries in the region were affected equally. Those that performed better typically shared two key features.
First, they had clear policies to channel foreign investment into productive sectors. Strong industrial strategies, a skilled workforce and integration into global supply chains helped direct capital towards manufacturing and tradable services – sectors that drive export growth and are less prone to unsustainable booms and asset bubbles.[12]
Second, they maintained robust financial policy frameworks. Tighter capital requirements, active macroprudential measures and countercyclical buffers strengthened domestic banking sectors and curbed excessive mortgage lending. These tools enabled those countries to absorb large capital inflows without creating destabilising imbalances.[13]
The lesson is clear: as countries integrate into the region, strong domestic policy frameworks are critical to ensuring that capital inflows support long-term growth rather than generating financial instability or inefficient allocation.
This insight is especially relevant for Ukraine today as it charts its path towards recovery. If reconstruction proceeds as planned, the country could attract significant capital inflows over the next decade. But without the right safeguards, that capital risks being misallocated – undermining long-term productivity instead of strengthening it.
There are encouraging signs. The EU–Ukraine Association Agreement and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area have already driven significant reforms in the financial sector. Ukraine’s banking regulation now aligns with more than 75% of EU standards, covering critical areas such as capital adequacy, governance and auditing.[14]
The National Bank of Ukraine has adopted a risk-based supervisory model inspired by the Single Supervisory Mechanism – the system of banking supervision in Europe – markedly improving oversight. Despite extremely challenging circumstances, Ukraine is also modernising its capital markets – consolidating exchanges, upgrading settlement systems and strengthening regulatory enforcement to attract long-term investors.
These reforms are already delivering results: in 2023, Ukraine’s banking sector remained profitable and well capitalised despite the ongoing war – an outcome that would have been unthinkable a decade ago.
Still, further progress is essential, especially in fiscal governance. Strengthening public investment management will be critical to ensure that reconstruction funds are allocated transparently and efficiently.
This is not just about meeting external standards. It is about ensuring that every euro, and every hryvnia, delivers real returns for the Ukrainian people.[15]
Making integration sustainable
However, reforms cannot be treated as a one-time effort.
So, the second key lesson is that the benefits of regional integration are neither automatic nor permanent. Sustaining them requires continuous reform – and, just as importantly, it requires citizens to see visible, tangible improvements in their daily lives.
In this context, there are two risks to watch out for.
The first is that institutional reform momentum can fade if economic benefits do not follow quickly.
Deeper regional integration typically begins with aligning framework conditions, such as legal systems, regulation and public administration. These areas often improve rapidly. But for the economic gains to materialise, domestic entrepreneurs and foreign investors must respond to the new incentives created – and this takes time.
In the long run, evidence shows that countries with initially weaker institutions benefit the most from adopting higher standards.[16] But in the short run, if people only see the effort and not the payoff, public support for further reforms can weaken, putting long-term convergence at risk.
The second risk is that structural shifts in the economy may weaken the link between integration and economic convergence over time.
The integration of goods markets has traditionally driven convergence almost automatically, as foreign direct investment flows to countries with lower land and labour costs, supply chains relocate and lower-income countries benefit from technology transfers.
As I mentioned earlier, this will remain an important mechanism even in an era of supply chain reshoring. But countries cannot rely on it as heavily as in the past. Future growth in intra-EU trade is expected to depend increasingly on services – particularly digital services.
However, research shows that services sector activity tends to concentrate in larger, more affluent urban areas that exhibit the hallmarks of a knowledge economy: high tertiary education rates, strong technology and science sectors and robust digital infrastructure.[17]
This means that deeper integration alone will not guarantee broad-based convergence across all regions. Over time, countries will need to invest more in education, skills and digitalisation to ensure they can build high levels of human capital.
Maintaining the path of convergence is therefore not easy. But slowing down reform efforts is not the answer – especially in the shock-prone world we face today.
There is a clear link between strong institutions and economic resilience. ECB research indicates that, during the pandemic, regions with lower institutional quality experienced – all else equal – an additional decline of around 4 percentage points in GDP per capita compared with the ten regions with the highest quality of government.[18]
As our economies are increasingly buffeted by global turbulence, institutional backsliding therefore risks creating a vicious circle: repeated shocks can undermine economic convergence and further erode public confidence in the reform process.
The best way for countries to sustain reform momentum is to recognise the importance of maintaining public support and, as far as possible, pair governance improvements with a focus on sectors where they have a clear competitive edge – and where deeper integration with the region can unlock significant and rapid growth opportunities.
This way, the benefits of reforms will be felt more quickly and more widely.
Ukraine is well positioned to put this into practice. Its IT sector is already relatively strong: IT services exports reached nearly USD 7 billion in 2023, making it one of the country’s leading export sectors despite the war.[19]
Ukraine also produces around 130,000 STEM graduates each year – exceeding Germany and France[20] – and it ranks among the top five countries globally for certified IT professionals.[21] Successful IT clusters are active in several cities, and major foreign firms – including Apple, Microsoft, Boeing and Siemens – have established R&D operations in the country.
A dynamic defence tech ecosystem is also taking shape[22], with Ukrainian start-ups attracting almost half a billion US dollars in funding in 2024 – surpassing many of their peers across central and eastern Europe.[23] Experience from countries like Israel suggests that such a foundation can enable the country to emerge as a broader technology hub in the years ahead.
If Ukraine stays the course on institutional reform and continues to adapt its economy to new opportunities, despite the stormy environment, it can emerge as a vital engine of growth and a key contributor to the region’s future.
Conclusion
Let me conclude.
Ukraine stands at a pivotal moment – facing the hardships of war, the challenge of reconstruction and the opportunity of deeper regional integration.
In a world marked by shifting geopolitical realities, such integration offers a clear path to recovery and lasting prosperity.
The recent history of regional integration shows not only its immense benefits, but also the importance of managing transitional risks through robust policy frameworks. It also underlines the need to sustain reform over time by ensuring that people feel its benefits.
I am confident that Ukraine will be able to fully realise its economic potential, turning the upheaval of today into the foundation for a dynamic future.
As Ivan Franko, one of Ukraine’s greatest poets, once wrote: “even though life is but a moment and made up of moments, we carry eternity in our souls.”
This enduring spirit captures the resilience and potential of Ukraine’s people and its economy – a spirit that will continue to drive advancement and renewal in the years ahead.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Thales and Terma sign a Memorandum of Understanding to expand cooperation in the Air, Naval and Space domains
Source: Thales Group
Headline: Thales and Terma sign a Memorandum of Understanding to expand cooperation in the Air, Naval and Space domains
Paris Air Show, Paris: Thales and Terma have signed a Memorandum of Understanding signaling their commitment to local industrial cooperation and a potential strategic partnership within the three key domains of Air and Air Defence, Naval and Space. This cooperation and strategic partnership will help to strengthen the European industrial and technological base to the benefit of local and international defence industry.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Governor Signe Krogstrup: Climate Risks and Financial Stability – Staying the Course Amid Uncertainty
Source: Danmarks Nationalbank
Pressing global challenges and high uncertainty rightly command our attention in the current juncture, but they also threaten to overshadow issues such as climate change. Meanwhile, physical risks of climate change are becoming more evident, and the global transition remains too slow.
Governor Krogstrup commented: “Rather than looking away, the many concurrent challenges should reinforce our commitment to addressing these in a risk-based, prioritized manner.”
Scenario analysis is a cornerstone of climate risk assessment. While climate policy is a government responsibility, climate-related risks fall squarely within the mandates of central banks. At Danmarks Nationalbank, climate work is integrated into scenario analysis and data collection. Nationalbanken has developed scenarios and collaborated with the Danish Research Institute for Economic Analysis and Modelling (DREAM) to understand how the green transition may impact the Danish economy and banks.
Governor Krogstrup concluded by calling for collaboration: “The risks arising from climate change are global and multidisciplinary. Learning from each other and collaborating is not only useful — it is necessary.”
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MIL-OSI Economics: Governor Signe Krogstrup: Climate Risks and Financial Stability – Staying the Course Amid Uncertainty
Source: Danmarks Nationalbank
Pressing global challenges and high uncertainty rightly command our attention in the current juncture, but they also threaten to overshadow issues such as climate change. Meanwhile, physical risks of climate change are becoming more evident, and the global transition remains too slow.
Governor Krogstrup commented: “Rather than looking away, the many concurrent challenges should reinforce our commitment to addressing these in a risk-based, prioritized manner.”
Scenario analysis is a cornerstone of climate risk assessment. While climate policy is a government responsibility, climate-related risks fall squarely within the mandates of central banks. At Danmarks Nationalbank, climate work is integrated into scenario analysis and data collection. Nationalbanken has developed scenarios and collaborated with the Danish Research Institute for Economic Analysis and Modelling (DREAM) to understand how the green transition may impact the Danish economy and banks.
Governor Krogstrup concluded by calling for collaboration: “The risks arising from climate change are global and multidisciplinary. Learning from each other and collaborating is not only useful — it is necessary.”
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MIL-OSI Economics: Ambassador of the Italian Republic to ASEAN presents Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN
Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
JAKARTA, 19 June 2025 — Ambassador Roberto Colaminè presented his Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today, assuming his post as the Ambassador of the Italian Republic to ASEAN.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Colaminè on his assumption of office and reiterated the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to work closely with him and the Embassy of the Italian Republic in Jakarta in further strengthening the ASEAN-Italy Development Partnership. In response, Ambassador Colaminè confirmed Italy’s commitment to ASEAN and the wider Indo-Pacific region and referred to the successful completion of key initiatives to promote Italy-ASEAN relations.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao took the opportunity to encourage Ambassador Colaminè to engage with the diplomatic community in Jakarta, especially with the Permanent Missions of the ASEAN Member States to ASEAN. Both sides noted the significance of expanding and exploring cooperation in areas of mutual interest under the ASEAN-Italy Practical Cooperation Areas (2022-2026), such as space technology, agriculture, renewable energy, eco-tourism, and sustainable coastal and maritime development.
Italy accredited its first Ambassador to ASEAN in 2009. Ambassador Colaminè succeeds Ambassador Benedetto Latteri, who completed his tenure in December 2024.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Olaf Seijpen: Financial stability – it’s not glamorous, but it matters
Source: Bank for International Settlements
Good morning and welcome to the 9th Annual Macroprudential Conference. It is a pleasure to see so many distinguished representatives from central banks, regulatory institutions, the financial sector, and academia gathered here today. And welcome to our newly renovated building-a space designed not only for policy but also for people. Our new building is now partly open to the general public. As a central bank, we want to be transparent and accessible, and we wanted our new building to reflect that. And you know, people really take an interest. And I can imagine people are really excited to see so many macroprudential policy stars in person today.
This conference has always been a collaborative effort. From the very beginning, it has been jointly organized by the Deutsche Bundesbank, the Sveriges Riksbank and De Nederlandsche Bank. A macroprudential rock band if you will. And this year, we’re thrilled to welcome a new band member: the Central Bank of Ireland. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Scientific Committee for their dedication in shaping this year’s programme. Your work behind the scenes makes all of this possible.
In these volatile times, transparency and accessibility are more important than ever. Macroprudential policy may seem like a niche field, reserved for specialists. But its impact is universal. Financial stability affects households, businesses, governments-and ultimately, the trust that underpins our economies. And all the topics that we cover in this conference the coming two days, in all their diversity and richness and technical complexity – they are somehow related to this simple fact. Be it income-based tools to mitigate housing market risks, or QE and the bond market, or bank governance, to name just a few topics in the program.
Safeguarding that stability requires three things: patience, commitment and cooperation.
Let me begin with patience. The road to financial stability is long and often winding. It is not paved with quick wins or instant results. After the global financial crisis, governments, regulators and banks worked hard on a comprehensive reform of banking regulation that would boost buffers and make the financial sector more resilient. That has served us well. During the Covid pandemic, for example. Thanks to stronger buffers, banks were able to absorb losses and continue extending credit when the economy took a hit as a result of the lockdowns.
And it continues to serve us well. Especially now in these times of fundamental uncertainty. A resilient financial sector can help the economy to withstand shocks from trade barriers and geopolitical events. But it takes patience and hard work.
That brings me to the second theme: commitment. Financial stability seems like a natural state. We take out our phone and we pay. And the bread that we buy costs the same as it did last week. And when we wake up in the morning our savings are still in our bank account. Financial stability is something that seems to be just there, unconditionally. But it really isn’t. It is something we must continuously work for. It demands vigilance, coordination, and above all, the political will to act before the crisis hits.
Lately, there have been calls for simplifying banking regulation. I have sympathy for that. Banking regulation has indeed become very complex. This is certainly something we should look into.
But we should be careful not to confuse simplification with deregulation. Deregulation means effectively lowering buffers by relaxing the rules. That would increase both vulnerability in the banking system and the likelihood of financial crises. It would be a big mistake.
We should be wary of undoing the hard work that has gone into strengthening the financial system over the past decade and a half. Especially now, in this time of unusually high uncertainty, both on the economic and political front.
This requires commitment from regulators and governments. Because the system of international rules we have built to support financial stability and to create a level playing field is only as strong as our commitment to it.
Finally, cooperation. Financial stability is an international public good. Almost every challenge we face in our highly interconnected financial system is global in nature. And so must be our response. No country can safeguard financial stability alone.
If we want to meet today’s challenges to financial stability, we have to continue to work together. And we need to stay committed to the institutions we have built to underpin that cooperation, such as the Basel Committee and the FSB. Global cooperation is harder in a fragmented world. But it is also more essential. During the global financial crisis, policymakers acted swiftly and in unison. We must preserve that capacity.
Patience, commitment, and cooperation. Let us use this conference to reaffirm these principles. Let us learn from each other, challenge each other, and inspire each other. But above all: let us enjoy the conference. And if you remember just one thing from this speech, let it be this: macroprudential policy may not be glamorous, it may not attract big crowds, you may not even make it to the support act. But it matters, and it is never boring.
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MIL-OSI Economics: François Villeroy de Galhau: “Where there is danger, a rescuing element grows as well”
Source: Bank for International Settlements
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to participate in this latest edition of the Paris Finance Forum, and I would like to warmly thank Augustin de Romanet and Jean-Charles Simon for their invitation. This year, Paris has once again demonstrated its vibrancy by climbing to fourth place in the OFEXi ranking of global financial centres. The fact remains, however, that this has been an unprecedented year, both for the global economy and for finance. I propose taking solace in the words of the German poet Hölderlin: “where there is danger, a rescuing element grows as well”.ii I will outline three threats (1) before inviting us to take three winning gambles (2).
1) A pivotal year with a combination of three threats
1.1. (Geo)political unpredictability
The first threat is clearly (geo)political unpredictability, amplified this year by the shift in US policy.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Claudia Buch: Simplification without deregulation – European supervision, regulation and reporting in a changing environment
Source: Bank for International Settlements
The environment in which European banks are operating is changing fast. Technology is evolving rapidly, transforming how financial services are delivered and information is processed. Banks need to adapt their business models to sustain their long-term profitability. The risk landscape has changed significantly; geopolitical uncertainty is high. This requires good risk management, supervision, and regulation. At the same time, the benefits of post-financial crisis reforms are increasingly being questioned, the current supervisory and regulatory framework is being criticised as excessively complex. A weakening of global rules that help keep the financial system safe and sound is a real risk.
Simplification without deregulation requires strong guardrails. Simplification means maintaining resilience with a more effective and efficient supervisory and regulatory framework; deregulation means weakening regulation and supervision at the expense of resilience. In practice though, it can be difficult to draw a clear line between simplification and deregulation. The current rules are not there because the framework has intentionally been made too complex. Rules and procedures are there for a reason.
Ensuring that simplification does not weaken resilience requires an evidence-based, European reform agenda that enhances efficiency and effectiveness.