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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Global: If FEMA didn’t exist, could states handle the disaster response alone?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ming Xie, Assistant Professor of Emergency Management and Public Health, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

    Hurricane Ian caused widespread damage in Florida in 2022, estimated at over $112 billion. This scene was once a shopping center. Giorgio Veira/AFP via Getty Images

    Imagine a world in which a hurricane devastates the Gulf Coast, and the U.S. has no federal agency prepared to quickly send supplies, financial aid and temporary housing assistance.

    Could the states manage this catastrophic event on their own?

    Normally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, known as FEMA, is prepared to marshal supplies within hours of a disaster and begin distributing financial aid to residents who need help.

    However, with President Donald Trump questioning FEMA’s future and suggesting states take over recovery instead, and climate change causing more frequent and severe disasters, it’s worth asking how prepared states are to face these growing challenges without help.

    What FEMA does

    FEMA was created in 1979 with the job of coordinating national responses to disasters, but the federal government has played important roles in disaster relief since the 1800s.

    During a disaster, FEMA’s assistance can begin only after a state requests an emergency declaration and the U.S. president approves it. The request has to show that the disaster is so severe that the state can’t handle the response on its own.

    FEMA’s role is to support state and local governments by coordinating federal agencies and providing financial aid and recovery assistance that states would otherwise struggle to supply on their own. FEMA doesn’t “take over,” as a misinformation campaign launched during Hurricane Helene claimed. Instead, it pools federal resources to allow states to recover faster from expensive disasters.

    During a disaster, FEMA:

    • Coordinates federal resources. For example, during Hurricane Ian in 2022, FEMA coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and search-and-rescue teams to conduct rescue operations, organized utility crews to begin restoring power and also delivered water and millions of meals.

    • Provides financial assistance. FEMA distributes billions of dollars in disaster relief funds to help individuals, businesses and local governments recover. As of Feb. 3, 2025, FEMA aid from 2024 storms included US$1.04 billion related to Hurricane Milton, $416.1 million for Hurricane Helene and $112.6 million for Hurricane Debby.

    • Provides logistical support. FEMA coordinates with state and local governments, nonprofits such as the American Red Cross and federal agencies to supply cots, blankets and hygiene supplies for emergency shelters. It also works with state and local partners to distribute critical supplies such as food, water and medical aid.

    The agency also manages the National Flood Insurance Program, offers disaster preparedness training and helps states develop response plans to improve their overall responses systems.

    What FEMA aid looks like in a disaster

    When wildfires swept through Maui, Hawaii, in August 2023, FEMA provided emergency grants to cover immediate needs such as food, clothing and essential supplies for survivors.

    The agency arranged hotel rooms, rental assistance and financial aid for residents who lost homes or belongings. Its Direct Housing Program has spent $295 million to lease homes for more than 1,200 households. This comprehensive support helped thousands of people begin rebuilding their lives after losing almost everything.

    FEMA also helped fund construction of a temporary school to ensure that students whose schools burned could continue their classes. Hawaii, with its relatively small population and limited emergency funds, would have struggled to mount a comparable response on its own.

    Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, center, and then-FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speak to reporters in Lahaina, Hawaii, on Aug. 12, 2023, while assessing the wildfire damage there.
    AP Photo/Rick Bowmer

    Larger states often need help, too. When a 2021 winter storm overwhelmed Texas’ power grid and water infrastructure, FEMA coordinated the delivery of essential supplies, including water, fuel, generators and blankets, following the disaster declaration on Feb. 19, 2021. Within days, it awarded more than $2.8 million in grants to help people with temporary housing and home repairs.

    Which states would suffer most without FEMA?

    Without FEMA or other federal support, states would have to manage the disaster response and recovery on their own.

    States prone to frequent disasters, such as Louisiana and Florida, would face expensive recurring challenges that would likely exacerbate recovery delays and reduce their overall resilience.

    Smaller, more rural and less wealthy states that lack the financial resources and logistical capabilities to respond effectively would be disproportionately affected.

    “States don’t have that capability built to handle a disaster every single year,” Lynn Budd, director of the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security, told Stateline in an interview. Access to FEMA avoids the need for expensive disaster response infrastructure in each state.

    States might be able to arrange regional cooperation. But state-led responses and regional models have limitations. The National Guard could assist with supply distribution, but it isn’t designed to provide fast financial aid, housing or long-term recovery options, and the supplies and the recovery effort still come at a cost.

    Members of the National Guard and a FEMA search-and-rescue team work together in the disaster response after Hurricane Florence pounded Wilmington, N.C., in September 2018.
    Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    Wealthier states might be better equipped to manage on their own, but poorer states would likely struggle. States with less funding and infrastructure would be left relying on nonprofits and community-based efforts. But these organizations are not capable of providing the scope of services FEMA can.

    Any federal funding would also be slow if Congress had to approve aid after each disaster, rather than having FEMA already prepared to respond. States would be at the mercy of congressional infighting.

    In the absence of a federal response and coordinating role, recovery would be uneven, with wealthier areas recovering faster and poorer areas likely seeing more prolonged hardships.

    What does this mean?

    Coordinating disaster response is complex, the paperwork for federal assistance can be frustrating, and the agency does draw criticism. However, it also fills an important role.

    As the frequency of natural disasters continues to rise due to climate change, ask yourself: How prepared is your state for a disaster, and could it get by without federal aid?

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

    – ref. If FEMA didn’t exist, could states handle the disaster response alone? – https://theconversation.com/if-fema-didnt-exist-could-states-handle-the-disaster-response-alone-248758

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia’s shrinking world: The war in Ukraine and Moscow’s global reach

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ronald H. Linden, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, University of Pittsburgh

    Russia President Vladimir Putin sent a guarded message of congratulations to Donald Trump on inauguration day, but then held a long direct call with his “dear friend,” Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

    From Putin’s perspective, this makes sense. Russia gets billions of dollars from energy sales to China and technology from Beijing, but from Washington, until recently, mostly sanctions and suspicion.

    Moscow is hoping for a more positive relationship with the current White House occupant, who has made his desire for a “deal” to end the Ukraine war well known.

    But talk of exit scenarios from this 3-year-old conflict should not mask the fact that since the invasion began, Putin has overseen one of the worst periods in Russian foreign policy since the end of the Cold War.

    Transatlantic unity

    The war in Ukraine has foreclosed on options and blunted Russian action around the world.

    Unlike the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the 2022 invasion produced an unprecedented level of transatlantic unity, including the expansion of NATO and sanctions on Russian trade and finance. In the past year, both the U.S. and the European Union expanded their sanction packages.

    And for the first time, the EU banned the re-export of Russian liquefied natural gas and ended support for a Russian LNG project in the Arctic.

    EU-Russian trade, including European imports of energy, has dropped to a fraction of what it was before the war.

    The two Nordstrom pipelines, designed to bring Russian gas to Germany without transiting East Europe, lie crippled and unused. Revenues from energy sales are roughly one-half of what they were two years ago.

    At the same time, the West has sent billions in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, enabling a level of resilience for which Russia was unprepared. Meanwhile, global companies and technical experts and intellectuals have fled Russia in droves.

    While Russia has evaded some restrictions with its “shadow fleet” – an aging group of tankers sailing under various administrative and technical evasions – the country’s main savior is now China. Trade between China and Russia has grown by nearly two-thirds since the end of 2021, and the U.S. cites Beijing as the main source of Russia’s “dual use” and other technologies needed to pursue its war.

    Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Russia has moved from an energy-for-manufactured-goods trade relationship with the West to one of vassalage with China, as one Russia analyst termed it.

    Hosting an October meeting of the BRICS countries – now counting 11 members, including the five original members: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South America – is unlikely to compensate for geopolitical losses elsewhere.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin and China President Xi Jinping toast their friendship in March 2023.
    Pavel Byrkin/AFP via Getty Images

    Problems at home …

    The Russian economy is deeply distorted by increased military spending, which represents 40% of the budget and 25% of all spending. The government now needs the equivalent of US$20 billion annually in order to pay for new recruits.

    Russian leaders must find a way to keep at least some of the population satisfied, but persistent inflation and reserve currency shortages flowing directly from the war have made this task more difficult.

    On the battlefield, the war itself has killed or wounded more than 600,000 Russian soldiers. Operations during 2024 were particularly deadly, producing more than 1,500 Russian casualties a day.

    The leader who expected Kyiv’s capitulation in days now finds Russian territory around Kursk occupied, its naval forces in the Black Sea destroyed and withdrawn, and its own generals assassinated in Moscow.

    But probably the greatest humiliation is that this putative great power with a population of 144 million must resort to importing North Korean troops to help liberate its own land.

    … and in its backyard

    Moscow’s dedication to the war has affected its ability to influence events elsewhere, even in its own neighborhood.

    In the Caucasus, for example, Russia had long sided with Armenia in its running battle with Azerbaijan over boundaries and population after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

    Moscow has brokered ceasefires at various points. But intermittent attacks and territorial gains for Azerbaijan continued despite the presence of some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers sent to protect the remaining Armenian population in parts of the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.

    In September 2023, Azerbaijan’s forces abruptly took control of the rest of Nagorno-Karabakh. More than 100,000 Armenians fled in the largest ethnic cleansing episode since the end of the Balkan Wars. The peacekeepers did not intervene and later withdrew. The Russian military, absorbed in the bloody campaigns in Ukraine, could not back up or reinforce them.

    The Azeris’ diplomatic and economic position has gained in recent years, aided by demand for its gas as a substitute for Russia’s and support from NATO member Turkey.

    Feeling betrayed by Russia, the Armenian government has for the first time extended feelers toward the West — which is happy to entertain such overtures.

    Losing influence and friends

    Russia’s loss in the Caucasus has been dwarfed by the damage to its military position and influence in the Middle East. Russia supported the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad against the uprisings of the Arab Spring in 2011 and saved it with direct military intervention beginning in 2015.

    Yet in December 2024, Assad was unexpectedly swept away by a mélange of rebel groups. The refuge extended to Assad by Moscow was the most it could provide with the war in Ukraine having drained Russia’s capacity to do more.

    Russia’s possible withdrawal from the Syrian naval base at Tartus and the airbase at Khmeimim would remove assets that allowed it to cooperate with Iran, its key strategic partner in the region.

    More recently, Russia’s reliability as an ally and reputation as an armory has been damaged by Israeli attacks not only on Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed forces in Lebanon and Syria, but on Iran itself.

    Russia’s position in Africa would also be damaged by the loss of the Syrian bases, which are key launch points for extending Russian power, and by Moscow’s evident inability to make a difference on the ground across the Sahel region in north-central Africa.

    Dirty tricks, diminishing returns

    Stalemate in Ukraine and Russian strategic losses in Syria and elsewhere have prompted Moscow to rely increasingly on a variety of other means to try to gain influence.

    Disinformation, election meddling and varied threats are not new and are part of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. But recent efforts in East Europe have not been very productive. Massive Russian funding and propaganda in Romania, for example, helped produce a narrow victory for an anti-NATO presidential candidate in December 2024, but the Romanian government moved quickly to expose these actions and the election was annulled.

    Nearby Moldova has long been subject to Russian propaganda and threats, especially during recent presidential elections and a referendum on stipulating a “European course” in the constitution. The tiny country moved to reduce its dependency on Russian gas but remains territorially fragmented by the breakaway region of Transnistria that, until recently, provided most of the country’s electricity.

    Despite these factors, the results were not what Moscow wanted. In both votes, a European direction was favored by the electorate. When the Transnistrian legislature in February 2024 appealed to Moscow for protection, none was forthcoming.

    When Moldova thumbs its nose at you, it’s fair to say your power ranking has fallen.

    Wounded but still dangerous

    Not all recent developments have been negative for Moscow. State control of the economy has allowed for rapid rebuilding of a depleted military and support for its technology industry in the short term. With Chinese help and evasion of sanctions, sufficient machinery and energy allow the war in Ukraine to continue.

    And the inauguration of Donald Trump is likely to favor Putin, despite some mixed signals. The U.S. president has threatened tariffs and more sanctions but also disbanded a Biden-era task force aimed a punishing Russian oligarchs who help Russia evade sanctions. In the White House now is someone who has openly admired Putin, expressed skepticism over U.S. support for Ukraine and rushed to bully America’s closest allies in Latin America, Canada and Europe.

    Most importantly, Trump’s eagerness to make good on his pledge to end the war may provide the Russian leader with a deal he can call a “victory.”

    The shrinking of Russia’s world has not necessarily made Russia less dangerous; it could be quite the opposite. Some Kremlin watchers argue that a more economically isolated Russia is less vulnerable to American economic pressure. A retreating Russia and an embattled Putin could also opt for even more reckless threats and actions – for example, on nuclear weapons – especially if reversing course in Ukraine would jeopardize his position. It is, after all, Putin’s war.

    All observers would be wise to note that the famous dictum “Russia is never as strong as she looks … nor as weak as she looks” has been ominously rephrased by Putin himself: “Russia was never so strong as it wants to be and never so weak as it is thought to be.”

    Ronald H. Linden has in the past received funding from Fulbright, DAAD, German Marshall Fund, National Council for Eurasian and East European Research, Woodrow Wilson Center, US Institute of Peace.

    – ref. Russia’s shrinking world: The war in Ukraine and Moscow’s global reach – https://theconversation.com/russias-shrinking-world-the-war-in-ukraine-and-moscows-global-reach-247754

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Recognition of Foreign Credit Rating Agencies in Russia

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The regulator has determined criteria, which a foreign credit rating agency (CRA) must comply with so that its ratings can be used in regulatory acts and other documents of the Bank of Russia. Recognition of foreign ratings will expand opportunities for the free movement of capital and services in the international financial market.

    In order to receive approval from the Russian regulator, a foreign CRA must have at least 5 years of experience in the market and a capital of at least 50 million in ruble equivalent. Its methodology contains quantitative and qualitative assessments of creditworthiness, makes it possible to verify the reliability of credit ratings, including on the basis of historical data. Such an agency also adheres to the principles of corporate governance, complies with the conditions for disclosure of information and does not allow conflicts of interest. In total, the Bank of Russia has defined 19 criteria.

    Ratings of foreign CRAs that meet these criteria may be used by the Bank of Russia in regulation only in relation to foreign objects rated on an international scale.

    Preview photo: Kirill Neiezhmakov / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

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

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23359

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The creation of a network of advanced schools is a strategic step into the future of our country

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government for the creation of advanced general education organizations

    February 10, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government for the creation of advanced general education organizations

    February 10, 2025

    Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov at a meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government for the creation of advanced general education organizations

    February 10, 2025

    Meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government on the creation of advanced general education organizations

    February 10, 2025

    Meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government on the creation of advanced general education organizations

    February 10, 2025

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    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government for the creation of advanced general education organizations

    A meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government for the creation of advanced general education organizations was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration Maxim Oreshkin and Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Maxim Oreshkin recalled that President Vladimir Putin in his Address to the Federal Assembly instructed that no less than 12 advanced schools be created by 2030.

    “The creation of such schools is planned in each federal district under the national project “Youth and Children”. They will help prepare a personnel reserve for knowledge-intensive and high-tech sectors of the economy. This is not just a matter of building 12 more schools, it should be a strategic step into the future of our country. At a meeting of the Coordination Council under the Government of Russia, a decision was made to approve the presented concept of advanced general education organizations. It is important that within its framework, not only the scientific, educational and infrastructural component will be worked out, but also issues of educational work, teacher training and assessment of student success,” noted Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The implementation of such a large-scale project requires synchronization of efforts of all participants in the process: the state, society, educational institutions and business. The Ministry of Education, together with regions, universities and social partners, is already preparing mechanisms for these changes.

    Education Minister Sergei Kravtsov announced that the first three flagship schools will open in the Novgorod, Ryazan and Pskov regions.

    “The project to create flagship schools is not easy, but it is very important for our country. These will be schools for talented children in all federal districts. We plan to open the first three educational organizations on September 1, 2027. Graduates will develop domestic science and economics, and we set the goal of 100% employment of students in leading companies. These institutions will become methodological centers for schools in all federal districts and will disseminate the best pedagogical practices,” said Sergey Kravtsov.

    Children will study in flagship schools from grades 7 to 11 and undergo annual knowledge assessment, and teachers will undergo qualification testing. Teachers will be provided with decent salaries. The creation of a network of schools involves mutual exchange between students and teachers from different regions.

    First Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Communal Services Alexander Lomakin presented information on the progress of construction of advanced general education institutions in the Novgorod, Pskov and Ryazan regions. In addition, advanced schools are planned to be created in the Belgorod, Nizhny Novgorod regions and other regions.

    The acting governor of the Novgorod region, Alexander Dronov, the governor of the Pskov region, Mikhail Vedernikov, and the governor of the Ryazan region, Pavel Malkov, also spoke in detail about the creation of schools.

    The head of the educational foundation “Talent and Success” Elena Shmeleva noted the experience of “Sirius” in developing the federal territory around the educational center “Sirius”.

    The meeting was also attended by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Nikita Anisimov, governors of the Belgorod, Omsk, Chelyabinsk, Murmansk regions, Krasnodar Krai, heads of the Republic of Crimea and the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, representatives of the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Digital Development, and Rosobrnadzor.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Thomas Kimsey, President and CEO of Thomas Financial Group Appointed as Associate Administrator for Capital Access, Small Business Administration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAGRANGE, Ga., Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Community Bankshares, Inc. congratulates Thomas Kimsey, President and CEO of Thomas Financial Group, on his appointment by President Trump to the Small Business Administration (SBA) as Associate Administrator for the Office of Capital Access. Thomas Financial Group is a subsidiary of Community Bankshares, Inc.

    During this distinguished assignment, Mr. Kimsey will take a leave of absence from his role as President and CEO of Thomas Financial Group to dedicate himself to this prestigious and impactful appointment. An interim president will be named shortly to ensure continuity and the ongoing success of the company during his absence.

    “We are immensely proud of Thomas Kimsey’s commitment to serving his country in this critical role,” said Jeremy Gilpin, Chairman of the Board of Community Bankshares, Inc. “His extensive experience and passion for supporting small businesses make him uniquely qualified to improve the SBA’s ability to drive economic growth and create opportunities for entrepreneurs nationwide.”

    “Thomas Kimsey has been a visionary leader at Thomas Financial Group, and while we will miss his daily leadership, we are honored to see him take on this national responsibility,” said Chris Hurn, President of Community Bankshares, Inc. “His commitment to improving the landscape for small businesses will leave a lasting impact on the SBA and the entrepreneurs it serves.”

    Mr. Kimsey’s appointment reflects his unwavering dedication to strengthening the small business sector and empowering underserved communities. As Associate Administrator for Capital Access, he will work to enhance SBA programs and policies that support small businesses, ensuring they have the resources and access to capital needed to succeed in today’s competitive economy. The entire team at Community Bankshares, Inc. wishes him well in this important endeavor.

    About Thomas Financial Group

    Thomas Financial Group, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is now a subsidiary of Community Bankshares, Inc. and a nationally recognized leader in commercial lending solutions. Specializing in USDA and SBA programs, the company has a proven track record of empowering businesses, strengthening rural and underserved communities, and advancing government-guaranteed lending.

    About Community Bankshares, Inc.

    Headquartered in LaGrange, Georgia, Community Bankshares, Inc. is the parent company of Community Bank & Trust and a network of financial service subsidiaries. Phoenix Lender Services (PHX) is a subsidiary of Community Bankshares, Inc. whose mission is redefining the way lending capital is provided across America, in a manner that promotes business stability and encourages community prosperity. The company serves a diverse clientele across the nation, fostering growth, opportunity, and collaboration.

    Media Contact:

    Hannah Williams
    Uproar by Moburst for Community Bankshares, Inc.
    hannah.williams@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Parker Announces Retirement of EMEA President Joachim Guhe, Appoints Thomas Ottawa as Successor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEVELAND, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH), the global leader in motion and control technologies, today announced that Joachim Guhe, President – Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Group, will retire after 32 years of dedicated service. Mr. Guhe will step down from his current role on June 30, 2025, but continue with the company until August 31, 2025, to ensure a successful leadership transition.

    The company has appointed Thomas Ottawa, currently Vice President of Operations – Motion Systems Group Europe, to succeed Mr. Guhe as President – Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Group, effective July 1, 2025.

    “In the more than three decades he spent with us, Joachim progressed from an entry level role to head of the critically important EMEA region, and then led EMEA through improvements that drove operational excellence and led to significant growth and margin expansion,” said Andy Ross, President and Chief Operating Officer. “In addition to his many contributions over the years, we thank Joachim for a career that exemplifies Parker leadership and wish him the very best in retirement.” 

    Mr. Guhe joined Parker in 1993 as a Product Cost Accountant in Bielefeld, Germany. He progressed through increasingly senior roles across Parker’s Fluid Connectors, Engineered Materials and Filtration Groups, including as division General Manager and Vice President of Operations. In his current role as EMEA President, he has been responsible for leading Parker’s sales companies and commercial operations in the region, as well as its HR, Finance, IT, Marketing and Supply Chain functions. 

    Commenting on Mr. Ottawa’s new role as President for the EMEA Region, Mr. Ross said, “Thomas will take on this important leadership role with nearly 30 years of Parker experience, a deep knowledge of our global operations and a proven record of success.” He added, “We are highly confident the EMEA region will continue to thrive under his guidance and are fortunate to have such a strong leader to drive our performance to even greater levels.”

    Mr. Ottawa joined Parker in 1995 as a Graduate Trainee with the Fluid Connectors Group Europe, where he held positions of increasing responsibility, including as division General Manager. He became General Manager of the Prädifa Technology Division in 2015. Mr. Ottawa was promoted to his current role as Vice President of Operations – Motion Systems Group EMEA in 2019 and has been instrumental in improving the group’s financial performance and driving profitable growth in the region. In his new role as EMEA President, he will oversee nearly 14,000 team members across 22 countries. He holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bochum in Germany.

    About Parker Hannifin
    Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For more than a century the company has been enabling engineering breakthroughs that lead to a better tomorrow. Learn more at www.parker.com or @parkerhannifin.

    ###

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Imperial Petroleum Inc. Announces the Date for the Release of Fourth Quarter and Twelve Months 2024 Financial and Operating Results, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Imperial Petroleum Inc. is a ship-owning company providing petroleum products, crude oil and drybulk seaborne transportation services, announced today that it will release its fourth quarter and twelve months financial results for the period ended December 31, 2024 before the market opens in New York on February 13, 2025.

    On February 13, 2025 at 10:00 am ET, the company’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and the company’s operations and outlook.

    Conference Call details:

    Conference call participants should pre-register using the below link to receive the dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

    Online Registration:

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BI127dcd86b3bd4efc8d71152e3b8a8800

    Slides and audio webcast:

    There will also be a live and then archived webcast of the conference call, through the IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. website (www.imperialpetro.com). Participants to the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast.

    ABOUT IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.

    IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. is a ship-owning company providing petroleum products, crude oil and drybulk seaborne transportation services. The Company owns a total of twelve vessels on the water – seven M.R. product tankers, two suezmax tankers and three handysize drybulk carriers – with a total capacity of 751,000 deadweight tons (dwt), and has contracted to acquire an additional seven drybulk carriers of 443,000 dwt aggregate capacity. Following these deliveries, the Company’s fleet will count a total of 19 vessels. IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.’s shares of common stock and 8.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock are listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market and trade under the symbols “IMPP” and “IMPPP,” respectively.

    Company Contact:
    Fenia Sakellaris
    IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.
    info@imperialpetro.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MINILUXE ANNOUNCES STRONG PERFORMANCE TRENDS AND COMPLETION OF USD $6.98M (CDN $10M) IN CAPITAL-ENHANCING TRANSACTIONS THAT INCLUDE AN OVERSUBSCRIBED PRIVATE PLACEMENT AND DEBT CONVERSION

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR 

    FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    Alongside its strong performance momentum, MiniLuxe successfully completes an oversubscribed private placement initially offered for up to $5M while contemporaneously satisfying the principal of USD $945,000 of convertible debt obligations.

    Boston, MA, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MiniLuxe Holding Corp. (TSXV: MNLX) (“MiniLuxe” or the “Company”) today announces that it has completed a successful and final closing of an oversubscribed non-brokered private placement of Class A subordinate voting shares of the Company (the “Subordinate Voting Shares”). The Company first announced its intention for a non-brokered private placement on November 27, 2024, at a price of USD$0.55 per share for total proceeds up to $5.0M USD (the “Offering”). Since its announcement of the Offering, the Company has had strong investor demand reinforcing confidence in MiniLuxe’s continued performance and growth strategy.

    Per the Company’s press release of January 2nd, 2025, MiniLuxe did a first closing for approximately one-third of the anticipated maximum of the Offering. In this second and final closing, the Company is pleased to announce that it has raised incremental gross proceeds of USD $3,436,250 (resulting in the issuance of 6,247,717 Subordinate Voting Shares at a price of USD $0.55 or CDN $0.79 per Share). Together, the first and second and final closing of the Offering raised total new primary capital for the Company in the amount of USD $5.067M or (~CDN $7.26M). Additionally, the Company finalized the conversion of USD$945,000 million or ~CDN $1.35M in principal value of prior convertible notes through shares for debt agreements, with further details provided below.

    “We are humbled by the recent oversubscribed investor interest level and quantum raised, but even more excited by the quality of this capital. This financing brings new participants who share aligned principles to our vision and who offer value-add strategic perspectives. The investment interest is also a reflection of the work and progress made by the team over the past year and investors’ conviction behind our future growth plans,” said Tony Tjan, CEO of MiniLuxe.

    As previously shared, the company is focused on three key performance objectives:

    1.  Accelerating overall studio contribution growth
    2. Increasing fixed cost leverage and SG&A efficiency
    3. Focusing growth through operating and franchise partners and a focused set of innovative products

    Overall same studio cash contribution grew materially in 2024, in concert with increased profitability trends of studios across all regions. The most critical factor for the success of our base business is the success the company has in recruiting, developing and retaining nail designer and other beauty service professional talent. The Company’s current retention rate of its talent base stands at its all-time record high at 87 percent. The Company remains focused on ways to reconfigure and create greater SG+A efficiency with year-over-year reduction trends north of 25% on corporate level SG+A. As a percent of revenue on a TTM (trailing twelve month) basis corporate SG+A as a percent of revenue has improved ~2x going from ~32% to ~16% demonstrating continued fixed cost leverage. From the standpoint of key internal cash management metrics, annualized and average monthly operating cash burn have been very materially reduced. While not an IFRS measurement, on a company-wide basis and on a preliminary unaudited basis, it is expected that YoY adjusted EBITDA improvement in 2024 to be over 50 percent. The Company’s focus on instilling an entrepreneurial culture and creating aligned performance incentives with its studio leaders and through operating partners (JVs or franchise partners) with shared ownership of studios have meaningfully contributed to these results. 

    The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to build momentum on these performance trends while investing behind a focused set of strategic growth investments including the expansion of new studios– especially through an expanded set of world-class operators who hold connection and conviction with the MiniLuxe brand and who seek to own or jointly own and operate a MiniLuxe studio. The Company also intends to be filing for an NCIB (New Course Issuer Bid) to have the option to buy back shares at times when it believes that the market price does not reflect the company’s intrinsic and future value.

    Alongside the Offering, the Company has also finalized additional shares-for-debt agreements to satisfy an aggregate of USD$1,055,577 (~CDN$1.51 million) of outstanding debt related to the principal and accrued but unpaid interest on certain convertible debentures of the Company (the “Debentures”). This is in addition to USD$1,085,944 (~CDN$1.56 million) of Debentures converted in the first tranche. As part of this debt conversion, an aggregate of 2,294,731 Subordinate Voting Shares will be issued at a deemed price of USD$0.46 per share, with an effective conversion date of February 7, 2025. The Company offered existing Debenture holders participating in the Offering the opportunity to elect to receive Subordinate Voting Shares at a discounted conversion price relative to the original terms of the Debentures. All Debenture holders electing to convert are deemed to be at arm’s length from the Company. The issuance of these shares remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. Similarly, completion of all tranches of the private placement Offering is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The securities issued pursuant to the initial closing of the Offering are subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the issuance date in accordance with applicable securities laws.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or “U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements.

    About MiniLuxe

    MiniLuxe, a Delaware corporation based in Boston, Massachusetts. MiniLuxe is a lifestyle brand and talent empowerment platform servicing the beauty and self-care industry. Through its company-owned and partner-operated studios, Company delivers high-quality nail care and esthetic services that incorporate the brand’s proprietary products. For over a decade, MiniLuxe has been elevating industry standards through healthier, ultra-hygienic services, modern design, ethical labor practices, and better-for-you, cleaner products. MiniLuxe’s vision is to radically transform the highly fragmented and under-regulated self-care and nail care industry through its brand, standards, and technology platform that together enable better talent and client experiences.

    Towards building long-term durable value for its stakeholders, MiniLuxe is expanding its reach through franchising and operating JV partners seeking ownership and impact with a brand recognized as the best nail salon franchise. Through self-care and self-expression, MiniLuxe is empowering one of the largest hourly work forces through professional development, economic mobility, and equity ownership. Since its founding, MiniLuxe has performed over 4.5 million services.

    For further information

    Christine Mastrangelo
    Investor Relations, MiniLuxe Holding Corp.
    cmastrangelo@MiniLuxe.com
    MiniLuxe.com

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

    Forward-looking statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) concerning the Company and its subsidiaries within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information may relate to the future financial outlook and anticipated events or results of the Company and may include information regarding the Company’s financial position, business strategy, growth strategies, acquisition prospects and plans, addressable markets, budgets, operations, financial results, taxes, dividend policy, plans and objectives. Particularly, information regarding the Company’s expectations of future results, performance, achievements, prospects or opportunities or the markets in which the Company operates is forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects”, “budgets”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “outlook”, “forecasts”, “projects”, “prospects”, “strategy”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, or “will” occur. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances. 

    Many factors could cause the Company’s actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, without limitation, those listed in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s filing statement dated November 9, 2021. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or achievements could vary materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. 

    Forward-looking information, by its nature, is based on the Company’s opinions, estimates and assumptions in light of management’s experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. Those factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Despite a careful process to prepare and review forward-looking information, there can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. Although the Company bases its forward-looking information on assumptions that it believes were reasonable when made, which include, but are not limited to, assumptions with respect to the Company’s future growth potential, results of operations, future prospects and opportunities, execution of the Company’s business strategy, there being no material variations in the current tax and regulatory environments, future levels of indebtedness and current economic conditions remaining unchanged, the Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which it operates are consistent with the forward-looking information contained in this press release, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods. 

    Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made (or as of the date they are otherwise stated to be made). Any forward-looking statement that is made in this press release speaks only as of the date of such statement.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Diamond Equity Research Releases Update Note on Genius Group Ltd. (NYSE: GNS)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamond Equity Research Releases Update Note on Genius Group Ltd. (NYSE: GNS)

    New York, NY

    Diamond Equity Research, a leading equity research firm with a focus on small capitalization public companies has released an update note on Genius Group Ltd. (NYSE: GNS). The update note includes information on Genius Group Ltd.’s recent developments, management commentary, future outlook, and risks.

    The update note is available below.

    Genius Group February 2025 Update Note

    Highlights from the note include:

    • Genius Group Launches $33 Million Rights Offering to Strengthen Its Bitcoin Treasury: Genius Group’s Board approved a rights offering aimed at raising up to $33 million to expand the company’s Bitcoin Treasury, with 100% of net proceeds dedicated to purchasing Bitcoin. The offering provides shareholders with the opportunity to acquire additional ordinary shares at a fixed subscription price, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its Bitcoin-first strategy. Key terms of the Rights Offering include:
      • Shareholder Rights Allocation: Each shareholder received one transferable right for every ordinary share held as of the record date on January 24, 2025, with the number rounded up to the nearest whole right. The company’s ordinary shares began trading ex-rights on January 24, 2025.
      • Subscription Details: Each right entitles the holder to purchase one ordinary share at a subscription price of $0.50. Shareholders fully exercising their basic subscription rights are eligible for an over-subscription privilege, which allows them to subscribe for additional ordinary shares on a pro rata basis. Rights holders may also choose to sell any rights they opt not to exercise.
      • Trading and Expiration Details: Rights trading commenced on a “when-issued” basis on January 23, 2025, under the symbol “GNS RTWI.” Regular trading of the rights began on January 27, 2025, under the symbol “GNS RT” and will continue until the close of trading on February 13, 2025. The offering expires at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on February 14, 2025, unless extended by the company. Registered shareholders received rights certificates based on the company’s stockholder registry, while those holding shares in “street name” will see the rights reflected in their brokerage accounts.
      • Additional Potential Funding: In addition to the $33 million rights offering, the company plans to pursue additional loan financings of up to approximately $22 million. If fully secured, this combined funding is expected to boost the Bitcoin Treasury from current levels, reported between $40 million and $45 million, to a range between $86 million and $100 million.
      • Management Participation: Complementing this initiative, Founder and CEO Roger Hamilton has completed his planned transactions, having acquired 500,000 shares under the pre-approved plan and subsequently purchasing an additional 500,000 shares on January 15, 2025, resulting in a holding of approximately 6.8 million shares. Mr. Hamilton has also notified the Company that he will fully subscribe to his rights under this Rights Offering, which will entitle him to acquire an additional 6.8 million shares on the same terms as all shareholders on the Record Date.

    This rights issue follows Genius Group’s established Bitcoin treasury approach and can be positive for shareholders if Bitcoin’s momentum persists-currently trading above $96,000 and recently peaking at $108,000. However, should Bitcoin’s price fall, the impact on shareholders could be less favorable, as the benefits of this initiative are closely tied to Bitcoin’s continued upward performance, which some analyst reports suggest is likely to persist.

    • Genius Group Expands Bitcoin Treasury to $42 Million Amid Strategic Financial Milestones: Genius Group has further advanced its Bitcoin-first strategy by acquiring an additional $12 million of Bitcoin, bringing its Bitcoin Treasury to 440 Bitcoin at a new average price of $95,519 per Bitcoin. This $42 million purchase, completed within three months of the November 12, 2024 announcement to allocate 90% or more of its current and future reserves to Bitcoin (with an initial target of $120 million), builds on an earlier milestone where the company secured 319.4 Bitcoin for $30 million at an average price of $93,919 per Bitcoin within two months. At an earlier date, as of Friday, January 31, 2025, Genius Group’s 440-Bitcoin holding was valued at $46 million, while the company’s market capitalization was $33.1 million (derived from 68.8 million issued shares trading at $0.48), resulting in a BTC/Price ratio of 139%, making Genius Group one of the highest among its peers. This ratio tells us that 139% of Genius Group’s market value is directly backed by its Bitcoin holdings, a stark contrast to the industry average of approximately 40% observed among other popular Bitcoin treasury companies, such as Microstrategy, Marathon Digital Holdings, and Riot Platforms. Funding for these purchases has been sourced from a mix of internal reserves, the use of its ATM facility, and debt financing from crypto-backed loan platform Arch Lending. In addition, the company has approved a Founder Compensation Plan with Founder and CEO Roger Hamilton that sets forth long-term milestones, including goals to reach a $1 billion market cap and to grow the Bitcoin Treasury’s net asset value to $1 billion within the next 10 years.

    About Genius Group Limited

    Genius Group Ltd. (NYSE: GNS) is a Bitcoin treasury company with an AI powered education platform engaged in providing AI training and AI tools to 5.4 million students in over 200 countries worldwide. It aims to develop an AI-powered lifelong learning curriculum and make its educational products accessible worldwide to all age groups.

    For more information, visit https://www.geniusgroup.net/

    About Diamond Equity Research

    Diamond Equity Research is a leading equity research and corporate access firm focused on small capitalization companies. Diamond Equity Research is an approved sell-side provider on major institutional investor platforms.

    For more information, visit https://www.diamondequityresearch.com.

    Disclosures:

    Diamond Equity Research LLC is being compensated by Genius Group Limited for producing research materials regarding Genius Group Limited, and its securities, which is meant to subsidize the high cost of creating the report and monitoring the security, however, the views in the report reflect that of Diamond Equity Research. All payments are received upfront and are billed for an annual or semi-annual research engagement. As of 02/10/2025, the issuer had paid us $81,000 for our research services, which commenced 04/16/2022 and was billed annually for the first year for $27,000 and after in equal installments of $13,500 for six-month semi-annual periods with $13,500 received in April 2023 for six-month terms. $27,000 was paid in May 2024 (payment was for two outstanding six-month payment terms of October 2023 and April 2024, allocated to the following six-month periods of research coverage in each respective period), and $13,500 received in November 2024 for the October 2024 six-month semi-annual period of coverage. Diamond Equity Research LLC may be compensated for non-research related services, including presenting at Diamond Equity Research investment conferences, press releases and other additional services. The non-research related service cost is dependent on the company, but usually do not exceed $5,000. The issuer has paid us for non-research related services as of 02/10/2025 consisting of $3,000 for presenting at a virtual investment conference and $2,000 for organizing an investment dinner. Issuers are not required to engage us for these additional services. Additional fees may have accrued since then. Although Diamond Equity Research company sponsored reports are based on publicly available information and although no investment recommendations are made within our company sponsored research reports, given the small capitalization nature of the companies we cover we have adopted an internal trading procedure around the public companies by whom we are engaged, with investors able to find such policy on our website public disclosures page. This report and press release do not consider individual circumstances and does not take into consideration individual investor preferences. Statements within this report may constitute forward-looking statements, these statements involve many risk factors and general uncertainties around the business, industry, and macroeconomic environment. Investors need to be aware of the high degree of risk in small capitalization equities including the complete loss of their investment. Investors can find various risk factors in the initiation report and in the respective financial filings for Genius Group Limited. Please consult the attached research report for disclosures.

    Contact:

    Diamond Equity Research
    research@diamondequityresearch.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The EU was built for another age – here’s how it must adapt to survive

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Francesco Grillo, Academic Fellow, Department of Social and Political Sciences, Bocconi University

    Shutterstock/gopixa

    To European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, Europe is like a Volkswagen Beetle – an iconic car produced by a once-mighty German manufacturer which has been struggling to adapt to a new world.

    “Europe must shift gears,” she urged in a speech to business executives gathered in Davos, Switzerland at the beginning of the year. Yet, her call to arms failed to raise more than an eyebrow. After all, she has repeated the same call many times since she was elected six years ago. So far, there has been little result.

    The US president, Donald Trump, may now even be tempted to finish off the EU (the most developed of the world’s multilateral organisations) by dividing its members over the single market for trade. This arrangement is the cornerstone upon which the union was built, but can it withstand Trump’s attempts to play European nations off against each other in order to get the best deal for himself?

    The problem is that Trump is simply bringing to its most extreme consequences the weakness of a system that was built for stable times which are long gone. We urgently need a new idea, and it cannot be for a “United States of Europe”. That is a dream from the past that could not be more at odds with Europe’s current political climate.

    Mini unions

    Europe is unable to chart a path forward because it needs unanimity among its member states in order to make any major decision. Votes are not even weighted to reflect the different sizes of each of the club’s members.

    This is a weakness that would gradually cause the deterioration of any international organisation. But in the case of the EU, the crisis is more serious because member states have surrendered part of their decision power. As a result, if the EU cannot move quickly, even member states turn out to be paralysed.

    Viktor Orbán, the prime minister of Hungary, has often been singled out as the bad guy especially – this has happened every time the EU has tried to approve sanctions against Russia or aid to Ukraine. But examples of free riding abound even among the founding parties.

    For decades, France has resisted any attempt to reorganise the common agricultural policy that sends a third of the EU’s budget to farmers, many of them French. Italy has halted the ratification of the reform of the European stability mechanism that should protect states from financial instability, out of the assumption among part of the Italian electorate that this may compromise further sovereignty.

    Elsewhere, Germany’s constitutional court has derailed the reform of the EU electoral law that divides the election of the European parliament into a dysfunctional system of 27 national contests, because of the resistance of the German political system to any electoral law which is not proportional.

    We need to find a way to change all this. And the solution cannot be the rather abstract idea of a union that proceeds at different speeds, where the older members are supposed to be part of an inner circle. Nor is it feasible to expect the abolition of unanimous voting for the simple reason that to forgo unanimity, you need a unanimous vote.

    Instead, the EU should become the coordinator of multiple unions, each formed by the member states themselves around specific policies. A union might form around defence, for example, among member states which are ready for such a partnership, such as Poland, the Baltics and Finland.

    Another might bring together countries that wish to collaborate on large projects such as a pan-European high-speed train, or a fully integrated energy market that may allow Italy, France and Spain to save billions of euros and decarbonise more quickly.

    This is not entirely new. Arrangements like the euro and the free circulation of people (the Schengen area) follow this principle. Only a subset of EU nations are part of these projects, and offers have even been extended to join beyond the EU’s borders. Monaco is in the euro, for example, while Norway is in Schengen, despite neither being an EU member state.

    The problem with these unions is that they are incomplete. The complement to the monetary union is a recently reformed “stability pact” that leaves so many loopholes that 11 out of its 20 members do not comply. And even within Schengen, there are still no proper common borders. The result is continuous reciprocal accusations of exporting each other’s illegal migrants.

    The solution here is to fully share the levers within a certain policy area on terms which are more flexible and voluntary for the union’s members.

    The possibility of calm divorce

    Resilience is achieved through adaptability. Therefore, these new arrangements must make divorce between union members possible from the outset – and establish the terms of such a rupture in advance.

    And in the event of an extreme case, the other parties should also be able to ask one of the members to leave their union (so as to avoid being systematically held to ransom by a free rider). The current union treaty does contain a provision (article 50) that enables a member to leave, as the UK did – but if Brexit showed anything, it was that this mechanism has limited use at preventing a divorce from descending into chaos.

    People should always be part of these decisions, of course. When states decide to surrender some of their sovereignty to a larger organisation such as the EU, it changes the nature of the pact between the citizens of a country and the people who make decisions on their behalf. This evident truth has been ignored for decades as the EU has gradually been built from the top down.

    The European Union currently resembles the marriages we once had in Europe (until well into the 20th century), before it was acknowledged that they are a civil (not necessarily religious) contract that can be dissolved through divorce – not some divine construct that can never be undone.

    The marriage between EU countries is blighted by cheating and empty rhetoric. This is an issue we can no longer avoid if Europe wants to do more than just “shift gears”. The EU was the most successful political project of the 20th century. If it wants to continue to be so in the 21st, it has to learn to be flexible. Only those who can adapt survive.

    Francesco Grillo is Director of the think tank Vision. Vision is convenor of three global conferences on the future of the EU, climate change and AI .

    – ref. The EU was built for another age – here’s how it must adapt to survive – https://theconversation.com/the-eu-was-built-for-another-age-heres-how-it-must-adapt-to-survive-248811

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the war in Ukraine has made flying worse for the climate

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Viktoriia Ivannikova, Assistant Professor in Aviation Management, Dublin City University

    UladzimirZuyeu/Shutterstock

    Some long-haul flights connecting Europe and Asia are emitting 40% more CO₂ since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, my new study shows. The spike is largely due to airspace closures above conflict zones which are forcing airlines to seek alternative routes, significantly increasing flight times. Longer flights consume more fuel and increase the operating costs for airlines, quite apart from their contribution to climate change.

    The research I led with colleagues highlights how conflicts contribute to climate change in unexpected ways. Understanding this is crucial for tackling aviation’s environmental footprint.

    The war in Ukraine closed the country’s airspace and limited access to the airspace of the Russian Federation and Belarus. This amounts to the biggest closure of airspace since the cold war, spanning 18 million km².

    Airlines that previously flew in Russian or Ukrainian airspace on routes between Europe and Asia, North America and Asia, and North America and the Middle East now take significant detours. For example, Finnair’s flight AY73 from Helsinki to Tokyo now covers an additional 3,131 kilometres, extending flight times by up to 3.5 hours. North American flights to Asia have been rerouted over the Arctic and Central Asia.

    Safety concerns and geopolitical sanctions have forced airlines to carefully navigate around restricted zones.

    The situation is further complicated by restrictions in other conflict regions – including the Middle East, where the airspaces of Syria, Yemen and Iraq are also considered no-fly zones for many airlines. The global aviation map has been redrawn, forcing airlines to adapt quickly to a new and challenging reality.

    Several international flights now skirt war zones.
    Viktoriia Ivannikova

    This has been accompanied by significant costs, both financially and to the climate. We analysed 14 long-haul routes between Europe and Asia that were affected by airspace restrictions and operated by three European airlines: Finnair, LOT Polish and Lufthansa.

    The findings are striking: rerouted flights burn an additional 23 to 28.5 tonnes of fuel per journey, releasing an extra 72 to 90 metric tonnes of CO₂. That’s equivalent to the annual emissions of several cars for a single flight.

    Airlines have also reported significant operating cost increases due to the extra flight hours, including higher fuel consumption, air navigation charges and crew salary increases. Our analysis showed that on certain routes between Europe and Asia, costs have risen by between 19% and 39%, while emissions have increased by between 18% and 40%, depending on the airline.

    On routes from Warsaw to Beijing, Warsaw to Tokyo and Warsaw to Seoul, LOT Polish Airlines has reported an increase of 23% in average aircraft operating costs following flight restrictions. CO₂ emissions on these routes have increased by 24% and ticket prices have also risen.

    Finnair, which historically relied on Russian airspace for efficient Europe-Asia connections, appears to be the most affected carrier. Following flight restrictions, aircraft operating costs on the routes from Helsinki to Shanghai, Helsinki to Tokyo and Helsinki to Seoul have risen by 39%, while average CO₂ emissions on these routes have increased by 40%.

    Our findings shed new light on the massive carbon footprint of war, which is often overlooked in climate policy. Using a forecasting model with specialised software, we found that continued avoidance of the airspaces of Russia and Ukraine could increase all aviation-related CO₂ emissions globally by up to 29% in 2025, compared with 2022.

    Aviation already accounts for 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions, and this figure is expected to grow as air travel expands.

    Aeroplanes seed heat-trapping clouds that amplify their climate impact.
    Peter Gudella/Shutterstock

    Our findings demonstrate that the need to decarbonise transport cannot be separated from broader geopolitical issues. As wars and conflicts reshape airspace availability, they also worsen aviation’s carbon footprint. It’s not just the airline industry that bears these costs – we all do, in the form of rising temperatures and a changing climate.

    What action needs to be taken?

    While the challenges are significant, there are solutions.

    Upgrading airline fleets with more fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, can help to reduce CO₂ emissions by roughly 20%–25% compared with older aircraft models, such as the Boeing 777-200ER or Airbus A330-200.

    Optimising flight paths using advanced air traffic management systems could help too. These systems, allow aircraft to choose the shortest and most efficient paths and can reduce unnecessary detours.

    International agreements to manage airspace collectively during times of conflict can keep essential flight corridors open and ensure airlines avoid inefficient rerouting.

    Airlines are investing in sustainable aviation fuels, which emits less than traditional kerosene – but insufficient supplies, high costs and other challenges make this an expensive and partial solution. With no viable low-carbon alternatives for aircraft, reducing air travel should be the priority.

    As researchers, we see our findings as a call to action. By understanding the environmental consequences of conflict, we can work towards a more sustainable future for aviation and the planet.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. How the war in Ukraine has made flying worse for the climate – https://theconversation.com/how-the-war-in-ukraine-has-made-flying-worse-for-the-climate-249039

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: MultiCorp International, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AGOURA HILLS, CALIFORNIA, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Multicorp International, Inc. (OTCPINK: MCIC) is pleased to announce its arrangement with 40 Brightwater LLC.

    On February 3, 2025, Multicorp International, Inc. entered into an Exchange Agreement with 40 Brightwater LLC, exchanging 3,000,000,000 Preferred and 3,250,000,000 Common Stock Shares for 2,000,000 Gold Backed Cryptocurrency Tokens.This transaction will allow Multicorp International, Inc. to establish solid and stable assets backed by Gold, opening doors to access the financing needed to acquire a core business to increase real value for MCIC shareholders.

    MultiCorp International Inc. Announces Strategic Growth Initiatives and Expansion Plans

    About MultiCorp International, Inc.

    Multicorp International, Inc. is a diversified leader in health, energy and agriculture, announces a series of strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating its growth and expanding its market presence. The company is actively pursuing joint ventures and acquisitions, is fortifying its organizational infrastructure and is preparing for significant advancements in the stock market.

    About 40 Brightwater LLC

    40 Brightwater LLC is a private holding company focusing specifically on acquiring private entities and merging its holdings with public companies by leveraging its financial network and resources through its Managing Member, President & CEO Shannon Newby.

    Disclaimer

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction where such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable securities laws. Any offer will be made only through a prospectus supplement and accompanying base prospectus as part of an effective registration statement.

    This press release is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a solicitation to purchase securities.

    Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. These statements are based on current expectations and could differ materially from actual events.

    Contact:  J. A. Coleman,  J.a.coleman1512@gmail.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Unveils Future AI-Powered Gesture Personalization Technology, Paving the Way for Next-Gen User Interactions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Yokneam Illit, Israel, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), an award-winning pioneer in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-based wearable gesture control technology, is developing cutting-edge methods for gesture personalization that will transform user interactions in the near future. By harnessing biopotential signals from the human wrist, Wearable Devices is working towards redefining how people interact with digital devices, creating an intuitive, personalized experience for the AI era.

    The Future of Personalized AI-Driven Gestures

    As AI continues to shape our digital landscape, the way we interact with technology is evolving. Traditional input methods – keyboards, touchscreens, and voice commands – are expected to give way to more natural, seamless interactions. Wearable Devices is developing an AI-powered neural wristband technology for detection of user specific micro-gestures, enabling a future of personalized controls tailored to individual users.

    Leveraging Large MUAP Models (“LMMs”), Wearable Devices is enhancing its ability to create truly personalized gesture experiences that improve and adapt more effectively with continued use.

    A New Era for AI-Powered Devices and XR Platforms

    Wearable Devices’ neural-based gesture personalization is being developed to revolutionize extended reality (XR), smartwatches, and other AI-driven interfaces. The technology aims to enable:

    • Micro-Gesture Precision: AI refining recognition of tiny movements, such as a finger swipes or pinches, ensuring reliable, real-time responsiveness.
       
    • Context-Aware Interactions: A system that is adaptive to user habits.
       
    • Cross-Device Integration: Personalized gestures seamlessly operating across augmented reality (“AR”)/virtual reality headsets, AR glasses, smartwatches, and other AI-powered devices, creating a unified interaction experience.

    Wearable Devices is focused on taking it a step further by developing adaptive, user-specific models rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. This approach is expected to enhance accessibility, usability, and engagement in AI-driven environments.

    A Call to AI and XR Innovators

    As AI-powered devices become more ubiquitous, Wearable Devices is actively developing next-generation intuitive and personalized user interactions. With over a decade of research and development and a growing portfolio of patents, the Company invites industry leaders to explore collaboration opportunities.

    “We believe AI-driven gesture personalization is the next frontier in human-device interaction,” said Asher Dahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wearable Devices. “By seamlessly integrating AI with biopotential sensing, we are developing innovations that will revolutionize the way people engage with technology.”

    For more information about Wearable Devices’ AI-powered gesture control solutions under development, visit www.wearabledevices.co.il.

    About Wearable Devices Ltd.

    Wearable Devices Ltd. is a pioneering growth company revolutionizing human-computer interaction through its AI-powered neural input technology for both consumer and business markets. Leveraging proprietary sensors, software, and advanced AI algorithms, the Company’s innovative products, including the Mudra Band for iOS and Mudra Link for Android, enable seamless, touch-free interaction by transforming subtle finger and wrist movements into intuitive controls. These groundbreaking solutions enhance gaming, and the rapidly expanding AR/VR/XR landscapes. The Company offers a dual-channel business model: direct-to-consumer sales and enterprise licensing. Its flagship Mudra Band integrates functional and stylish design with cutting-edge AI to empower consumers, while its enterprise solutions provide businesses with the tools to deliver immersive and interactive experiences. By setting the input standard for the XR market, Wearable Devices is redefining user experiences and driving innovation in one of the fastest-growing tech sectors. Wearable Devices’ ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss that we are developing cutting-edge methods for gesture personalization that will transform user interactions in the near future, the benefits and advantages of our technology, including the aims of our technology, that our approach is expected to enhance accessibility, usability, and engagement in AI-driven environments, and our belief that AI-driven gesture personalization is the next frontier in human-device interaction. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 15, 2024 and our other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Michal Efraty
    IR@wearabledevices.co.il

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kvika banki hf.: Correction: Publication of annual financial statements on Wednesday 12 February

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On Monday 10 February 2025 Kvika announced that a meeting to present financial results to shareholders and market participants will be held at 08:30 on Thursday 15 August. However, the meeting will be held at 08:30 on 13 February 2025. The revised announcement is as follows: 

    The Board of Directors of Kvika banki hf. is set to approve the financial statements of the Group for the year 2024 at a board meeting on Wednesday 12 February. The financial statements will subsequently be published after the domestic market has closed.

    A meeting to present the results to shareholders and market participants will be held the next day, at 08:30 on Thursday 13 February, at the bank’s headquarters on the 9th floor at Katrínartún 2, where Ármann Þorvaldsson, CEO of Kvika, and Eiríkur Magnús Jensson, CFO, will present the company’s financial results.

    The presentation will be conducted in Icelandic and will be streamed live. Further, a recording of the meeting with English subtitles will later be made available on Kvika’s website.

    Meeting participants will be able to send questions before or during the meeting via ir@kvika.is

    The investor presentation will be made public before the meeting.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: A Stronger Engine for Middle East and North Africa’s Growth

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    The Managing Director’s Keynote Speech at the Ninth Arab Fiscal Forum, Dubai, UAE

    February 10, 2025

    Assalamu alaikum, your excellencies. I would like to thank Minister Al Hussaini for the United Arab Emirates’ continued warm hospitality in hosting this important annual event, as well as his excellent leadership of the World Bank’s Development Committee.

    It is a privilege to address you at the ninth Arab Fiscal Forum. Over the years, the IMF and Arab countries have always had a strong and productive partnership. Today, this partnership is more vital than ever as the world and this region undergo significant economic, technological, and geopolitical shifts—a point that I will reflect on later.

    In my remarks, I will explore how Arab countries can leverage fiscal policy to transform their economies for the future, and harness technology and investment opportunities for the benefit of their people.

    Global outlook and transformations

    Let me start with an overview of the global and regional economic outlook.

    Global growth is projected to hold at 3.3 percent this year and the next, and then to slow over the next five years, to just above 3 percent. This is well below the historical average.

    For the Middle East and North Africa, we expect growth to rebound to about 3.6 percent in 2025, driven by a recovery in oil production and an easing of regional conflicts. However, as with the global economy, our medium-term outlook still sees growth weaker than before the pandemic.

    Policymakers have generally succeeded in taming inflation, but not everywhere, with inflation picking up again in some countries. This could lead to a divergence in interest rates across countries and higher borrowing costs for emerging market and developing economies.

    On the fiscal side, the legacy of the multiple shocks from the last years leaves public finances under significant strain in many countries. Global public debt is projected to hit 100 percent of global GDP by 2030. Many countries in this region face similar pressures, with debt levels exceeding 70 percent of GDP. This poses the risk of them becoming trapped in a low-growth, high-debt scenario.

    Governments have the difficult task of containing high debt levels in the face of rising spending needs. This region faces the pressing need to create jobs, enhance social safety nets, build resilience to more frequent natural disasters, and support economic diversification. The demands of national security and post-conflict reconstruction are also substantial.

    This is all happening at a time of significant global transformations, which are creating a more uncertain and challenging environment for policymaking. We know, for instance, that trade is no longer the engine of growth that is used to be—unlike the decades of the 1990s and 2000s when global trade grew much faster than global GDP, the two are now growing at roughly the same rate. Governments around the world are shifting policy priorities: the new US administration has been clear that it intends to take action in the areas of trade, tax and spending, deregulation, and technology/digital assets. And the technology revolution—especially AI—is upon us and is set to transform the way we live and work, perhaps as early as the next five years.

    These rapid transformations mean the recipes of the past may no longer provide the path to prosperity. Economies will need to be agile, adaptable and resilient—these will be the ingredients for future success.

    How can the MENA region find these ingredients for success and avoid a low-growth, high-debt scenario?

    Building adaptable and more resilient economies

    First, focus on structural changes that increase economic resilience, agility, and long-term growth potential. Too often, countries use fiscal stimulus to boost short-term domestic demand. While this “sugar rush” provides temporary growth, it often fuels inflation and financial turbulence. Instead of merely stepping on the gas, we need a stronger engine.

    Productivity growth is essential for stronger growth and driving up economic performance. Our research in the Arab region shows how to do it: accelerate digitalization, reduce the state’s footprint in the economy, foster trade diversification, and encourage the free flow of capital to dynamic firms.

    Countries in the region that are more digitalized have substantially higher productivity than less-digitalization ones. Some countries are among the most developed in the world in this area. Digital innovation, with AI technologies, is expected to raise UAE’s GDP significantly by 2030. More R&D spending will further enhance productivity.

    Reducing the state’s footprint in the economy and strengthening governance can yield significant benefits. For example, Saudi Arabia’s regulatory improvements have fostered private sector investment, especially in the non-oil economy. The UAE’s National Agenda for Entrepreneurship has supported a vibrant startup community, and Morocco’s New Model of Development aims to spur markets by improving public sector governance.

    Encouraging employment is also a key ingredient for stronger growth. With a growing working-age population, the region has to make the most of its demographic advantage. Creating more private jobs, for women and youth in particular, can lead to more vibrant and inclusive economies. This requires more-flexible labor markets, and investment in education and vocational training. We have recently seen impressive developments in this regard in Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain.

    A second priority is economic diversification. Today’s transformations provide an excellent opportunity to stimulate and reallocate resources toward new economic sectors and services. This could become a robust new growth engine, particularly for oil-exporting countries. Many countries are already investing in new technologies, such as batteries for electric cars; in improving connectivity and in green supply chains, for example.

    Third, in a world where patterns of cooperation are shifting, countries need to look for opportunities to cooperate in new ways. In many cases, this means deepening regional cooperation. The GCC is an excellent example of the benefits of regional integration—one that I can imagine can be emulated elsewhere.

    Building fiscal buffers and institutions  

    Let me turn to the fiscal side.

    Prudent fiscal stance is essential for macroeconomic stability — a prerequisite for a vibrant private sector and economic growth. An overarching priority today is to decisively use fiscal policy to build fiscal buffers, which is essentially the capacity to spend when needed – for example, to respond to shocks, manage and mitigate risks, and meet pressing development and climate-related needs.

    Many countries will need to pursue fiscal consolidation. It is crucial to carefully calibrate the size, pace, and composition of fiscal adjustments, to avoid unduly hampering growth. Tailoring budgetary reforms to each country’s circumstances, with a helping hand for those who lose out, is vital to ensure public support.

    In this context, increasing tax revenues remains a priority. Our research finds significant potential in strengthening domestic tax systems. This requires expanding tax bases, especially as economies diversify. For example, as new sectors grow, including through digitalization, they can become an important source of tax revenues. In addition, digitalization and AI can help modernize tax administrations.

    Domestic taxes will remain the primary source of funding government spending. However, private domestic and external financing will be needed to support the spending needs in the region. Addressing the impact of more frequent natural disasters will potentially require a cumulative $1 trillion in investment by 2030. The financial sector must play a larger role, while governments can enable an investment-friendly environment.

    Several countries in the region require special attention, either to resolve ongoing conflicts or to advance post-conflict reconstruction. I pray that peace and stability can be delivered in Sudan and Yemen. I hope that the ceasefire in Gaza, along with political changes in Syria and Lebanon, can mark new beginnings. The international community’s reconstruction efforts provide a unique opportunity to rebuild better and lay the foundations for stronger growth.

    Let me conclude

    In a world of rapid transformations, it is critical for countries to become more agile, adaptable, and resilient. They need to look for new engines of growth, which will also help avoid a low-growth, high-debt trap.

    The private sector has to be in the lead in transforming economies in the region through entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation.

    The role of governments is to foster the right environment for this private sector-led growth: by strengthening governance, modernizing public institutions, reducing bureaucracy, encouraging youth and female employment, and improving access to capital. And by designing and communicating policies that put people first and increase social support.

    The IMF remains fully committed to supporting the Middle East and North Africa. Since early 2020, we have approved about $33 billion in financing for the region, most recently in 2024 to help mitigate the impact of conflict. We have also recently reformed our surcharge policy, resulting in important savings for some countries. We have also expanded our capacity development and strengthened our regional presence with resident representative offices, technical assistance centers, and the new regional office in Riyadh.

    We are now stepping up our efforts to support the private sector, with the creation of a new IMF Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth. I can assure you, this region will be represented on it. And we look forward to the upcoming Al-Ula conference with emerging market economies, to discuss key issues affecting your economies. Jobs, innovation, and productivity—combined with a sound fiscal approach—will mean better prospects for citizens in this region and ultimately more peace and stability.

    Let’s get to work, or as you say, “linabda al-âmal”—let’s start the work together!

    I wish you all many insightful discussions and meaningful outcomes today.

    Shukran!

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER:

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Paradigm Oil and Gas Partners with Hallmark Venture Group to Drive Scalable Revenue Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Key Highlights:

    • Strategic Partnership Announcement: Paradigm Oil and Gas, Inc. (OTC: PDGO) has engaged Hallmark Venture Group, Inc. (OTC: HLLK) to develop scalable revenue strategies and enhance digital operations.
    • Revenue Growth & Digital Expansion: The collaboration aims to optimize lead generation, implement revenue-driving strategies, and develop new digital infrastructure for sustained business growth.
    • Operational Management & Market Positioning: Hallmark Venture Group will oversee website development, traffic acquisition, lead generation, public relations, and administrative management to enhance monetization efforts.
    • AI-Driven Business Solutions: The partnership leverages Hallmark’s AI-driven marketing and consulting expertise to create innovative business models that increase profitability.
    • Scalable & Sustainable Business Model: Paradigm Oil and Gas expands beyond traditional operations by exploring digital and third-party service integrations to maximize shareholder value.
    • Investor & Market Outlook: The initiative aligns with evolving market demands, ensuring long-term financial stability and operational efficiency.

    NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paradigm Oil and Gas, Inc. (OTC: PDGO) expands its revenue potential by engaging Hallmark Venture Group, Inc. (OTC: HLLK) to enhance digital operations and implement scalable revenue strategies. This strategic partnership is designed to optimize lead generation, strengthen market positioning, and maximize profitability through AI-driven solutions and digital infrastructure.

    Accelerating Digital Growth and Revenue Optimization

    Paradigm Oil and Gas is committed to diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional operations. By leveraging Hallmark Venture Group’s expertise, the Company will implement advanced digital strategies, optimize monetization efforts, and develop high-quality traffic acquisition models.

    Hallmark Venture Group will oversee key operational areas, including:

    • Website Development & Digital Infrastructure – Enhancing user experience and optimizing engagement.
    • Traffic Acquisition & Lead Generation – Deploying AI-driven marketing strategies for high-quality conversions.
    • Public Relations & Market Outreach – Strengthening brand visibility and investor relations.
    • Administrative & Operational Management – Streamlining business processes for improved efficiency.

    AI-Powered Solutions for Market Expansion

    Hallmark Venture Group specializes in AI-driven consulting and revenue growth solutions. Through this collaboration, Paradigm Oil and Gas will integrate data-driven marketing techniques, predictive analytics, and automated lead generation tools to drive long-term financial sustainability.

    Strategic Growth & Shareholder Value Enhancement

    This initiative aligns with Paradigm Oil and Gas’s mission to explore innovative business models that create sustainable growth. By embracing digital transformation and AI-powered strategies, the Company aims to increase shareholder value and remain competitive in evolving market conditions.

    About Paradigm Oil and Gas, Inc.

    Paradigm Oil and Gas, Inc. (OTC: PDGO) is a publicly traded company focused on optimizing revenue generation and expanding its market opportunities. The Company actively pursues strategic partnerships and digital initiatives to drive profitability and long-term business growth.

    About Hallmark Venture Group, Inc.

    Hallmark Venture Group, Inc. (OTC: HLLK) is a digital marketing and consulting firm specializing in AI-driven strategies, lead generation, and scalable revenue solutions. The Company’s proprietary platforms help businesses enhance digital growth, optimize customer acquisition, and improve market positioning.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Safe Harbor This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements appear in a number of places in this release and include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, its directors or its officers with respect to, among other things: (i) financing plans; (ii) trends affecting its financial condition or results of operations; (iii) growth strategy and operating strategy. The words ”may”,”would”, ”will”, ”estimate”, ”can”, ”believe”, ”potential” and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s ability to control, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. More information about the potential factors that could affect the business and financial results is and will be included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and/or OTC Markets.

    For Media & Investor Inquiries:

    Website: https://pdgoinc.net/
    Email: info@pdgoinc.net
    X (formerly Twitter): @PDGOinc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Australian Oilseeds Announces First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COOTAMUNDRA, Australia, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: COOT) today announced financial results for its first quarter fiscal 2025 ended September 30, 2024.

    First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Highlights Compared to Prior Year

    • Sales revenue increased 6.1% to A$10.4 million due to strong demand for the Company’s cold pressed canola oil.
    • Retail oil revenue increased 59.9% to A$5.7 million due to expanded distribution in leading retailers in Australia along with the addition of several new SKUs.
    • Net loss of A$0.6 million compared to net income of A$1.4 million, reflecting changes to sales mix along with the timing of planned investments in brand and marketing to support our GEO products.
    • Cash flow from operations improved to A$0.6 million compared to a use of A$1.5 million.

    “We delivered exceptionally strong growth in our retail oils business during the first quarter driven primarily by our expanded distribution in Costco and Woolworths in Australia, ” said Gary Seaton, Chief Executive Officer. “We also benefited from three new SKUs that were launched in coordination with focused, integrated marketing campaigns across our key retail partners. While margins and profitability were impacted by the timing of our investments in branding initiatives during the quarter, as planned, we believe we are still well positioned to drive improving results as our business continues to grow and scale. We remain steadfast in our commitment to eliminating chemicals from the edible oil production and manufacturing systems to supply quality products such as non-GMO oilseeds and organic and non-organic food-grade oils to customers globally.”

    About Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd. Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd. is an Australian proprietary company that, directly and indirectly through its subsidiaries, is focused on the manufacture and sale of sustainable oilseeds (e.g., seeds grown primarily for the production of edible oils) and is committed to working with all suppliers in the food supply chain to eliminate chemicals from the production and manufacturing systems to supply quality products to customers globally. The Company engages in the business of processing, manufacture and sale of non-GMO oilseeds and organic and non-organic food-grade oils, for the rapidly growing oilseeds market, through sourcing materials from suppliers focused on reducing the use of chemicals in consumables in order to supply healthier food ingredients, vegetable oils, proteins and other products to customers globally. Over the past 20 years, the Company’s cold pressing oil plant has grown to become the largest in Australia, pressing strictly GMO-free conventional and organic oilseeds.

    Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to, statements regarding our financial outlook, business strategy and plans, market trends and market size, opportunities and positioning. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “believe,” “hope,” “target,” “project,” “goals,” “estimate,” “potential,” “predict,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “could,” “intend,” “shall” and variations of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond our control. For example, global economic conditions could in the future reduce demand for our products; we could in the future experience cybersecurity incidents; we may be unable to manage or sustain the level of growth that our business has experienced in prior periods; our financial resources may not be sufficient to maintain or improve our competitive position; we may be unable to attract new customers, or retain or sell additional products to existing customers; we may experience challenges successfully expanding our marketing and sales capabilities, including further specializing our sales force; customer growth could decelerate in the future; we may not achieve expected synergies and efficiencies of operations from recent acquisitions or business combinations, and we may not be able to pay off our convertible notes when due. Further information on potential factors that could affect our financial results is included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent our views only as of the date of this press release and we assume no obligation and do not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

    Contact
    Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited
    126-142 Cowcumbla Street
    Cootamundra New South Wales 2590
    Attn: Bob Wu, CFO
    Email: bob@energreennutrition.com.au

    Investor Relations Contact
    Reed Anderson
    (646) 277-1260
    reed.anderson@icrinc.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oracle Red Bull Racing and Gate.io Expand Blockchain’s Global Reach with Announcement of Multi-Year Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gate.io—a leading global cryptocurrency exchange—choose Oracle Red Bull Racing for debut partnership in Formula One.

    “Oracle Red Bull Racing”, the Formula One Racing team (the “Team”) and an eight-time World Drivers’ Championship-winning team, is proud to announce Gate.io, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, as its exclusive Crypto Exchange Partner in a multi-year deal. This collaboration marks a major milestone in uniting two industry leaders, both recognised for their relentless pursuit of performance, innovation, and cutting-edge technology—on the racetrack and in the digital economy.

    Starting from the 2025 season, Gate.io branding will feature prominently on key Team assets, including the rear wing, nose, headrest, wheel covers and chassis of the Oracle Red Bull Racing car, Team race suits, Team kit and on the helmet of four-time World Champion, Max Verstappen.

    Founded in 2013, Gate.io is one of the world’s earliest and most established cryptocurrency exchanges, with a user base exceeding 20 million worldwide. Over the past 12 years, Gate.io has expanded beyond trading to become a comprehensive blockchain ecosystem, driving innovation in secure digital asset trading, decentralized finance (DeFi), blockchain infrastructure, venture capital investment, and Web3 technologies.

    Oracle Red Bull Racing has set new standards in Formula 1, winning back-to-back championships since 2021 through engineering excellence, data-driven precision, and a relentless drive for victory. Similarly, Gate.io continues to define the future of blockchain technology, pioneering user-verifiable exchange reserves to enhance trust, transparency, and financial security in the crypto space.

    This partnership is built on a shared vision for innovation and leadership. Just as Oracle Red Bull Racing relentlessly competes on the track with precision and agility, Gate.io continues to push the boundaries of blockchain infrastructure, optimizing speed, security, and scalability to support the next generation of digital finance.

    Christian Horner, CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, said: “We are very excited to welcome Gate.io to the Team. Gate.io are a brand that very much share Oracle Red Bull Racing’s passion to exist at the forefront of technological innovation. Together, we look forward to building a more immersive and unique connection with the Team for fans around the world and to working with a likeminded partner that isn’t afraid to disrupt the status quo.”

    Dr. Lin Han, the founder and CEO of Gate.io, said: “At Gate.io, we believe that innovation and performance go hand in hand—whether in blockchain or on the racetrack. Just as Oracle Red Bull Racing pushes the limits of engineering, we are continuously advancing blockchain technology to bring greater transparency, speed, and efficiency to digital finance. This partnership comes at a time when blockchain is moving beyond finance, and we’re excited to explore new ways it can intersect with global industries like motorsport.”

    Through this collaboration, Gate.io aims to accelerate global blockchain adoption, leveraging Oracle Red Bull Racing’s global reach and fan base to introduce digital finance, Web3, and blockchain solutions to an even broader audience.

    About Gate.io
    Gate.io is one of the world’s earliest and most secure cryptocurrency exchanges, leading in compliant digital asset trading since 2013. Serving over 20 million users worldwide, it is consistently ranked among the top exchanges by liquidity and trading volume. Beyond trading, Gate.io provides a full suite of financial and blockchain services, including decentralized finance (DeFi), Web3 solutions, research and analytics, venture capital investing, and startup incubation. A pioneer in user-verifiable exchange reserves, Gate.io remains committed to security, transparency, and shaping the future of digital finance.

    Media Contact:
    Elaine Wang at elaine.w@gate.io

    Disclaimer
    The content herein does not constitute any offer, solicitation, or recommendation. Please note that Gate.io may restrict or prohibit the use of all or a portion of the Services from Restricted Locations. For more information, please read the User Agreement via https://www.gate.io/zh/user-agreement.

    Additional content can also be viewed on our social media channels:
    X: @gate_io
    Instagram: @gateioglobal
    YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/GateioCrypto
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gateio

    Oracle Red Bull Racing
    Madeleine Coe
    Senior Communications manager
    Madeleine.coe@redbullracing.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Gate.io . The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4449d9f8-fc9d-45c4-810f-092f8507a398

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kvika banki hf.: Publication of annual financial statements on Wednesday 12 February

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Board of Directors of Kvika banki hf. is set to approve the financial statements of the Group for the year 2024 at a board meeting on Wednesday 12 February. The financial statements will subsequently be published after the domestic market has closed.

    A meeting to present the results to shareholders and market participants will be held the next day, at 08:30 on Thursday 15 August, at the bank’s headquarters on the 9th floor at Katrínartún 2, where Ármann Þorvaldsson, CEO of Kvika, and Eiríkur Magnús Jensson, CFO, will present the company’s financial results.

    The presentation will be conducted in Icelandic and will be streamed live. Further, a recording of the meeting with English subtitles will later be made available on Kvika’s website.

    Meeting participants will be able to send questions before or during the meeting via ir@kvika.is

    The investor presentation will be made public before the meeting.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxford Lane Capital Corp. Provides January Net Asset Value Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxford Lane Capital Corp. (Nasdaq: OXLC) (NasdaqGS: OXLCP) (NasdaqGS: OXLCL) (NasdaqGS: OXLCO) (NasdaqGS: OXLCZ) (NasdaqGS: OXLCN) (NasdaqGS: OXLCI) (the “Company”) today announced the following net asset value (“NAV”) estimate as of January 31, 2025.

    • Management’s unaudited estimate of the range of the NAV per share of our common stock as of January 31, 2025, is between $4.78 and $4.88. This estimate is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended January 31, 2025. This estimate did not undergo the Company’s typical quarter-end financial closing procedures and was not approved by the Company’s board of directors. We advise you that our NAV per share for the quarter ending March 31, 2025 may differ materially from this estimate, which is given only as of January 31, 2025.
    • As of January 31, 2025, the Company had approximately 406.8 million shares of common stock issued and outstanding.

    The fair value of the Company’s portfolio investments may be materially impacted after January 31, 2025, by circumstances and events that are not yet known. To the extent the Company’s portfolio investments are impacted by market volatility in the U.S. or worldwide, the Company may experience a material impact on its future net investment income, the fair value of its portfolio investments, its financial condition and the financial condition of its portfolio investments. Investing in our securities involves a number of significant risks. For a discussion of the additional risks applicable to an investment in our securities, please refer to the section titled “Risk Factors” in our prospectus and the section titled “Principal Risks” in our most recent annual report or semi-annual report, as applicable.

    The preliminary financial data included in this press release has been prepared by, and is the responsibility of, Oxford Lane Capital Corp.’s management. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has not audited, reviewed, compiled, or applied agreed-upon procedures with respect to the preliminary financial data. Accordingly, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP does not express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect thereto.

    About Oxford Lane Capital Corp. 

    Oxford Lane Capital Corp. is a publicly-traded registered closed-end management investment company principally investing in debt and equity tranches of CLO vehicles. CLO investments may also include warehouse facilities, which are financing structures intended to aggregate loans that may be used to form the basis of a CLO vehicle.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. These factors are identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect subsequent events, except as may be required by law.

    Contact:
    Bruce Rubin
    203-983-5280

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: D. Boral Capital Served as Co-placement Agent to MicroVision, Inc. (Nasdaq: MVIS) in Connection with its up to $17.0 Million Private Placement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroVision, Inc. (NASDAQ:MVIS), a leader in MEMS-based solid-state automotive lidar and ADAS solutions, today announced that it has bolstered its financial position by entering into an agreement to raise up to $17 million in new capital and reducing future cash obligations stemming from its $75 million senior secured convertible note facility with High Trail Capital.

    “Strengthening our financial position through this infusion of new capital and reduction of debt buoys our efforts to advance and secure revenue opportunities with several industrial customers in the heavy equipment segment. As announced last month, we have increased production capacity with our manufacturing partner to support high-volume orders from industrial customers in 2025 and beyond,” said Sumit Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of MicroVision, Inc. “At this exciting time for MicroVision, we continue to work to secure multiple partnerships with industrial customers, as well as advance our partnerships with automotive OEMs, with RFQs in flight and new RFQs expected in 2025. We appreciate High Trail’s partnership at this pivotal time.”

    Continued Sharma, “With our MAVIN and MOVIA S products, we remain actively engaged with global automotive OEMs in seven high-volume RFQs and custom development explorations for future passenger vehicle programs. With the size, power, and specifications of our lidar, combined with our integrated perception software, I believe we remain the solution frontrunner with automotive OEMs. Given automotive OEMs’ latest start-of-production timelines, the opportunity to ramp up significant recurring revenues in 2025 with our industrial customers puts MicroVision in the best position in the market. We remain the only multifaceted company with potential for significant revenues from the industrial segment starting in 2025 and much higher automotive revenues expected in the coming years.”

    “With the announcement of this transaction, our overall debt obligation has now been reduced by $12.25 million in principal or over 27% of the convertible note. In addition, this new round of equity investment by our strategic financing partner provides up to $17 million in new equity capital and also defers a portion of the remaining repayments. This bolsters MicroVision’s balance sheet and positions it well with its ongoing customer engagements,” said Anubhav Verma, Chief Financial Officer of MicroVision, Inc. “We believe that our strong balance sheet and strategic financing partner help to competitively position MicroVision for today’s marketplace and business outlook.”

    D. Boral Capital LLC and WestPark Capital, Inc. acted as co-lead agents for the transaction.

    Key Terms of the Transactions

    In connection with the $45 million senior secured convertible note issued by the Company on October 23, 2024, cash payments totaling approximately $9.6 million that would have been payable during the period from March 1, 2025 through May 1, 2025 will be converted into approximately 11.7 million shares of the Company’s common stock. In addition, pursuant to an agreement dated February 3, 2025, the note holder has agreed to defer payments due from June 1, 2025 to August 1, 2025, instead ratably allocating such payments to the payments due from September 1, 2025 through March 1, 2026. The Company and the note holder entered into a securities purchase agreement dated February 3, 2025 pursuant to which the Company issued approximately $8 million of shares of the Company’s common stock to the holder at a 12.5% discount to the market price and warrants to purchase up to an additional $9 million of common stock at an exercise price per share of $1.57, which warrants expire five years from the initial exercise date.

    Disclosures

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    Additional information, including the full terms of the financing transaction, is available in the Current Report on Form 8-K filed by MicroVision with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    About MicroVision

    With offices in the U.S. and Germany, MicroVision is a pioneering company in MEMS-based laser beam scanning technology that integrates MEMS, lasers, optics, hardware, algorithms and machine learning software into its proprietary technology to address existing and emerging markets. The Company’s integrated approach uses its proprietary technology to provide automotive lidar sensors and solutions for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and for non-automotive applications including industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics. The Company has been leveraging its experience building augmented reality micro-display engines, interactive display modules, and consumer lidar modules.

    For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.microvision.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/microvisioninc, and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/microvision/.

    MicroVision, MAVIN, MOSAIK, and MOVIA are trademarks of MicroVision, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this release, including expected benefits and closing of financing transactions; customer engagement and the likelihood of success; opportunities for revenue and cash; market position; product volumes, performance and capabilities; and expected revenue, expenses and cash usage are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements include the risk its ability to operate with limited cash or to raise additional capital when needed; market acceptance of its technologies and products or for products incorporating its technologies; the failure of its commercial partners to perform as expected under its agreements; its financial and technical resources relative to those of its competitors; its ability to keep up with rapid technological change; government regulation of its technologies; its ability to enforce its intellectual property rights and protect its proprietary technologies; the ability to obtain customers and develop partnership opportunities; the timing of commercial product launches and delays in product development; the ability to achieve key technical milestones in key products; dependence on third parties to develop, manufacture, sell and market its products; potential product liability claims; its ability to maintain its listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market, and other risk factors identified from time to time in the Company’s SEC reports, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other reports filed with the SEC. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the general or specific factors that may affect the Company. It should be recognized that other factors, including general economic factors and business strategies, may be significant, now or in the future, and the factors set forth in this release may affect the Company to a greater extent than indicated. Except as expressly required by federal securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in circumstances or any other reason.

    Contact Us:

    D. Boral Capital
    590 Madison Avenue, 39th Floor
    New York, NY 10022
    Main Phone: +1 (212) 970-5150
    www.dboralcapital.com
    info@dboralcapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GCM Grosvenor Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Results, with 2024 Fundraising Increasing 41%, and Year-to-Date GAAP Net Income, Fee-Related Earnings and Adjusted Net Income Increasing 46%, 19% and 36%, Respectively, Year-Over-Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG), a global alternative asset management solutions provider, today reported its results for the fourth quarter and full year December 31, 2024.

    GCM Grosvenor issued a detailed presentation of its results to the Public Shareholders section of GCM Grosvenor’s website at https://www.gcmgrosvenor.com/shareholder-events.

    GCM Grosvenor’s Board of Directors approved a $0.11 per share dividend payable on March 17, 2025 to shareholders on record March 3, 2025. In addition, in February 2025, GCM Grosvenor’s Board of Directors increased the firm’s existing share repurchase authorization by $50 million, from $140 million to $190 million.

    Conference Call

    A conference call to discuss GCM Grosvenor’s financial results will be held today, Monday, February 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET. The call will be accessible via public webcast from the Public Shareholders section of GCM Grosvenor’s website at https://www.gcmgrosvenor.com/shareholder-events, and a replay of the live broadcast will be available on the website soon after the call’s completion.

    The call can also be accessed by dialing (888) 394-8218 (toll-free) or (646) 828-8193 and using the passcode 3333622.

    About GCM Grosvenor

    GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG) is a global alternative asset management solutions provider with approximately $80 billion in assets under management across private equity, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and absolute return investment strategies. The firm has specialized in alternatives for more than 50 years and is dedicated to delivering value for clients by leveraging its cross-asset class and flexible investment platform.

    GCM Grosvenor’s experienced team of approximately 550 professionals serves a global client base of institutional and individual investors. The firm is headquartered in Chicago, with offices in New York, Toronto, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul and Sydney. For more information, visit: gcmgrosvenor.com.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Included in the results above, we report certain financial measures that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, GAAP. Management uses these non-GAAP measures to assess the performance of our business across reporting periods and believes this information is useful to investors for the same reasons. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered a substitute for the most directly comparable GAAP measures, which we reconcile within the detailed presentation discussed above. Further, these measures have limitations as analytical tools, and when assessing our operating performance, you should not consider these measurements in isolation or as a substitute for GAAP measures including net income (loss). We may calculate or present these non-GAAP financial measures differently than other companies who report measures with the same or similar names, and as a result, the non-GAAP measures we report may not be comparable.

    Share Repurchase Plan Authorization

    GCMG’s Board of Directors previously authorized a share repurchase plan, which may be used to repurchase outstanding Class A common stock and warrants in open market transactions, in privately negotiated transactions including with employees or otherwise, as well as to retire (by cash settlement or the payment of tax withholding amounts upon net settlement) equity-based awards granted under the Company’s Amended and Restated 2020 Incentive Award Plan (or any successor equity plan thereto). The Company is not obligated under the terms of plan to repurchase any of its Class A common stock or warrants, and the size and timing of these repurchases will depend on legal requirements, price, market and economic conditions and other factors. The plan has no expiration date and the plan may be suspended or terminated by the Company at any time without prior notice. Any outstanding shares of Class A common stock and any warrants repurchased as part of this plan will be cancelled. As of December 31, 2024, the total share repurchase plan authorization is $140.0 million. In February 2025, GCM Grosvenor’s Board of Directors increased the firm’s existing share repurchase authorization by $50.0 million, from $140.0 million to $190.0 million.

    Public Shareholders Contact
    Stacie Selinger
    sselinger@gcmlp.com
    312-506-6583

    Media Contact
    Tom Johnson and Abigail Ruck
    H/Advisors Abernathy
    tom.johnson@h-advisors.global / abigail.ruck@h-advisors.global
    212-371-5999

    Source: GCM Grosvenor

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crisil Coalition Greenwich Names Mizuho Best Bank for Corporate Banking in the U.S.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mizuho ranked first, tied alongside Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Bank of America

    Mizuho also wins Best Bank for Coverage for Corporates and Best Bank for Ease of Doing Business for Corporates

    NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mizuho Americas today announced it was named best bank in the U.S. by Crisil Coalition Greenwich for Best in Corporate Banking, Best Coverage for Corporates, and Best in Ease of Doing Business for Corporates. Mizuho ranked first, tied alongside Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Bank of America for Corporate Banking and Ease of Doing Business, and tied with J.P. Morgan and Bank of America for Coverage for Corporates.

    Crisil Coalition Greenwich conducted over 200 interviews, from May through November 2024, with CFOs and Treasurers at U.S.- based companies with $2 billion or more in annual revenue. Decision makers were asked about capabilities in specific areas, including breadth and depth of product offerings, quality of coverage, and business momentum.

    “We appreciate this amazing response from our corporate clients in recognition of our platform and are honored to be ranked first alongside the best banks in the industry,” said Jerry Rizzieri, President & CEO of Mizuho Securities USA and Head of CIB at Mizuho Americas. “We have built a successful coverage model coupled with great product capabilities and top talent to present fully integrated offerings backed by a client-centric culture.”

    Mizuho Americas was rated excellent/distinctive for effectiveness of senior management, frequency of contact, responsiveness, proactive provision of advice, coordinating product specialists, and digitizing KYC processes.

    Crisil Coalition Greenwich is a leading provider of strategic benchmarking, analytics, and insights. Its award winners receive quality ratings from corporate clients that top those of competing banks by a statistically significant margin.

    About Mizuho Americas
    Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. is the 17th largest financial institution in the world as measured by total assets of ~$2 trillion, according to S&P Global 2024. Mizuho’s 65,000 employees worldwide offer comprehensive financial services to clients in 36 countries and 850 offices throughout the Americas, EMEA, and Asia.​

    Mizuho Americas is a leading provider of corporate and investment banking, capital markets, strategic advisory, equity research, equity and fixed income sales & trading, derivatives, and financing solutions to corporate, private equity, and institutional clients in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Through its acquisition of Greenhill, Mizuho enhanced its M&A, restructuring, and private capital advisory capabilities across Americas, Europe, and Asia. Mizuho Americas employs approximately 3,700 professionals, for more information visit www.mizuhoamericas.com.​

    For inquiries, please contact:

    Jim Gorman
    Executive Director, Media Relations, Mizuho Americas
    +1-212-282-3867
    jim.gorman@mizuhogroup.com

    Laura London
    Director, Media Relations, Mizuho Americas
    +1-212-282-4446
    laura.london@mizuhogroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PureSky Energy Welcomes Rami Khadra as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PureSky Energy (PureSky), a leader in sustainable energy solutions and independent power producer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rami Khadra as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective February 3, 2025.

    With over 15 years of leadership experience in renewable energy finance, Rami Khadra brings an impressive track record of securing capital, managing financial risk, and driving global expansion for major organizations. His expertise in building robust financial structures and his commitment to sustainable growth make him a key addition to the PureSky Energy leadership team.

    Khadra joins PureSky Energy from Amp Energy, where he served as Vice President of Treasury and FP&A, overseeing key initiatives such as securing capital, optimizing funding strategies, and managing financial risks to support the company’s global expansion. Previously, he held senior treasury roles at Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., Brookfield Renewable Partners, and Nakheel, an infrastructure firm in Dubai that played a role in iconic projects such as Palm Islands off the coast of Dubai.

    In his most recent role at Amp Energy, Khadra spearheaded initiatives to diversify funding sources, optimize capital structures, and navigate currency risks while driving strategic growth. At Algonquin, he played a pivotal role in driving the successful implementation of its $9.7 billion capital plan, advancing its execution while safeguarding the company’s credit rating. During his tenure at Brookfield Renewable Partners, Khadra managed liquidity for $5 billion in project-level debt, supported over $5 billion in M&A activities, and enhanced credit risk and interest rate management for an asset portfolio exceeding $24 billion.

    “I am thrilled to join PureSky Energy at such a crucial time for the renewable energy industry,” said Khadra. “PureSky Energy has an outstanding track record of developing innovative projects and contributing to a sustainable energy future. I look forward to working with this talented team to optimize financial operations, drive growth, and deliver on the company’s strategic goals while maintaining and building upon the strong relationships already in place.”

    Jared Donald, CEO of PureSky Energy, expressed enthusiasm for the appointment: “Rami’s extensive experience in renewable energy finance, coupled with his proven ability to navigate complex capital markets and build resilient financial strategies, aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and innovation. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue expanding our portfolio of projects and driving the transition to clean energy.”

    As CFO, Khadra will focus on enhancing financial efficiency, optimizing the company’s capital structure, and building strong relationships with investors and stakeholders. He will also play a critical role in supporting PureSky Energy’s mission to develop community-focused solar projects and advance the renewable energy transition.

    Khadra’s appointment underscores PureSky Energy’s commitment to assembling a world-class team dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and long-term success.

    About PureSky Energy:

    PureSky Energy is a leading developer, owner, and operator of US community solar, C&I and storage projects with headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Since entering the US market in 2016, the company has rapidly expanded its scale and currently operates a portfolio with generation capacity of approximately 233MW across forty-four sites or under-construction projects expected to be completed in the short term. The company has a large pipeline of solar and battery storage projects across existing and new US markets, placing the platform in a primary position within the distributed generation market. The company’s mission is to make clean energy accessible and affordable to local communities across the United States, while shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

    Website: www.pureskyenergy.com

    Host A Solar Farm: https://www.pureskyenergy.com/community-host

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/puresky-energy

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Janet Janzen: marketing@pureskyenergy.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e0c0a2db-205e-4d44-aa2f-1654a64fb326

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LM Funding America, Inc. to Participate in the “Digital Assets 2025: To Bitcoin and Beyond,” Virtual Conference Presented by Maxim Group LLC on Wednesday, February 12th at 8:30 AM EST

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LM Funding America, Inc. (NASDAQ:LMFA) (“LM Funding” or the “Company”), a cryptocurrency mining and technology-based specialty finance company, today announced that Bruce M. Rodgers, Chairman and CEO, has been invited to present at the “Digital Assets 2025: To Bitcoin and Beyond,” virtual conference hosted by Maxim Group LLC (“Maxim”) on Wednesday, February 12th2025 at 8:30 AM EST.

    Matthew Galinko, Research Analyst at Maxim, will sit down with companies in the digital asset ecosystem, including, Bitcoin miners, equipment providers, and corporate adopters of crypto as a treasury strategy, to discuss the evolution of the industry and its prospects in 2025 with regulatory changes expected in the months ahead.

    The conference will be live on M-Vest. To attend, sign up to become an M-Vest member at the link here.

    About LM Funding America, Inc.
    LM Funding America, Inc. (Nasdaq: LMFA), operates as a Bitcoin mining and specialty finance company. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Tampa, Florida. For more information, please visit https://www.lmfunding.com.

    About Maxim Group LLC
    Maxim Group LLC is a full-service investment banking, securities and wealth management firm headquartered in New York. The Firm provides a full array of financial services including investment banking; private wealth management; and global institutional equity, fixed-income and derivatives sales & trading, equity research and prime brokerage services. Maxim Group is a registered broker-dealer with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) and is a member of FINRA SIPC, and NASDAQ. To learn more about Maxim Group, visit https://maximgrp.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Orange Group
    Yujia Zhai
    LMFundingIR@orangegroupadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Music Licensing, Inc. Receives Official Federal Recognition of Its Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Pro Music Rights, as a Performing Rights Organization in the United States Federal Register

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Naples, FL, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD), a leader in the music rights and intellectual property sector, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Pro Music Rights (PMR), has been officially recognized in the Federal Register of the United States of America as a Performing Rights Organization (PRO). This landmark recognition reinforces Pro Music Rights’ position as a key player in the U.S. music licensing ecosystem, joining the ranks of other established PROs responsible for ensuring that music creators receive fair compensation for the public performance of their works.

    This official acknowledgment represents a pivotal achievement for Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD) and its shareholders, as it validates Pro Music Rights’ authority in managing performance rights and licensing agreements on behalf of its extensive repertoire of musical works. Pro Music Rights already represents an estimated 7.4% market share in the U.S., covering over 2.5 million works from renowned artists.

    A Milestone for the Future of Music Licensing

    The inclusion of Pro Music Rights in the Federal Register signifies more than just formal recognition—it cements the company’s status as a regulatory-compliant, trusted, and transparent music rights administrator. This milestone provides greater legitimacy, stability, and enhanced leverage in negotiations with major technology and media companies that rely on legally licensed music for their platforms.

    Jake P. Noch, CEO of Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD), commented on this development:
    “This recognition in the Federal Register underscores our commitment to protecting artists’ rights and ensuring fair compensation for their creative works. It strengthens our ability to negotiate with industry giants such as Apple Inc., Amazon, Google, and Spotify, enabling us to secure more favorable licensing terms that benefit both rights holders and shareholders.”

    Strategic Advantages and Business Growth

    This recognition presents multiple strategic benefits for Pro Music Rights and Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD), including:

        •    Strengthened Licensing Authority – As an officially recognized PRO, PMR can enhance its negotiating power with major music streaming platforms, broadcasters, and digital service providers.
        •    Greater Transparency & Industry Confidence – Federal recognition increases trust and credibility among rights holders, licensees, and regulatory bodies.
        •    Expansion Opportunities – PMR is now better positioned to expand its reach, enter into new licensing agreements, and provide competitive solutions in the evolving digital music landscape.
        •    Enhanced Revenue Potential – With this recognition, PMR anticipates a significant increase in licensing revenue as it actively enforces its rights with major industry players.

    Looking Ahead: Licensing Deals with Global Corporations

    With this newfound recognition, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD) will actively seek to leverage this status in future licensing discussions with some of the world’s largest technology and entertainment companies. The company aims to establish long-term agreements with Apple Music, Amazon Music, Google’s YouTube, Spotify, and other streaming services, ensuring that PMR’s extensive music catalog is fairly monetized.

    “As we move forward, we are excited about the immense opportunities this recognition brings,” added Jake P. Noch. “We are committed to delivering value to our rights holders, shareholders, and the broader music industry by ensuring that music creators receive their rightful earnings in an efficient, transparent, and legally sound manner.”

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (OTC: SONGD) (ProMusicRights.com)

    Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, is a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) established in the United States. It is recognized under the federal registry of the United States government. The company licenses music to some of the most prominent platforms and businesses, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, Vevo, and many others.

    Pro Music Rights holds an estimated 7.4% market share in the United States, representing a catalog of more than 2.5 million works by notable artists such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana, Lil Yachty, MoneyBagg Yo, Larry June, Trae Pound, Sauce Walka, Trae Tha Truth, Sosamann, Soulja Boy, Lex Luger, Trauma Tone, Lud Foe, SlowBucks, Gunplay, OG Maco, Rich The Kid, Fat Trel, Young Scooter, Nipsey Hussle, Famous Dex, Boosie Badazz, Shy Glizzy, 2 Chainz, Migos, Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Trinidad James, Chingy, Lil Gnar, 3OhBlack, Curren$y, Fall Out Boy, Money Man, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert, and many others, including works generated by artificial intelligence (AI).

    Additionally, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) holds royalty interests in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and a vast portfolio of musical works by globally renowned artists, including The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Mike Posner, blackbear, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, XXXTentacion, BlueFace, The Game, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, Ne-Yo, MoneyBagg Yo, Halsey, Desiigner, DaniLeigh, Rihanna, and many others.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Pro Music Rights, Inc., Music Licensing, Inc., or any other person.

    Non-Legal Advice Disclosure:

    This press release does not constitute legal advice, and readers are advised to seek legal counsel for any legal matters or questions related to the content herein.

    Non-Investment Advice Disclosure:

    This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and does not in any way imply or constitute a recommendation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities, commodities, bonds, options, derivatives, or any other investment products. Any decisions related to investments should be made after thorough research and consultation with a qualified financial advisor or professional. We assume no liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this communication

    Contact: investors@ProMusicRights.com

    SOURCE: Music Licensing, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ACT-ion Raises $7.5 million in Pre-Series A Round Led by BASF Venture Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACT-ion Battery Technologies, a startup in the field of lithium ion battery cathode active materials (CAM), announced today the successful closing of its Pre-Series A funding round. Founded in 2019, ACT-ion has developed both an efficient and cost-effective means to produce single crystalline cathode active materials. This chemistry agnostic process addresses a critical challenge in the lithium-ion battery value chain: the need to both reduce CAM production costs and increase production throughput.

    The USD 7.5 million round was led by BASF Venture Capital, with participation from Hunt Energy Enterprises, Mirae Asset Capital, Arosa Capital Management, and LG Technology Ventures. ACT-ion will use the proceeds to accelerate its innovative CAM production technology, aiming to establish an operational pilot facility by 2025, with validations from leading industry partners.

    ACT-ion is the recent recipient of a R&D 100 award which recognized the Company’s innovation to overcome the complexity and cost of CAM manufacturing. ACT-ion’s continuous process generates coated single crystal CAM leading to higher performance and longer cycle life lithium-ion batteries. ACT-ion has successfully demonstrated this manufacturing platform for a variety of chemistries.

    “We are excited to have the support of Pre-Series A investors who share our vision for battery materials and manufacturing,” said Jin Lim, CTO and Interim CEO of ACT-ion. “This funding will allow us to bring our innovative solutions to market faster and make a meaningful impact on the global energy landscape.”

    “We are excited to have led this financing round and to support ACT-ion as a partner. With the market need for novel battery materials, and the processes to produce them, ACT-ion’s mission to improve CAM aligns well with BASF efforts to deliver innovation to our customers,” said Joshua Speros, Investment Manager at BASF Venture Capital.

    “The domestic production of battery materials at cost will mark a significant milestone in the US CAM industry,” said Lillian Shattock, Director of Private Investments at Arosa Capital Management. “We are thrilled to support ACT-ion, as we believe their technology can be a pivotal enabler of domestic CAM manufacturing.”

    Incubated within and spun-out of Hunt Energy Enterprises LLC, “the ACT-ion venture was developed to target the largest cost constraint within lithium batteries and thereby help enable growth for markets such as electric drones, electric vehicles and power tools,” said Victor Liu, Chairman of ACT-ion.

    About ACT-ion Battery Technologies

    ACT-ion Battery Technologies is a leading lithium battery cathode active material (CAM) technology company. As an advanced manufacturing technology company, ACT-ion’s rapid continuous process produces coated single crystal CAMs for lithium batteries through a novel, clean, and chemistry-agnostic process, requiring lower energy and cost. For more information, please visit www.act-ion.com.

    About Hunt Energy Enterprises

    Hunt Energy Enterprises is the corporate energy technology venture group within Hunt Energy Company, LP. As such, Hunt Energy Enterprises has incubated several technologies that leverage its operations and knowledge to create new energy companies and partnerships with entrepreneurs in both the conventional petroleum business and cleantech power. It is part of a larger privately-owned group of companies managed by the Ray L. Hunt family that engages in oil and gas exploration, refining, power, real estate, ranching and private equity investments. For more information, please visit www.huntenergyenterprises.com.

    About BASF Venture Capital GmbH

    At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF Venture Capital GmbH also contributes to this corporate purpose. Founded in 2001, BASF Venture Capital invests in Europe, the United States, Canada, China, India, Brazil, and Israel. Our goal is to generate new growth potential for current and future business areas of BASF by investing in innovative startups. The focus of our venture investments includes decarbonization, circular economy, Agtech, new materials, digitalization and new, disruptive business models. For more information, please visit https://www.basf.com/global/en/who-we-are/organization/group-companies/BASF_Venture-Capital

    About Arosa Capital Management

    Arosa Capital Management is an alternative investment manager that focuses on investments in alternative energy, traditional energy and related sectors. Founded in 2013, Arosa’s approach is rooted in rigorous fundamental analysis and deep sector expertise to invest in private and public companies as well as in credit and commodities on a cross asset basis. The focus of Arosa’s ventures strategy is investments in private companies that primarily pursue alternative, renewable, or efficient energy technologies. For more information, please visit www.arosacapital.com.

    About Mirae Asset Capital

    Mirae Asset Capital is a leading financial institution specializing in fostering innovation and driving new growth opportunities as a trusted financial partner. Established in 1997, the firm invests in groundbreaking ideas across sectors including AI, robotics, energy, and biotechnology. Leveraging the extensive global network of the Mirae Asset Financial Group, Mirae Asset Capital operates across key markets such as Korea, the United States, India, and China. For more information, please visit vc.miraeassetcapital.com.

    About LG Technology Ventures

    LG Technology Ventures is the venture capital investment arm of the LG Group. LG Technology Ventures was established in 2018 and its team consists of experienced investors, entrepreneurs, technologists, and industry domain experts. Currently, LG Technology Ventures is managing over $805 million of fund assets and invests in early-stage start-ups in artificial intelligence, mobility, advanced materials, life-sciences, next generation display, mobile, and 5G. We strive to create value for our portfolio companies by helping them develop strategic partnerships with LG Companies. For more information, please visit https://www.lgtechventures.com/.

    For more information, please contact: ACT-ion Communications, Email: inquiry@act-ion.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FlexShopper Provides Business Update for January 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Total new customer application volume in January 2025 increased 130% year-over-year, driving the highest level of January originations, with total originations up 44% year-over-year

    Monthly growth trends accelerated in January 2025, compared to December 2024

    Indicators of profitability for January 2025 are encouraging with 105% increase in FlexShopper.com gross margin dollars, a 34% year-over-year reduction in marketplace marketing cost per new customer, and stable asset quality

    BOCA RATON, Fla., Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FlexShopper, Inc. (Nasdaq: FPAY), a prominent national online lease-to-own retailer and payment solutions provider, today announced another strong operating month for January 2025. Positive momentum reflects the successful transformation underway as a result of FlexShopper’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) and business-to-business (B2B) growth strategies.

    “FlexShopper produced strong initial results for the month of January 2025 including higher total applications and originations, as well as improved conversion rates on FlexShopper.com. In addition, key indicators of profitability strengthened in January through the contribution of higher gross margin dollars, reduced customer acquisition costs, and improved asset quality,” said Russ Heiser, CEO at FlexShopper. “We believe positive trends are accelerating across our business, reflecting improving customer demand for our payment solutions, expanded partnerships with payment waterfall providers, and a 248% increase in the number of stores signed to offer our virtual LTO solutions from the end of 2023 through January 2025. Growth in our B2B business is profitably driving more consumers to our DTC FlexShopper.com marketplace and creating a powerful flywheel effect with January 2025 originations on FlexShopper.com increasing 93% year-over-year.”  

    “I am excited to report that monthly growth trends accelerated in January from December levels, with overall originations increasing 44% in January year-over-year compared to 35% year-over-year growth in December. In addition, record monthly new customer applications were up 130% in January year-over-year, compared to a 45% year-over-year increase in December. We believe we are well positioned for positive demand trends to continue for the foreseeable future as we execute against our growth plan,” continued Mr. Heiser.

    FlexShopper provided the following operating results for the month of January 2025:

    • FlexShopper experienced the highest level of January lease originations in 4 years, with overall originations up 44% year-over-year and marketplace originations up 93% year-over-year, while maintaining disciplined underwriting standards.
    • Record new customer application volume in January 2025, with a 130% year-over-year increase in applications submitted.
    • Marketplace application volume was up 58% year-over-year, and B2B partnership application volume was up 279% year-over-year, reflecting strong customer demand and increased partner door counts over the past year.  
    • 105% higher year-over-year retail product margin dollars on the FlexShopper.com marketplace, reflecting the Company’s strategies to drive gross margin dollars and a more profitable mix of sales
    • 34% year-over-year reduction in marketplace marketing cost per new customer, as a result of lower year-over-year marketing cost per application and a higher year-over-year net conversion rate of application to funded lease
    • New customer originations in FlexShopper’s Revolution Loan business increased 88% year-over-year in January 2025, which was the 5th consecutive month of year-over-year new customer origination growth
    • Asset quality continued to improve, with 13 consecutive months of seasoned originations demonstrating year-over-year increases in cumulative payment rate.

    Mr. Heiser continued, “Our recent performance demonstrates the continued value of FlexShopper’s flexible payment solutions and easy to use, technology enabled application process. Applications and originations are important indicators for future performance. As a result, we expect growth in revenue and profitability to continue throughout 2025.”

    About FlexShopper, Inc.:
    FlexShopper, Inc. (Nasdaq: FPAY) is a leading national financial technology company that provides payment options to consumers. FlexShopper provides a variety of flexible funding options for underserved consumers through its online direct to consumer marketplace at flexshopper.com and in partnership with partner merchants both online as well as at brick and mortar locations. FlexShopper’s solutions are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of consumer segments via lease-to-own and lending products.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” or other comparable terms. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding expectations of lease originations, the expansion of our lease-to-own program; expectations concerning our partnerships with retail partners; investments in, and the success of, our underwriting technology and risk analytics platform; our ability to collect payments due from customers; expected future operating results and expectations concerning our business strategy. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, as a result of various factors including, among others, the following: our ability to obtain adequate financing to fund our business operations in the future; the failure to successfully manage and grow our FlexShopper.com e-commerce platform; our ability to maintain compliance with financial covenants under our credit agreement; our dependence on the success of our third-party retail partners and our continued relationships with them; our compliance with various federal, state and local laws and regulations, including those related to consumer protection; the failure to protect the integrity and security of customer and employee information; and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Risk Factors and in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations sections of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements made in this release speak only as of the date of this release, and FlexShopper assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements to reflect actual results or changes in expectations, except as otherwise required by law.

    Company Contact:
    FlexShopper, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    ir@flexshopper.com

    Investor and Media Contact
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    andrew@smberger.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nasdaq, Inc. Announces Cash Tender Offers for Up to $200 Million Outstanding Debt Securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq: NDAQ) (“Nasdaq” or the “Company”) today announced its offers to purchase for cash up to an aggregate principal amount of $200,000,000 (the “Aggregate Notes Cap”) of its outstanding Notes, comprised of (i) up to $40,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the “2028 Notes Cap”) of the Company’s 5.350% Senior Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Notes”), (ii) up to $50,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the “2034 Notes Cap”) of the Company’s 5.550% Senior Notes due 2034 (the “2034 Notes”) and (iii) up to $110,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the “2052 Notes Cap”) of the Company’s 3.950% Senior Notes due 2052 (the “2052 Notes”). The 2028 Notes, the 2034 Notes and the 2052 Notes are referred to collectively herein as the “Notes,” such offers to purchase are referred to collectively herein as the “Tender Offers” and each a “Tender Offer,” and the 2028 Notes Cap, the 2034 Notes Cap and the 2052 Notes Cap are referred to collectively herein as the “Series Notes Caps” and each a “Series Notes Cap.”

      Title of
    Security    		 Security Identifiers Principal Amount Outstanding Series Notes Cap Early Tender
    Premium    (1)(2)    		 U.S. Treasury
    Reference Security    (3)    		 Fixed Spread
    (basis points)
    2028 Tender Offer 5.350% Senior Notes due 2028 CUSIP:
    63111X AH4
    ISIN:
    US63111XAH44    		 $921,360,000 $40,000,000 $30.00 4.250% UST due January 15, 2028 45 bps
    2034 Tender Offer 5.550% Senior Notes due 2034 CUSIP:
    63111X AJ0
    ISIN:
    US63111XAJ00    		 $1,187,583,000 $50,000,000 $30.00 4.250% UST due November 15, 2034 73 bps
    2052 Tender Offer 3.950% Senior Notes due 2052 CUSIP:
    631103 AM0
    ISIN:
    US631103AM02    		 $549,105,000 $110,000,000 $30.00 4.500% UST due November 15, 2054 82 bps

    (1)   Per $1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered on or prior to the Early Tender Date (as defined below) and accepted for purchase by the Company.
    (2)   Does not include Accrued Interest (as defined below), which will also be payable as described below.
    (3)   The applicable page on Bloomberg from which the dealer manager will quote the bid side price of the U.S. Treasury Security is FIT1.

    The Tender Offers are being made upon the terms and subject to conditions described in the Offer to Purchase, dated February 10, 2025 (as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, the “Offer to Purchase”), which sets forth a detailed description of the Tender Offers. The Company reserves the right, but is under no obligation, to increase or decrease any or all of the Series Notes Caps and/or the Aggregate Notes Cap in its sole discretion at any time without extending or reinstating withdrawal rights, subject to compliance with applicable law.

    The Tender Offers for the Notes will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on March 11, 2025, or any other date and time to which the Company extends the applicable Tender Offer (such date and time, as it may be extended with respect to a Tender Offer, the “Expiration Date”), unless earlier terminated. Holders of Notes must validly tender and not validly withdraw their Notes prior to or at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 24, 2025 (such date and time, as it may be extended with respect to a Tender Offer, the “Early Tender Date”), and the holder’s Notes must be accepted for purchase, to be eligible to receive the applicable Total Consideration (as defined below). If a holder validly tenders Notes after the applicable Early Tender Date but prior to or at the applicable Expiration Date, and the holder’s Notes are accepted for purchase, the holder will only be eligible to receive the applicable Tender Offer Consideration (as defined below).

    Subject to the Aggregate Notes Cap, the Series Notes Caps and proration, if applicable, the total consideration for each $1,000 principal amount of the Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) prior to the Early Tender Date and accepted for purchase pursuant to each Tender Offer will be calculated in the manner described in the Offer to Purchase by reference to the applicable Fixed Spread for such Notes specified in the table above plus the applicable yield based on the bid-side price of the applicable U.S. Treasury Reference Security specified in the table above at 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on February 25, 2025 (excluding Accrued Interest with respect to each series of Notes, the “Total Consideration”). The Total Consideration includes an applicable early tender premium per $1,000 principal amount of Notes accepted for purchase as set forth in the table above (with respect to each series of Notes, the “Early Tender Premium”). Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date but prior to the Expiration Date and accepted for purchase will receive the Total Consideration minus the Early Tender Premium (with respect to each series of Notes, the “Tender Offer Consideration”).

    In addition to the consideration described above, all holders of Notes accepted for purchase in the Tender Offers will receive accrued and unpaid interest on such Notes from the last interest payment date with respect to such Notes to, but not including, the applicable settlement date (“Accrued Interest”).

    The Company intends to fund the purchase of validly tendered and accepted Notes with available cash on hand and other sources of liquidity. The purpose of the Tender Offers is to purchase a portion of the Notes, subject to the Aggregate Notes Cap and the Series Notes Caps, in order to reduce the Company’s total outstanding public debt.

    The Tender Offers will expire on the applicable Expiration Date. Except as set forth below, payment for the Notes that are validly tendered prior to or at the Expiration Date and that are accepted for purchase will be made on a date promptly following the Expiration Date, which is currently anticipated to be March 14, 2025, the third business day after the Expiration Date. The Company reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to make payment for Notes that are validly tendered prior to or at the Early Tender Date and that are accepted for purchase on an earlier settlement date, which, if applicable, is currently anticipated to be February 27, 2025, provided that the conditions to the satisfaction of the applicable Tender Offer are satisfied. The Company is not obligated to conduct any early settlement or have any early settlement occur on any particular date.

    Tendered Notes may be withdrawn prior to or at, but not after, 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 24, 2025.

    The Tender Offers are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions which are specified in the Offer to Purchase. The Tender Offers are not conditioned on any minimum principal amount of Notes being tendered.

    Information Relating to the Tender Offers

    The Offer to Purchase is being distributed to holders beginning today. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as dealer manager in connection with the Tender Offers. Investors with questions regarding the terms and conditions of the Tender Offers may contact the dealer manager as follows:

    J.P. Morgan Securities LLC
    383 Madison Avenue
    New York, New York 10179
    United States
    Attention: Liability Management Group
    U.S. Toll-Free: (866) 834-4666
    Collect: (212) 834-7489

    D.F. King & Co., Inc. is the Tender and Information Agent for the Tender Offers. Any questions regarding procedures for tendering Notes or request for copies of the Offer to Purchase should be directed to D.F. King & Co., Inc. by any of the following means: by telephone at (866) 342-4881 (toll-free) or (212) 269-5550 (collect) or by email at nasdaq@dfking.com.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or purchase, or a solicitation of an offer to sell or purchase, or the solicitation of tenders with respect to, the Notes. No offer, solicitation, purchase or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Tender Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offer to Purchase made available to holders of the Notes. None of the Company or its affiliates, their respective boards of directors, the dealer manager, the tender and information agent or the trustee with respect to any series of Notes is making any recommendation as to whether or not holders should tender or refrain from tendering all or any portion of their Notes in response to the Tender Offers. Holders are urged to evaluate carefully all information in the Offer to Purchase, consult their own investment and tax advisors and make their own decisions whether to tender Notes in the Tender Offers, and, if so, the principal amount of Notes to tender.

    About Nasdaq

    Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a global technology company serving corporate clients, investment managers, banks, brokers, and exchange operators as they navigate and interact with the global capital markets and the broader financial system. We aspire to deliver world-leading platforms that improve the liquidity, transparency, and integrity of the global economy. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software, exchange capabilities, and client-centric services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking information that involves substantial risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. When used in this communication, words such as “enables,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions and any other statements that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, among other things, statements about the proposed Tender Offers and the expected source of funds. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to the ability of Nasdaq to consummate the Tender Offers on the terms and timing described herein, or at all, Nasdaq’s ability to implement its strategic vision, initiatives, economic, political and market conditions and fluctuations, government and industry regulation, interest rate risk, U.S. and global competition, and other factors detailed in Nasdaq’s reports filed on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K and in other filings Nasdaq makes with the SEC from time to time and available at www.sec.gov. These documents are also available under the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at http://ir.nasdaq.com. The forward-looking statements included in this communication are made only as of the date hereof. Nasdaq disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    Media Relations Contacts:

    Nick Jannuzzi
    +1.973.760.1741
    Nicholas.Jannuzzi@Nasdaq.com

    Nick Eghtessad
    +1.929.996.8894
    Nick.Eghtessad@Nasdaq.com

    Investor Relations Contact:

    Ato Garrett
    +1.212.401.8737
    Ato.Garrett@Nasdaq.com

    NDAQF

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A Stronger Engine for Middle East and North Africa’s Growth

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    The Managing Director’s Keynote Speech at the Ninth Arab Fiscal Forum, Dubai, UAE

    February 10, 2025

    Assalamu alaikum, your excellencies. I would like to thank Minister Al Hussaini for the United Arab Emirates’ continued warm hospitality in hosting this important annual event, as well as his excellent leadership of the World Bank’s Development Committee.

    It is a privilege to address you at the ninth Arab Fiscal Forum. Over the years, the IMF and Arab countries have always had a strong and productive partnership. Today, this partnership is more vital than ever as the world and this region undergo significant economic, technological, and geopolitical shifts—a point that I will reflect on later.

    In my remarks, I will explore how Arab countries can leverage fiscal policy to transform their economies for the future, and harness technology and investment opportunities for the benefit of their people.

    Global outlook and transformations

    Let me start with an overview of the global and regional economic outlook.

    Global growth is projected to hold at 3.3 percent this year and the next, and then to slow over the next five years, to just above 3 percent. This is well below the historical average.

    For the Middle East and North Africa, we expect growth to rebound to about 3.6 percent in 2025, driven by a recovery in oil production and an easing of regional conflicts. However, as with the global economy, our medium-term outlook still sees growth weaker than before the pandemic.

    Policymakers have generally succeeded in taming inflation, but not everywhere, with inflation picking up again in some countries. This could lead to a divergence in interest rates across countries and higher borrowing costs for emerging market and developing economies.

    On the fiscal side, the legacy of the multiple shocks from the last years leaves public finances under significant strain in many countries. Global public debt is projected to hit 100 percent of global GDP by 2030. Many countries in this region face similar pressures, with debt levels exceeding 70 percent of GDP. This poses the risk of them becoming trapped in a low-growth, high-debt scenario.

    Governments have the difficult task of containing high debt levels in the face of rising spending needs. This region faces the pressing need to create jobs, enhance social safety nets, build resilience to more frequent natural disasters, and support economic diversification. The demands of national security and post-conflict reconstruction are also substantial.

    This is all happening at a time of significant global transformations, which are creating a more uncertain and challenging environment for policymaking. We know, for instance, that trade is no longer the engine of growth that is used to be—unlike the decades of the 1990s and 2000s when global trade grew much faster than global GDP, the two are now growing at roughly the same rate. Governments around the world are shifting policy priorities: the new US administration has been clear that it intends to take action in the areas of trade, tax and spending, deregulation, and technology/digital assets. And the technology revolution—especially AI—is upon us and is set to transform the way we live and work, perhaps as early as the next five years.

    These rapid transformations mean the recipes of the past may no longer provide the path to prosperity. Economies will need to be agile, adaptable and resilient—these will be the ingredients for future success.

    How can the MENA region find these ingredients for success and avoid a low-growth, high-debt scenario?

    Building adaptable and more resilient economies

    First, focus on structural changes that increase economic resilience, agility, and long-term growth potential. Too often, countries use fiscal stimulus to boost short-term domestic demand. While this “sugar rush” provides temporary growth, it often fuels inflation and financial turbulence. Instead of merely stepping on the gas, we need a stronger engine.

    Productivity growth is essential for stronger growth and driving up economic performance. Our research in the Arab region shows how to do it: accelerate digitalization, reduce the state’s footprint in the economy, foster trade diversification, and encourage the free flow of capital to dynamic firms.

    Countries in the region that are more digitalized have substantially higher productivity than less-digitalization ones. Some countries are among the most developed in the world in this area. Digital innovation, with AI technologies, is expected to raise UAE’s GDP significantly by 2030. More R&D spending will further enhance productivity.

    Reducing the state’s footprint in the economy and strengthening governance can yield significant benefits. For example, Saudi Arabia’s regulatory improvements have fostered private sector investment, especially in the non-oil economy. The UAE’s National Agenda for Entrepreneurship has supported a vibrant startup community, and Morocco’s New Model of Development aims to spur markets by improving public sector governance.

    Encouraging employment is also a key ingredient for stronger growth. With a growing working-age population, the region has to make the most of its demographic advantage. Creating more private jobs, for women and youth in particular, can lead to more vibrant and inclusive economies. This requires more-flexible labor markets, and investment in education and vocational training. We have recently seen impressive developments in this regard in Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain.

    A second priority is economic diversification. Today’s transformations provide an excellent opportunity to stimulate and reallocate resources toward new economic sectors and services. This could become a robust new growth engine, particularly for oil-exporting countries. Many countries are already investing in new technologies, such as batteries for electric cars; in improving connectivity and in green supply chains, for example.

    Third, in a world where patterns of cooperation are shifting, countries need to look for opportunities to cooperate in new ways. In many cases, this means deepening regional cooperation. The GCC is an excellent example of the benefits of regional integration—one that I can imagine can be emulated elsewhere.

    Building fiscal buffers and institutions  

    Let me turn to the fiscal side.

    Prudent fiscal stance is essential for macroeconomic stability — a prerequisite for a vibrant private sector and economic growth. An overarching priority today is to decisively use fiscal policy to build fiscal buffers, which is essentially the capacity to spend when needed – for example, to respond to shocks, manage and mitigate risks, and meet pressing development and climate-related needs.

    Many countries will need to pursue fiscal consolidation. It is crucial to carefully calibrate the size, pace, and composition of fiscal adjustments, to avoid unduly hampering growth. Tailoring budgetary reforms to each country’s circumstances, with a helping hand for those who lose out, is vital to ensure public support.

    In this context, increasing tax revenues remains a priority. Our research finds significant potential in strengthening domestic tax systems. This requires expanding tax bases, especially as economies diversify. For example, as new sectors grow, including through digitalization, they can become an important source of tax revenues. In addition, digitalization and AI can help modernize tax administrations.

    Domestic taxes will remain the primary source of funding government spending. However, private domestic and external financing will be needed to support the spending needs in the region. Addressing the impact of more frequent natural disasters will potentially require a cumulative $1 trillion in investment by 2030. The financial sector must play a larger role, while governments can enable an investment-friendly environment.

    Several countries in the region require special attention, either to resolve ongoing conflicts or to advance post-conflict reconstruction. I pray that peace and stability can be delivered in Sudan and Yemen. I hope that the ceasefire in Gaza, along with political changes in Syria and Lebanon, can mark new beginnings. The international community’s reconstruction efforts provide a unique opportunity to rebuild better and lay the foundations for stronger growth.

    Let me conclude

    In a world of rapid transformations, it is critical for countries to become more agile, adaptable, and resilient. They need to look for new engines of growth, which will also help avoid a low-growth, high-debt trap.

    The private sector has to be in the lead in transforming economies in the region through entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation.

    The role of governments is to foster the right environment for this private sector-led growth: by strengthening governance, modernizing public institutions, reducing bureaucracy, encouraging youth and female employment, and improving access to capital. And by designing and communicating policies that put people first and increase social support.

    The IMF remains fully committed to supporting the Middle East and North Africa. Since early 2020, we have approved about $33 billion in financing for the region, most recently in 2024 to help mitigate the impact of conflict. We have also recently reformed our surcharge policy, resulting in important savings for some countries. We have also expanded our capacity development and strengthened our regional presence with resident representative offices, technical assistance centers, and the new regional office in Riyadh.

    We are now stepping up our efforts to support the private sector, with the creation of a new IMF Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth. I can assure you, this region will be represented on it. And we look forward to the upcoming Al-Ula conference with emerging market economies, to discuss key issues affecting your economies. Jobs, innovation, and productivity—combined with a sound fiscal approach—will mean better prospects for citizens in this region and ultimately more peace and stability.

    Let’s get to work, or as you say, “linabda al-âmal”—let’s start the work together!

    I wish you all many insightful discussions and meaningful outcomes today.

    Shukran!

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER:

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/10/sp-021025-md-keynote-speech-ninth-arab-fiscal-forum

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –