Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Global: Presidential smiles: the untold story of teeth in the White House

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rae Gillibrand, Lecturer, Premodern History, University of Leeds

When Donald Trump joined Elon Musk for a live interview on X (formerly Twitter) late last year, the conversation covered a range of significant topics: his near-assassination, Biden’s withdrawal from the race, and the future of the presidency. However, for many viewers, an unexpected detail stole the spotlight: Trump’s slurred speech and lisp.

Was Trump wearing dentures? The public certainly seemed to think so. Throughout the interview, the word “dentures” was mentioned over 15,000 times on X and the interview sparked the resurgence of the hashtag #DenturedDonald.

Why does this matter? Trump is, after all, 78 years old, and a 2017 survey showed that nearly one in four Americans aged 75 and older have no teeth left at all. However, presidential dental health has long had an impact on public perception and leadership itself. From George Washington’s infamous dentures to Teddy Roosevelt’s toothy grin, a president’s teeth (or lack thereof) have often shaped the way they are seen by the American public.

Since the appointment of George Washington as the first US president, it has been tradition for each new president to commission a portrait of themselves during their time in office. However, it was not until Ronald Reagan’s portrait, completed in 1991, that we saw a president depicted with a smile.

This is partly to do with practicality – many early portraits were painted from life, and sitting with a smile for hours was almost impossible – and partly to do with etiquette. In the 18th century, a wide smile was considered a sign of lewdness and drunkenness and associated largely with the lower classes.

Indeed, a 1703 text on “decorum and civility” said that some people part their lips so that “their teeth are almost entirely visible. This is entirely contradictory to decorum, which forbids you to allow your teeth to be uncovered, since nature gave us lips to conceal them.”

It is often suggested that historical portraits avoided smiles because of poor dental hygiene, but in reality, social conventions played a much larger role. For earlier presidents, maintaining an image of sobriety, morality and respectability was important, and a serious expression was seen as a reflection of these values.

This all changed with Teddy Roosevelt. When Roosevelt became the 25th US president in 1901, photography was becoming much more accessible. Technological advancements and the introduction of handheld cameras meant that photography could be practised by a much broader range of people.

Because of this, Roosevelt was often candidly photographed while laughing or smiling, leading to his reputation as “the first president who smiled”.

He even capitalised on his grin in his 1904 campaign by releasing the Teddy’s Teeth Whistle. Retailing at five cents (US$1.77 or £1.44 in today’s money), supporters were encouraged to buy a set and “blow the horn for Teddy”.

Roosevelt’s embrace of his smile and the promotion of his teeth marked a shift in how a president’s image could be used to influence public perception, showing that good dental health could be a powerful political tool.

Worse than wood

Not all presidents were as diligent as Roosevelt when it came to dental hygiene. George Washington, for example, was infamous for his poor dental health.

His letters, diaries and financial accounts reveal a long history of dental troubles, ultimately leading to his use of dentures. However, contrary to popular belief, Washington’s dentures were not made of wood. Instead, they were made from materials including ivory, animal teeth and human teeth.

One of Washington’s account books reveals that he bought nine teeth from enslaved people on his Mount Vernon plantation. This detail adds a sinister layer to the history of Washington’s dental care because, while these people were paid for their teeth, their enslaved status probably left them with little choice in the matter.

Washington’s poor dental hygiene also extended to his care of his dentures. They became notoriously stained, largely due to his fondness for rich red wine. One letter from his dentist chastised him for the condition of his dentures, stating: “The set [of dentures] you sent me from Philadelphia … was very black, occasioned either by your soaking them in port wine, or by your drinking it. I advise you to either take them out after dinner and put them in clean water … or clean them with a brush.”

These insights into Washington’s dental struggles underscore the lasting effect of oral health on the presidential image.

Presidential dental health has played, and continues to play, an important role in shaping public perception, with teeth often serving as symbols of both personal care and political power. Whether influencing how a president is seen or reflecting broader social attitudes, the state of a leader’s teeth has clearly left its mark on the history of the office.

Rae Gillibrand 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. Presidential smiles: the untold story of teeth in the White House – https://theconversation.com/presidential-smiles-the-untold-story-of-teeth-in-the-white-house-248391

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: The Sims: from Hot Date to Get Famous, why expansion packs have been key to the game’s longevity

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Aditya Deshbandhu, Lecturer of Communications, Digital Media Sociology, University of Exeter

SimCity 3000, the predecessor to The Sims, played a pivotal part in my childhood, growing up in Hyderabad, India. Its recreation of the western, urban world helped me understand how cities were planned, designed and financed – and how they provided people with key services like transportation, health and education while preparing for accidents and other hazards.

As an eight-year-old trying to figure out my place in the world, that game offered me a way to make meaning of the chaos that can be life. So, when The Sims launched in 2000 – enabling me to live inside a virtual city, rather than simply build one – I had to get my hands on a copy.

Twenty-five years later, I write this piece in a drastically different gaming landscape, where games offer high visual fidelity and ever-increasing frame rates for ultra-smooth game play. But despite all these technological innovations and the pursuit of photo-realism, the popularity of The Sims’ game designer Will Wright’s satire on American consumer culture endures.

Sul Sul! This article is part of a mini series from The Conversation marking 25 years of The Sims franchise.

The franchise’s four Sims games had sold over 200 million copies before the latest instalment, The Sims 4, became free to play in 2022. Players now spend their money on extras within the game. Over 85 million people played The Sims worldwide in 2024.

At a time when the success of a modern video game is measured in metrics like “cumulative engagement time” (number of players playing at the same time), acquisition of new players and “intensity of engagement” (number of hours spent by a player), now-over-a-decade-old The Sims 4 continues to excel with its mastery of the live-service format.

The trailer for the first Sims game.

Live-service describes the form modern digital games embrace when they transition from conventional products into “services” – a shift made possible because games today can be regularly updated, fixed and expanded upon by their makers remotely. They can acquire new levels and in-game features in a similar way to how streaming platforms like Netflix drop new episodes of your favourite show.

Players don’t buy a live-service game, they sign up for the journey.

Expanding player horizons

In each incarnation of The Sims, players have been able to access new ways to perform roles and tasks that mimic everyday life, in the form of expansions and content packs.

The original title, The Sims (2000), had seven expansion packs and two content packs. I distinctly remember brewing potions in the chemistry lab and rubbing a magic lamp to conjure a genie in the first expansion, Livin’ Large; the new holiday island that was built for The Sims: Vacation; and leaving my Sim’s home to visit downtown areas as part of Hot Date.

The trailer for The Sims Hot Date expansion pack.

But for The Sims 4 (2014), the developers went all in. This game – and its subsequent expansions – represents a digital supermarket of lifestyles, sub-cultures, activities and stardom. For example, 2018’s Get Famous pack not only introduced Del Sol Valley – a region that resembled Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills – but also introduced the “reputation” mechanism for players.

The Discover University expansion (2019) allowed players to take their Sims to school in a new region called Britechester – after this update, the game integrated Sims’ careers and education, and in many ways changed the rules of the game. And the Eco Lifestyle expansion pack (2020) is memorable because the game engaged with ideas of sustainable living for the first time.

Genre, fantasy and reality

From content packs featuring a digital recreation of singer Katy Perry in The Sims 3 to collaborations with streamers, content creators and fashion houses, The Sims has remained relevant by consistently blurring the lines between genre, reality and fantasy.

Hot Date was a popular early Sims expansion pack.

Today, video game makers the world over try to master formats like free-to-play games where players pay for cosmetic items, customisations and added content, or expansions offering downloadable content. The Sims set the standard for most of them.

Over the past 25 years, this franchise has had several life simulation competitors in the form of Second Life, Facebook’s once popular Farmville, virtual reality experiences like Half-Life: Alyx and, during the pandemic when we worked, learnt and played online, initiatives like the Metaverse.

However, today only The Sims endures. The game’s developers continue to give its players what they want, while also getting them to engage with difficult ideas like sustainability, the question of life and death, and even gentrification (For Rent expansion pack, anyone?).

Few games let players critique life so closely. For game researchers like me, this begs the question: do people play life simulation games like The Sims in order to build alternative lives, relive their own – or create something entirely new?

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

– ref. The Sims: from Hot Date to Get Famous, why expansion packs have been key to the game’s longevity – https://theconversation.com/the-sims-from-hot-date-to-get-famous-why-expansion-packs-have-been-key-to-the-games-longevity-248604

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Will multinational companies flock to Syria? Maybe, if foreign aid arrives first

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ana Carolina Garriga, Professor of Political Science, University of Essex

hanohiki / Shutterstock

Syria’s new foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, recently appeared at the World Economic Forum’s annual conference in the Swiss resort of Davos. He announced that his country is open for business and seeking foreign investment.

After more than 13 years of civil war and decades of dictatorship that saw Syria become a pariah state, the country needs all the financial support it can get. But will foreign firms set up shop in Syria?

Countries like Syria, emerging from conflict, face the challenge of convincing investors they are a safe environment for investment. Our research suggests companies look at what governments are doing in terms of aid when considering whether to invest. In general, post-war countries that receive more foreign aid subsequently receive more foreign investment.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) typically involves multinational companies building factories, opening stores or investing capital in businesses abroad. It can be highly beneficial for developing countries.

FDI is the most stable source of international financing, and generally has positive long-term effects on economic growth and poverty reduction. More importantly for incumbent governments, FDI has positive short-term effects on domestic employment, government financing and spending, and foreign exchange reserves.

It also has a potential positive effect on government approval ratings, as attracting inward FDI signifies political competence to voters. These reasons are why almost all governments compete to receive these financial flows.

FDI is especially important in post-conflict countries. Civil wars typically destroy or seriously harm the productive capacity of countries. In Syria, the conflict destroyed tens of billions of US dollars worth of infrastructure, and incapacitated more than half its electrical grid.

After 13 years of civil war, Syria needs all the financial support it can get.
Vagabjorn / Shutterstock

War often disrupts a country’s access to the international economic exchanges that help economic growth. Since the beginning of its conflict in March 2011, Syria’s annual exports have dropped from US$8.8 billion (£7.1 billion) to US$1 billion, due to the war and war-related sanctions. Its economy has shrunk by 54%.

Foreign investment can contribute substantially to rebuilding the economy. But post-conflict countries might seem risky to investors.

Foreign firms sometimes avoid countries plagued by violence, political instability, or political risk. Conflict could reemerge in Syria, and multinational corporations probably do not want their business in a place where factories could be bombed or customers killed.

Post-conflict situations are also relatively information-poor environments. Conflict often hampers data collection efforts, and governments, in desperate need of capital, may be incentivised to misrepresent the actual state of the economy or strength of the political system.

In the case of Syria, foreign observers do not know what to make of the new ruling coalition, which is led by a designated terrorist organisation in Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. While the international community seems to want to support Syria – the UK, for example, has been clear about its intention to help the country – observers are unsure about the environment and how it might change in the coming years.

In these kinds of situation, international investors look at a variety of signals. In our research, we show that one key signal is whether other governments have sent official development aid to post-conflict countries.

Following the aid

We argue that the decision to send aid to a country signals the donors’ trust of local authorities. What matters is this presence of aid, whether or not the aid achieves its intended purpose.

Examining decades of global data, we have found a robust relationship between foreign aid and subsequent investment in post-conflict countries – with one striking exception.

There does not seem to be a relationship between aid from the US and foreign investment. Because so much of US foreign aid is geostrategic – to shore up alliances or secure access to particular areas – investors do not seem to view it as a valuable signal about the recipient country.

So, Syria should perhaps not worry too much about the new US president Donald Trump’s plan to cut American foreign aid. If aid from other government donors can still flow in, this could encourage investment to follow.

Fortunately for Syria, some countries and international organisations have already pledged aid – including the UK, which has announced £50 million in humanitarian aid for the country and its refugees. This seems like a good sign for Syria’s future – even more so because of the signal it sends to foreign investors.

Specific domestic policies that encourage FDI and build stronger institutions will be necessary to secure investment in the longer term. Syria will need to demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law and property rights, while creating a stable environment for investment.

However, if the pledged aid materialises – and if more countries chip in – this could lead to substantial economic benefits for Syria.

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

– ref. Will multinational companies flock to Syria? Maybe, if foreign aid arrives first – https://theconversation.com/will-multinational-companies-flock-to-syria-maybe-if-foreign-aid-arrives-first-248406

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Representation gaps and the rise of populism

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laurenz Guenther, Postdoctoral researcher, Department of Economics, Bocconi University

Shutterstock/Alejo Bernal

The rise of rightwing populists continues across the west, leaving many wondering how mainstream parties can respond. Part of the picture is the failure of political parties to meet voters’ views on immigration with policy responses.

Germany is a strong example here. In 2013, it had no notable rightwing populist party. Alternative for Germany (the AfD) did already exist, but it was neither populist nor strongly anti-immigrant. But immigration into Germany was increasing.

In the years prior to 2013, several hundred thousand asylum seekers from Africa and the Middle East entered the country each year. Many Germans wanted lower immigration but German political parties were not offering corresponding policies. The public and parliamentarians were already on a different page.

To measure this disagreement, researchers asked representative samples of German parliamentarians and ordinary citizens the following question in 2013: “Should it be easier or harder for foreigners to immigrate?”

They could choose from 11 responses, ranging from “0 – immigration for foreigners should be much easier” to “10 – immigration for foreigners should be much harder”.

The results show that most Germans wanted to restrict immigration in 2013. Despite this public demand, nearly all parliamentarians from all the four major parties wanted to facilitate immigration.

Immigration attitudes in 2013:

How the representation gap emerged over immigration.
L Guenther, CC BY-ND

Two years later, in 2015, the refugee crisis began. Over the course of just a few years, two million asylum seekers entered Germany. In response, Germans viewed immigration as an increasingly important issue and increasingly voted based on their attitudes towards immigration. Because most Germans wanted lower immigration, this increased the demand for an anti-immigration party.

During this time, the AfD changed its policy platform to become Germany’s only party that was clearly calling for much lower immigration. As a result, the AfD became the only party to represent the will of many Germans on the issue they considered most important.

Immigration attitudes in 2017:

From this perspective, it is not surprising that the AfD strongly increased its vote share in the 2017 election and became the first party to the right of the conservatives to ever enter the federal parliament.

In my research, I found similar patterns are evident across Europe. In 27 countries, most political mainstream parties are much more in favour of immigration than the majority of their voters and citizens demand.

The representation gap is not only systematic across countries but also across political issues and voter subgroups. On nearly all cultural issues, such as multiculturalism or gender relations, I found that voters are more conservative than their parliamentarians.

Across Europe, the difference between the average voter and parliamentarian is as large as the difference between the average conservative and socialist parliamentarian.

Even voters with the same level of education, or voters who are well-informed about politics, are much more culturally conservative than their representatives. Even immigrants themselves are much more opposed to immigration and multiculturalism than the average parliamentarian.

While these cultural representation gaps have existed for a long time, it is the increase in their salience and perceived importance that contributes to the rise of rightwing populism. This is most strongly driven by the increased importance in immigration.

These results matter because they can equip politicians with the information they need to win (back) voters. And on a deeper level, these findings raise the question whether mainstream parties need to adjust their policies on immigration.

One important argument of mainstream politicians against populists is that once populists come to power they aim to establish dictatorships and then rule against the interest of the people. However, this argument rings hollow if mainstream parties are unwilling to acknowledge and act on the issues considered most important by the people.

Laurenz Guenther receives funding from Bocconi University. He is affiliated with the Instutute for European Policymaking at Bocconi University.

– ref. Representation gaps and the rise of populism – https://theconversation.com/representation-gaps-and-the-rise-of-populism-245871

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How The Sims accidentally invented the cosy game genre

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Jerrett, Lecturer, Faculty of Creative & Cultural Industries, University of Portsmouth

Ooboo Vroose Baa Dooo! That’s “happy birthday” in Simlish, the delightfully nonsensical language of The Sims. The life simulation video game franchise turns 25 this year, making me feel officially old.

Like many others, I grew up playing The Sims, oscillating between designing dream homes and orchestrating ideal careers, and trapping my Sim characters in a tiny block room, removing all the doors and watching the chaos ensue. For the more benevolent among us, The Sims was an endlessly rewarding digital dollhouse.

Game designer Sid Meier (creator of the Civilisation series) defines a video game as “a series of interesting decisions”. In most games, interesting decisions are about which gun to use or which party member to heal. The Sims’ interesting decisions, however, were far more mundane. “What clothes should I make my simulated human (typically a digital avatar of myself or my friends) wear?”; “Who should they date?”; and, most importantly: “Should I use the ‘rosebud’ cheat to give myself infinite money?”

The Sims went on to become one of the bestselling franchises of all time, with myriad sequels, expansions and an obsessed player base. While similar titles at the time, such as Black and White, had you playing as an omnipotent god, they were primarily strategy games based around controlling territory. What made The Sims special was its focus on emergent narratives – player-driven experiences where players could create their own stories.

Sul Sul! This article is part of a mini series from The Conversation marking 25 years of The Sims franchise.

Much of this focus is also present in what is now called the “cosy game” genre. These are games that focus not on conflict or challenges, but rather on creativity, exploration and personal expression.

Before Stardew Valley let us befriend a moody fisherman, Animal Crossing allowed us to be financially terrorised by a raccoon, and Unpacking made us cry over a box of kitchen utensils, The Sims showed us a new way to play. One where the biggest challenge was forgetting to pay your bills, and the most rewarding accomplishment was finally affording a pool (whose exit ladder may or may not just have mysteriously disappeared).

This normalised the idea that games didn’t need to be won to be fun. It was a shift in design philosophy that paved the way for later games that let players tend a farm, manage a café, or befriend ghosts without a game-defined goal.

A trailer for one of the more recent expansion packs, Cottage Living.

The Sims was less about victory than it was about making your own fun – whether that meant imagining your future family life with your crush, or seeing how well you could build your Sim’s career from the ground up before succumbing to late-stage capitalism.

Copying The Sims’ homework

Many features that define the cosy game genre today trace directly back to The Sims. It popularised meticulous environment building and customisation tools, for example, from house layouts to outfit choices and suspiciously elaborate hedge mazes. This DNA is the bedrock of many modern cosy games, like Tiny Glade’s whimsical castle-building or pandemic hit Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ island growing.

The Sims was free from combat or major stressors (unless you count fire hazards and rogue Grim Reapers). No timers, no pressure – just vibes (unless you forgot to build a toilet, in which case the vibes would be bad). You could play at your own pace, which came to define other self-paced games like A Short Hike.

Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

Much of The Sims was about the relationships between the Sims themselves. They could get married, have children, make friends and even enemies. Instead of fighting for survival, Sims were fighting for their relationships.

This was augmented by a growing “machinima” fan culture, where players made short films and movies using in-game footage. These forms of emergent, social storytelling are a mainstay of modern gaming and meme culture, made even more prevalent by social media and the “share” buttons now on many game controllers.

In this work of machinima, a Sims player has made a sitcom trailer using footage from their gameplay.

Over the years, The Sims franchise has become a bastion for diversity, equity and inclusion. Most recently, that’s meant allowing players to create disabled and transgender Sims.

This provides more representation to players, and showcases the importance of cosy games for exploring an array of identities, values and stories. The move has even inspired copycats like the upcoming Inzoi, which provides even more realistic graphics and complex life simulation, building on the formula introduced by Sims creator Will Wright all those years ago.

For 25 years, The Sims has proven that games can be different. They don’t need conflict, challenge or even victory to be engaging. Sometimes, the real joy comes from designing an entire town, crafting a chaotic soap opera – or simply watching a Sim pace around a door-less room, gradually descending into madness.

Adam Jerrett 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 Sims accidentally invented the cosy game genre – https://theconversation.com/how-the-sims-accidentally-invented-the-cosy-game-genre-248702

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Unveils the LLM of Gesture Control: Large MUAP Models (LMM) Set to Revolutionize Human-Computer Interaction

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Pioneering AI-powered neural gesture technology enables personalized, intuitive interactions for the AI and XR era

Yokneam Illit, Israel, Feb. 03, 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, announced a groundbreaking advancement in human-computer interaction: Large MUAP Models (“LMM”). Building on the success of LLMs in natural language processing, Wearable Devices is actively developing LMMs with the goal to revolutionize how we interact with digital devices, aiming to offer personalized, intuitive gesture control powered by neural data. While still in development, this innovative technology holds immense potential to redefine human-device interaction.

The LMM Revolution: Decoding the Neural Alphabet

Just as LLMs unlocked the power of language for AI, LMMs aim to unlock the power of neural gestures for seamless, natural interactions. By decoding Motor Unit Action Potentials (MUAPs)—the body’s language for communicating with muscles—Wearable Devices has created a new paradigm for gesture control. LMMs are harnessing the potential of big data to enable devices to understand and predict user intentions with unprecedented speed and precision, making interactions faster and more intuitive than ever before. Personalized Gestures for a Natural User Experience

At the heart of LMMs is personalization. The technology learns from individual users, creating a unique neural profile that will enable gestures tailored to each person’s natural movements. Whether it’s a subtle thumb swipe to select an option or a pinch-to-zoom gesture in augmented reality, LMMs will make interactions feel effortless and intuitive. “With LMMs, we are decoding the neural alphabet, potentially unlocking a strategically vital technology that fuses human neurology with AI. This breakthrough has the potential to create sci-fi-like superhuman abilities, giving a fundamental edge to whoever masters it first,” said Guy Wagner, Chief Scientific Officer of Wearable Devices.

Wearable Devices’ flagship products, such as the Mudra Band for Apple Watch and the Mudra Link for universal device control, are already demonstrating the power of neural interfaces. These devices allow users to control their digital environments with simple, natural gestures. LMMs have the potential to make our current technology user-personalized, paving the way for a future where wearable technology is seamlessly integrated into our daily lives.

The Future of AI and XR: Powered by Neural Gestures

As spatial computing becomes the next computing platform, LMMs will provide the intuitive, natural interactions needed to unlock its full potential. Wearable Devices is focused on developing this technology and plans to seek collaboration with leading companies to integrate LMMs into next-generation extended reality (XR) platforms, ensuring that users can interact with their digital environments in ways that feel as natural as moving their hands.

“The future of XR and AI interactions is here, and it starts with your wrist,” added Mr. Wagner. “With LMMs, we are not just imagining the future—we are building it.”

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 the benefits and advantages of our devices and technology, including the potential of LMMs, and that we are focused on developing this technology and plan to seek collaboration with leading companies to integrate LMMs into next-generation XR platforms. 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 –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: NowVertical Announces Agreement to Defer Payment of Amounts to Affinio Sellers, Demonstrating Continued Support

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NowVertical Group Inc. (TSX-V: NOW) (“NowVertical” or the “Company”), a leading data and AI solutions provider, is pleased to announce that the sellers of Affinio Inc. (the “Sellers”) led by Whitecap Venture Partners have agreed to defer payment of USD $998,000 of outstanding liabilities previously due during the first half of 2025, which will now become payable in late Q4 2025. This deferral demonstrates the ongoing confidence and support the Sellers have in NowVertical’s “One Brand, One Business” strategy.

“We appreciate the Affinio Sellers’ willingness to work with us in extending these liabilities,” said Sandeep Mendiratta, Chief Executive Officer of NowVertical. “This agreement allows us to maintain our focus on executing our organic growth initiatives as we move towards our objective to achieve a US$50 million revenue run rate and 20% best-in-class EBITDA margin.”

This development reflects the strong relationship between NowVertical and the Sellers, reaffirming the trust and alignment both parties share in the Company’s strategic vision. NowVertical appreciates this collaboration, which underscores a positive outlook for the Company’s continued success and growth.

About NowVertical Group Inc.

The Company is a global data and analytics company which helps clients transform data into tangible business value with AI, fast. Offering a comprehensive suite of solutions and services the Company enables clients to quickly harness the full potential of their data, driving measurable outcomes and accelerating potential return on investment. Enterprises optimize decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and unlock long-term value from their data using the Company’s AI-Infused first party and third-party technologies. NowVertical is growing organically and through strategic acquisitions. For further details about NowVertical, please visit www.nowvertical.com.

Neither the 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.

For further information, please contact:

Andre Garber, CDO
IR@nowvertical.com
T: +1(647)947-0223

Cautionary note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (together “forward-looking statements“). Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies, certain of which are unknown. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “should”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe” or “continue”, or the negative thereof or similar variations and include statements regarding the ability of the Company to achieve its financial objectives. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by inherent risks and uncertainties, including: adverse market conditions; risks that the Company will be unable to pay amounts owing when due; risks inherent in the data analytics and artificial intelligence sectors in general; regulatory and legislative changes; that future results may vary from historical results; inability to obtain any requisite future financing on suitable terms; any inability to realize the expected benefits and synergies of acquisitions or dispositions; that market competition may affect the business, results and financial condition of the Company and other risk factors identified in documents filed by the Company under its profile at www.sedarplus.com, including the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Apollo Advances Financial Advisor Education and Access to Alternative Investments with Launch of Apollo Allocation Pro
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) today announced the launch of Apollo Allocation Pro. Designed for a financial advisor audience, Apollo Allocation Pro seeks to provide an intuitive, hands-on experience to explore portfolio construction strategies that include alternatives, particularly private markets. The tool is now available on Apollo.com.

Apollo Allocation Pro is the latest step in Apollo’s commitment to enhancing access to alternatives and empowering financial intermediaries with ongoing education and resources for integrating private markets into client portfolios.

The tool builds off Apollo Academy, the firm’s alternative-investment educational platform. Launched in September 2022, Apollo Academy offers financial advisors a variety of educational programs, from its cornerstone course, Alternative Investing Essentials (a 10-hour, CE-credit course), to pinpointed CE-credit classes, white papers, podcasts and the Daily Spark blog with Apollo’s Chief Economist Torsten Slok.

“With Apollo Allocation Pro, we’re continuing to educate and empower financial advisors as they seek greater diversification and excess return on behalf of their clients,” said Apollo’s Stephanie Drescher, Partner and Chief Client and Product Development Officer. “This tool highlights our commitment to providing advisors with resources to integrate private market strategies into portfolios, enabling them to deliver tailored solutions that align with their clients’ financial goals.”

Key Features of Apollo Allocation Pro:
- Interactive Portfolio Design: Create and model illustrative portfolio allocations that integrate alternatives alongside traditional public market indices with varying levels of risk tolerance across asset classes.
- Advisor-Focused Insights: Leverage custom insights to address diverse client objectives by accessing 17 different indices from which to allocate.
- Broader Education Initiatives: Aligned with Apollo’s educational framework, the tool complements the resources offered through Apollo Academy.
The tool was developed in partnership with iCapital¹, the global fintech platform driving the world’s alternative investment marketplace for the wealth and asset management industries, and is powered by iCapital Architect.

^{__________________________________
1}iCapital, Inc. and its affiliates (together, “iCapital”)

About Apollo
Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of September 30, 2024, Apollo had approximately $733 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

Contacts

Noah Gunn
Global Head of Investor Relations
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
(212) 822-0540
IR@apollo.com

Joanna Rose
Global Head of Corporate Communications
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
(212) 822-0491
Communications@apollo.com

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Announces First OEM Design Win for LeddarVision ADAS Solution

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

QUEBEC CITY, Canada, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech^® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, today announced a major milestone: one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) has selected LeddarTech as the fusion and perception software supplier for their advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) program for 2028 model year vehicles.

LeddarVision was selected for this mainstream commercial vehicle platform after a comprehensive evaluation by the customer of the leading solutions available in the market today. LeddarVision stood out for its superior performance and efficiency in a multi-modal sensor system with both cameras and radars, and the ability to scale to various models and sensor configurations. LeddarTech revenue from this design win is expected to begin in 2025 for engineering services, with per-vehicle royalty revenue anticipated in late 2027. While project work is to commence immediately, the arrangement remains subject to the parties entering into definitive agreements.

“This award comes on the heels of the recently announced Texas Instruments collaboration and license agreement with close to US$ 10 million in pre-paid royalties. These developments evidence the industry’s pivot towards low-level fusion―an approach pioneered by LeddarTech―that enables cost-effective deployment of L2/L2+ ADAS for commercial and passenger vehicles and our leadership position in multi-modal, low-level fusion and perception software,” said Frantz Saintellemy, president and CEO of LeddarTech. “These wins also reflect the momentum that is building with our business.”

LeddarTech’s LeddarVision platform delivers an environmental model that enhances driver safety and enables greater autonomy. By leveraging cutting-edge AI and sensor fusion technology, LeddarTech enables automotive OEMs to meet increasingly challenging industry safety standards while addressing consumer demands for more advanced ADAS features.

About LeddarTech

A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s selection by the OEM referred to above, anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) the risk that LeddarTech and the OEM referred to above are unable to agree to final terms in definitive agreements; (ii) the volume of future orders (if any) from this OEM, actual revenue derived from expected orders, and timing of revenue, if any; (iii) the possibility that anticipated benefits of LeddarTech’s recent business combination will not be realized; (iv) the risk that shareholder litigation in connection with the business combination or other settlements or investigations may result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; (v) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (vi) possible disruptions from the business combination that could harm LeddarTech’s business; (vii) the ability of LeddarTech to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (viii) potential adverse reactions or changes to relationships with customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (ix) potential business uncertainty, including changes to existing business relationships following the business combination that could affect LeddarTech’s financial performance; (x) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xi) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak or escalation of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak (including COVID‑19), as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; (xii) access to capital and financing and LeddarTech’s ability to maintain compliance with debt covenants; (xiii) LeddarTech’s ability to execute its business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; and (xiv) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:
Chris Stewart, Chief Financial Officer, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
Tel.: + 1-514-427-0858, chris.stewart@leddartech.com

Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Australian Oilseeds Accelerates Growth with Expanded Distribution Across 1,000+ Woolworths Stores

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COOTAMUNDRA, Australia, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: COOT) today announced expanded distribution of its premium cold pressed oils at Woolworths, a major retailer in Australia with over 1,000 locations across the country. Four SKUs of the Company’s cold pressed GEO Extra Virgin Non-GMO Canola oil and its cold pressed GEO Non-GMO Extra Virgin Vegetable oil are now available at Woolworths locations in pack sizes ranging from 750ml to 4L.

“We are very pleased to partner with Woolworths to provide consumers greater access to our high-quality, sustainable and locally sourced oils,” said Gary Seaton, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited. “Our GEO brand exemplifies our mission by offering a unique range of products that significantly reduce the use of chemicals in farming and food production systems, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for all. This agreement, coupled with our recently announced expansion in China, demonstrates significant progress on our key strategic initiatives along with helping to accelerate our growth trajectory. We look forward to increasing our range of healthier GEO oils in Woolworths supermarkets throughout 2025.”

Australian oilseed investments is also in discussions with other retail chains in both Australia and the United States for supply of its unique range of non-GMO cold pressed extra virgin vegetable oils.

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 –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: BOS Starts 2025 Growth Plans with a New $2.3 Million Defense Related Order
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RISHON LE ZION, Israel, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BOS Better Online Solutions Ltd. (“BOS” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BOSC), an integrator of supply chain technologies, announced today that its Supply Chain division has secured a new $2.3 million order from one of its primary customers in the defense sector. The order is for delivery by the first half of year 2025.

Avidan Zelicovski, BOS President, said: “BOS is increasingly recognized as a trusted partner to both our primary customers and their subcontractors worldwide. This newest contract award reflects our continued success in supporting our primary customer base and capitalizing on the substantially increased defense budgets. We expect to secure additional contracts throughout 2025 as we continue to expand our business activities and global defense spending continues to rise.”

About BOS Better Online Solutions Ltd.
BOS integrates cutting-edge technologies to streamline and enhance supply chain operations across three specialized divisions:
- Intelligent Robotics Division: Automates industrial and logistics inventory processes through advanced robotics technologies, improving efficiency and precision.
- RFID Division: Optimizes inventory management with state-of-the-art solutions for marking and tracking, ensuring real-time visibility and control.
- Supply Chain Division: Integrates franchised components directly into customer products, meeting their evolving needs for developing cutting-edge products.
Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements contained herein reflect management’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of BOS. These risk factors and uncertainties include, amongst others, the dependency of sales being generated from one or few major customers, the uncertainty of BOS being able to maintain current gross profit margins, inability to keep up or ahead of technology and to succeed in a highly competitive industry, inability to maintain marketing and distribution arrangements and to expand our overseas markets, uncertainty with respect to the prospects of legal claims against BOS, the effect of exchange rate fluctuations, general worldwide economic conditions, the effect of the war against the Hamas and other terrorist organizations, the continued availability of financing for working capital purposes and to refinance outstanding indebtedness; and additional risks and uncertainties detailed in BOS’ periodic reports and registration statements filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. BOS undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

For additional information, contact:

Matt Kreps, Managing Director
Darrow Associates
+1-214-597-8200
mkreps@darrowir.com

Eyal Cohen, CEO
+972-542525925
eyalc@boscom.com

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: FLYR Welcomes Thomas Fuss as Chief Technology Officer

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO and AMSTERDAM, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLYR, the technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry, today announced the arrival of Thomas Fuss as its new Chief Technology Officer. Thomas joins FLYR with a wealth of experience in leading technology teams at hypergrowth companies across several industries.

Thomas comes to FLYR from Backbase, where he played a pivotal role as Backbase’s CTO in driving the company’s transformation to 10x the company’s revenue during his tenure. At Backbase, Thomas led initiatives that modernized the financial technology landscape, building platform-as-a-service solutions and overseeing global scaling efforts. His work not only disrupted incumbents in the financial sector but also ensured the wellbeing of millions of end-users.

“We are very excited to have Thomas join the FLYR crew,” said Alex Mans, Founder and CEO of FLYR. “As a lifelong technologist and engineer at heart, Thomas understands how to lead a team in times of rapid growth — critical capabilities for us as we continue to scale up and unlock freedom to innovate for the travel industry. His leadership and vision will help drive the next chapter of growth for FLYR and our customers.”

“FLYR’s mission to disrupt the airline industry and lead clients into a digital future resonates deeply with me,” said Thomas Fuss, CTO, FLYR. “Having spent my career bridging the gap between complex systems and customer-centric solutions, I see tremendous opportunities to make a difference. The travel industry is ripe for transformation, and FLYR’s work is not only reshaping airlines but also enhancing experiences for travelers worldwide. I’m excited to bring everything I’ve learned from the financial sector to help FLYR scale globally and achieve its ambitious vision.”

Thomas’s career began with roles at SAP and ING Bank, where he led innovation initiatives for five years. He has also founded two companies, including Payconiq, a mobile payments innovation initiative, further underscoring his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to driving technological advancements.

Thomas will be based in FLYR’s Amsterdam office. For more information on FLYR, please visit FLYR.com.

About FLYR
FLYR is a technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry – eliminating legacy constraints to enable real-time decision making and create the experiences travelers seek. Cloud native, FLYR leverages technologies including deep learning, an advanced form of AI. FLYR is helping airlines and hospitality businesses around the globe improve revenue performance, reduce cost, and modernize their e-commerce experience. Learn more at flyr.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed16b6d6-cdbc-494b-841f-c33cad89613f

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Northfield Capital Announces Changes to the Board of Directors

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northfield Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NFD.A) (“Northfield” or the “Company”) today announced that Mr. Thomas Pladsen has resigned from the board of directors of the Company (the “Board”), effective January 31, 2025, for personal reasons. Mr. Pladsen has served as a director of the Company for over 30 years, during which time he provided invaluable insight and guidance to the Company. The Company would like to express its sincere thanks to Mr. Pladsen for his long-standing service.

The Company is also pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Klein as a member of the Board, effective January 31, 2025, to fill the vacancy created by Mr. Plasden’s resignation. Mr. Klein has also been appointed as the Chair of the Audit Committee of the Board, in place of Mr. Plasden, effective January 31, 2025.

Eric R. Klein, ICD.D, CBV, CPA, is an experienced Executive with over 35 years of experience in Investment Banking, Mergers & Acquisitions, Business Strategy and Corporate Management. As the President of Klein Advisory Services Inc. since 2018, Eric has guided both healthy and distressed entities, focusing on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and strategic advisory across various sectors including manufacturing, technology, and financial services. His strategic insights are further underscored by his past advisory role as a Senior Advisor for a Canadian asset based lender, where he was instrumental in portfolio management and spearheading new business initiatives. Previously Eric was an Executive Vice President at Dundee Corp. and a senior Partner at Farber Financial group. Eric has significant board-level experience, serving as Director and Chair of the Audit Committee for several Canadian public companies. Eric holds two degrees from McGill University. He is certified as a CPA, a Chartered Business Valuator (CBV), and holds an Independent Corporate Director designation (ICD.D), demonstrating his commitment to rigorous corporate governance and financial integrity.

We take this opportunity to welcome Eric to the Board and look forward to his governance and contributions to Northfield.

The Company has granted an aggregate of 10,000 stock options (“Stock Options”) to purchase class A restricted voting share of the Company (each, a “Class A Share”) to Mr. Klein, at an exercise price of $21.50 per Class A Share. The Stock Options have been granted pursuant to the Company’s Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan, and expire on January 31, 2030.

About Northfield Capital Corporation

Northfield is a leading Canadian investment firm with deep roots in resources, mining, aviation, and alcoholic beverages. Founded in 1981, Northfield combines decades of experience with a forward-thinking ethos to unlock opportunities.

For further information, please contact:

Michael G. Leskovec, CPA, CA
Chief Financial Officer
Telephone: (416) 628-5940

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 press release.

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor funds new £5.4million service to ensure vulnerable adults are properly safeguarded when in contact with police
Source: Mayor of London
- New £5.4million service funded by Sadiq will ensure that vulnerable adults across London have quick access to an independent appropriate adult to support them when in contact with the police.
- The first-ever London wide scheme will safeguard the rights, entitlements, and welfare of vulnerable adults for police processes including voluntary interviews and eye-witness testimonies.
- The new approach is part of a package of measures from City Hall to support the Met to improve the service it delivers for all Londoners, building on their hard work to exit special measures.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has launched a new £5.4miliion service to ensure vulnerable adults in contact with the police, including those taking part in voluntary police interviews, have timely access to an independent appropriate adult to support them.

The first-ever London wide scheme will safeguard the rights, entitlements and welfare of vulnerable adults, ensuring that they are treated in a fair and just manner, and are able to participate in police proceedings effectively.

The new approach is part a package of measures being funded by the Mayor to improve the service all Londoners receive from the police. It builds on the hard work of the Met to exit special measures and to respond to Baroness Casey’s review into the standards and culture at the Met Police.

In the UK, it’s a legal requirement for any child or any adult assessed as vulnerable to have an independent appropriate adult with them in any police interview^[1], but until now, in London, no single agency has been responsible for providing this support, leading to inconsistency and gaps in provision, costly delays and pressure on resources. The new service will complement the work underway by the Met and the Mayor’s office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) to address Baroness Casey’s recommendations to increase confidence, trust and fairness amongst Londoners through the Commissioner’s New Met for London Plan^[2].

The action by the Mayor also comes as figures show demand for appropriate adults increased by 10 per cent between 2019 and 2023 when more than 18,500 adults experiencing police custody or taking part in voluntary interviews with the police were assessed as vulnerable and requiring support to ensure their rights were safeguarded^[3].

A person is considered vulnerable if a police officer deems that they may be prone to confusion, compliance or could unintentionally provide unreliable, misleading, or self-incriminating information. The new service will ensure that all those considered vulnerable are appropriately safeguarded and instil within them the trust and confidence that they will be treated fairly by the judicial system.

Adults with mental health issues and those with learning difficulties are just some of those who will benefit from the London-wide scheme and be assigned an appropriate adult to support them through a number of police processes – including during searches, interviews and eyewitness identification procedures^[4].

The new £5.4miliion fund is the latest part of the Mayor’s record investment in the Met to raise standards, improve performance and help rebuild the trust and confidence of all of London’s communities in the Met police service.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Providing eye-witness statements and giving voluntary police interviews can be an extremely stressful time for anyone, so it is vital that the right support is available for those who are vulnerable and need assistance to help them understand their situation and ensure they are treated fairly and appropriately.

“My new London-wide appropriate adult scheme will guarantee timely access to the right support, reducing delays in custody which can have huge emotional, practical as well as financial cost.

“The service will also ensure that those from vulnerable communities have the confidence that they will be treated fairly, be believed, and can ultimately trust our policing and judicial system, which is vital to building a safer, fairer London for everyone.”

Geraldine Evans, Director of AAUK, said: “Our role as Appropriate Adults is essential in safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals. This partnership ensures they receive the necessary support to successfully navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system.

“The initiative underscores the shared commitment of MOPAC, MPS, and AAUK to uphold the rights of vulnerable individuals, promoting a standardised approach to service delivery, and guaranteeing that all vulnerable adults receive equal levels of professional care and support.”

Chris Bath, Chief Executive at National Appropriate Adult Network (NAAN), said: “Across the country, the lack of a legal duty to provide appropriate adults for vulnerable adults in police custody continues to undermine fairness and justice—a national issue left unaddressed for over 40 years.

“This inspiring example of local leadership will enhance police efficiency while ensuring vulnerable Londoners have access to high-quality, independent support to protect their rights and welfare.”

Alex Hawkins, CEO of The Appropriate Adult Service Ltd, said: “The Appropriate Adult Service (TAAS) is delighted to be working with MOPAC to provide essential support for vulnerable adults in police custody across London. MOPAC’s leadership in ensuring the provision of appropriate adults for vulnerable individuals marks a significant step forward.

“By working in partnership with The National Appropriate Adult Network and key figures within the criminal justice system, they are strengthening the campaign to secure statutory protection for all vulnerable adults.”
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Filming Generates £4.6m for Local Economy
Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

FifeScreen+TayScreen is pleased to announce the release of its annual report for 2023/24, showcasing a successful year for the screen industry in the Fife Tay region with figures showing the media industry’s multi-million pound contribution to the economy of the Fife and Tay region. The office also supported ground-breaking work that was a finalist in the Screen International Global Production Awards at the Cannes Film Festival for a UK first – virtual production over 5G between Dundee and Manchester.

The figures show continuing resilience for film and TV production in 2023-24 despite challenges such as writer and actor strikes in the USA that have directly affected production in the UK and employment of freelance crew. Production spend reached £2.3 million, generating economic impact of approximately £4.6 million. This highlights the significant contribution that the screen industry makes to the local economy and the wider region.

Key Achievements in 2024
- Production Activity: the office facilitated over 100 productions, contributing an estimated £2.4 million to the local economy. The office recorded a total of over 400 filming days at locations across the region. Projects ranged from feature films and television dramas to commercials and independent productions.
- Diverse Locations Utilised: The region’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and urban settings attracted high-profile projects. These productions not only boosted the local economy but also showcased the region’s unique character on the global stage.
- Support for Regional Business: the office connected regional businesses with opportunities in the screen industry.
- Sustainability: the office implemented eco-friendly production guidelines towards support Scottish and UK initiatives to ensure the industry’s growth aligns with environmental goals.
- The sector supports jobs and livelihoods including freelance crew and services that are integral to production such as hospitality and accommodation. It plays a major part in promoting the region for economic and social development and attracting tourism.
Some production highlights

The report features several exciting highlights. Time-travel romantic drama series ‘Outlander’, returned for Season 8 and Prequel, Blood of My Blood that filmed across the region. There was filming for the final series of Netflix show, The Crown. The region’s attraction for crime on screen continued with production of Val McDermid’s Karen Pirie Season 2. James McAvoy, star of productions such as X-Men and Atonement, made his directorial debut in Dundee with California Schemin’. Iconic, global fashion brand, Christian Dior brought an A-list event and fashion shoots to Perthshire. This further solidifies the Fife Tayside region’s position as a preferred destination for high-profile productions, drawing attention and visitors from around the world.

Studios/Virtual Production and Remote Broadcasting

FifeScreen+TayScreen has continue to collaborate with the Tay Cities Deal project, Tay5G Virtual Production and Julie Craik has been appointed to the national board of the £76m CoSTAR programme supported by the UK Government. Virtual Production is an exciting evolution of greenscreen. Real environments or digitally created experiences are projected in specialist studios so that cast and crew can see and interact with them in real time. The office also supported the Tay5G project that saw Neutral Wireless and QTV advancing 5G enabled, live production technology in the region.

Dundee’s Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener, Steven Rome says: “As a city renowned for its creativity and innovation, Dundee is proud to support the ongoing success of Tayscreen in showcasing our region as a vibrant hub for film, television, and creative production. This year’s Tayscreen annual report highlights the collaborative spirit that make our area such an attractive destination for production. Dundee continues to play a vital role in this industry, bringing economic opportunities and raising our profile on the global stage.”

Cllr Altany Craik, Spokesperson for Fife Council Finance, Economy & Strategic Planning says: “The film industry continues to play a vital role in Fife’s economy. The support that FifeScreen provides makes it easy for production companies to choose Fife as a location to film audience favourites such as Outlander and The Crown. The effects of having Fife showcased in this way must not be underestimated in terms of the visitor economy and inward investment. Embracing new technology will ensure that FifeScreen+TayScreen continues to be relevant and attractive to this vibrant industry.”

Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth & Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, says: “Perth & Kinross is proud to be a part of the TayScreen network, which continues to shine a spotlight on our region’s stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and thriving creative industries. This year’s Tayscreen annual report underscores the significant contribution our area has made to the screen sector, attracting high-profile productions and delivering economic benefits to local communities. From our picturesque countryside to our vibrant towns, Perth & Kinross offers a wealth of opportunities for filmmakers and content creators. We remain committed to supporting the creative industries, recognising their vital role in driving cultural and economic growth in our region.”

The report also emphasises the positive impact of screen tourism on the local economy. While tourism services faced challenges due to increased operating costs and the cost-of-living crisis, screen tourism continued to play a crucial role in raising awareness and influencing destination and economic development decisions. The allure of seeing Scotland on screen remains a significant factor for up to 40% of visitors to the region with the impact reported to last for at least four years.

FifeScreen+TayScreen is committed to supporting and promoting the region as a premier filming location, as well as leveraging the power of screen tourism to boost the local economy. As part of its mission, the office continues to collaborate with industry partners, local businesses, and stakeholders to create a ‘film-crew friendly’ environment for filmmaking. The success of the past year reflects the continued collective effort and dedication of all engaging with the screen industry in the Fife Tay region.

Looking forward, TayScreen remains determined to build on this success and further solidify the region’s reputation as a vibrant hub for screen production. By attracting more high-profile productions, nurturing local talent, and fostering collaborations, TayScreen aims to continue driving economic growth and showcasing the unique charm and beauty of the region to audiences worldwide.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: Outbrain Completes the Acquisition of Teads

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Highlights:

The combination will merge two open internet category leaders to create a unified omnichannel platform that delivers outcomes from branding to performance across all screens, including CTV, mobile and web. The new company will operate under the name Teads.
The union creates one of the largest open internet companies, with combined advertising spend of approximately $1.7 billion (FY24), reaching 2.2 billion consumers.
The company will unite two of the richest contextual and interest data sets on the open internet, powering an advanced AI prediction engine to optimize advertiser outcomes.
Outbrain CEO, David Kostman, will serve as CEO of the combined company, with Jeremy Arditi and Bertrand Quesada, former Teads CEOs, assuming the roles of Co-President, Chief Business Officer of the Americas and International respectively.
The two companies are preliminarily reporting a combined Ex-TAC Gross Profit of $623 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $230 million in 2024 including $65-75 million of estimated synergies¹.
Transaction value of approximately $900 million, comprised of $625 million in cash and 43.75 million Outbrain shares.
Altice, selling shareholder of Teads, will nominate two out of a total of 10 board members.
Outbrain is providing selected preliminary results for the fourth quarter, in line with previously issued guidance in Outbrain’s November 2024 earnings call, and selected preliminary results for Teads and the combined company.

NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Outbrain Inc. (NASDAQ: OB) today announced the closing of its acquisition of Teads, following receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. The two companies will merge their respective branding and performance offerings to create the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, and will operate under the name Teads.

The new Teads will create one of the largest optimized supply paths on the premium open internet, with a focus on connecting curated, exclusive media environments with elevated, data-driven creative experiences. The combined company offering will be strengthened by Outbrain’s proprietary predictive technology and AI optimization. It will provide a solution for marketers to leverage a single partner to deliver concrete outcomes at every step of the marketing funnel— offering unique ways to combine advertising solutions from awareness to sales. The company’s combined data set will power expanded contextual, audience and purchase-based targeting capabilities, connecting CTV experiences to digital moments to drive measurable outcomes.

“I am extremely excited about this new chapter in our journey. This transformative merger creates a company that directly addresses a large gap in the advertising industry: a scaled end-to-end platform that can drive outcomes, from branding to consideration to purchase, across screens,” said CEO, David Kostman.

“Together, we are creating an extraordinary new company, combining the best of both organizations’ deep expertise in omnichannel video branding solutions and performance advertising. The new Teads’ mission is to drive lasting value with an offering that invites marketers to expect better outcomes, media owners to expect sustainable value, and consumers to expect elevated experiences. I want to thank the teams of both Outbrain and Teads, who have pioneered major advertising categories, and have built leading global companies over more than a decade. It is their innovation and commitment that have brought us to this moment and will propel us to new heights,” added Kostman.

Co-President & Chief Business Officer, Jeremy Arditi, added: “We’re committed to creating a solution that will harness the untapped opportunity of the open internet, and allow all of its constituents to thrive. We believe that by prioritizing beautiful creative experiences, trust and transparency in media, and delivery of meaningful outcomes, we can create a stronger ecosystem that provides value for all.”

“The merger between Teads and Outbrain makes a lot of sense strategically. We look forward to exploring the new possibilities this provides us with to reach our audiences in a new and interesting way, to deliver full funnel solutions and better business outcomes,” said Sital Banerjee, Global Head of Integrated Media, Performance Marketing, and BMI Management at Lipton Teas and Infusions.

Key Combined Strengths

With the completion of the combination, the new Teads will offer clients and partners:

Exceptional reach at great scale, across exclusive environments
- 96 percent open internet audience reach*
- Number one most direct supply path, as rated by Jounce**
- Direct access to 10,000 media environment
- Connected to the top 4 OEMs and several of the top Streaming Apps unlocking access to 50bn CTV Monthly Ad Opportunities, including unique CTV homescreen inventory
- Proprietary code-on-page relationships with premium editorial properties globally, providing access to incremental inventory and yielding extensive audience interest and engagement insights

Creatives built for outcomes
- Data-driven, beautiful creative solutions designed to connect brand moments across the marketing funnel — from CTV to editorial and beyond
- Proven impact from unique experiences, with 74 percent higher attention for unique CTV native creative
- Strategic Joint Business Partnerships with more than 50 of the world’s most premium brands

AI-powered predictive technology
- Proprietary prediction engine, cultivated over 18+ years to drive performance outcomes, making 1 billion predictions each minute
- 4 billion signals processed each minute via AI and machine learning
- 50 live AI models

Expansive omnichannel graph, expanded on the Teads Omnichannel Graph foundation
- The Teads Omnichannel Graph (OG), a proprietary tool extending contextual and audience-targeting capabilities into the CTV environment, will be further expanded by Outbrain engagement, interest, and conversion data
- Extensive data signals feeding an understanding of audiences across screens, including:
  - 130,000 articles scanned per minute
  - 500,000 CTV programs enriched with data per month
  - 1 billion engagement and contextual signals processed each minute

*According to Comscore, Media Metrix, Key Metrix, US, December 2024 for Teads.
**According to 2024 Jounce SPO analyses, specific to Teads platform.

Transaction Details

Outbrain, Altice and Teads have amended the previously announced share purchase agreement, dated August 1, 2024. Under the terms of the revised agreement, Outbrain will be paying a total consideration of approximately $900 million, consisting of $625 million upfront cash and 43.75 million shares of common stock of Outbrain (valued at approximately $263 million based on the closing price of Outbrain’s common stock as of January 31, 2025, of $6.01).

Under the revised terms, there is no deferred cash payment or convertible preferred equity component. The revised terms have meaningfully reduced the level of required debt financing and simplified the transaction structure.

Outbrain intends to finance the transaction with existing cash resources and $625 million in committed debt financing from Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Jefferies Finance LLC and Mizuho Bank, Ltd., subject to customary funding conditions. Outbrain will also issue to Altice 43.75 million shares of common stock. Altice will nominate two directors to the board of Outbrain and will be bound by a stockholder agreement with Outbrain containing arrangements and restrictions concerning voting and disposition of the shares issued to Altice.

Financial Highlights

Preliminary Estimated Unaudited Financial Information for the Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2024

Today Outbrain is furnishing on Form 8-K selected preliminary estimated unaudited financial information for each of Outbrain and Teads on a standalone basis and on a combined company basis for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024. Excerpts of such financial information can be found below. You are encouraged to refer to the Form 8-K and other documents filed or furnished by Outbrain with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

The Company previously announced its expectation to achieve $50 – 60 million of annual revenue and cost synergies in the second full year following completion of the acquisition, with further opportunities for expanded synergies in the following years. The Company now expects to realize approximately $65 – 75 million of annual synergies in FY 2026 with further opportunities for expanded synergies in the following years. Of this amount, approximately $60 million relates to cost synergies, including approximately $45 million of compensation related expenses. The Company plans to action approximately 70% of the compensation related expense savings during the first month post-closing. The upsize in expected synergies follows a robust integration planning process, enabling a larger and more rapid synergy capture.

Outbrain is providing selected preliminary results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, as follows:

Ex-TAC gross profit of $68.3 million for Q4 2024, and $236.1 million for FY 2024
Adjusted EBITDA of $17.0 million for Q4 2024, and $37.3 million for FY 2024

For Teads, we are providing the following selected preliminary results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, as follows:

Ex-TAC gross profit of $119.9 million for Q4 2024, and $386.6 million for FY 2024
Adjusted EBITDA of $52.2 million for Q4 2024, and $122.7 million for FY 2024

The two companies are preliminarily reporting a combined Ex-TAC Gross Profit of approximately $623 million and Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $230 million in 2024, including $65-75 million of estimated synergies².

Conference Call and Webcast:
Outbrain will host an investor conference call this morning, Monday, February 3rd at 9:00 am ET. Interested parties are invited to listen to the conference call which can be accessed live by phone by dialing 1-877-497-9071 or for international callers, 1-201-689-8727. A replay will be available two hours after the call and can be accessed by dialing 1-877-660-6853, or for international callers, 1-201-612-7415. The passcode for the live call and the replay is 13751603. The replay will be available until February 17, 2025. Interested investors and other parties may also listen to a simultaneous webcast of the conference call by logging onto the Investors Relations section of the Company’s website at https://investors.outbrain.com. The online replay will be available for a limited time shortly following the call.

Cautionary Note About Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industries in which Outbrain and Teads operate, and beliefs and assumptions of Outbrain’s management. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements regarding possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives, expected synergies and statements of a general economic or industry-specific nature. You can generally identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “foresee,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions, or are not statements of historical fact. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors including, but not limited to: risks that the acquisition disrupts current plans and operations or diverts management’s attention from its ongoing business; the initiation or outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Outbrain or Teads, or their respective directors or officers, related to the acquisition; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the acquisition; the ability of Outbrain to successfully integrate Teads’ operations, technologies and employees; the ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the acquisition, including the expectation of enhancements to Outbrain’s services, greater revenue or growth opportunities, operating efficiencies and cost savings; overall advertising demand and traffic generated by Outbrain and the combined company’s media partners; factors that affect advertising demand and spending, such as the continuation or worsening of unfavorable economic or business conditions or downturns, instability or volatility in financial markets, and other events or factors outside of Outbrain and the combined company’s control, such as U.S. and global recession concerns; geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing war between Ukraine-Russia and conditions in Israel and the Middle East; supply chain issues; inflationary pressures; labor market volatility; bank closures or disruptions; the impact of challenging economic conditions; political and policy uncertainties; and other factors that have and may further impact advertisers’ ability to pay; Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to continue to innovate, and adoption by Outbrain and the combined company’s advertisers and media partners of expanding solutions; the success of Outbrain and the combined company’s sales and marketing investments, which may require significant investments and may involve long sales cycles; Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to grow their business and manage growth effectively; the ability to compete effectively against current and future competitors; the loss or decline of one or more large media partners, and Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to expand advertiser and media partner relationships; conditions in Israel, including the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and other terrorist organizations, may limit Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to market, support and innovate their products due to the impact on employees as well as advertisers and advertising markets; Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to maintain revenues or profitability despite quarterly fluctuations in results, whether due to seasonality, large cyclical events or other causes; the risk that research and development efforts may not meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technology market; any failure of Outbrain or the combined company’s recommendation engine to accurately predict attention or engagement, any deterioration in the quality of Outbrain or the combined company’s recommendations or failure to present interesting content to users or other factors which may cause us to experience a decline in user engagement or loss of media partners; limits on Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to collect, use and disclose data to deliver advertisements; Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to extend their reach into evolving digital media platforms; Outbrain and the combined company’s ability to maintain and scale their technology platform; the ability to meet demands on our infrastructure and resources due to future growth or otherwise; the failure or the failure of third parties to protect Outbrain and the combined company’s sites, networks and systems against security breaches, or otherwise to protect the confidential information of Outbrain and the combined company; outages or disruptions that impact Outbrain or the combined company or their service providers, resulting from cyber incidents, or failures or loss of our infrastructure; significant fluctuations in currency exchange rates; political and regulatory risks in the various markets in which Outbrain and the combined company operate; the challenges of compliance with differing and changing regulatory requirements; the timing and execution of any cost-saving measures and the impact on Outbrain and the combined company’s business or strategy; and the other risk factors and additional information described in the section entitled “Risk Factors”, and under the heading “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of Outbrain’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 8, 2024 for the year ended December 31, 2023, Outbrain’s Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 8, 2024 for the period ended June 30, 2024, Outbrain’s Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on November 7, 2024 for the period ended September 30, 2024 and in subsequent reports filed with the SEC.

Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as an indication of future performance. Outbrain cannot assure you that the results, events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur, and actual results, events or circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Outbrain and the combined company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Outbrain undertakes no obligation, and does not assume any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law.

About The Combined Company
Outbrain Inc. (Nasdaq: OB) and Teads combined on February 3, 2025 and are operating under the new Teads brand. The new Teads is the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, driving full-funnel results for marketers across premium media. With a focus on meaningful business outcomes, the combined company ensures value is driven with every media dollar by leveraging predictive AI technology to connect quality media, beautiful brand creative, and context-driven addressability and measurement. One of the most scaled advertising platforms on the open internet, the new Teads is directly partnered with more than 10,000 publishers and 20,000 advertisers globally. The company is headquartered in New York, with a global team of nearly 1,800 people in 36 countries.

For more information, visit https://thenewteads.com/.

Media Contact

press@outbrain.com

Investor Relations Contact

IR@outbrain.com
(332) 205-8999

Non-GAAP Reconciliations

The following table presents the reconciliation of Gross profit to Ex-TAC gross profit, for the periods presented:

	Three Months Ended December 31, 2024									Year Ended December 31, 2024
	Outbrain			Teads			Combined			Outbrain			Teads			Combined
Revenue	$	234,586		$	188,953		$	423,539		$	889,875		$	617,435		$	1,507,310
Traffic acquisition costs		(166,247	)		(69,091	)		(235,338	)		(653,731	)		(230,831	)		(884,562	)
Other cost of revenue (a)		(12,277	)		(26,441	)		(38,718	)		(44,042	)		(106,414	)		(150,456	)
Gross profit		56,062			93,421			149,483			192,102			280,190			472,292
Other cost of revenue (a)		12,277			26,441			38,718			44,042			106,414			150,456
Ex-TAC Gross Profit	$	68,339		$	119,862		$	188,201		$	236,144		$	386,604		$	622,748

___________
(a) Other cost of revenue for Teads is subject to accounting policy harmonization.

The following table presents the reconciliation of net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA, for the periods presented:

	Three Months Ended December 31, 2024									Year Ended December 31, 2024
	Outbrain			Teads			Combined			Outbrain			Teads			Combined
Net (loss) income	$	(167	)	$	69,613		$	69,446		$	(711	)	$	89,318		$	88,607
Interest expense/financial costs		699		$	116			815			3,649			1,176			4,825
Interest income and other income, net		(1,522	)	$	–			(1,522	)		(9,209	)		–			(9,209	)
Gain related to convertible debt		–			–			–			(8,782	)		–			(8,782	)
Other financial income and (expenses)		–			(13,973	)		(13,973	)		–			(26,404	)		(26,404	)
Provision for income taxes		3,525			16,143			19,668			2,415			38,256			40,671
Depreciation and amortization		4,985			3,027			8,012			19,479			12,834			32,313
Share-based compensation		3,974			(28,089	)		(24,115	)		15,461			–			15,461
Severance costs		–			393			393			742			1,593			2,335
Merger and acquisition costs		5,469			4,930			10,399			14,256			5,890			20,146
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding synergies	$	16,963		$	52,160		$	69,123		$	37,300		$	122,663		$	159,963
The Company expects to realize approximately $65 – 75 million of annual synergies in the second full year following completion of the Acquisition. (midpoint)																	70,000
Combined company Adjusted EBITDA (incl. synergies)																$	229,963

¹Represents estimated full year 2026 Adjusted EBITDA synergies, with further opportunities for expanded synergies in the following years. Ex-TAC Gross Profit and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. See “Non-GAAP Reconciliations” below.
²Represents estimated full year 2026 Adjusted EBITDA synergies, with further opportunities for expanded synergies in the following years

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: STAKING NOW AVAILABLE IN THE UK, UPHOLD RELAUNCHES SERVICE TO USERS

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, UK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Uphold, the modern infrastructure provider for on-chain payments, banking and investments, has announced that its UK customers can now earn staking rewards on their crypto holdings. A UK Treasury amendment to the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 came into force on 31 January, 2025, clearing the way for registered crypto-asset service providers to offer staking services to UK individuals and firms.

Previously, there was a lack of regulatory clarity on offering staking to UK customers, which prevented users from receiving rewards for supporting essential blockchain activities. However, following the recent legislative clarification, registered platforms like Uphold can now offer their customers the chance to earn staking rewards and grow their digital assets.

Uphold’s UK customers will have the opportunity to earn competitive returns on staked cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Solana, and NEAR. Today, some supported tokens offer a return up to 14.8%, depending on market conditions and network-specific factors. Such rates are ideal for crypto investors seeking passive income opportunities.

Simon McLoughlin, CEO of Uphold, said: “Staking is an inherent function of many blockchains. It creates a legitimate way for crypto holders to put their assets to work while supporting the validation process of a blockchain. With the legal clarification, we can now offer this core feature to our UK users and, as you’d expect from Uphold, we’ll make accessing staking rewards easier than any other platform.”

Staked crypto holdings are used by blockchain platforms such as Ethereum, Solana, and NEAR to validate transactions, bolster security, and maintain the networks. Uphold’s move to offer staking aligns with its commitment to providing innovative financial solutions.

Proof of Stake (PoS) blockchain validation emerged as an alternative to Proof of Work, which requires cryptocurrency miners to solve complex cryptographic puzzles, consuming significant amounts of energy in the process. In contrast, Proof of Stake consumes significantly less energy by requiring blockchain validators to lock up crypto as collateral, demonstrating a financial commitment to the network.

Anyone with a minimum balance of a supported PoS token can validate transactions and get rewards for doing so. With Uphold now reintroducing this feature back into the UK market, the company aims to play a pivotal role in the broader adoption of decentralized financial systems while providing tangible value to its users.

More information on Uphold’s staking offering can be found here: https://uphold.com/en-gb/products/staking

About Uphold

Uphold, is a financial technology company that believes on-chain services are the future of finance. It provides modern infrastructure for on-chain payments, banking and investments. Offering Consumer Services, Business Services and Institutional Trading, Uphold makes pioneering financial services easy and trusted for millions of customers in more than 140 countries.

Uphold integrates with more than 30 trading venues, including centralized and decentralized exchanges, to deliver superior liquidity and optimal execution. Uphold never loans out customer assets and is always 100% reserved. The company pioneered radical transparency and uniquely publishes its assets and liabilities every 30 seconds on a public website (https://uphold.com/en-us/transparency).

Uphold is regulated in the U.S. by FinCen and State regulators, and is registered in the UK and Canada with the FCA and FINTRAC respectively and in Europe with the Financial Crime Investigation Service under the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Lithuania. To learn more about Uphold’s products and services, visit uphold.com.

Disclaimer: 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.

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Safe Harbor Financial Announces Temporary Pause in Principal Payments and Ongoing Discussions to Modify Promissory Note with PCCU

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

GOLDEN, Colo., Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SHF Holdings, Inc., d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial (“Safe Harbor” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SHFS), a fintech leader in facilitating financial services and credit facilities to the regulated cannabis industry, announced today that it has entered into a Letter Agreement with Partner Colorado Credit Union (“PCCU”) related to its Senior Secured Promissory Note (the “Note”), whereby PCCU has agreed to temporarily pause receipt of principal payments due in February and March 2025, while the parties engage in discussions regarding a potential modification of the Note. The Company is working towards finalizing a modification within the two-month period, although there is no assurance that an agreement will be reached.

“This Letter Agreement represents PCCUs commitment to work with us as we develop new solutions to capitalize on, scale and expand our service offerings,” said Terry Mendez, co-CEO of Safe Harbor Financial. “PCCU’s willingness to engage in these discussions reflects our longstanding relationship. The temporary pause in principal payments is expected to improve our liquidity by approximately $510,000.”

About Safe Harbor
Safe Harbor is among the first service providers to offer compliance, monitoring and validation services to financial institutions, providing traditional banking services to cannabis, hemp, CBD, and ancillary operators, making communities safer, driving growth in local economies, and fostering long-term partnerships. Safe Harbor, through its financial institution clients, implements high standards of accountability, transparency, monitoring, reporting and risk mitigation measures while meeting Bank Secrecy Act obligations in line with FinCEN guidance on cannabis-related businesses. Over the past decade, Safe Harbor has facilitated more than $25 billion in deposit transactions for businesses with operations spanning more than 41 states and US territories with regulated cannabis markets. For more information, visit www.shfinancial.org.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements other than statements of historical facts included herein may constitute forward-looking statements and are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to trends in the cannabis industry, including proposed changes in U.S and state laws, rules, regulations and guidance relating to Safe Harbor’s services; Safe Harbor’s growth prospects and Safe Harbor’s market size; Safe Harbor’s projected financial and operational performance, including relative to its competitors and historical performance; new product and service offerings Safe Harbor may introduce in the future; the impact volatility in the capital markets, which may adversely affect the price of Safe Harbor’s securities; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Safe Harbor; and other statements regarding Safe Harbor’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “outlook,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would,” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in Safe Harbor’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Safe Harbor undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement made herein. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.

Contact Information
Safe Harbor Investor Relations
ir@SHFinancial.org

KCSA Strategic Communications
Ellen Mellody
safeharbor@kcsa.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Topicus.com Inc. announces Shareholders’ Agreement

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Topicus.com Inc. (TOI.V), having previously announced on January 31, 2025 its purchase of 9.99% of the issued shares in Asseco Poland S.A. (“Company”) from Cyfrowy Polsat S.A. at a price of 85 PLN per share, today announced that its subsidiaries Yukon Niebieski Kapital B.V. (“Yukon”) and TSS Europe B.V. (“TSS”) have signed a shareholders’ agreement (the “Shareholders’ Agreement”) with the Adam Góral Family Foundation (“AG”), governing their cooperation in connection with Yukon’s and AG’s respective shareholdings in the Company. The Shareholders’ Agreement will only become effective upon the completion of Yukon’s acquisition of 12,318,863 treasury shares currently held by the Company at the proposed purchase price of 85 PLN per share, representing 14.84% of the Company’s share capital, which purchase remains subject to the execution of a purchase agreement in respect thereof, and any applicable regulatory approvals.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements herein may be “forward looking” statements that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Topicus.com Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Forward looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Topicus.com Inc. assumes no obligation, except as required by law, to update any forward looking statements to reflect new events or circumstances.

About Asseco Poland S.A.

Asseco Group is a federation of companies engaged in information technology and operates in 62 countries worldwide. Asseco Group companies are listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange as well as on the American NASDAQ Global Markets. Asseco Group offers comprehensive, proprietary IT solutions for all sectors of the economy.

About Adam Góral Foundation

The Adam Góral Family Foundation is a family foundation established by Adam Góral, CEO of Asseco Poland. It operates in accordance with the Polish Family Foundation Act and is registered in Rzeszów, Poland.

About Topicus.com

Topicus.com Inc. is a leading pan-European provider of vertical market software and vertical market platforms to clients in public and private sector markets. Operating and investing in countries and markets across Europe with long-term growth potential, Topicus.com Inc. acquires, builds and manages leading software companies providing specialized, mission-critical and high-impact software solutions that address the particular needs of customers.

For further information, contact:

Topicus.com Inc.
Jamal Baksh, Chief Financial Officer
416-861-9677
Email: jbaksh@csisoftware.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: DDB Miner Expands Cloud Mining Solutions, Offering Users a Path to Financial Freedom
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DDB Miner, a global leader in cloud mining, is revolutionizing the cryptocurrency mining landscape with its cutting-edge, user-friendly platform. The company is proud to announce the expansion of its services, making cloud mining more accessible, efficient, and profitable for users worldwide.

Empowering Users with a Seamless Cloud Mining Experience

Since its inception in March 2017, DDB Miner has grown exponentially, serving over 9 million members globally and contributing approximately 3.8% of Bitcoin’s total computing power. With a robust infrastructure of over 100 mining farms and 500,000 high-performance mining machines, the platform ensures security, reliability, and sustainability in cloud mining.

By leveraging advanced mining hardware such as Bitmain, Antminer, and Jueneng Combination Miner, DDB Miner guarantees optimal performance and stable returns. As a legally incorporated entity under UK legislation, the company continues to uphold transparency and compliance, fostering trust among its users.

Expanding Cryptocurrency Support for Greater Flexibility

DDB Miner is excited to enhance its cloud mining services by supporting a wide range of digital assets, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Solana (SOL), USDC, and USDT. This expansion empowers users with diversified investment opportunities, enabling them to maximize their mining potential effortlessly.

Simple and Profitable Mining Process

DDB Miner’s cloud mining model simplifies cryptocurrency earnings, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced investors. Users can start their mining journey in just three easy steps:
1. Register – Sign up and claim a $12 bonus.
2. Choose a Contract – Select a mining plan tailored to individual goals and budget.
3. Earn Profits – Activate the contract and let DDB Miner’s technology handle the rest.
Exclusive Investment Contracts Now Available

DDB Miner is introducing lucrative investment contracts designed to maximize returns:
- Experience Contract: Invest $100 and earn $106.
- Classic Contract: Invest $1,000 and earn $1,130.
- Premium Contract: Invest $10,000 and earn $18,750.
- Super Contract: Invest $50,000 and earn $105,000.
Unlock Unlimited Earnings with the DDB Miner Affiliate Program

To further enhance user benefits, DDB Miner has launched an upgraded Affiliate Program, offering up to $22,000 in referral bonuses. This initiative encourages users to expand their networks while earning substantial commissions, creating a sustainable and rewarding ecosystem.

Start Mining with DDB Miner Today!

DDB Miner remains committed to providing an innovative, secure, and profitable cloud mining experience. With its expanded services and enhanced investment opportunities, now is the perfect time to join the future of cryptocurrency mining.

For more details, visit ddbminer.com.

Media Contact:
Katerina Audrey
Email: info@ddbminer.com

Disclaimer: This announcement is provided by DDB Miner. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in cloud mining and related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed39fce5-40ce-45ed-850f-0a6d69c7a65b

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warren Blasts Treasury Secretary Bessent for Granting Elon Musk and DOGE Access to Government Payment Systems

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

February 03, 2025

“It is extraordinarily dangerous to meddle with the critical systems that…ensure that tens of millions of Americans receive their Social Security checks, tax refunds, and Medicare benefits.”

“This astonishing mismanagement – turning over the federal government’s entire payment system and sidelining the most senior career official responsible for managing it…could trigger a global financial crisis.”

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs (BHUA) and member of the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to the Secretary of the Department of the Treasury (Treasury), Scott Bessent, with extreme concern following reporting that, in one of his first acts as Secretary, Elon Musk and his associates were given “full access” to the federal government’s critical payment systems, which includes the sensitive personal information of millions of Americans.

The New York Times reported that, even before President Trump’s inauguration, Mr. Musk and his team at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) began demanding access to the sensitive payment systems that are used by the federal government to disburse trillions of dollars every year and are essential to preventing a default on federal debt. Controlling these systems could allow the Trump Administration to “unilaterally”—and illegally—cut off payments for millions of Americans, putting at risk the financial security of families and businesses based on political favoritism or the whims of Mr. Musk and those on his team who have worked their way inside.

“The public depends on the integrity of those systems, which control the flow of over $6 trillion in payments to American families, businesses, and other recipients every year,” wrote Senator Warren. Given the highly sensitive nature of the information in these systems, control over them is typically limited to a small number of career officials.

Reporting by the Washington Post indicates that Secretary Bessent also personally sidelined David Lebryk, a key official responsible for managing the extraordinary measures the Treasury is taking to avoid a default on U.S. debt. Mr. Musk and his team repeatedly pressured Mr. Lebryk to give them access to the payment systems, as part of the Trump administration’s plan to control spending in alarming and potentially unlawful ways. Rather than protecting the integrity and function of the payment system, Secretary Bessent reportedly bent to pressure from the White House, ultimately forcing him out. The move risks a global financial meltdown that would cost trillions of dollars and millions of jobs.

The loss of Mr. Lebryk’s expertise comes at a time when the Treasury is already taking extraordinary measures to prevent a catastrophic debt default. “The Fiscal Assistant Secretary – unlike the amateurs you have empowered in forcing him out – was well-prepared to manage these kinds of crises,” said Senator Warren.

“The American people deserve answers about your role in this mismanagement, which threatens the privacy and economic security of every American,” concluded Senator Warren.

Senator Warren asked Secretary Bessent to provide clarity on his role in providing Mr. Musk and his team access to Treasury payment systems, along with his role in ousting Mr. Lebryk from the Treasury Department, by February 7, 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden Press RFK Jr. to Resolve Conflicts of Interest Ahead of Committee Vote
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

February 03, 2025

As HHS Secretary, RFK Jr. would have authority to influence anti-vaccine lawsuits in which he or his immediate family have an interest

RFK Jr.’s updated ethics agreement states that he will pass personal stake in WisnerBaum lawsuits to adult son

“Your involvement and financial interests in vaccine litigation are broad and extensive…You cannot credibly serve as Secretary without clearly and fully addressing these conflicts.”

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Jr., Trump’s nominee for Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary, pressing him to urgently resolve his serious conflicts of interest before the committee vote Wednesday morning.

“What is clear is that your involvement and financial interests in vaccine litigation are broad and extensive. It seems possible that many different types of vaccine-related decisions and communications—which you would be empowered to make and influence as Secretary—could result in significant financial compensation for your family,” wrote the lawmakers. “You cannot credibly serve as Secretary without clearly and fully addressing these conflicts.”

Senators Warren and Wyden demanded that RFK Jr. commit to recusing himself from all vaccine-related communications and decisions and from all matters related to HHS-regulated entities involved in litigation that he or his family have an interest in. The lawmakers also asked him to commit to not litigate vaccine-related cases, represent parties in VICP-related cases, or have a financial interest in such litigation for at least 4 years after leaving office. The lawmakers also requested additional information regarding cases in which RFK Jr. served as an attorney of record.

In RFK Jr.’s original ethics agreement, submitted on January 21st, he disclosed to the Senate Finance Committee that he maintains an agreement with the law firm WisnerBaum in which he refers cases to the firm and receives 10% of the funds awarded in successful cases — earning him roughly $2.5 million in just the past three years. Some cases he has referred have involved anti-vaccine claims, including an ongoing case against the HPV vaccine Gardasil. In his original ethics agreement, RFK Jr. confirmed that he would maintain this arrangement while serving as HHS Secretary.

“As Secretary, you would have the power to strengthen plaintiffs’ hand in the litigation to increase their chances of winning. By using your authority and bully pulpit as Secretary to sway the outcome of the litigation and secure a big judgment or settlement, you would increase the chances of a large payout for yourself,” wrote the lawmakers.

During RFK Jr.’s Senate Finance Committee hearing on January 29th, Sen. Warren pressed him on his conflicts of interest, specifically pushing him to commit to not take any compensation from any lawsuits against drug companies — such as the Gardasil case — while serving as Secretary and for four years afterwards. While RFK Jr. refused to commit during the hearing, he agreed to amend his flawed ethics agreement following further pressure from Senate Democrats, recognizing that his personal stake in WisnerBaum cases posed a serious conflict of interest.

“Our concerns have only grown since your initial disclosures to the Finance Committee,” wrote the lawmakers. As Sens. Warren and Wyden note in their letter, recent developments have raised further questions since RFK Jr. submitted his initial ethics agreement, including:
- In RFK Jr.’s amended ethics agreement, he revealed that he would divest his interest in the cases he refers to WisnerBaum to his “non-dependent, adult son” — who appears to be Connor Kennedy, a current employee of WisnerBaum.
- The Finance Committee identified at least five additional cases related to Gardasil litigation in which RFK Jr. appears to be an attorney of record, which were not disclosed. When asked, he did not directly acknowledge the omission or provide clarity — and did not further clarify in his updated ethics agreement.
- In his initial ethics agreement, RFK Jr. described his arrangement with WisnerBaum, stating that he receives 10% of fees awarded in contingency fee cases referred to the firm where he is not an attorney of record. In written responses to the Finance Committee, RFK Jr. revealed that he referred “hundreds of cases” to WisnerBaum to which the 10% referral fee agreement applies — without providing any clarity about which cases and which vaccines may be involved.
- In response to additional questions from the Finance Committee, RFK Jr. refused to commit to recusing himself from numerous HHS, FDA, and CDC decisions and communications related to Gardasil that could potentially influence the outcome of vaccine litigation in which he has an ongoing financial stake.
“The arrangement outlined in your Ethics Agreement Amendment is plainly inadequate, as it would appear to allow an immediate family member to benefit financially from your position as Secretary,” wrote the lawmakers. “We cannot trust that your disclosures to the Finance Committee are accurate and complete based on the apparent omissions and lack of transparency surrounding how many cases you have referred to WisnerBaum and which specific vaccines are involved.”

Senator Warren led the charge in exposing and highlighting RFK Jr.’s dangerous conflicts of interest, first raising the issuein his January 29th Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing and continuing to pressure him for further clarity. The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board agreed with Senator Warren, writing: “Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pledged during his confirmation hearing on Wednesday to root out corruption between industry and government. Yet the man who wants to be the nation’s Secretary of Health and Human Services refused to rule out personally making money from lawsuits against drug makers. This ought to be disqualifying.”
MIL OSI USA News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New partnerships for growth: FCDO Minister’s speech at the LSE

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

FCDO Minister for Development Anneliese Dodds gave a keynote speech to the UK financial sector at the London Stock Exchange today on partnerships for growth.

Thank you so much, Julia [Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange], and a very good morning to all of you.

Thank you so much for joining us today, I really appreciate it.

It was an absolute thrill to see the market open this morning.

I am very keen to hear from as many of you as possible, so I’m not going to speak for too long.

I want to leave plenty of time for questions.

But I do want to share a few reflections with you this morning.

This is, as Dame Julia kindly said, the second time I had the privilege of opening the London Stock Exchange.

I had the privilege of speaking in this room almost two years ago, and it was then as now a very moving moment, because sat in the front row were some of the first women, in fact the first women, and others who set foot on the London Stock Exchange because they had not been allowed to do so until then.

What a privilege to have been there for that moment, as for this moment.

Two years ago, when I was here, I spoke about my own family background – with my dad having worked in financial services.

And I want again to place on record, my respect for the work that goes on in this building, and across the country.

Businesses in the financial sector power jobs and growth across the UK, and indeed often around the world as we’ve just heard.

Well, of course, a lot has changed in the last two years, since I was last here.

I am addressing you, not as a shadow minister – but now as the Minister for Development, and for Women and Equalities.

We have a new government focused on growth and restoring our reputation on the world stage.

And the Prime Minister and the Chancellor have set us all a guiding mission to grow our economy, and bring opportunity to people across our country.

They have been clear that supporting growth and development around the globe is not just the right thing to do.

It is an essential part of how we unlock growth, jobs, trade, investment, and pride in our economy here at home as well.

Indeed, as the Foreign Secretary said in a major speech at the start of the new year, in today’s contested, competitive world, what we need now is a whole new level of global engagement – drawing on our greatest strengths.

That absolutely includes the expertise, experience, and dynamism in this room.

Clearly, the City of London and wider UK financial sector must be at the heart of how we meet the opportunities and challenges of our time.

Twenty years ago, people marched and campaigned to Make Poverty History.

[Political content redacted]

That call was heeded and huge progress was made.

Debt was cancelled, and development assistance was ramped up.

Lives were saved and lives were changed.

Today, the challenges we face are growing and becoming increasingly complex – not least because our world is so deeply interconnected.

We have all seen how shocks can indeed reverberate across the globe.

A vicious cycle of conflicts.

The pandemic.

The climate and nature crisis, and others.

We have seen supply chains disrupted, and investor confidence shaken – harming our economy, here at home.

Yet we have all seen the power of harnessing this interconnectedness as well.

By working together – we can get ahead of global shocks, mitigate their impact, and unlock new opportunities for growth.

For outward investment by UK businesses.

To build future markets for UK exports.

To support low-and-middle-income countries to grow their economies as well.

As the UK’s Minister for Development, and for Women and Equalities, I am determined to build genuine partnerships across the Global South, based on genuine respect, and in service of our mutual interests.

Indeed, in all of the visits I’ve undertaken over the last 6 months, from Indonesia to Malawi, to the major global gatherings of the UN General Assembly, the World Bank Annual Meetings, and the climate summit at COP29 – I heard loud and clear that our drive for growth is an ambition our partners all share.

They want respectful, modern partnerships that benefit us all, too.

They want to tap into your expertise and the innovative financial solutions you are pioneering – to harness the power of private finance.

They want to work with us to build resilience to shocks.

To escape the trap of unsustainable debt.

To break down the barriers to private investment.

And they want to work with us to champion much-needed reform of the global financial system, so we unlock more opportunities for everyone – from millions of women and girls around the world whose game-changing potential has yet to be unleashed, to investors right here in the City of London.

Your hard work is at the heart of these partnerships.

Already, 115 African companies are listed here.

London is the world’s number one hub as I said before for green finance.

All of this puts the UK in pole position to be the leading source of investment for emerging markets – and to build on the reputation you have worked so hard to develop.

So today, I want to focus on four key areas, where the government and the City can make the most of the important roles we have to play – to support stable, resilient long-term growth, here at home, and around the world.

Mobilising private capital – to help us maximise the impact of public and private finance.

Reforming international financial institutions – to make sure they are bigger, better, and fit for the future.

Tackling unsustainable debt – to achieve the fast, orderly restructuring that helps countries avoid default and supports stability.

And scaling up insurance – to get more finance in place before disasters strike, to protect and promote growth across the world.

First – mobilising private capital.

Together, we can maximise the impact of billions of dollars of public money – and unlock many billions more.

Consider that globally, there are some $121 trillion of assets under management.

Currently, Africa accounts for less than 1% of the overseas portfolio allocation of UK pension funds.

Yet Africa’s GDP growth – and I know I don’t need to tell many in this room of this – is projected to outpace the global average – and almost 70% of UK savers say they want their investments to consider impact on people and the planet.

It is time to lean in.

So, I was delighted to hear the Chancellor announce her plans – to consolidate the UK’s fragmented £1.3 trillion pension fund landscape, and create larger, more agile funds, capable of investing in high-growth emerging and developing markets.

This is exactly the kind of opportunity we need to embrace.

And I’m delighted that today, a new report from leading UK-based institutional investors sets out how the UK can continue to be the climate finance hub for the world.

The report makes it clear that investing in other countries to accelerate the transition to clean energy is critical – to growing our economy at home, and to building financial stability long-term, in the UK, and right around the world.

The Energy Secretary is rightly championing this through the new Global Clean Power Alliance, that the Prime Minister launched at the G20 in Rio.

Well, today I am pleased to announce that alongside the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, I am convening an Investor Taskforce – to increase UK private investment for climate and development, in markets around the world.

We are building partnerships with public markets like the London Stock Exchange to pursue this.

In just four years, our flagship MOBILIST initiative has mobilised almost $250 million for listed products focussed on climate and development globally – including recent investments, like the infrastructure securitisation through Bayfront.

This method of structuring bank infrastructure loans makes it possible for institutional investors to purchase them through investment-grade listed instruments.

MOBLIST also helped achieve a $100 million first close for the Green Guarantee Company that will provide up to $1 billion of guarantees – for institutional investors buying green bonds, including those listed on the London Stock Exchange, and green loans issued in the private credit market.

Today, I am pleased to announce up to £100 million of additional funding for MOBILIST – so we can build on this innovative work pioneering public market investment in emerging markets.

This will allow MOBILIST to provide a platform for even more partners to draw on UK financial expertise – unlocking opportunities for investments in green growth, and helping more businesses to access new and affordable sources of capital across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

MOBILIST is not the only way that we are doing this.

When I visited the London-based Private Infrastructure Development Group, funded by the UK and others – I saw how they are developing and de-risking infrastructure projects across Africa and Asia.

The UK financial sector has been a key partner for them.

For example, one arm of the group – GuarantCo – has guaranteed bonds and loans, to unlock $5.7 billion of private investment in infrastructure, benefitting over 44 million people.

And – breaking news – I am delighted that a new $50 million deal with Standard Chartered Bank – signed today – will allow them to expand further.

As another example, take British International Investment, or BII – the world’s oldest Development Finance Institution, at the forefront for 75 years.

The BII teams were full of ambition when I visited their HQ in November.

I am always proud to tell our partners that 25% of BII’s new investment commitments already meet the 2X Challenge standard – to increase investment in women.

By making this a priority, BII is funding everything from affordable housing led by women in India, to making lines of credit accessible to small-scale retailers run by women in Nigeria – supporting jobs and growth.

And when I sat down with key African investors alongside partners from the City in the autumn, I was able to highlight that over half of BII’s portfolio is invested in Africa, and at least 30% of BII’s investments are in climate finance.

So today, I want to encourage you to engage with their live call for proposals that is open right now.

BII are looking for innovative pilots to be funded through a new facility announced by the PM at UNGA in New York – that we expect to mobilise over $500 million of institutional investment.

We are supporting public markets to mobilise finance in other ways as well.

UK support has been instrumental in helping Ethiopia to launch its first public stock exchange just a few weeks ago, with support from the UK government through Financial Sector Deepening Africa – or ‘FSD Africa’ for short.

This exchange brings transparency and international-standard accounting to listed companies – and the diverse ownership that should improve accountability, and broaden both the gains from growth, and the buy-in.

We are sharing UK expertise on financial regulation with our partners as well.

Through a partnership with the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, the Bank of England is now supporting more than 10 countries to improve monetary policy and strengthen financial stability – from Nigeria to South Africa, and from Bangladesh to Indonesia.

And in the last few days we have signed a new partnership with the Financial Conduct Authority, that will lead to them sharing knowledge with partner countries – to ensure that markets are competitive and fair.

That is good for our partners – and it is good for us as well.

Last year, Tanzania’s NMB Bank cross-listed East Africa’s first sustainability bond on the London Stock Exchange and the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange – again, with support from FSD Africa, and an anchor investment from BII.

The $73 million raised through this ‘Jamii’ Bond will support renewable energy, food security, jobs, and growth.

In fact, thanks in no small part to your hard work, these sorts of listing are becoming a trend on the London Stock Exchange.

Last year, the Brazilian Government dual-listed its first $2 billion sovereign sustainable bond on the London Stock Exchange.

That was followed by a full listing of its second $2 billion sustainable bond, a few weeks later.

All of this was enabled by UK support that helped Brazil develop a Sovereign Sustainable Bonds framework.

Now, as we heard earlier, just a few weeks ago, the first $500 million Climate Investment Funds Capital Markets Mechanism bond was issued on the London Stock Exchange.

It generated considerable investor interest.

As has already been mentioned of course, it was over-subscribed six times over.

Further issuances could raise up to $7.5 billion over ten years, for new investments in clean energy in developing countries – leveraging UK government contributions, and those from our international partners.

So, I could not have been more delighted to open the market this morning – and to congratulate the Climate Investment Funds and World Bank Treasury on issuing this promising new bond today.

Now, of course, no one in this room is going to invest in developing economies, or provide climate finance – simply because it is a nice thing to do.

You are making those investments and building those partnerships because they represent a remarkable opportunity – to marry investment in the economies and technologies of the future, with the experience and expertise of the City of London.

[Political content redacted]

Let us keep up the momentum – so the London Stock Exchange continues to be the preferred choice.

My second point is about reforming international financial institutions.

We are asking a lot of all of you – but of course, there are certain things that only governments can do.

And reforming the multilateral development banks or MDBs is one of the biggest ways that we are holding up our end of the bargain.

Every year, the World Bank Group and various regional development banks multiply every pound the UK government and other shareholders put in.

Last year alone, they raised around £30 billion from bond issuances in London.

Together with finance raised on other markets around the world, this allowed them to deploy over $170 billion to low-and-middle-income countries.

This finance is on much more affordable terms than many of our partners could access directly – thanks to the banks’ triple-A credit ratings.

They use this to invest in high-impact public and private projects.

Green infrastructure, healthcare, education, women and girls – all underpinning the foundations for growth around the world, and here in the UK.

So clearly, pursuing reforms that make the MDBs bigger, better, and fit for the future is key.

As the Prime Minister set out at the UN General Assembly last year –that is exactly what we are using the UK’s influence to do, in partnership with the Global South.

Indeed, when I travelled to Washington D.C in October, as the UK Governor of the World Bank Group, I made it my priority to agree changes to its risk appetite, that will unlock an additional $30 billion over ten years.

This builds on UK government guarantees that have made it possible for the World Bank and other MDBs to lend an additional $6 billion, across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.

Ahead of the next big ‘Financing for Development’ summit in Seville this summer – we must do more.

To make sure the MDBs can shoulder more risk.

To create more opportunities for private companies to invest in emerging markets.

And to empower the women and girls who have the power to lift up whole families, communities, countries, and economies.

Thirdly – we have to tackle the unsustainable debt that is dampening global growth.

As we take the next steps now, we need the City to be at the forefront of expertise and solutions, to make sure that countries facing unsustainable debt burdens can restructure it effectively.

Clearly, fast, orderly restructuring can help countries avoid default, and support stability.

This is squarely in the interest of lenders, such as bondholders and commercial lenders here in the City.

Obviously, it is squarely in the interests of borrowers too.

I heard that loud and clear from the governments of Malawi and Zambia during my visit at the end of last year.

With some 95% of African bonds issued under English Law, the UK has a key role to play. We need to leverage this.

Half of the lowest income countries are now in debt distress, or at high risk of it.

Some 3.3 billion people are living in countries that are spending more on servicing their debt, than on the health and education services that underpin long-term, global growth.

So, I want us to build on the successes of Collective Action Clauses that featured in over 90% of new bond issuances.

These have been rolled out widely since their introduction in 2004.

They have played an important role in ensuring a smooth process and strong private sector participation, in recent debt restructuring negotiations in Ghana and Zambia – avoiding situations where one or two bondholders can hold up a deal.

This is a great example of what market-friendly innovation can achieve.

My challenge to the commercial banks now is to introduce the equivalent clauses for syndicated lending – that the UK government has worked with the International Capital Markets Association, legal and financial advisors based in the City, and international partners to develop.

No lender has implemented them – yet.

So today, I am announcing that the UK government will offer support for the first ten transactions that put ‘majority voting provisions’ into existing or new lending to low-or-middle-income countries.

Together, we can speed up debt restructuring negotiations with syndicated lenders – and get growth recovering more quickly in cases where debt has become unmanageable.

We can do more on Climate Resilient Debt Clauses as well.

The UK government was the first bilateral creditor to offer these clauses.

Several other lenders have followed since.

The difference they can make is significant.

They allow repayments to be paused when a shock hits.

This frees up fiscal space for countries responding to a crisis.

Helps avoid default.

Supports stability.

And safeguards growth.

Just look at Grenada.

At the end of last year, following Hurricane Beryl – these clauses were triggered on government-issued bonds

The result was $30 million of interest payments being suspended over the following year – thanks to the bondholders who pioneered these clauses.

Already, we are going further.

In October, I announced that the UK will support small states to take up Climate Resilient Debt Clauses in their World Bank loans, by covering the fees.

In the long run these should be offered at no cost – improving sustainability, and offering benefits both to borrowers and lenders.

All of this builds on the leadership of countries like Grenada and Barbados who championed these clauses.

Today, I am reiterating our call on all creditors to offer these clauses in their sovereign lending, by the end of this year – including private sector lenders here in the City.

I want to see greater transparency on debt as well.

This improves investors’ understanding – and reduces the hidden debt that poses substantial risks for creditors here in the City.

It lowers the cost of borrowing for our partners.

And it allows citizens across the world to hold their governments to account for borrowing and using resources.

Already, the UK government publishes all its new lending quarterly, on a loan-by-loan basis.

Now, we want to see other public and private creditors meeting the same standards of transparency in their lending – especially to low-income countries.

The UK will keep under review if further action is needed – working together with the private sector, to combat high levels of indebtedness.

Fourth and finally, we need to get insurance and other contingent finance in place before disasters strike, so we protect and promote growth around the world.

Extreme weather events are on the rise, as we all know.

Millions of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people are bearing the brunt of repeated shocks.

Yet currently, less than 2% of crisis finance is of the ‘pre-arranged’ variety – that makes sure every pound spent yields three or four times its worth in benefits.

Changing that is so important – to help countries receive the rapid payments they need to avoid losses.

To reduce the need for humanitarian support.

And to protect growth and jobs.

Once again, the City is well-placed to meet the needs of this growing, and largely untapped market – as a global leader in innovative insurance and managing risk.

In Africa, the Caribbean, South-East Asia and the Pacific, the FCDO has helped to establish regional insurance schemes – helping countries get cheaper prices by buying insurance from the private sector as a group, pooling their risk.

London reinsurers underwrote a quarter of the first eight pools that have allowed Africa to transfer over $1 billion of risk, through the UK-funded African Risk Capacity.

On a visit at the end of last year, I saw first-hand the difference that payouts from the African Risk Capacity are making to people in Zambia and Malawi, as they respond to a devastating recent drought.

I was proud to tell them that this was made possible by UK government subsidies for insurance premiums – for countries that otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford them.

Now, I want us all to engage with the ground-breaking report published by a high-level industry panel, that I helped to launch last week – on how we can strengthen the provision of insurance and other contingent finance, and scale up the use of pre-arranged finance.

Improving modelling, and the way we price risk.

Championing innovative parametric insurance.

De-risking investments upfront.

This work is so important for giving investors confidence, expanding markets in development economies, improving returns, and strengthening the UK’s role as a leading global financial hub.

Cultivating a virtuous cycle of global resilience and growth is in all our best interests.

Your expertise, innovation, and investment are critical.

So, my pledge to you is that I will make it a priority to build stronger partnerships between the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and the City.

So we face up to unprecedented challenges.

Embrace new opportunities.

And reinvigorate hope for our shared future – and for sustained and sustainable economic growth here and overseas – by working towards it together, in the months and years ahead.

Thank you.

Updates to this page

Published 3 February 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: Bitfarms Provides January 2025 Production and Operations Update

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

– Operational hashrate of 15.2 EH/s –
– Energized two North American sites, Sharon PA & Baie-Comeau QC –
– Binding LOI with HIVE for sale of 200 MW Yguazu site; Expected Q1 2025 close –
– Acquisition of Stronghold Digital Mining on track for Q1 2025 close –
– Signed agreements with ASG and WWT to develop HPC/AI business –

This news release constitutes a “designated news release” for the purposes of the Company’s second amended and restated prospectus supplement dated December 17, 2024, to its short form base shelf prospectus dated November 10, 2023.

TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitfarms Ltd. (NASDAQ/TSX: BITF), a global Bitcoin and vertically integrated data center company, today issued its latest monthly production report. All financial references are in U.S. dollars.

CEO Ben Gagnon stated, “2025 is off to a great start. We are on track this quarter to close both our acquisition of Stronghold Digital Mining, Inc. (“Stronghold”) and the strategic sale of our 200 MW Yguazu, Paraguay data center to HIVE Digital Technologies, Ltd. These transactions transform our energy pipeline by immediately rebalancing our portfolio to North America with great assets for both HPC and Bitcoin mining. The accretive sale of Yguazu provides meaningful capital and cost savings associated with the redeployment of miners in the US that will be applied towards our American gigawatt growth pipeline.

“To accelerate our HPC strategy, we recently engaged two expert consultants to launch a formal evaluation of our data centers and the development of our HPC/AI business. These strategic partners are already evaluating Bitfarms energy portfolio for potential partial or total conversion to HPC/AI sites, as well as developing an accelerated sales strategy to market the sites to potential customers. The long-term contracts associated with HPC/AI customers would better monetize many of our North American energy assets with long-term, steady cash flows and earnings streams, creating a powerful and resilient portfolio that will generate shareholder value for years to come.

“Operationally we grew our hashrate by 19% in January to 15.2 EH/s with the energization of two additional sites and further miner deployments at the Stronghold sites. Miner deliveries are ongoing in February with installations scheduled through Q2. When all miners are successfully deployed, we will have 21 EH/s installed across 15 sites in 4 countries. However, due to the underperformance of some of our T21 miners, we are derating our guidance by 14% to 18 EH/s in H1 2025. We are focused on resolving the T21 underperformance to drive better performance across all our sites. Our energy efficiency target of 19 w/TH remains unchanged. Additionally, in order to accommodate potential HPC integration into our Sharon location, the construction timeline is being pushed back from 2025 to 2026 reducing our 2025 YE energized capacity by 80 MW. When combined with the Yguazu sale, our 2025 YE energized capacity is 675 MW,” Ben concluded.

SVP of Global Mining Operations Alex Brammer added, “The 19% increase in monthly hashrate to 15.2 EH/s was achieved by optimizing performance across seven of our data centers and continued miner deployments in the PJM region. For the month overall, our average operational hashrate only increased 1% to 11.2 EH/s, largely due to frequent winter curtailment and increases in hashrate energized later in the month. We expect to continue driving further increases in hashrate and performance through ongoing miner deployments and continued data center optimization initiatives, while taking advantage of improving weather conditions as we move into the shoulder months.

“With the energization of our Sharon site in PJM, we are now officially in the registration process for participation in Economic Demand Response and other grid support programs offered in this deregulated market. Participation in these programs is the first step in a broader energy arbitrage strategy that we will be developing in the coming months across our PJM portfolio. This strategy will be critical to maximizing the value of our PJM assets and will be greatly facilitated by the deployment of a powerful miner and energy strategy management platform, LōD (formerly known as Lincoin). The LōD platform is now deployed at every data center across our global fleet, and it is already driving significant improvements in operational efficiency.”

January 2025 Select Operating Highlights

Key Performance Indicators	January 2025	December 2024	January 2024
Total BTC earned	201	211	357
Month End Operating EH/s	15.2	12.8	6.5
BTC/Avg. EH/s	18	19	60
Average Operating EH/s	11.2	11.1	5.9
Operating Capacity (MW)	386	324	240
Hydropower (MW)	256	256	186
Watts/Terahash Efficiency (w/TH)	20	21	35
BTC Sold	42	147	357

15.2 EH/s operational at January 31, 2025, up 19% M/M and up 134% Y/Y.
11.2 EH/s average operational, up 90% Y/Y and up 1% M/M.
18 BTC/average EH/s, 5% lower M/M and 70% lower Y/Y
201 BTC earned, 5% lower M/M and 44% lower Y/Y.
6.5 BTC earned daily on average, equal to ~$682,500 per day based on a BTC price of $105,000 at January 31, 2025.
Adopted new LōD miner management software driving better performance, enabling energy trading & demand response and incorporates AI management tools.

Bitfarms’ BTC Monthly Production

Month	BTC Earned 2025	BTC Earned 2024
January	201	357

January 2025 Financial Update

Sold 42 of the 201 BTC earned as part of the Company’s regular treasury management practice for total proceeds of $4.1 million.
Added 218 BTC, bringing Treasury to 1,152 BTC, up from 934 BTC last month and representing $121.0 million based on the Bitcoin price of $105,000 at January 31, 2025. This includes the repurchase of 88 BTC from Bitmain for $8.3 million, or $94,500 per BTC, in accordance with the miner upgrade agreement announced on November 12, 2024 and the transfer of 30 BTC to a third party as collateral for active derivatives contracts.

Upcoming Conferences and Events

Feb 12, 2025: AGP/ Alliance Global Partners Virtual Tech Conference
March 17-18, 2025: 37^th Annual ROTH Conference (Dana Point, CA)

About Bitfarms Ltd.

Founded in 2017, Bitfarms is a global vertically integrated Bitcoin data center company that contributes its computational power to one or more mining pools from which it receives payment in Bitcoin. Bitfarms develops, owns, and operates vertically integrated mining facilities with in-house management and company-owned electrical engineering, installation service, and multiple onsite technical repair centers.

Bitfarms currently has 13 operating Bitcoin data centers, as well as hosting agreements with two data centers, in four countries: Canada, the United States, Paraguay, and Argentina. Powered predominantly by environmentally friendly hydro-electric and long-term power contracts, Bitfarms is committed to using sustainable and often underutilized energy infrastructure.

To learn more about Bitfarms’ events, developments, and online communities:

www.bitfarms.com
https://www.facebook.com/bitfarms/
https://twitter.com/Bitfarms_io
https://www.instagram.com/bitfarms/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bitfarms/

Glossary of Terms

Y/Y or M/M= year over year or month over month
BTC or BTC/day = Bitcoin or Bitcoin per day
EH or EH/s = Exahash or exahash per second
MW or MWh = Megawatts or megawatt hour
GW or GWh= Gigawatts or gigawatt hour
w/TH = Watts/Terahash efficiency (includes cost of powering supplementary equipment)
Synthetic HODL™ = the use of instruments that create BTC equivalent exposure
HPC/AI = High Performance Computing / Artificial Intelligence
Energized capacity= Power available
Operational capacity= Power and infrastructure being used for current operations
PJM= Pennsylvania- New Jersey- Maryland Interconnection LLC

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) that are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release and are covered by safe harbors under Canadian and United States securities laws. The statements and information in this release regarding projected growth, target hashrate, opportunities relating to the Company’s geographical diversification and expansion, deployment of miners as well as the timing therefor, closing of the Stronghold acquisition on a timely basis and on the terms as announced, the positive impact of the Stronghold acquisition and the ability to gain access to additional electrical power and grow hashrate of the Stronghold business, performance of the plants and equipment upgrades and the impact on operating capacity including the target hashrate and multi-year expansion capacity, the opportunities to leverage Bitfarms’ proven expertise to successfully enhance energy efficiency and hashrate, the benefits of diversification and other statements regarding future growth, plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking information. Any statements that involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “prospects”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information.

This forward-looking information is based on assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time they were made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, risks relating to: the construction and operation of the Company’s facilities may not occur as currently planned, or at all; there is no guarantee that the Company will be able to complete the acquisition of Stronghold Digital Mining, Inc. on the terms as announced, or at all; expansion may not materialize as currently anticipated, or at all; the anticipated merits of the HPC/AI strategy, the benefits and programs of the PJM deregulated market and the objectives of diversification in general may not be realized as planned; efforts to improve and optimize the performance of equipment may not be successful; the digital currency market; the ability to successfully mine digital currency; revenue may not increase as currently anticipated, or at all; it may not be possible to profitably liquidate the current digital currency inventory, or at all; a decline in digital currency prices may have a significant negative impact on operations; an increase in network difficulty may have a significant negative impact on operations; the volatility of digital currency prices; the anticipated growth and sustainability of hydroelectricity for the purposes of cryptocurrency mining in the applicable jurisdictions; the inability to maintain reliable and economical sources of power for the Company to operate cryptocurrency mining assets; the risks of an increase in the Company’s electricity costs, cost of natural gas, changes in currency exchange rates, energy curtailment or regulatory changes in the energy regimes in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates and the adverse impact on the Company’s profitability; the ability to complete current and future financings; the risk that a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting could result in a misstatement of the Company’s financial position that may lead to a material misstatement of the annual or interim consolidated financial statements if not prevented or detected on a timely basis; any regulations or laws that will prevent Bitfarms from operating its business; historical prices of digital currencies and the ability to mine digital currencies that will be consistent with historical prices; and the adoption or expansion of any regulation or law that will prevent Bitfarms from operating its business, or make it more costly to do so. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to the Company’s filings on www.sedarplus.ca (which are also available on the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov), including the restated MD&A for the year-ended December 31, 2023, filed on December 9, 2024. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including factors that are currently unknown to or deemed immaterial by the Company. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking information other than as required by law . Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, or any other securities exchange or regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Additional Information about the Stronghold Acquisition and Where to Find It

This communication relates to a proposed merger between Stronghold and Bitfarms. In connection with the proposed merger, Bitfarms has filed the registration statement with the SEC. After the registration statement is declared effective, Stronghold will mail the proxy statement/prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus or any other relevant documents Bitfarms and Stronghold has filed or will file with the SEC. Investors are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus (including all amendments and supplements thereto) and other relevant documents filed with the SEC carefully and in their entirety if and when they become available because they will contain important information about the proposed merger and related matters.

Investors may obtain free copies of the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed by Bitfarms and Stronghold with the SEC, when they become available, through the website maintained by the SEC at www sec.gov. Copies of the documents may also be obtained for free from Bitfarms by contacting Bitfarms’ Investor Relations Department at investors@bitfarms.com and from Stronghold by contacting Stronghold’s Investor Relations Department at SDIG@gateway-grp.com.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, sell or solicit any securities or any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be deemed to be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Investor Relations Contact:

Bitfarms
Tracy Krumme
SVP, IR & Corp. Comms.
+1 786-671-5638
tkrumme@bitfarms.com

Media Contact:

Bitfarms
Caroline Brady Baker
Director, Communications
cbaker@bitfarms.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Enters Into Amendments to Credit Facility and Bridge Financing Offer
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

QUEBEC CITY, Canada, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech^® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, today announced that it has entered into:
- a fifteenth amending agreement (the “Fifteenth Amending Agreement”) with Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec (“Desjardins”) with respect to the amended and restated financing offer dated as of April 5, 2023 (the “Desjardins Credit Facility”), pursuant to which Desjardins has agreed to, among other things, (i) temporarily postpone payment of interest for the months of July through December 2024 until the earlier of (x) the date of the final disbursement of one or several equity investments in the borrower for minimum gross proceeds amount of US$35,000,000 in the aggregate (the “Short-Term Outside Date”), and (y) February 28, 2025; and (ii) temporarily reduce the minimum cash covenant under the Desjardins Credit Facility to C$1,000,000 until the earlier of (x) the Short-Term Outside Date, and (y) February 28, 2025, and a minimum cash balance of C$5,000,000 at all times after such date;
- a third amending agreement (the “Third Amending Agreement”) with the initial bridge lenders and certain members of management and the board of directors (collectively, the “Bridge Lenders”) with respect to the bridge financing offer dated as of August 16, 2024 (the “Bridge Financing Offer”) pursuant to which the Bridge Lenders have agreed to, among other things, extend the maturity of the bridge loan to the earlier of (x) February 28, 2025 and (y) the business day following the Short-Term Outside Date.
The Fifteenth Amending Agreement to the Desjardins Credit Facility also provides for a monthly payment by LeddarTech to Desjardins of C$125,000, which monthly fee is earned and payable on the first day of each month, until the Short-Term Outside Date, which must occur on or prior to February 28, 2025. The payment of the monthly fees applicable for the month of August 2024 and for the months up until (and including) January 2025 is postponed to the earlier of (x) the Short-Term Outside Date, and (y) February 28, 2025.

The foregoing descriptions of the Fifteenth Amending Agreement to the Desjardins Credit Facility and the Third Amending Agreement to the Bridge Financing Offer do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to such amendments, copies of which will be filed under LeddarTech’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.

About LeddarTech

A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (ii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iii) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (iv) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (v) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, projects, prospects and plans; (vi) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (vii) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (viii) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (ix) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (x) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xi) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:
Maram Fityani, Media and Public Relations, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ext. 623, maram.fityani@leddartech.com

Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Piraeus Financial Holdings to OTCQX

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Piraeus Financial Holdings (Athens Stock Exchange: TPEIR; OTCQX: BPIRY, BPIRF), a financial holdings company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Piraeus Financial Holdings upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

Piraeus Financial Holdings begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbols “BPIRY” and “BPIRF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

“OTC Markets is thrilled to welcome Piraeus Financial Holdings to OTCQX as one of our first Greek issuers,” said Jason Paltrowitz, OTC Markets EVP of Corporate Services. “Joining OTCQX is an important milestone both for Piraeus Financial Holdings as well as the broader Greek capital markets, enhancing U.S. investors’ global investment opportunities to participate in the company’s growth.”

About Piraeus Financial Holdings
Piraeus Financial Holdings S.A. is a financial holdings company, listed on the Athens Stock Exchange, and the parent company of the banking institution “Piraeus Bank S.A.”. Piraeus Bank was founded in 1916 and today represents the leading Bank in Greece in terms of customer loans and deposits. It maintains the largest distribution network in Greece and offers a vast array of financial products and services to 4.5mn customers.

About OTC Markets Group Inc.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX^® Best Market, OTCQB^® Venture Market and Pink^® Open Market.

Our OTC Link^® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

Media Contact:
OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Digital Domain Holdings Limited to OTCQX

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Digital Domain Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Exchange: 547; OTCQX: DDHLY), a global leader in visual effects and transformative experiences, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Digital Domain Holdings Limited upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

Digital Domain Holdings Limited begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “DDHLY.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for trading on OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

“We are pleased with the upgrade to the OTCQX Market, as it underscores our commitment to transparency and strengthens investor confidence,” says William Wong, Executive Director and the CEO of Digital Domain. “This milestone reflects our ongoing strategy to build trust and provide sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders.”

About Digital Domain Holdings Limited
Digital Domain is a pioneer in creating transportive experiences. Over the last 30 years, the company has solidified its position as a leader in the visual effects industry, expanding its expertise in virtual humans and visualization on a global scale. Digital Domain boasts an impressive legacy that includes contributions to hundreds of feature films and television episodes, advertisements, game cinematics, and groundbreaking immersive experiences. Renowned for its creative innovation in cutting-edge technology, Digital Domain has delivered exceptional artistry to Academy Award-winning films such as “Titanic,” “What Dreams May Come,” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.” The skilled artists at Digital Domain have collectively earned over 100 prestigious awards, including Academy Awards, Clios, BAFTA awards, and Cannes Lions.

Digital Domain is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock code: 547) and is headquartered in Hong Kong. Digital Domain maintains operations in multiple cities, including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Montreal, Beijing, Shanghai, Hyderabad, and more.

To learn more about Digital Domain, visit www.digitaldomain.com.

Digital Domain PR Contact:

Kavita Smith
Director of Marketing Communications and PR
kavita@d2.com

Angela Yang
Sr. PR Manager
angela.yang@ddhl.com

About OTC Markets Group Inc.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX^® Best Market, OTCQB^® Venture Market and Pink^® Open Market.

Our OTC Link^® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

Media Contact:
OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Allegro MicroSystems Appoints Dr. Krishna Palepu to its Board of Directors

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MANCHESTER, N.H., Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (“Allegro”) (Nasdaq: ALGM) a global leader in power and sensing semiconductor solutions for motion control and energy-efficient systems, today announced the appointment of Krishna Palepu, Ross Graham Walker Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, to Allegro’s Board of Directors (“Board”) as an independent director. Dr. Palepu’s appointment was effective on January 31, 2025.

Dr. Palepu brings extensive expertise in strategy, governance, and emerging markets to the Board, as well as experience advising companies in the technology and semiconductor sectors. His academic research focuses on globalization, particularly in India and China, and corporate board effectiveness. He has served on multiple public company boards and is a fellow of the International Academy of Management.

“I am delighted to welcome Krishna to Allegro’s board of Directors,” said Yoshihiro “Zen” Suzuki, Chairman of the Board. “He brings a unique perspective with his impressive background in academia combined with considerable board and consulting experience in the sectors and markets of focus for the company. Dr. Palepu’s deep understanding of business strategy and global markets positions him perfectly to navigate the complexities of international business. His practical experience complements his research background, bringing valuable insight to the Board as we move towards our next stage of growth.”

“It is an exciting time to join Allegro’s Board, and I am honored to be appointed,” said Dr. Palepu. “I look forward to working closely with Allegro’s directors and management team and drawing upon my expertise in corporate governance, emerging markets, and global strategy to further enable the company to continue its strong progress.”

Dr. Palepu holds a master’s degree in Electronics from Andhra University, an MBA-equivalent degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, and a Ph.D. in Management from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

About Allegro MicroSystems

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is leveraging more than three decades of expertise in magnetic sensing and power ICs to propel automotive, clean energy and industrial automation forward with solutions that enhance efficiency, performance and sustainability. Allegro’s commitment to quality drives transformation across industries, reinforcing our status as a pioneer in “automotive grade” technology and a partner in our customers’ success. For additional information, visit www.allegromicro.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release should be considered forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “aim,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “exploring,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “could,” “intend,” “target,” “project,” “would,” “contemplate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar words and expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results, performance or achievements, and one should avoid placing undue reliance on such statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s current expectations, beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to us. Such beliefs and assumptions may or may not prove to be correct. Additionally, such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to various factors, including, but not limited to, those identified in Part II, Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 29, 2024, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 23, 2024, which is available at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: downturns or volatility in general economic conditions; our ability to compete effectively, expand our market share and increase our net sales and profitability; our reliance on a limited number of third-party semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities and suppliers of other materials; any failure to adjust purchase commitments and inventory management based on changing market conditions or customer demand; shifts in our product mix, customer mix or channel mix, which could negatively impact our gross margin; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, including the analog segment in which we compete; any downturn or disruption in the automotive market or industry; our ability to successfully integrate the acquisition of other companies or technologies and products into our business; our ability to compensate for decreases in average selling prices of our products and increases in input costs; our ability to manage any sustained yield problems or other delays at our third-party wafer fabrication facilities or in the final assembly and test of our products; our ability to accurately predict our quarterly net sales and operating results and meet the expectations of investors; our dependence on manufacturing operations in the Philippines; our reliance on distributors to generate sales; events beyond our control impacting us, our key suppliers or manufacturing partners; our ability to develop new product features or new products in a timely and cost-effective manner; our ability to manage growth; any slowdown in the growth of our end markets; the loss of one or more significant customers; our ability to meet customers’ quality requirements; uncertainties related to the design win process and our ability to recover design and development expenses and to generate timely or sufficient net sales or margins; changes in government trade policies, including the imposition of export restrictions and tariffs; our exposures to warranty claims, product liability claims and product recalls; our dependence on international customers and operations; the availability of rebates, tax credits and other financial incentives on end-user demands for certain products; risks, liabilities, costs and obligations related to governmental regulations and other legal obligations, including export/trade control, privacy, data protection, information security, cybersecurity, consumer protection, environmental and occupational health and safety, antitrust, anti-corruption and anti-bribery, product safety, environmental protection, employment matters and tax; the volatility of currency exchange rates; our ability to raise capital to support our growth strategy; our indebtedness may limit our flexibility to operate our business; our ability to effectively manage our growth and to retain key and highly skilled personnel; our ability to protect our proprietary technology and inventions through patents or trade secrets; our ability to commercialize our products without infringing third-party intellectual property rights; disruptions or breaches of our information technology systems or confidential information or those of our third-party service providers; our principal stockholder continues to have influence over us; the negative impact any future issuance or sale of our shares may have on the market price of our common stock; anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents and under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware; any failure to design, implement or maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; changes in tax rates or the adoption of new tax legislation; the negative impacts of sustained inflation on our business; the physical, transition and litigation risks presented by climate change; and other events beyond our control. Moreover, we operate in an evolving environment. New risk factors and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties.

You should read this press release with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and except as required by applicable law, we do not plan to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of any new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

Allegro Contact
Jalene Hoover
VP of Investor Relations & Corporate Communications
jhoover@allegromicro.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Better pay crucial to recruiting more officers

Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has submitted evidence to the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) and the Senior Salaries Review Body (SSRB).

Police chiefs, whilst recognising the financial context, are calling for an increase in officer pay across all ranks of 3.8% as well as raising the starting salary for constables and reviewing pay scales to match skills and experience.

These changes together will help with the recruitment and retention of officers and in turn support the Government’s Safer Streets Mission, Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee and its focus on reducing knife crime, anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls.

The recommendations, recognising the highly demanding nature of the role, also include wider officer pay structure reform and outline the importance of making policing a competitive career through better pay for all officers.

Police chiefs have also stressed the importance of adequate funding for all forces to cover any increase, recognising that the ability for forces to absorb additional cost pressures is extremely limited.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Pay and Conditions, Assistant Chief Officer Philip Wells, said: “Below market starting salaries for constables and real term pay cuts for officers poses a significant challenge to attracting and retaining talented police officers.

“To deliver against the Government’s Safer Streets Mission and Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee we need to recruit, build and retain skills, attracting those people with the aptitude but also values and standards we need in policing.

“Our recommendations recognise the significant financial pressure facing both forces and government, whilst advocating for the critical need for a funded uplift in officer pay which reflects the incredibly challenging nature of the job.”

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Nuvini Group Limited Reports Strong Growth in First Half 2024 Results
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nuvini Group Limited (Nasdaq: NVNI) (“Nuvini” or the “Company”), a leading acquirer of private SaaS B2B companies in Latin America, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first half of 2024, reflecting continued revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and financial resilience. The company will file a 6-K with the SEC today.

Key Financial Highlights:
- Operating Profit: R$14.2 million, a dramatic increase from R$0.3 million in the prior year period, demonstrating improved operational efficiencies and cost management.
- Adjusted EBITDA: R$26.5 million, a 25% increase from R$21.2 million in H1 2023, reflecting improved profitability and disciplined cost control.
- Net Revenue: R$92.2 million, a 12.5% increase compared to R$81.9 million in H1 2023.
- Net Cash from Operating Activities: R$16.3 million, further reinforcing the Company’s ability to generate strong cash flow from its growing operations.
“Nuvini’s H1 2024 results showcase our ability to drive sustainable growth and optimize operational performance,” said Pierre Schurmann, CEO of Nuvini. “We have made significant strides in improving profitability while continuing to expand our revenue base. Our disciplined acquisition strategy and operational enhancements are positioning Nuvini as a leader in the Latin American SaaS market.”

Operational and Strategic Highlights:
- Revenue Growth Across Portfolio: Increased customer retention and a growing client base contributed to the double-digit revenue growth.
- Improved Cost Management: Sales and marketing expenses decreased by 11.6%, demonstrating greater efficiency in customer acquisition.
- Enhanced Cash Flow: The Company’s strong net cash from operations of R$16.3 million further solidifies its ability to fund future growth initiatives.
- Technology and Product Enhancements: Continued investments in AI-driven solutions and platform improvements, aimed at delivering enhanced value to customers.
About Nuvini

Headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, Nuvini is the leading private serial software business acquirer in Latin America. The Nuvini Group acquires software companies within SaaS markets in Latin America. It focuses on acquiring profitable “business-to-business” SaaS companies with a consolidated business model, recurring revenue, positive cash generation and relevant growth potential. The Nuvini Group enables its acquired companies to provide mission-critical solutions to customers within its industry or sector. Its business philosophy is to invest in established companies and foster an entrepreneurial environment that would enable companies to become leaders in their respective industries. The Nuvini Group’s goal is to buy, retain and create value through long-term partnerships with the existing management of its acquired companies.

Nuvini Investor Relations and Media Contact:

Deb Toledo
ir@nuvini.co

Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this press release include or may include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created by those laws. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on Nuvini. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting Nuvini will be those that we have anticipated. Where a forward-looking statement expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “aim,” “target,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “may,” “likely,” “plan,” “probably” or similar words may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements about the ability of Nuvini to: realize the benefits expected from this strategic partnership; achieve projections and anticipate uncertainties relating to the business, operations and financial performance of Nuvini, including (i) expectations with respect to financial and business performance, including financial projections and business metrics and any underlying assumptions, (ii) expectations regarding market size, future acquisitions, partnerships or other relationships with third parties, (iii) expectations on Nuvini’s proprietary technology and related intellectual property rights, and (iv) future capital requirements and sources and uses of cash, including the ability to obtain additional capital in the future; enhance future operating and financial results; comply with applicable laws and regulations; stay abreast of modified or new laws and regulations applying to its business, including privacy regulation; anticipate rapid technological changes; and effectively respond to general economic and business conditions.

While forward-looking statements reflect Nuvini’s good faith beliefs, they are not guarantees of future performance. Nuvini disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, data or methods, future events or other changes after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law. For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause Nuvini’s future results, performance or transactions to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement, please see the section “Risk Factors” of the Registration Statement in Form F-4 filed by Nuvini with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on September 6, 2023 under number 333-272688. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based only on information currently available to Nuvini.

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025

Category: Economy

Worse than wood

Expanding player horizons

Genre, fantasy and reality

Following the aid

Copying The Sims’ homework

[Political content redacted]

[Political content redacted]

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