Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New tool to make it easier and faster for public to access essential government services online

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    GOV.UK Forms, a new tool for faster, more accessible online government forms, will be rolled out nationwide after successful trials showed major time savings and improved efficiency.

    • GOV.UK Forms to be rolled out across government, making it faster and easier for the public to fill out forms such as applying for emergency travel documents 
    • Tool has already helped over 20,000 armed forces personal apply for veteran badges and victims of the Horizon scandal apply for compensation
    • With 87 forms live and used by over 1,200 civil servants, GOV.UK Forms marks a key step in the UK government’s digital transformation

    People across the country will be able to complete government forms online more quickly and easily, boosting efficiency and speeding up access to support. 

    The new tool, GOV.UK Forms, has already been used to speed up registration for redress for more than 300 sub-postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal by removing the need for lengthy paperwork, print-outs and administrative hurdles – with forms taking less than five minutes to complete. 

    It’s also been used by the public to register XL Bully dogs and recruit over 400 new volunteer coastguards, with the tool already saving an estimated two years in processing time. 

    GOV.UK Forms will transform how the public fill out applications and forms on GOV.UK by offering them an online platform to fill in their details instead – meaning they no longer have to rely on clunky PDFs or lengthy paperwork, which is inefficient and less accessible.

    The tool will now be rolled out across all government departments after a successful trial and provide civil servants with a digital platform that allows them to create and manage secure, accessible forms online. 

    Harnessing the power of technology will be crucial to support the government in achieving its mission of making public services work for working people, grow the economy, and make everyone across the country better off.     

    Minister for AI and Digital Government Feryal Clark will unveil the full rollout of GOV.UK Forms at the Digital Nations Ministerial Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark today. 

    Speaking on the platform’s success, Minister Clark said:

    We’re enabling citizens to access essential government services more easily and securely, whether it’s applying for long overdue compensation or to become a volunteer.

    Not only will this modernise how the public interacts with us, but it allows departments to focus resources on improving public services – rather than administrative tasks.

    This early success marks the start of our ongoing mission to refine digital tools, building trust and ensuring government works for everyone, everywhere.

    Following successful private beta and early access phases, GOV.UK Forms will now enter a ‘public beta’ testing phase, which will mean it is applied more widely where citizens need to share information with the government.  

    To date, 87 forms have been published, with over 1,200 government users adopting the platform, saving more than two years in processing time. 

    Christine Bellamy, CEO of the Government Digital Service (GDS) said:  

    GOV.UK Forms enables people running government services to create online forms in minutes, without the need for coding or design skills.

    By enabling teams to replace paper-based forms with digital alternatives that are quicker to process, more secure and more accessible, we’re helping to realise a more modern digital government that helps to give people their time back.

    The platform complies with government standards on accessibility and cyber security, enabling all users, including those with access needs, to use the forms easily and securely. It also meets accessibility standards and regularly tests new features to keep the forms easy to use for everyone.  

    GOV.UK Forms is part of a wide range of initiatives in the government’s digital transformation, enhancing efficiency, security, and accessibility for citizens across the UK. 

    Minister Clark’s announcement at the summit will mark a pivotal step forward for GOV.UK Forms as it becomes an essential tool in modernising public engagement with government services.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  
    2024-11-01

    On the afternoon of November 1, President Lai Ching-te met with the national baseball team of the Czech Republic. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan, and noted that the Czech national baseball team had come to Taiwan to take part in two exhibition games, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic. He also stated that the Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. He stated that the opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June shows that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and expressed confidence that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    The World Baseball Softball Confederation Premier12 tournament is scheduled to start on November 10, with Group B opening round games to be played in Taiwan. I would like to thank Chinese Professional Baseball League Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang (蔡其昌) for inviting the Czech national baseball team to play two exhibition games in Taiwan, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
    As a long-time baseball fan, I am very pleased to meet with the Czech national baseball team here at the Presidential Office. Many team members are actually part-timers whose principal occupations are in such fields as firefighting, teaching, medicine, financial analysis, and real estate brokerage, to name just a few. Everyone’s passion for the sport has earned the team a ranking of number 15 in the world and placed them among the top three in Europe. Indeed, in last year’s World Baseball Classic (WBC), the team scored a come-from-behind win over China to take the Czech Republic’s first-ever victory in the WBC tournament. It was an admirable win and an exciting game, and Taiwanese fans were thrilled.
    The Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. Representative of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office David Steinke is here, so I would like to give special thanks to the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan. Three years ago, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Czech Republic generously donated 30,000 vaccine doses to Taiwan, and when Hualien was hit by a severe earthquake earlier this year, the Czech Republic donated US$150,000 to support reconstruction efforts. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to express our deepest appreciation.
    The opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June signifies that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and I am confident that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    Today is the Czech national baseball team’s second day in Taiwan, so I want to wish everyone a happy and fruitful visit, and I look forward to both teams playing their best in the exhibition games scheduled for tomorrow and the day after.
    Also in attendance was Czech Baseball Association President Petr Ditrich.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Aktsiaselts Infortar Unaudited Consolidated Interim Report for third quarter of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktsiaselts Infortar (Infortar) will organize a webinar for introducing third quarter 2024 results today. Please join the webinar via the following links:

    4. November at 12.00 (EET) Estonian webinar

    4. November at 14.00 (EET) English webinar

    Following the acquisition of a majority stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp (Tallink), Infortar’s total assets have reached €2.5 billion. For the first nine months of this year, the company’s consolidated revenue amounted to €926 million, net profit reached €187 million, and investments totaled €138 million.

    “We’ve grown into Estonia’s largest investment company in the third quarter—our consolidated asset volume has increased by €1 billion within just nine months. Infortar’s structure and outlook have transformed significantly over a short period; we’re literally fuelled by growth,” remarked Ain Hanschmidt, Chairman of Infortar’s Management Board.

    “Infortar actively seeks and invests in growth across various sectors and beyond borders. When we went public last year, we committed to invest €110 million from 2023 to 2025, yet we have already invested €138 million in the current year alone,” said Hanschmidt.

    In the third quarter of 2024, Infortar increased its shareholding in Tallink to 68.5% through a public share offering. Alongside with other investors, Infortar envisions a strong and stable future for Tallink. The voluntary takeover offer attracted those who wished to exit the region for various reasons.

    In the third quarter of 2024, Tallink transported a total of 1,715,496 passengers, with the company’s ships completing 1,840 departures. Compared to the same period last year, Tallink´s unaudited sales revenue decreased by 3.7%, totalling €231.9 million, with a net profit of €36.8 million.

    AS Eesti Gaas, the largest private energy company in the Finnish and Baltic region, increased its sales volume of natural gas and electricity by 27% year-on-year, reaching 13.9 TWh and a market share of 25.7%. Operating under the Elenger brand in foreign markets, the company is focused on expanding its energy business in Poland and Germany and establishing access to the wholesale gas market in the Netherlands and Belgium.

    The construction of Rimi’s logistics centre and the new Pärnu bridge are going according to the schedule. In July, the bridge arch was installed, introducing new engineering solutions to Estonia.

    At the end of the third quarter, Infortar announced plans to acquire Tallinna Raamatutrükikoda, in addition to the printing houses Printon and Vaba Maa. This acquisition aims to enhance synergies and bolster the company’s extensive experience in the printing sector.

    KEY FIGURES

    9 months 2024 9 months 2023 Q3 2024 Q3 2023
    Revenue (in thousands of EUR) 925 607 746 892 349 468 186 540
    Gross profit (in thousands of EUR) 93 758 107 238 40 669 18 887
    EBITDA (in thousands of EUR) 117 384 105 865 41 874 19 294
    EBITDA margin % 12,7% 14,2% 12,0% 10,3%
    Operating profit (in thousands of EUR) 83 817 94 661 20 422 14 234
    Net profit (in thousands of EUR) 187 339 269 624 114 322 185 941
    Profit attributable to the owners of the parent company (in thousands of EUR) 184 122 269 546 111 105 185 658
    Earnings per share (EUR)* 9,1 13,3 5,5 9,2
             
    Total equity (in thousands of EUR) 1 223 058 771 700    
    Total liabilities (in thousands of EUR) 961 419 480 816    

    * For the period ending 30.09.2024, earnings per share (EPS) in euros have been calculated using a share count of 21,166,239, with company´s own shares deducted for comparability.

    Revenue

    During the first nine months of 2024, Infortar’s consolidated revenue increased by €178.7 million, reaching €925.6 million, compared to €746.9 million in the same period in 2023. This growth was significantly impacted by the line-by-line consolidation of Tallink results into Infortar’s financial statements.

    EBITDA and Segment Reporting

    The acquisition of a majority stake in Tallink does not significantly impact segment reporting; Infortar’s management continues to monitor business segments using existing principles.

    Energy Segment: Nine-month EBITDA for 2024 was €79.5 million, down from €99.1 million in 2023.

    Maritime transportation segment: nine-month EBITDA for 2024 was €149,5 million, compared to €177.7 million in 2023. Until 31.07.24, Infortar consolidated Tallink results by the equity method according to its ownership percentage, switching to line-by-line reporting as of 01.08.24.

    Real Estate Segment: EBITDA for real estate in the first nine months of 2024 reached €12 million, up from €11 million in the same period of 2023.

    Net Profit

    Consolidated net profit for the first nine months of 2024 was €187.3 million, compared to €269.6 million for the same period in 2023. The previous year’s results included a one-time profit from the AS Gaso acquisition.

    Financing

    Loan and lease obligations totalled €961.4 million for the first nine months of 2024, up from €480.8 million in 2023 due to the consolidation of Tallink liabilities. The net debt-to-EBITDA ratio, considering Tallink’s full-year EBITDA for 2024, stands at 2.4.

    Income statement, in thousands of EUR Q3
    2024
    Q3
    2023
    9 months 2024 9 months 2023
    Sales Revenue 349 468 186 540 925 607 746 892
    Cost of Sales -308 803 -169 764 -831 796 -634 815
    Impairment of Receivables 4 2 111 -53 -4 839
    Gross Profit 40 669 18 887 93 758 107 238
    Marketing Expenses -7 789 -394 -8 627 -1 109
    General Administrative Expenses -13 423 -3 975 -27 679 -12 563
    Profit (Loss) from Biological Assets 44 0 17 0
    Loss on Changes in Fair Value of Investment Properties -3 047 0 -2 891 0
    Profit (Loss) from Derivative Instruments 52 380 24 574 1 067
    Other Operating Income 4 368 308 5 449 1 065
    Other Operating Expenses -452 -972 -784 -1 037
    Operating Profit 20 422 14 234 83 817 94 661
    Profit from Investments Accounted for Using the Equity Method 3 243 22 254 22 128 37 701
    Financial Income and Expenses        
    Income from Financial Investments 69 782 -34 72 520 -58
    Interest Expense -11 340 -5 520 -24 466 -14 004
    Interest Income 1 215 467 4 219 2 300
    Profit (Loss) from Foreign Exchange Rate Changes 160 -23 156 -160
    Other Financial Income and Expenses -393 159 216 -395 159 216
    Total Financial Income and Expenses 59 424 154 106 52 034 147 294
    Profit Before Tax 83 089 190 594 157 979 279 656
    Corporate Income Tax 31 233 -4 653 29 360 -10 032
    Profit (Loss) for the Reporting Period 114 322 185 941 187 339 269 624
    Including:        
    Profit (Loss) Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company 111 105 185 658 184 122 269 546
    Profit (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests 3 217 283 3 217 78
    Other Comprehensive Income for the Reporting Period     -33 463 -60 195
    Total Comprehensive income for the Reporting Period     153 876 209 429
    Including:        
    Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company     150 659 209 351
    Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests     3 217 78
    Basic Earnings per Share     9,11 13,20
    Diluted Earnings per Share     8,78 12,80

    * The non-cash revaluations of derivative instruments in comprehensive income do not affect the profitability or cash flow generating ability of AS Eesti Gaas or Infortar’s core business operations.

    Balance sheet, in thousands of EUR

    ASSETS     30.09.24   30.09.23   31.12.2023
    CURRENT ASSETS              
    Cash     95 863   90 456   87 115
    Short-term Financial Investments     1   1   0
    Short-term Derivative Instruments     2 246   21 216   28 728
    Receivables from Realized Derivative Instruments     2 773   1 279   5 958
    Receivables from Customers     115 992   91 071   162 575
    Tax Prepayments     4 161   1 192   925
    Other Receivables and Prepayments     31 098   20 228   20 185
    Prepayments for Inventories     2 885   29 354   3 493
    Inventories     221 174   177 824   146 884
    Biological Assets     420   0   0
    Total Current Assets     476 613   432 621   455 863
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS              
    Investments in Associates     15 756   341 490   346 014
    Long-term Derivative Instruments     1 451   3 485   1 125
    Long-term Loans and Other Receivables     29 668   9 771    
    Investment Properties     67 791   171 046   9 072
    Property, Plant, and Equipment     1 816 338   449 014   176 024
    Intangible Assets     39 276   13 474   446 748
    Right-of-use Assets     47 548   10 421   14 366
    Biological Assets     2 840   0   11 300
                   
    Total non-current assets     2 020 668   998 701   1 004 649
    TOTAL ASSETS     2 497 281   1 431 322   1 460 512
                   
    EQUITY AND LIABILITIES              
    CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Loan Liabilities     199 247   204 468   184 259
    Lease Liabilities     8 499   956   1 766
    Payables to Suppliers     136 017   60 687   74 751
    Tax Liabilities     35 702   17 341   32 822
    Customer Prepayments     34 741   3 171   3 099
    Realized Derivative Instruments     222   3 395   1 463
    Other Short-term Liabilities     53 351   21 374   10 851
    Short-term Derivative Instruments     11 680   226   3 659
    Total Current Liabilities     479 459   311 618   312 670
    NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Long-term Provisions     9 208   7 255   8 399
    Deferred Income Tax Liability     2 391   34 920   33 233
    Other Long-term Liabilities     28 612   30 426   30 679
    Long-term Derivative Instruments     880   11   186
    Loan liabilities     713 212   265 805   246 410
    Lease liabilities     40 461   9 587   8 725
    TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES     794 764   348 004   327 632
    TOTAL LIABILITIES     1 274 223   659 622   640 302
    EQUITY              
    Share Capital     2 117   1 985   2 105
    Treasury Shares     -95   -95   -95
    Share Premium     32 484   0   29 344
    Statutory Reserve     212   205   205
    Option Reserve     7 647   3 068   3 864
    Hedging Reserve*     20 725   22 084   24 118
    Unrealized Exchange Differences     1 114   32   -39
    Reserve for Post-employment Benefit Obligations     -44   0   -44
    Retained Earnings     728 559   474 015   466 140
    Profit for the Reporting Period     184 122   269 546   293 778
    Equity Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company     976 841   770 840   819 376
                   
    Non-controlling Interests     246 217   860   834
    TOTAL EQUITY     1 223 058   771 700   820 210
    TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES     2 497 281   1 431 322   1 460 512

    * This represents the change in the accounting hedging position, which affects the comprehensive income result.        

    Cash flow statement, in thousands of EUR 9
    months
    2024
      9
    months 2023
      2023
    Cash Flows from Operating Activities          
    Profit for the Reporting Period 187 339   269 624   293 830
    Adjustments          
    Depreciation and Impairment of Fixed Assets 30 676   11 204   15 581
    Change in Value of Investment Properties 2 891   0   4 074
    Profit/Loss from Equity Investments -156 017   -37 701   -39 639
    Change in Value of Derivative Instruments 26 156   59 284   54 122
    Other Financial Income/Expenses -66   -161 433   -161 965
    Accrued Interest Expenses 24 466   14 004   22 573
    Profit/Loss from Disposal of Fixed Assets -301   -76   -91
    Income from Targeted Financing Recognized in Revenue -319   -347   784
    Accrued Income Tax Expense -29 360   10 032   8 610
    Income Tax Paid -1 482   0   -267
    Change in Receivables and Prepayments Related to Operating Activities 79 126   130 325   54 540
    Change in Inventories -22 986   -118 715   -61 914
    Change in Liabilities Related to Operating Activities 35 968   -24 650   -406
    Change in Biological Assets 112   0   0
    Total Cash Flows from Operating Activities 176 203   151 551   189 832
               
    Cash Flows from investing activities          
    Payments for Purchase of Associates 0   -7 728   -10 314
    Payments for Purchase of Subsidiaries -67 810*   -103 410   -103 414
    Dividends paid 20 862   0   0
    Repayments of Loans Granted 2 057   5 966   6 652
    Interest Received 4 019   2 301   2 691
    Payments for Acquisition of Investment Properties -10 566   -10 506   -18 304
    Payments for Acquisition of Property, Plant and other assets -17 042   -13 972   -18 143
    Proceeds from Sale of Investment Properties and Fixed Assets 707   78   -252
    Total cash Flows from investing activities -67 773   -127 271   -141 084
    Cash Flows from Financing Activities          
    Change in Overdraft -30 457   30 546   14 348
    Loans Received 106 303   148 955   287 606
    Repayments of Loans Received -114 706   -150 790   -312 846
    Repayments of Principal Portion of Lease Liabilities -8 674   -1 562   -2 233
    Interest Paid -24 968   -13 100   -22 224
    Dividends Paid -30 332   -7 875   -15 750
    Proceeds from Issuance of Shares 3 152   0   29 464
    Total Cash Flows from Financing Activities -99 682   6 174   -21 635
               
    Total cash flows 8 748   30 454   27 113
               
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period 87 115   60 002   60 002
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period 95 863   90 456   87 115
    Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents 8 748   30 454   27 113

    Aktsiaselts Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are maritime transport, energy and real estate. Aktsiaselts Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in AS Eesti Gaas and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 116,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Aktsiaselts Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, taxi business and other areas. A total of 105 companies belong to the Aktsiaselts Infortar group: 96 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Aktsiaselts Infortar employs 6,108 people.

    Additional information:
    Kadri Laanvee
    Investor Relations Manager
    Phone: +372 5156662
    e-mail: kadri.laanvee@infortar.ee
    www.infortar.ee/en/investor

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  • MIL-OSI: Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    Press Release

    Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Research unveils data-driven, condition-based device refresh approach, supported by remanufacturing, can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan versus a standard 3-5 year device lifespan on a fixed refresh cycle without compromising user experience

    Research also demonstrates employees’ engagement: 75% are happy to keep their device for longer if they understand the environmental benefits of doing so

    Paris, France – November 4, 2024 – Atos today releases its research on digital workplace sustainability, providing valuable insights to help organizations enhance their IT decision-making and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. The report, “Increasing digital workplace sustainability: Data-driven strategy to accelerate progress together,” highlights high levels of waste endemic across the IT industry and also identifies a series of actions all can take to turn this around.

    Since 79% of a laptop’s carbon footprint is produced during manufacturing, with each new device creating roughly 338kg CO2eq of carbon before use, life cycle extension can have a huge impact. The report initially points out that device lifecycles can be extended without compromising user satisfaction. For instance, by doing nothing but adjusting the standard refresh cycle from three to four years, enterprises can gain a 25% reduction in related emissions without downgrading device performance or user experience. Further, data-driven, condition-based device refresh combined with remanufacturing can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan.

    Atos research reveals that 76% of large organizations’ laptops can be remanufactured. The remaining 24% of devices could be refurbished or recycled to contribute to the circular economy.

    Atos’ study showcases the key role employees could play in IT sustainability. 75% of employees indicated they would be willing to keep their devices longer if they were aware of the environmental benefits. Nonetheless, 16% of devices are left running continuously without being turned off, emphasizing the need for better employee awareness on energy-saving practices. Additionally, carbon intensity can fluctuate up to 2.3 times during the day, indicating that informing users about the best times to use the electrical grid and switching to battery power could improve energy efficiency.

    Data indicate that 57% of the ICT sector’s carbon emissions originate from devices and workplace environments. Atos, as a global leader in digital workplace, was able to analyze 28.5 million devices used by medium to large organizations, with the help of its partners Nexthink, Tier1 and Circular Computing, to offer crucial recommendations for boosting IT sustainability.

    Leon Gilbert, Senior Vice President Digital Workplace, Atos said: “We wanted to leverage the vast quantities of data available to Atos and our partners to challenge convention and pinpoint new opportunities for enterprises and their IT service providers. Some findings surprised even our experts. We can now see how the financial, environmental and social value of every device can be increased while still delighting users”.

    David Welling, IT Sustainability Governance Lead, National Grid said: “Within our own organization, we are looking at using the data from this study to drive strategic changes in behavior. Today, very few of us would consider using our laptops to impact the demand variability of the grid. Yet nobody would think twice about charging their electric vehicle overnight when demand is lower and energy is greener. If we can connect that kind of demand flexibility with ICT, we have a real opportunity to fundamentally change the greenhouse gas emissions of entire energy systems for entire countries”.

    In summary, Atos research highlights that implementing sustainable management, processes and practices in the workplace doesn’t have to be lengthy or costly. Conversely, organizations may experience swift benefits from the insights provided in the study. Additionally, Atos asserts that “what we can measure, we can change” – which underlines the importance of comprehensive and real-time data to progress toward environmental objectives.

    Atos teams provide end-to-end employee experience solutions through digital collaboration and productivity tools, as well as intelligent customer care services. Atos’ sustainable digital workplace suite includes more than 20 “Tech for Good” services and solutions, encompassing social value and accessibility criteria as well as data analytics and user interfaces. In March 2024, Gartner positioned Atos as a Leader in its 2024 Magic Quadrant for Outsourced Digital Workplace Services (ODWS) for the eighth consecutive year.

    ***

    About Tech Foundations

    Tech Foundations is the Atos Group business line leading in managed services, focusing on hybrid cloud infrastructure, employee experience and technology services, through decarbonized, automated and AI-enabled solutions. Its 41,000 employees advance what matters to the world’s businesses, institutions and communities. It is present in 69 countries, with an annual revenue of c. € 5 billion.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 82,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: Empowering Women with Disabilities: Key Actions for Inclusive Sports in the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Inclusive sports can empower women with disabilities, and foster accessibility, social integration, and gender equality in the Pacific. Recent Paralympic milestones and policy examples illustrate the ongoing need for supportive infrastructures and greater representation to create equitable opportunities in sports.

    The importance of sport for women with disabilities cannot be overstated. It provides a platform for empowerment, fostering physical and mental well-being, and breaking societal barriers related to gender and disability. Participation in sports helps build confidence, resilience, and a sense of community.

    The Paralympic Games have been instrumental in setting standards for inclusion, showcasing the incredible talents and achievements of athletes with disabilities on a global stage. By promoting gender equality and providing equal opportunities, the Paralympics inspire change and highlight the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in sports.

    This year’s Paralympic Games in Paris marked a historic milestone with a record 1,983 women, or 45% of participants, across 549 medal events in 22 sports, making it the most gender-inclusive Paralympics ever. It was also a historic moment for the Pacific region, as it sent its largest contingent of athletes to the Paralympic Games.

    Thirteen athletes, comprising seven women and six men, represented six countries to compete in para-athletics and para-taekwondo: Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu. According to the Oceania Paralympic Committee, the Pacific athletes “not only represent their nations but also the aspirations of the entire Pacific region.”

    Among the remarkable athletes was Tongan discus thrower Meleane Vasitai Leaaepeni Falemaka, known as Vasi, who competed in the Paralympic Games for the first time. She is making her mark on the global stage as Tonga’s sole representative in the Paralympic Games where she competed in the women’s F37 discus throw event. Prior to the Paralympics, Vasi achieved her personal best throw at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix April 2024 held in Marrakech, Morocco.

    Women with disabilities outnumber men with disabilities in most Pacific countries, largely due to longer life expectancy and the increased likelihood of acquiring disabilities in old age. Persons with disabilities are overrepresented among the poorest of the poor across the region and face economic and social exclusion, violence, and accessibility challenges.

    Despite this, women with disabilities often do not get to make decisions that affect them. Evidence from 19 countries shows that only 2.3% of women with disabilities held a position as a legislator, senior official, or manager.  Only four out of 18 countries in the region had a “woman with disability” in parliament.

    Sports provide a powerful platform for empowering women with disabilities, fostering inclusion, and challenging societal barriers.

    The following actions are needed to increase the inclusion of women with disabilities in sports:

    Enhance policy and financing for gender and disability inclusive sport. Governments must enact robust legislation to eliminate accessibility barriers in multiple areas such as transport, housing, services, education, and sport. For example, Brazil passed the “Inclusion of People with Disabilities Act” before the Rio 2016 Paralympics that aimed to enhance the lives of the nearly 50 million people with impairments in Brazil. This Act increased the amount allocated to para-sports from the gross revenues of the federal lotteries, from around $26 million to $49 million per year.

    Promote accessibility and inclusivity of sport. The Paralympics have made strides in accommodating athletes with disabilities through modified rules and regular reassessments by classifiers. Classification varies across sports, for example, swimming has up to 10 eligible impairment types, and classifications depend on how much an impairment affects performance.

    In wheelchair basketball, players are rated from 1.0 to 4.5 based on their disability level with a maximum point total allowed per team to ensure competitive balance. This approach enhances fairness and integrity in competitions, creating a more equitable environment for all Paralympic athletes.

    Include women with disabilities in stakeholder consultations. This can be done through partnerships with local organizations and women’s groups where women with disabilities take on leadership and decision-making roles. Mapping stakeholders supporting people with disabilities is crucial in creating awareness among all stakeholders and policymakers in sport on the needs of women athletes with disabilities.

    Ensuring that sports facilities are accessible and safe for women with disabilities. Sports facilities must be designed within the lens of gender and disability. This not only promotes physical health but also enhances social integration and economic opportunities for people with disabilities.

    Governments and development partners’ financial commitments to accessibility improvements are essential. For instance, prior to the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, the People’s Republic of China invested over $150 million to make 14,000 facilities accessible across the country. Similarly, for the Rio 2016 Games, nearly $1 million was allocated to enhance access to major tourist attractions and sports arenas.

    Promoting media representation to change perceptions. Media coverage can significantly change societal perceptions. For example, UK’s Channel 4 won various awards for its coverage of the London 2012 Paralympics, which included presenters with disabilities.

    The channel spent $1.2 million searching for, recruiting, training and developing the skills of media professionals to ensure that half of the on-screen talent during the Games consisted of persons with disabilities. The channel’s “Meet the Superhumans” commercial combined powerful imagery of athletes with their extraordinary stories creating a compelling narrative that resonated widely and likely changed attitudes towards Paralympic sports.

    Encouraging women with disabilities to take up sports. Sport enables women with disabilities to develop social skills and independence. Families and carers can help foster the love for sport by initiating play and developing interest, which can also serve as a shared activity. Sport can also be a transformative tool for women to demonstrate their abilities, which can help reduce the longstanding negative perceptions and gender stereotypes associated with women with disabilities.

    By addressing these issues, we can create an environment where athletes like Vasi can thrive, inspiring future generations and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society in the Pacific.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sydney Airport Traffic Performance July 2023

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Tuesday 4 November 2024

    In an Australian first, Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport have joined forces to launch a public awareness campaign to fight human trafficking.  

    The country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to run the “Can You See Me?” campaign, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).  

    This initiative will educate people on how to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking.   

    From today, digital screens and billboards at both airports will display images and messages, stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.” QR codes also link to videos and information on how to identify and stop these crimes. Digital screens in key areas will display these messages, including check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels.  

    Combined, Sydney and Melbourne airports cater for 68% of Australia’s total international passenger traffic. While the “Can You See Me?” campaign runs over the next month, close to 7 million passengers are expected to pass through both the domestic and international terminals at the two airports.  

    A21 has rolled out this program in high-profile spaces worldwide—from Times Square billboards, screens at Heathrow Airport, train stations in Thailand to inflatable screens in vulnerable Cambodian communities—reaching an impressive 3.4 billion people globally.  

    Modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the AFP receiving 382 reports in 2023/2024 financial year, a 12 per cent increase on the previous year. Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labour, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking. The Global Slavery Index estimates 41,000 people in Australia live under conditions of modern slavery.  

    A united response to human trafficking  

    Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO said: “Every person who steps through our airport deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation.”   

    “We deeply value the AFP’s dedication to catching and prosecuting traffickers and the A21 ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign will amplify their efforts by raising critical public awareness and support.  

    “Sydney Airport is proud to join forces with Melbourne Airport, united in our mission to tackle the scourge of modern slavery.”  

    Lorie Argus, Melbourne Airport CEO said: “This partnership goes beyond just airports—it’s about people’s lives.”  

    “By joining forces with Sydney Airport, the AFP, and A21, we’re taking a stand against modern slavery, a hidden crime that destroys people’s futures.  

    “Knowing that human trafficking is a real and daily threat, we feel a deep responsibility to protect our passengers.”  

    Acting Commander Human Exploitation Frank Rayner from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said: “The increase in reported cases of human trafficking and slavery in Australia highlights the urgent need for action.”

    “Airports are key environments where traffickers seek to move victims across borders. It is important to remember that traffickers have many ways of controlling a person and a person can be exploited without physical restraint or abuse.

    “Engaging travellers and frontline airport staff to recognise the signs and report suspected cases will help disrupt these crimes and protect vulnerable people.”

    Nick Caine, A21 CEO, said: “Everyone has a role to play in the fight against human trafficking. Awareness is the first step, and we believe that through this campaign, more victims will be recognised and rescued.  

    “The ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign has already changed lives across the world, and we are grateful to Sydney and Melbourne airports for bringing this powerful message to Australia.”  

    Christian Elliott, Director of “Can You See Me?” said:  “As the director of the Can You See Me? campaign, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of awareness.”  

    “This initiative goes beyond just sharing information—it equips every individual who passes through Sydney and Melbourne airports to become a part of the solution.  

    “Human trafficking hides in plain sight, but through this campaign, we are making the invisible visible, empowering travellers, staff, and the public to take action. With just one report, one moment of recognition, a life can be saved. Together, we can stop the traffickers and protect the most vulnerable among us.”  

    The Rotary Clubs of Botany Randwick and Marrickville have announced that all cash collected from 11 donation boxes across Sydney Airport over the next month will be donated to A21 to support survivors of human trafficking.  

    Airport-specific signs & indicators of human trafficking  

    • Avoids eye contact and social interaction 
    • Is not in control of own passport/documentation 
    • Language barrier with their travelling companions 
    • Unusually submissive
    • Unaware of their destination  
    • Clothing is not appropriate/does not fit the route of travel  

    More details: Human trafficking and exploitation – AFP  

    How to make a report

    If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 000 for help.    

    The Australian Federal Police (AFP) protect people who are victims of modern slavery and can help keep you safe. If you suspect someone is at risk, you can:  

    • Make an anonymous report through Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000  
    • Call 131 AFP  
    • Report online 

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: 18th Global Citizenship Conference to be held in Singapore

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — More than 400 delegates from over 50 countries are expected to attend the 18th annual Global Citizenship Conference, which takes place 27–29 November in Singapore.

    Hosted by world-leading international citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, this annual event has become the world’s largest and most significant conference on investment migration, bringing together presidents and prime ministers, other senior government ministers and officials, and leading academics, as well as top-tier private client advisors and wealth management professionals, and financial and business media.

    The 2024 conference program features sophisticated content on the dynamics shaping the mobility options of wealthy families today. The conference will explore legal and economic developments and their implications, societal impacts relevant to global citizens, and trends in investment and wealth migration, along with regulatory and tax changes and the evolving concept of citizenship. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with some of the world’s finest minds and latest ideas around global citizenship and interconnectivity and discover how to harness the power of global mobility.

    Dr. Christian H. Kalin, Group Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasizes the timely relevance of connecting across borders as global citizens. “The Great Wealth Migration, as we call it, reflects a global trend fueled by geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, the climate crisis, and technological disruption. Wealthy individuals are increasingly recognizing that, in an interconnected world, relying solely on any one nation as a place of residence or citizenship — even a prosperous, democratic one — can be a risk they are no longer willing to take. As they consider their options, however, there is a crucial opportunity to reflect on the broader implications of their decisions. How can wealth be used not only for personal advantage but also to create positive social impact? Global citizenship, at its core, is the belief that we have responsibilities that extend beyond our own borders — to our communities and to the world as a whole. This conference seeks to broaden our perspectives through shared global learning, empowering us to drive meaningful change on both a local and a global scale.”

    Notable key speakers at the conference include the Hon. Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, and the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis. The Hon. Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Maldives and current Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, will also share his insights along with senior government officials from Indonesia, Montenegro, and the South Pacific.

    Legendary global investor and best-selling author, Jim Rogers, will offer his perspective on global financial trends. Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Parag Khanna, Founder and CEO of Climate Alpha, Prof. Mehari Taddele Maru of the European University Institute and John Hopkins University, Irene Mia, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, and Balaji Srinivasan, American tech entrepreneur, investor, and author of The Network State.

    A conference highlight will be the 2024 Global Citizen Award Dinner on 28 November, where a remarkable individual working to advance one of the global challenges affecting humanity today, will be honored. This year’s laureate will be announced at the gala event hosted in collaboration with the Swiss non-profit humanitarian organization Andan Foundation, which focuses on promoting the self-reliance of refugees through education, entrepreneurship, and employment, and to which the net proceeds of the evening will be donated.

    For further information and media accreditation to attend the 18th annual Global Residence and Citizenship Conference, please contact:

    Sarah Nicklin
    Group Head of Public Relations
    sarah.nicklin@henleyglobal.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues EUR 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    4 November 2024 at 10:00 am (EET)

    Municipality Finance issues EUR 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Municipality Finance Plc issues EUR 20 million notes on 5 November 2024. The maturity date of the notes is 5 November 2035. MuniFin has a right, but no obligation, to redeem the notes early on 5 November 2025. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.87% per annum until 5 November 2025, after which the interest is paid at 3.00% per annum, unless MuniFin redeems the notes early.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 5 November 2024.

    UBS Europe SE acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The company is owned by Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the Republic of Finland.
    The Group’s balance sheet totals over EUR 50 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for third quarter of 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest provisional figures on restaurant receipts and purchases today (November 4).
     
         The value of total receipts of the restaurants sector in the third quarter of 2024, provisionally estimated at $26.7 billion, decreased by 1.3% over a year earlier. Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases by restaurants decreased by 0.1% to $8.8 billion.
     
         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total restaurant receipts decreased by 3.3% in the third quarter of 2024 compared with a year earlier.
     
         Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the third quarter of 2024 with the third quarter of 2023, total receipts of Chinese restaurants decreased by 7.7% in value and 9.8% in volume. Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants decreased by 0.6% in value and 1.5% in volume. Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 8.5% in value and 5.7% in volume. Total receipts of bars decreased by 6.3% in value and 10.1% in volume. As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts increased by 0.3% in value, but decreased by 2.8% in volume.
     
         Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of total restaurant receipts increased by 2.0% in value, but decreased by 3.3% in volume in the third quarter of 2024 compared with the preceding quarter.
     
         Comparing the first three quarters of 2024 with the same period in 2023, total restaurant receipts decreased by 0.3% in value and 2.9% in volume.
     
         To facilitate further understanding of the short-term business performance of the restaurants sector, statistics in respect of the restaurant receipts and purchases in individual months of the reference quarter are also compiled.
     
         Analysed by month, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector decreased by 4.2%, decreased by 2.3% and increased by 2.8% respectively in July, August and September 2024, compared with the corresponding months in 2023.
     
         After discounting the effect of price changes, it was provisionally estimated that the volume of total restaurant receipts decreased by 6.4%, decreased by 4.3% and increased by 1.1% respectively in July, August and September 2024, compared with the corresponding months in 2023.
     
    Commentary
     
         A Government spokesman said that the value of total restaurant receipts recorded a narrowed year-on-year decline of 1.3% in the third quarter of 2024. The business performance of restaurants improved through the quarter, with their total receipts resuming a year-on-year increase of 2.8% in September. Compared with the preceding quarter, the value of total restaurant receipts increased by 2.0% in the third quarter after adjusting for seasonal factors.
     
         Looking ahead, the changing consumption patterns of visitors and residents will continue to affect the business performance of restaurants. Nevertheless, an improved outlook for the Mainland economy following the recent introduction of a wide range of stimulus measures, and the commencement of the US interest rate cut, would render support to catering spending. The SAR Government’s various initiatives to boost market sentiment and increasing employment earnings would also benefit the sector.
     
    Further information
     
         Table 1 presents the revised figures of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant and total purchases by the restaurants sector for the second quarter of 2024 as well as the provisional figures for the third quarter of 2024.
     
         Table 2 and Table 3 present the revised value and volume indices respectively of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant for the second quarter of 2024 and the provisional indices for the third quarter of 2024.
     
         Table 4 presents the year-on-year rate of change in total restaurant receipts in value and volume terms based on the original quarterly series, as well as the quarter-to-quarter rate of change based on the seasonally adjusted series.
     
         The revised figures on restaurant receipts and purchases for the third quarter of 2024 (with breakdown by month) will be released through the website of C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode540.html) and relevant publications of the Department from December 20, 2024.
     
         The classification of restaurants follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.
     
         More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases”. Users can browse and download the publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080002&scode=540).
     
         Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of C&SD (Tel: 3903 7401; e-mail: qsr@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Survey on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises’ Credit Conditions for Third Quarter 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

         The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) published today (November 4) the results of Survey on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)’ Credit Conditions for the third quarter of 2024. According to the survey, SMEs’ credit conditions improved slightly.
          
         Regarding SMEs’ perception of banks’ credit approval stance relative to 6 months ago, excluding respondents who answered “no idea/don’t know”, 76 per cent perceived a “similar” or “easier” credit approval stance in the third quarter of 2024, up from 73 per cent in the previous quarter (Chart 1 in the Annex). 24 per cent perceived a “more difficult” credit approval stance, down from 27 per cent in the previous quarter. The perception of a more difficult credit approval stance may not necessarily reflect actual difficulties faced by SMEs in obtaining bank credit as the perception could be affected by a number of factors, such as media/news reports, business conditions and opinions of relatives and friends.
          
         Among respondents with existing credit lines, only 1 per cent reported a “tighter” banks’ stance, further down from 2 per cent in the previous quarter (Chart 2 in the Annex). In this survey, a tighter stance on existing credit lines denotes a range of possible measures or arrangements, such as reducing unused and used credit lines, raising the interest rate, imposing additional collateral requirements, or shortening loan tenor. Therefore, respondents’ indication of banks’ stance on existing credit lines may not directly reflect banks’ supply of credit to SMEs. 
          
         The survey also gauged the results of new credit applications from SMEs. 3 per cent of the respondents reported that they had applied for new bank credit during the third quarter of 2024. Among the respondents who had already known their application outcomes, 79 per cent reported fully or partially successful applications, up from 70 per cent in the previous quarter (Chart 3 in the Annex).
          
         Owing to small sample sizes of SMEs with existing credit lines (13 per cent of surveyed SMEs) and with new credit applications (3 per cent of surveyed SMEs) during the quarter, the results could be prone to large fluctuations, and hence should be interpreted with care.

    About Survey on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)’ Credit Conditions
          
         In light of the importance of SMEs to the Hong Kong economy and concerns about potential funding difficulties facing SMEs over the past few years, the HKMA has appointed the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) to carry out this survey, starting from the third quarter of 2016. This survey is conducted on a quarterly basis, covering about 2 500 SMEs from different economic sectors each time. The results of this survey can help monitor the development of SMEs’ access to bank credit from a demand-side perspective.
          
         The results of this survey should be interpreted with caution. Similar to other opinion surveys, views collected in this survey may be affected by changes in sentiment due to idiosyncratic events that occurred over the survey period, which can make the results prone to fluctuations. Readers are advised to interpret the results together with other economic and financial information. In addition, views collected are limited to the expected direction of inter-quarter changes (e.g. “tighter”, “no change” or “easier”) without providing information about the magnitude of these changes.
          
         Detailed tables and technical information of this survey are published on the website of the HKPC (smecc.hkpc.org).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Parliament moves one step closer to deliver pay rise for early educators

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    Every day, parents trust early educators with the most important people in their world, and every day Australia asks early educators to do one of the most important jobs imaginable.

    Today the Albanese Government has passed legislation through the House of Representatives to make sure those educators are fairly paid.

    Once it passes through Parliament, the Wage Justice for Early Childhood Education and Care Workers (Special Account) Bill 2024 will deliver a 15 per cent wage increase for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) workers.
    This wage increase will be tied to a commitment from Child Care Centres to limit fee increases. We want to make sure workers can be fairly paid without the costs being passed on to families.

    Since coming to Government, the number of ECEC workers has grown by more than 30,000, but we need more.

    This $3.6 billion investment will help retain our existing early childhood educators, who are predominately women, and attract new employees.
    By improving access to quality early childhood education and care we can also boost productivity and workforce participation in the short and long-term. Significantly, the wage increase also applies to workers in outside school hours care services – creating benefits for the parents of school aged children too.
    This wage increase is an important next step in the Government’s reforms to the sector, building on the successful Cheaper Child Care changes.  

    The wage increase will be phased in over two years, and include a 10 per cent increase from December 2024, and a further 5 per cent increase from December 2025.
    This means a typical ECEC educator who is paid at the award rate will receive a pay rise of at least $103 per week, increasing to at least $155 per week from December 2025.

    For a typical early childhood teacher, they’ll receive an additional $166 a week from December this year, increasing to $249 from December of next year.
    To be eligible to receive funding for the wage increase, ECEC services won’t be able to increase their fees by more than 4.4 per cent over the next 12 months from August 2024.

    There will also be a limit on fee growth in the second year of the wage subsidy. The percentage limit on fee growth that will apply from August 2025 will be determined by a new ECEC cost index being developed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

    Early learning providers can now apply for Commonwealth Government funding to deliver the pay rise.

    This is a win for workers, a win for families and will help ease cost of living pressures.
    Combined with the Government’s Cheaper Child Care initiative, this wage increase will help support the availability of early education and care for families and is a crucial step in charting the course to a truly universal early education system.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Jason Clare:
    “The child care debate is over. It’s not babysitting. It’s early education and it’s critical to preparing children for school.
    “They lift our kids up and now we are lifting their pay.
    “This means wages up for workers and keeping prices down for families.
    “A pay rise for every early childhood educator is good for our workforce, good for families and good our economy.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education, Dr Anne Aly:
    “This is a wonderful outcome for a highly feminised workforce that has for far too long been neglected and taken for granted.
    “We’re boosting the wages of early childhood education workers, while relieving cost of living pressures on Australian families.
    “Properly valuing the early childhood education and care workforce is crucial to attracting and retaining workers and vital to achieving the quality universal early learning sector Australian families deserve.
    “A quality early childhood education sector is necessary to support children’s learning and development as well as workforce participation in the broader economy.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: DIGZAX Enhances Collaborative Security System, Pioneering New Heights in Cryptocurrency Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ARVADA, Colo., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, the renowned cryptocurrency exchange platform DIGZAX announced the completion of its security system upgrade, further enhancing the protective capabilities of the platform. According to the details released, DIGZAX has showcased significant technological advantages, receiving high acclaim within the industry. This upgrade not only underscores the commitment of DIGZAX to user experience and asset security but also highlights the collaborative execution capabilities of the team throughout the process.

    Fergus Kane, the founder and CEO of DIGZAX, has consistently prioritized security as the core driving force behind the development of the platform. Under his leadership, the DIGZAX team has not only driven technological innovation but also ensured steady business expansion. During the recent security upgrade, team members worked closely together, each fulfilling their respective roles, demonstrating remarkable cohesion, with every individual playing an indispensable part.

    Charles Henry Anderson, the Chief Technology Officer, played a crucial role in this security enhancement, bringing extensive experience from the fintech sector. His technology team developed an intelligent security system capable of monitoring platform activities in real time, identifying and preventing anomalous behaviors, and employing multi-layered security measures to effectively adapt to evolving cybersecurity risks.

    The successful implementation of this technology was bolstered by the close collaboration of Sterling Nash, the Chief Legal Officer, who provided critical compliance requirements during the system design phase. Given the varying data security and privacy regulations across different countries and regions, the guidance of Sterling ensured that the technological solutions progressed smoothly within a diverse global compliance framework, effectively mitigating potential legal risks. This close integration of technology and regulation not only enhanced the compliance capabilities of DIGZAX but also facilitated the robust expansion of the platform in international markets, solidifying its foundation for globalization.

    Moreover, the operations team excelled during this security upgrade, led by Chief Operating Officer Michael Robert Davis. They worked closely with the technical department to ensure that every technological solution was effectively implemented while optimizing user experience. This efficient collaborative model allowed DIGZAX to advance its technological upgrades swiftly while maintaining platform stability and operational efficiency.

    The collaboration of the DIGZAX team is evident not only at the technical level but also throughout the smooth progression of the entire project. From new features to user experience optimizations, every aspect has been meticulously refined and rigorously tested by the team, ensuring that efficient communication and close cooperation between departments facilitated the timely implementation of every innovative application and strategic adjustment.

    Under the leadership of Fergus Kane, the DIGZAX team will continue to explore and apply cutting-edge technologies to ensure that the security and competitive advantages of the platform steadily improve. With ongoing technological updates, DIGZAX is moving towards a more secure and innovative cryptocurrency financial future, consistently providing users with high-quality investment experiences and greater development opportunities.

    Media Contact:

    Full company name: DIGZAX BLOCKCHAIN DEVELOPMENT INC

    Company website: https://www.digzax.co

    Contact Person: Darma

    Email id: support@DIGZAX.co

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56647c41-23b0-48dc-8bfe-7e2ee79d44ee

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia’s largest airports join forces in the fight against human trafficking

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Australia’s largest airports join forces in the fight against human trafficking

    Monday 4 November 2024

    In an Australian first, Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport have joined forces to launch a public awareness campaign to fight human trafficking.  

    The country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to run the “Can You See Me?” campaign, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).  

    This initiative will educate people on how to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking.   

    From today, digital screens and billboards at both airports will display images and messages, stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.” QR codes also link to videos and information on how to identify and stop these crimes. Digital screens in key areas will display these messages, including check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels.  

    Combined, Sydney and Melbourne airports cater for 68% of Australia’s total international passenger traffic. While the “Can You See Me?” campaign runs over the next month, close to 7 million passengers are expected to pass through both the domestic and international terminals at the two airports.  

    A21 has rolled out this program in high-profile spaces worldwide—from Times Square billboards, screens at Heathrow Airport, train stations in Thailand to inflatable screens in vulnerable Cambodian communities—reaching an impressive 3.4 billion people globally.  

    Modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the AFP receiving 382 reports in 2023/2024 financial year, a 12 per cent increase on the previous year. Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labour, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking. The Global Slavery Index estimates 41,000 people in Australia live under conditions of modern slavery.  

    A united response to human trafficking  

    Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO said: “Every person who steps through our airport deserves to travel safely, without fear of exploitation.”   

    “We deeply value the AFP’s dedication to catching and prosecuting traffickers and the A21 ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign will amplify their efforts by raising critical public awareness and support.  

    “Sydney Airport is proud to join forces with Melbourne Airport, united in our mission to tackle the scourge of modern slavery.”  

    Lorie Argus, Melbourne Airport CEO said: “This partnership goes beyond just airports—it’s about people’s lives.”  

    “By joining forces with Sydney Airport, the AFP, and A21, we’re taking a stand against modern slavery, a hidden crime that destroys people’s futures.  

    “Knowing that human trafficking is a real and daily threat, we feel a deep responsibility to protect our passengers.”  

    Acting Commander Human Exploitation Frank Rayner from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said: “The increase in reported cases of human trafficking and slavery in Australia highlights the urgent need for action.”

    “Airports are key environments where traffickers seek to move victims across borders. It is important to remember that traffickers have many ways of controlling a person and a person can be exploited without physical restraint or abuse.

    “Engaging travellers and frontline airport staff to recognise the signs and report suspected cases will help disrupt these crimes and protect vulnerable people.”

    Nick Caine, A21 CEO, said: “Everyone has a role to play in the fight against human trafficking. Awareness is the first step, and we believe that through this campaign, more victims will be recognised and rescued.  

    “The ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign has already changed lives across the world, and we are grateful to Sydney and Melbourne airports for bringing this powerful message to Australia.”  

    Christian Elliott, Director of “Can You See Me?” said:  “As the director of the Can You See Me? campaign, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of awareness.”  

    “This initiative goes beyond just sharing information—it equips every individual who passes through Sydney and Melbourne airports to become a part of the solution.  

    “Human trafficking hides in plain sight, but through this campaign, we are making the invisible visible, empowering travellers, staff, and the public to take action. With just one report, one moment of recognition, a life can be saved. Together, we can stop the traffickers and protect the most vulnerable among us.”  

    The Rotary Clubs of Botany Randwick and Marrickville have announced that all cash collected from 11 donation boxes across Sydney Airport over the next month will be donated to A21 to support survivors of human trafficking.  

    Airport-specific signs & indicators of human trafficking  

    • Avoids eye contact and social interaction 
    • Is not in control of own passport/documentation 
    • Language barrier with their travelling companions 
    • Unusually submissive
    • Unaware of their destination  
    • Clothing is not appropriate/does not fit the route of travel  

    More details: Human trafficking and exploitation – AFP  

    How to make a report

    If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 000 for help.    

    The Australian Federal Police (AFP) protect people who are victims of modern slavery and can help keep you safe. If you suspect someone is at risk, you can:  

    • Make an anonymous report through Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000  
    • Call 131 AFP  
    • Report online 

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Long-term public-private partnership to deliver thousands of affordable homes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Pension Insurance Corporation, Muse and Homes England form £54 million joint venture, named HABIKO, a development vehicle to bring forward 3,000 low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes for rent

    A significant long-term public-private partnership, focused on affordable housing delivery, has been announced by Pension Insurance Corporation, a major investor in UK housing and infrastructure, nationwide place maker, Muse, and Homes England, the Government’s housing and regeneration agency. 

    The new public-private partnership, named Habiko, is a joint venture that plans to deliver 3,000 low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes for the rental market, unlocking institutional investment. Habiko will become self-funding over its 12-year lifespan and aims to diversify the supply chain for future efficient housing developments. 

    Habiko is targeting up to 100% affordable homes for rent for those whose needs are not met by the market, with rents set at 20% below the local market rent. During the 12-year lifespan of the partnership, PIC will have the ability to continue to forward fund the development of the affordable homes and will ultimately own the homes and places they have helped to create through its investment and long-term stewardship approach. 

    The homes will be built across England in areas of high demand for this type of housing. The developments aim to create social value for these communities, including boosting the local economy through job creation and new skills to drive green innovation. The homes will be in accessible locations, close to employment opportunities and be designed to help residents save money on their energy bills. 

    Tracy Blackwell, CEO of PIC, said:

    Meeting the UK’s affordable housing needs is a challenge that is best met through effective collaboration between Government, developers, and private investors. Habiko is a great example of public-private partnership, which brings forward thousands of low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes.

    PIC has invested around £4 billion in social and affordable housing to date, helping provide the secure, long-dated, inflation linked cashflows to back the pensions of its policyholders over coming decades, creating considerable social value.

    Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse, said:

    The Government has set out a bold and ambitious challenge to deliver a significant number of new affordable homes over the next five years. Working together with PIC and Homes England, we can bring together our collective resources and unique experience to deliver thousands of low carbon and low energy homes which, by working alongside our local partners, meet the needs of communities across the country.” 

    Peter Denton, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: 

    Attracting institutional investment into the housing sector is critical to build the new homes the country needs. 

    This partnership supports our partners’ objective to deliver low carbon, low energy, affordable homes, bringing together the technical expertise and capability of Muse with the financial capacity of one of the UK’s largest pension fund insurers, cementing PIC as a significant force in delivering affordable housing.

    Notes to Editors

    For more information about Habiko please visit www.habiko.uk  

    About Homes England 

    Homes England is the government’s housing and regeneration agency. We believe that affordable, quality homes in well-designed places are key to improving people’s lives. We make this happen by using our powers, expertise, land, capital and influence to both – bring investment to communities and get more quality homes built. 

    https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/homes-england 

    About PIC 

    The purpose of PIC is to pay the pensions of its current and future policyholders. At half year 2024 PIC had insured 348,600 pension scheme members and had assets of £47.7 billion, accumulated through the provision of tailored pension insurance buyouts and buy-ins to the trustees and sponsors of UK defined benefit pension schemes. PIC has made pension payments of more than £15 billion to its policyholders, with a customer satisfaction rating of 99%, and has invested more than £13 billion in the UK infrastructure and housing, including in urban regeneration projects, social housing, and renewable energy, creating considerable social value. Clients include FTSE 100 companies, multinationals and the public sector. PIC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority (FRN 454345). For further information please visit www.pensioncorporation.com 

    About Muse – the nationwide placemaker 

    The nationwide placemaker, Muse, has 40 years of experience creating mixed-use communities across the UK.  

    Our track record of leading complex, mixed-use regeneration gives us the experience to deliver successful places, with the emphasis on sustainability, community and quality. We’re working with partners across the UK with more than 2000 new homes and over 600,000 sq ft of commercial space under construction over the past 12 months, with a gross development value of £877m.  

    We combine local insight with the resources and capabilities of a nationwide organisation. Our regional teams are based in Manchester, Leeds, London and Birmingham.  

    As part of Morgan Sindall Group, we have the financial strength of a leading UK construction and regeneration group with an annual revenue of £2.2bn  

    Our focus is on strong partnerships in the many places we work across the UK and our national strategic joint ventures, ECF – with Legal & General and Homes England – and Waterside Places with the Canal & River Trust.  

    We’re building a brighter future, together.  

    www.museplaces.com

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Data Storage Corporation Provides Letter to Shareholders Highlighting Recent Achievements within CloudFirst Technologies Subsidiary

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELVILLE, N.Y., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) (“DSC” and the “Company”), a provider of diverse business continuity solutions for disaster-recovery, cloud infrastructure, cyber-security, and IT automation, today provided a letter to shareholders from its CEO, Chuck Piluso.

    “To our Valued Shareholders:

    We are excited to share significant updates on the transformative progress at our wholly owned subsidiary, CloudFirst Technologies. This year we have witnessed fundamental growth, driven by our commitment to establishing CloudFirst as an industry leader in cloud hosting, disaster recovery, and cyber-security. By focusing on these high-demand areas, we are positioning the company for sustainable long-term profitability, global expansion, and heightened operational efficiency. Below, we outline key highlights, strategic initiatives, and our outlook for the future.

    Operational Highlights:

    As of June 30, 2024, CloudFirst is proud to report the following:

    • We serve over 425 companies, representing diverse industries and a growing client base.
    • For 2025, the baseline billing in annual recurring revenue baseline, given all annual services renew, is expected to reach over $20.0 million, while our typical agreement for our enterprise cloud is 36 months, underscores our robust financial trajectory and confidence in CloudFirst’s market positioning.
    • CloudFirst today has over $31.0 million in remaining contract value for our enterprise subscription cloud hosting infrastructure, disaster recovery and cyber security solutions.
    • Additionally, we are pleased to report a contract renewal rate, for over a decade, greater than 90%, highlighting the strength of our customer relationships and the ongoing satisfaction with our team and our services.

    These achievements reflect our strategic focus on cloud infrastructure, disaster recovery and cyber security services, which continue to deliver sustainable, high-margin growth.

    UK Expansion:

    In line with our growth strategy, we are pleased to announce our entry into the UK market where we expect to begin offering services in the first quarter of 2025. This expansion is key to our plan to increase CloudFirst’s global footprint.

    • We are partnering with Intel-based data centers to establish CloudFirst’s technical infrastructure across multiple data centers. These partnerships will allow us to leverage our enterprise IBM Power platform while Intel-based providers manage client referrals and billing.
    • Our expansion into the rapidly growing European market is expected to enable us to capture new demand for cloud services, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity while positioning us as a key player in the region.

    These steps mark major milestones in CloudFirst’s goal of becoming a global leader in enterprise cloud-based services and offers us the opportunity to grow our client base and increase revenue in a growing market.

    Flagship Solutions Group Integration:

    We are also reporting the successful integration of Flagship Solutions Group into CloudFirst on January 1, 2024. Acquired in 2021, Flagship has undergone a transformation over the past few years:

    • Flagship moved from a negative EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2022, to a positive result in EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2023, a testament to our ability to streamline operations and create synergies across the two organizations.
    • A key driver of this turnaround has been our efforts to consolidate technical teams under CloudFirst’s CTO, unify our monitoring systems, and integrate various platforms, thereby optimizing the efficiency of our service delivery.

    This strategic integration enhances CloudFirst’s operational efficiency and positions us to capitalize on new revenue opportunities by offering our full suite of cloud and recovery services to Flagship’s established client base.

    Conclusion:

    Looking ahead, we believe CloudFirst is well-positioned for continued success. Our expansion into the UK, the operational efficiencies we have achieved through the Flagship Solutions Group integration, and our strong financial performance are all expected to provide a solid foundation for sustained growth and shareholder value creation.

    As we continue to execute our growth strategy, we remain focused on our core mission: to provide reliable, scalable, and high-margin cloud infrastructure, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity solutions. We are committed to driving innovation, delivering excellent customer experiences, and pursuing new market opportunities.

    We sincerely thank you for your continued support and look forward to sharing more updates as we reach new milestones.

    Sincerely,

    Chuck Piluso
    CEO, Data Storage Corporation”

    About Data Storage Corporation

    Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) is a leading provider of fully managed cloud hosting, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, IT automation, and voice & data solutions. With strategic technical investments in multiple regions, DTST serves a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies, in sectors such as government, education, and healthcare. Focused on the fast-growing, multi-billion-dollar cloud hosting and business continuity market. DTST is recognized as a stable and emerging growth leader in cloud infrastructure, support and the migration of data to the cloud. Our regional data centers across North America enable us to deliver sustainable services through recurring subscription agreements.

    For more information, please visit www.dtst.com or follow us on X @DataStorageCorp.

    Safe Harbor Provision
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts, although not all forward-looking statements include the foregoing. The forward looking statements in this press release include statements such as continuing to grow revenue and increase profitability as the Company executes on its strategic initiatives, the consolidation of the CloudFirst and Flagship subsidiaries positioning the Company to optimize operations, leverage its technical teams, realize greater efficiencies, and improve internal resource allocation, while capitalizing on extensive cross-selling and upselling opportunities among its customer networks, having developed a robust business strategy that we will drive growth and secure sustainable profitability while maximizing long term value for shareholders and providing meaningful updates to shareholders as developments unfold. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and assumptions as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include the Company’s ability to execute and advance its growth strategies. These risks should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was initially made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    DTST@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: KH Group’s financial information and Annual General Meeting in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 4 November 2024 at 11:30 am EET

    KH Group’s financial information and Annual General Meeting in 2025

    KH Group Plc will publish financial reports in 2025 as follows:

    – Financial Statement Release for 2024 on Friday, 21 March 2025
    – Annual Report for 2024 on week 13
    – Business Review for January-March 2025 on Tuesday, 6 May 2025
    – Half-Year Report for January-June 2025 on Friday, 15 August 2025
    – Business Review for January-September 2025 on Friday, 31 October 2025

    All financial reports will be published in Finnish and in English approximately at 8 o’clock.

    KH Group adheres to a 30-day silent period prior to publishing of financial reports.

    Annual General Meeting

    KH Group’s Annual General Meeting is planned to be held on Tuesday, 6 May 2025. The Board of Directors will convene the Annual General meeting with an invitation to be published later.

    KH GROUP PLC

    Ville Nikulainen
    CEO

    FURTHER INFORMATION:
    CEO Ville Nikulainen, tel. +358 400 459 343

    DISTRIBUTION:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in business areas of KH-Koneet, Indoor Group and Nordic Rescue Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, furniture and interior decoration retailer as well as rescue vehicle manufacturer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nature’s role in economy

    Source: Scottish Government

    Jobs and sectors dependent on sustainable natural world.

    Scotland’s natural assets contribute more than £40 billion to the economy and support around 260,000 jobs, according to new research. 

    The Importance of Natural Capital to the Scottish Economy report highlights the vital economic contribution the natural world makes to Scotland and highlights the value of the ecosystems and the services they provide. 

    Important industries such as agriculture, fishing and aquaculture, forestry, water, food and drink and renewables all rely upon the continued availability of high-quality natural resources.

    The research investigates the economic impact of natural capital, which is defined as “the renewable and non-renewable stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water and plants and animals that combine to yield a flow of benefits to people.” 

    The Scottish Government conducted the research to provide the most up-to-date reflection of the true value of nature to the Scottish economy, as it is often undervalued or not included in economic assessments. The study demonstrates the link between the threats to Scotland’s economic performance, and the economic opportunity associated with increasing nature dependent sectors.

    The Scottish Government’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET) makes clear that working with and investing in nature is a top priority of Scotland’s wellbeing economy. 

    Speaking while visiting Blackthorn Salt in Ayrshire, which produces salt through filtering sea water, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:  

    “This research reinforces the vital role of our natural capital in supporting many of our vital industries – a connection that is often under-represented when we look at economic performance. Blackthorn Salt is an excellent example of a business that is dependent on natural capital, using sustainable, traditional methods to produce an exceptional products that provides jobs and can be found in kitchens across the country and beyond.

    “The twin crises of climate change and nature loss are inextricably linked, nature offers some of the best ways to protect us from the worst impacts of climate change, so it is essential that we work with partners across the public sector and private investors to protect biodiversity and reduce our emissions as we support sustainable businesses utilising our incredible landscapes and ecosystems.”

    NatureScot Chief Executive, Francesca Osowska said:

    “Nature is vital for our quality of life and that of future generations. In Scotland we are fortunate to have rich and varied landscapes and habitats, with individuals and businesses willing to step up to the challenge of stopping nature loss with hard work and investment.

    “NatureScot is responding to this urgent need with leadership of vital programmes such as the £250m Peatland ACTION fund, the £65m Nature Restoration Fund and the innovative new Facility for Investment Ready Nature Scotland (FIRNS) which aims to both restore nature and benefit communities. “

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: START-Ed initiative meeting | UNECE

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    WP.6 recommends Governments to encourage education establishments to introduce standardization into their curricula and particularly within universities for students studying law, economics and management.

    WP.6 established the initiative on Education on standardization (START-Ed) at its twenty-second session in November 2012. This initiative groups together experts from academia to promote good practices and to share national experience.

    START-Ed Group has elaborated a model programme on education on standardization and relevant teaching materials; a number of universities in the UNECE region already used these tools and have started teaching standardization to their students.

    During the regular meetings of the initiative there are invited guest speakers from academic institutions elaborating on their work and discussing and progressing START-Ed work items. All WP.6 START-Ed members and interested experts are welcome to join these meetings.

    Draft Agenda

    Time

    Agenda item

    Moderator/Speakers

    14:00 – 14:02

    Welcome and approval of the agenda

    WP.6 Secretariat

    Tauno Kangur

    14:02 – 14:07

    Reminder or WP.6 procedures

    WP.6 Secretariat

    14:07 – 14:37

    Invited guest speaker: Prof. Vladislav Fomin (Vilnius University) – 30 minutes (15 minutes presentation followed by discussion / QA)

    Prof. Vladislav Fomin,

    participants

    14:37 – 15:07

    Invited guest speaker: Prof. Philippe le Coustumer (Université de Bordeaux, expert AFNOR/ISO) – 30 minutes (15 minutes presentation followed by discussion / QA)

    Prof. Philippe le Coustumer, participants

    15:07 – 15:37

    Invited guest speaker: Prof. Sandra Feliciano (Porto Polytechnic) – 30 minutes (15 minutes presentation followed by discussion / QA)

    Prof. Sandra Feliciano, participants

    15:37 – 15:52

    Future activities of START-Ed

    Coordinator, Secretariat, meeting participants

    15:52 – 15:57

    Any other business

    Coordinator

    Secretariat

    15:57

    Next meeting

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business “ready to support” UK with £500m investment following Chancellor’s first budget

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    US firm confirms £500m investment in biomedical research, supporting government’s plan to attract private investment and grow the UK economy.

    • New biomedical hubs will create over 2000 new jobs and boost scientific discoveries which will save lives
    • Expansion of world-leading research laboratories in Cambridge set to inject millions of pounds into British economy every year

    A US firm has announced a £500 million investment into a UK research campus following the Chancellor’s first budget, supporting government plans to attract private investment and its industrial strategy.

    The investment from San Francisco-based developer Prologis will create thousands of jobs, spearhead lifesaving biomedical breakthroughs and generate millions of pounds for the British economy every year. It comes just two days after the Budget pledged to unleash private investment to kickstart economic growth.

    The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has welcomed the vote of confidence from business, which will expand a centre of excellence for medical research in Cambridge.

    The Prologis investment funds a 115,000 square ft expansion to Cambridge Biomedical Campus – a world-leading biomedical cluster which currently generates £4.2 billion each year for the UK economy.

    The new development will house high-tech labs, supporting clinical trials and diagnostic services. It will inject millions into the British economy every year and create over 2,120 highly-skilled jobs – in roles from research to diagnostic.

    The Cambridge Biomedical Campus is a world-leading life sciences cluster for biomedical research, healthcare, and education, which combines collaborations among academia, industry, and healthcare.

    Research conducted at Cambridge Biomedical Campus addresses the most pressing global healthcare challenges, including developing techniques for spotting cancer early and understanding dementia – while contributing significantly to the economy and currently employing over 22,000 staff, many of whom are in highly-skilled roles.

    Today’s announcement from Prologis also builds on the £63 billion worth of investments secured at government’s record breaking International Investment Summit last month – creating 38,000 jobs in the UK.

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    This investment from Prologis – just two days after this government’s first Budget – is a vote of confidence in our plan for the UK economy.

    After also attracting £63bn at the International Investment Summit, it’s clear Britain is back in business. Economic growth is my number one mission, and unleashing private investment will play a major role in kickstarting it.

    Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, said:

    There is a lot riding on this pivotal first Budget and strong support from the private sector to follow through on investment pledges will be critical. The government’s commitment to unlock Foreign Direct Investment matches our own focus on partnering with public and private stakeholders to invest and deliver the infrastructure needed for sustainable, long-term growth. 

    Steps already taken through the launch of the National Planning Policy Framework and the Green Paper for the Industrial Strategy are paving the way for a stronger, more resilient industrial base. These initiatives will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of industrial innovation and Prologis are ready to support the government’s ambitions, providing the spaces that can unlock growth and development.   

    We look forward to furthering our collaboration and investment activity, ensuring the UK continues to lead on a global stage.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle said:

    The UK’s life sciences sector is central to our ambitions for the UK – from driving economic growth through to saving and improving lives through better treatments. 

    Major investments like this from Prologis, bringing the sector’s largest global companies under one roof in Cambridge, is another vote of confidence in the UK’s approach to long-term growth.

    Coming just days after the Chancellor raised public funding for R&D to record levels, this underlines how this Government is in lockstep with business in our joint ambition to make sure everyone in the UK benefits from advances in science and technology.

    The government is delivering its growth mission by prioritising stability, investment, and reform to drive prosperity across the UK. The Budget takes the difficult decisions to put the public finances on a sustainable path to create the conditions for growth, and to create a stable economic environment for businesses to invest.

    Supported by the new fiscal framework, the Budget increases public investment by more than £100 billion over the next five years to boost growth and help crowd in private investment in the long run. This includes investing in transport, kickstarting the delivery of 1.5 million homes, supporting new industries and job creation, and protecting record R&D funding through a record £20.4 billion investment.

    The government will also work in partnership with the private sector to further increase investment. The government has created the National Wealth Fund to catalyse over £70 billion of private investment, set out plans for a modern Industrial Strategy to support investment in growth-driving sectors.

    The government has also published a Corporate Tax Roadmap to provide businesses the certainty they have called for. This confirms our commitment to cap the rate of Corporation Tax at 25% – the lowest in the G7 – for the duration of this parliament while maintaining full expensing and the £1 million Annual Investment Allowance and keeping the current rates of research and development reliefs, to drive innovation. 

    The Chancellor also set out how this government will transform the way it delivers infrastructure, including publishing a 10-year infrastructure strategy, establishing the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority, delivering ambitious planning reform. 

    At last month’s investment summit, the Prime Minister also committed to get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment and to upgrade the UK’s regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age and ensure it’s not acting as a barrier for growth.

    The Budget has set out a clear plan to fix the foundations of the economy and begin a decade of national renewal by protecting working people, fixing the NHS, and boosting investment to deliver growth and prosperity for all parts of the country.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by DSJ at Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024 (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following are the closing remarks by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Mr Cheung Kwok-kwan, at the Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024 under Hong Kong Legal Week 2024 today (November 4):Professor Ignacio Tirado (Professor Ignacio Tirado, Secretary-General of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,      It is a great honour for me to deliver the closing remarks of the Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024, a remarkable event co-organised by UNIDROIT and the Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.      I am especially delighted to see Ignacio and Anna (the Deputy Secretary-General of UNIDROIT, Professor Anna Veneziano) again in person today. It brings back my memories of my visit to UNIDROIT’s Secretariat in the beautiful city of Rome last year, where I attended an insightful conference co-organised by UNIDROIT and the Chinese Embassy in Italy. I still recall the generous hospitality extended to me by Ignacio and Anna during my visit. I sincerely hope that we have been able to reciprocate that same warmth and hospitality during your time here in Hong Kong.     Today’s Summit has been nothing short of inspiring. We have been privileged to hear insightful presentations from distinguished officials, industry players and experts from Hong Kong and overseas, including high-level officials from several renowned international organisations of UNIDROIT, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Hague Conference on Private International Law. We are also honoured to have had a senior official from Mongolia to share her insights, which have further enriched our discussions.     The quality and depth of these presentations have been commendable, addressing critical issues pertinent to the evolving landscape of international private law. The topics explored by our expert panellists are both timely and relevant not only to Hong Kong, but also to the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. I am confident that the insights shared today will contribute significantly to ongoing discussions within our legal communities and other stakeholders.      As we reflect on today’s Summit, one overarching theme has particularly stood out, that is the importance of legal certainty and predictability. In an increasingly globalised world, where cross-border transactions are growing in volume and complexity, the harmonisation and modernisation of private law are more important and essential than ever. Reducing legal uncertainties is not merely an academic or technical exercise. It directly benefits businesses by enabling them to operate with greater confidence and facilitating smooth cross-border commercial activities. Legal certainty and predictability fostered by international private law will therefore be a “springboard to opportunities” for the Asia-Pacific region, as encapsulated in the theme of today’s Summit. Panel 1: Harnessing Opportunities from Digital Assets, Tokenisation and Carbon Credits      In our first panel, we delved into the need for a consistent approach to the legal treatment of digital assets across jurisdictions.      The advent of technologies such as distributed ledgers has paved the way for cryptocurrencies and other digital assets, which are now integral to various sectors of our economy and financial markets.     In order to unlock the potential of the digital economy, a clear and certain legal framework is vital. Such clarity instils trust in technology, ensures platform resilience and protects the rights of consumers and businesses alike. In this context, the UNIDROIT Principle on Digital Assets and Private Law which provides a common framework addressing legal issues related to the holding, transfer and use of digital assets, are particularly relevant to Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific.      Today’s discussion offered much to consider about integrating international principles with local laws in each jurisdiction to achieve harmonisation and consistency. As an international financial hub, Hong Kong is committed to promoting the integration of real economy and digital economy, and fostering the development of the digital economy.Panel 2: Unleashing Economic Potential Through Secured Transaction Law Reform in the Asia-Pacific Region     The benefits and role of harmonised secured transactions law in promoting economic growth across the Asia-Pacific region was discussed in Panel 2.      Secured transactions are essential for businesses seeking access to credit and working capacity. As a leading international trading hub with a robust legal system, Hong Kong is the prime destination for Mainland and overseas enterprises establishing their international headquarters to manage offshore trading and supply chain operations. In fact, Hong Kong ranks at the top globally in terms of international trade and business legislation according to the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 by the International Management Development Institute.      Our experts in Panel 2 examined the importance of international instruments supporting secured transactions, while exploring UNIDROIT’s contribution to secured transactions law, such as the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and its various Protocols, as well as the recent adopted Model Law on Factoring. Such efforts are crucial for enhancing access to credit for businesses across the Asia-Pacific Region to unleash our economic potential. Panel 3: Gateway to International Investment and Sustainability     The experts at Panel 3 brought our attention to the need for reducing legal uncertainties surrounding international investment contracts for both states and private investors.      In this regard, the panel introduced the UNIDROIT’s ongoing international investment project, which seeks to modernise, harmonise and standardise international investment contracts by developing clear guidance to foster consistency in these vital agreements. It also addresses recent developments in international investment law, such as the increasing focus on corporate social responsibility and sustainability.      These topics are of particular relevance to Hong Kong, given its role as an important gateway between China and the global markets. Hong Kong’s unique arrangements with Mainland China enhance its appeal as a jurisdiction for international investment and arbitration. Investments from Hong Kong into Mainland China enjoy the substantive protections offered by the investment agreement under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement. Moreover, we are the first common law jurisdiction where parties involved in arbitrations seated in Hong Kong can seek interim measures from Mainland courts, such as asset preservation.     This synergy between Hong Kong’s legal infrastructure and its strategic relationship with Mainland China not only bolsters investor confidence but also further strengthens Hong Kong’s position as a leading centre for international legal and dispute resolution services within the Asia-Pacific region.Panel 4: Building Bridges by Strengthening Engagement in the Asia-Pacific Region     Finally, Panel 4 discussed building bridges to strengthen engagement and capacity building has been identified as a key to strengthening engagement in the Asia-Pacific region. This involves not only improving legal infrastructure but also developing skilled professionals capable of handling the complexities of international private law.      The Panel highlighted the significance of legal co-operation and legal talents development. Capacity building initiatives among international organisations and Asia-Pacific economies are crucial in equipping our region’s government officials, practitioners and other stakeholders with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complex international legal landscape. Amid the growing demand for legal expertise driven by increasing international trade, these initiatives foster collaboration and nurture skilled legal professionals, thereby improving access to justice regionally and beyond.      Hong Kong is deeply committed to enhancing its status as a regional hub for capacity building. With a strong pool of legal and dispute resolution professionals who possess extensive international experience, the Department of Justice has been actively involved in organising and supporting various training and development programmes across different areas of law and practice. For example, we have co-organised or supported multiple editions of the Investment Law and Investor-State Mediator Training and the China-AALCO Exchange and Research Program on International Law in Hong Kong.      As noted by our Secretary for Justice during his opening remarks, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy will be officially launched this Friday, and we warmly invite all of you to join us to witness this significant moment. Building on our strong foundation in capacity-building and our close collaboration with UNIDROIT and other international organisations, the Academy will regularly offer practical training courses, seminars and international exchange programmes aimed at promoting collaboration among legal professionals, judges and government officials throughout Asia Pacific and beyond. Already in the pipeline for the Academy is to support the organisation of the Second Edition of The Hague Academy of International Law’s Advanced Course in Hong Kong.Conclusion      Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to announce that we have successfully concluded the Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024. The success of this Summit is a testament to the collective efforts and dedication of UNIDROIT, my colleagues at the Department of Justice, and your active participation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this Summit a resounding success.      As we wrap up today’s event, we also mark the end of the first day of the Hong Kong Legal Week 2024. We warmly welcome you all to participate in the exciting events we have prepared for you throughout this week.     Thank you once again! I wish you all an enriching experience throughout the Hong Kong Legal Week 2024. For those visiting abroad, I hope you enjoy your time in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Do one thing – get on the HMRC app

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    HMRC is reminding people to download the HMRC app to access HMRC services such as Child Benefit and their National Insurance number.

    Apple and the Apple Logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play is a trademark of Google LLC.

    • Talk Money Week is an annual awareness initiative – the theme this year is “Do One Thing”
    • 1.7 million customers use the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) app every month, with 29 million sessions launched between July and September 2024 and 711,000 new users in the same period
    • HMRC has today launched a new advertising campaign promoting the app, aimed at 18-34-year-olds

    This Talk Money Week (4 – 8 November), taxpayers are being urged to “Do One Thing” and get on the HMRC app to save time and simplify managing their money and tax.

    More than 1.7 million people are already using the HMRC app every month, which enables users to access services such as making a Child Benefit claim, finding their National Insurance number and a tax calculator to estimate their take-home pay.

    Between July and September 2024, 711,382 new users downloaded the app, and there was a 39% increase in app activity compared to the same period last year – up from 20.93 million sessions to 29.22 million. And nearly £300 million has been paid to HMRC via the app so far this financial year.

    HMRC is encouraging anyone who hasn’t yet downloaded the free and secure HMRC app, one of the UK’s top-rated finance apps, to do one thing and get on it today.

    The most popular features used on the app between July and September this year were:

    • check State Pension contributions– 1.9 million sessions
    • manage Child Benefit – 1.6 million sessions
    • view annual tax summaries – 1.4 million sessions

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said:

    One of the main priorities for HMRC is improving its customer services and this incredibly useful and user-friendly app is a great example of how tax can be made much easier for people.

    Whether you’re a student looking for your National Insurance number or a new parent wanting to claim Child Benefit, the HMRC app has a range of tools for you, at your fingertips. I urge everyone to download it today.

    The HMRC app is rated 4.7/5 and 4.8/5 respectively on the Google Play and Apple Store and ranks among both of their top 10 finance apps.

    HMRC has launched a new advertising campaign today aimed at 18-34-year-olds to “get on it” with the app, showcasing how it can help them remain in control of their tax affairs and finances amidst their busy daily lives. This includes an attention-grabbing new advert streaming on multiple video on demand channels that can also be viewed on the HMRC YouTube channel.

    You’re on it – Download the HMRC app

    Further information

    Download the app from Google Play or Apple Store

    The HMRC app is bilingual and available in Welsh.

    You can use the HMRC app to:

    • check your tax code, National Insurance number, and income and employment history from the past five years
    • view and manage Child Benefit, Tax Credits, and your State Pension forecast
    • access tax details, including your Unique Taxpayer Reference and income information
    • use tools like the tax calculator to estimate take-home pay, and check for National Insurance contribution gaps
    • make payments for Self Assessment, Simple Assessment, and even set payment reminders
    • access your Help to Save account and claim refunds if you’ve overpaid tax
    • track forms and correspondence with HMRC
    • update personal information like your name and address
    • save your National Insurance number to a digital wallet and opt for electronic communications from HMRC
    • use HMRC’s digital assistant for guidance and support

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pensioner Advice Events bring comfort and financial relief to Derby residents

    Source: City of Derby

    In a heartening series of community events throughout October, we have been able to deliver life-changing support to residents facing financial hardship, bringing peace of mind and practical assistance to individuals who need it most.

    At our Pensioner Advice Event on October 4 at The Council House, a local woman left with a brighter financial outlook, gaining £73 extra each week thanks to council-led advice on available benefits. Several other attendees also found they were eligible for Pension Credit. Although some who attended the event could not apply immediately due to a lack of required documents, home visits have been scheduled with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help them complete their applications.

    The events not only put more money in people’s pockets but also brought warmth and safety into their homes. An 84-year-old gentleman, who attended an event in New Zealand on October 25, learned for the first time that he qualified for Pension Credit. This discovery was a tremendous relief for him and his wife, who had been cutting back on heating and cooking hot meals to save on costs. The couple was also gifted a heated blanket and an air fryer, ensuring they can now stay warm and enjoy warm meals without worry.

    A woman from Mackworth walked away £36 per week better off after council advisors helped her identify unclaimed entitlements. Another attendee at a local event was also delighted to receive a heated blanket and air fryer, just as winter temperatures begin to set in. Another participant reported savings of £75 per week after connecting with council representatives.

    Councillor Sarah Chambers said:

    These events are here to make a real difference for Derby residents who may be struggling or unsure of the support available to them. I strongly encourage anyone who could benefit from extra help to attend. Our team is dedicated to connecting residents with resources to improve their quality of life, especially as costs rise and winter draws in. We’re here to help every step of the way.”

    There are upcoming events happening around Derby in the coming weeks. These include:

    • Mackworth – Thursday 24 October, 10am-12 noon, St Francis Church, Prince Charles Avenue, Mackworth, DE22 4FN
    • New Zealand – Friday 25 October, 10am-12 noon, Lonny Wilsoncroft Community Centre, Stepping Lane, Derby DE1 1GL
    • Chaddesden – Friday 1st November, 10am-12 noon, Age UK Building, Chaddesden Park, Chaddesden, DE21 6LN (There is free parking in the main car park off Maine Drive, Chaddesden)
    • Sinfin – Monday 4 November, 10am-12 noon, Sinfin Moor Church, Arleston Lane, Sinfin, Derby, DE24 3DH
    • Allenton – Wednesday 4 December, 2pm-4pm, Derby South Salvation Army, 24 Chellaston Road, Derby, DE24 9AE
    • Osmaston – Monday 10 December, 10am-12 noon, Moorways Sports Village, Moor Lane, Derby, DE24 9HY

    If you want to learn more about cost of living support, visit our cost of living webpage or visit Community Action Derby’s cost of living online hub.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Horizon Europe: effective use of pre-financing – P-002367/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    31.10.2024

    Priority question for written answer  P-002367/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ivars Ijabs (Renew)

    Pre-financing is an essential part of the efficient implementation of Horizon Europe. Its objective is to ensure the financial liquidity of projects. However, it also carries some financial risk for the beneficiaries given that the costs paid with pre-financing are checked ex post, and if an error was made by the beneficiary, the Commission can reclaim part of the money. That is why pre-financing is the exception, while the rule is the reimbursement of costs at the end of a reporting period. Against this background, can the Commission provide the following information:

    • 1.How often is additional pre-financing (i.e. pre-financing after the first tranche of pre-financing paid in the first 30 days) provided?
    • 2.What are the main reasons for providing additional pre-financing?
    • 3.How does the answer to question 1 compare to the use of additional pre-financing under the Horizon 2020 programme?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 31.10.2024

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the author: Christian Ehler (PPE), Ondřej Krutílek (ECR)
    Last updated: 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Public procurement contracts in the EU – E-002196/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    21.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002196/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN), Marc Jongen (ESN)

    The EU requires that public invitations to tender comply with certain standards and transparency requirements, such as respect for equal opportunities, transparency, fair conditions of competition, minimum economic and financial requirements for bidders, as well as compliance with the ban on discrimination.

    • 1.Are these requirements implemented in a consistent and uniform manner in all Member States?
    • 2.Is there any evidence of any shortcomings in the implementation of such requirements, especially in countries that may have a less developed administrative tradition than, for example, Germany?
    • 3.If so, what measures is the Commission taking to ensure compliance with these requirements across the EU?

    Submitted: 21.10.2024

    Last updated: 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: New EIB-CDP agreement to provide €1 billion in support for public sector

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • A €500 million EIB guarantee will enable Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to provide new loans totalling €1 billion to public sector bodies.
    • The two institutions further strengthen their partnership aimed at boosting the Italian economy via initiatives with positive environmental impact implemented by public sector organisations, particularly in central and southern Italy.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) have announced an agreement to strengthen their cooperation to promote public sector investment in key sectors of the Italian economy. Up to €1 billion in new funds will support sustainable regional growth and public sector investment in various sectors with a positive impact on environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and development in the south of the country.

    In concrete terms, the EIB will guarantee loans totalling up to €500 million granted by CDP to Italian regions, making it possible for Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to provide public sector bodies with loans up to double this amount (totalling up to €1 billion) over the next five years.

    The new funds will help foster economic development in central and southern Italy – including in the areas hit by the 2016 central Italian earthquake – and will support projects aiming to mitigate climate change, improve resilience to adverse weather events and promote social cohesion.

    This new agreement strengthens the already sound working relationship between the EIB and CDP to support the public sector. This is the second guarantee agreement between the EIB and CDP following that signed in 2022. The previous agreement aimed to promote economic growth and accelerate the green transition of public sector bodies on the ground.

    Background information

    European Investment Bank (EIB)

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It finances sound investments that can contribute to EU policy. EIB projects strengthen competitiveness, foster innovation, promote sustainable development and improve social and territorial cohesion while supporting a fair and rapid transition towards climate neutrality. In the past five years, the EIB Group has provided more than €58 billion in financing for projects in Italy.

    Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP)

    Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) is the national promotional institution that has supported the Italian economy since 1850. It is committed to accelerating the industrial and infrastructure development of the country in order to contribute to its economic and social growth. CDP’s core activity promotes sustainable regional development as well as the growth and innovation of Italian companies, including internationally. It partners with local authorities, providing funding and advisory services to build infrastructure and improve public utility services. It is also active in the field of international cooperation to implement projects in developing countries and emerging markets. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is financed from entirely private resources via postal savings bonds and passbooks and through issues on the national and international financial markets.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Gran Tierra Energy Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results and Announces its Sixth Consecutive Ecuador Oil Discovery from the Charapa-B7 Well

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Gran Tierra Announces its Sixth Consecutive Ecuador Oil Discovery from the Charapa-B7 Well and Has Achieved Cumulative Production of Over 1 Million Barrels of Oil in Ecuador
    • Gran Tierra Achieved $1 Million in Net Income and Generated $60 Million in Funds Flow from Operations(2), an Increase of 31% from Prior Quarter
    • Third Quarter 2024 Total Average WI Production of 32,764 BOPD
    • Operating Netback of $101 Million and Adjusted EBITDA of $93 Million(1)(4)
    • Exited the Quarter with $278 Million in Cash
    • Entered into new credit facility for further liquidity which is currently undrawn

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra” or the “Company”) (NYSE American:GTE) (TSX:GTE) (LSE:GTE) announced the Company’s financial and operating results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 (“the Quarter”). All dollar amounts are in United States dollars, and production amounts are on an average working interest (“WI”) before royalties basis unless otherwise indicated. Per barrel (“bbl”) and bbl per day (“BOPD”) amounts are based on WI sales before royalties. For per bbl amounts based on net after royalty (“NAR”) production, see Gran Tierra’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 4, 2024.

    Message to Shareholders

    “On October 31, 2024 we were excited to have announced the close of our acquisition of i3 Energy plc (“i3 Energy”). We believe the purchase of i3 Energy uniquely positions Gran Tierra as a premier diversified oil and gas company with assets in Canada, Colombia, and Ecuador. The i3 Energy acquisition has diversified Gran Tierra into Canada and has added 253 net booked drilling locations(1), 77% operated production totaling approximately 18,000 bbls of oil equivalent per day, almost 1.2 million acres (0.6 million acres net) including 53 gross sections in the Montney and 144 gross sections in the Clearwater, two of the most prolific plays in North America. The i3 Energy acquisition has increased Gran Tierra’s PDP reserves(1) by 42 million bbls of oil equivalent (“MMBOE”) or 96%, 1P(1) by 88 MMBOE an increase of 97%, and 2P(1) by 174 MMBOE an increase of 119%. We believe the currently depressed natural gas pricing we see in Western Canada will be alleviated as major Liquified Natural Gas projects including LNG Canada are brought online. In the short term, Gran Tierra will focus on developing the significant oil weighted assets in its Canadian and South American portfolio.

    We would like to take this opportunity to welcome our new shareholders in Gran Tierra and look forward to engaging with, and updating them on the Company’s strategy in the coming months. We look forward to the integration of our teams and are confident the combined company will have top tier technical and operational skill sets across a broad portfolio. We are eager to implement industry leading technology currently used in Canada in both our Ecuador and Colombia operations, and are equally looking forward to bringing our reservoir modeling, exploration knowledge and asset management expertise into Canada. Combined we are a much stronger company.

    Additionally, having our six consecutive discovery in Ecuador and reaching the milestone of 1 million cumulative bbls of oil produced from our operations in Ecuador is a significant achievement for Gran Tierra, highlighting our strong presence and success in the region. The productivity of the Ecuador wells is a testament to the geology in the Oriente and Putumayo Basins, and underpins a key pillar of growth going forward. We remain excited about the potential of the Arawana-Bocachico play, and the two remaining Zabaleta wells to be drilled by the end of the year that will provide essential insights into the size and scope of this promising opportunity”, commented Gary Guidry, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gran Tierra.

    Operational Update:

    • Acquisition of i3 Energy
      • On October 31, 2024, Gran Tierra completed its acquisition of i3 Energy. Gran Tierra is integrating the Canadian operations and are forecasting an active Q4 2024, including drilling 19 gross wells (8.4 net), targeting each of its core operating areas in Central AB, Simonette, Clearwater and Wapiti.
      • The Company drilled 2 gross (2 net) horizontal Dunvegan oil wells at Simonette. These high-impact 2-mile wells are currently being stimulated and are expected to be brought on stream in late November. With success, Gran Tierra can drill 2 additional Dunvegan development wells in 2025.
      • Clearwater activity commenced in mid-October with the Company’s first operated Clearwater multilateral well at Dawson (100% working interest). The 8-leg multilateral horizontal well (11,870 m of total lateral length) was a follow-up to the Company’s initial 6-leg (7,500 m of total lateral length) discovery at Dawson. The 8-leg well follow-up multilateral was located structurally up-dip of the discovery well and encountered high quality reservoir throughout while drilling. The well will be placed on production imminently as the rig has skidded to and spud the third Clearwater well from the same pad. The Company has been working to secure multiple pad sites at East Dawson to facilitate future expansion of the field, upon further operational success. Following these two wells the rig will move to Walrus and drill 2 prospective Falher sands.
      • In addition to the operated capital program, Gran Tierra plans to participate in 10 gross (1.67 net) non-operated partner horizontal wells across its land base.
      • In connection with i3 Energy acquisition closing on October 31, 2024, the Company amended and restated the existing revolving credit facility agreement of i3 Energy Canada Ltd. (“i3 Energy Canada”) with National Bank of Canada dated March 22, 2024. As a result of the amendment and restatement, among other things, the borrowing base was revised to C$100.0 million (US$74.1 million) with available commitment of a C$50.0 million (US$37.0 million) revolving credit facility comprised of C$35.0 million (US$25.9 million) syndicated facility and C$15.0 million (US$11.1 million) of operating facility. Subject to the next borrowing base redetermination which will occur on or before June 30, 2025, the revolving credit facility is available until October 31, 2025 with a repayment date of October 31, 2026, which may be extended by further periods of up to 364 days, subject to lender approval. The facility is undrawn.
    • Exploration
      • Gran Tierra has successfully drilled its sixth consecutive oil discovery in Ecuador, the Charapa-B7 well. The wells drilled in Ecuador continue to yield strong results producing over 1 million cumulative bbls of oil to date which highlights the exceptional potential of the Oriente and Putumayo basins.
    Well Zone Onstream
    Date
    IP30
    (BOPD)
    1
    IP90
    (BOPD)
    2
    IP30
    BS&W
    3
    API GOR
    (scf/stb)
    4
    Cumulative
    Production to
    Date (Mbbl)
    5
    Charapa-B5 Hollin 11/9/2022 1,092 910 2% 28 160 307
    Bocachico-J1 Basal Tena 5/30/2023 1,296 1,146 <1% 20 204 449
    Arawana-J1 Basal Tena 5/17/2024 1,182 970 <1% 20 264 131
    Bocachico Norte-J1 T-Sand 8/1/2024 833 519 3% 35 361 47
    Charapa-B6 Hollin 8/7/2024 1,645 21% 28 49 77
    Charapa-B7 Basal Tena 8/30/2024 2,043 <1% 25 153 112

        1. Average initial 30-day production per well.
        2. Average initial 90-day production per well.
        3. Percentage of basic sediment and water in the initial 30-day production.
        4. Gas-oil ratio and standard cubic feet per stock tank barrel.
        5. Thousand bbls of oil and based on production up to November 1, 2024.

    • The drilling rig has been moved from the Charapa Block and mobilized to the Chanangue Block to drill two wells – the Zabaleta-K1 and Zabaleta Oeste-K1 exploration wells. The Zabaleta-K1 well is located four kilometers (“km”) to the east of the Arawana-J1 well drilled earlier this year and is 200 feet up structure. The well spud on October 22 2024, and we have currently drilled to 9,488 feet. Both wells will target the Basal Tena formation as well as assess potential in the T-Sand, U-Sand and B-Limestone.
    • During the Quarter, the 238 km2 3D seismic program of the Charapa Block was completed, the data has been processed and is currently being interpreted. Preliminary interpretations of the high-quality 3D data confirm potential prospectivity and additional areas of interest identified on seismic, including better definition over the Charapa structure. The 3D data will further delineate reserves, underpin future drilling locations scheduled for 2025 and support future development planning.
    • Development
      • The planning, civil works, and facility construction at Cohembi in the Suroriente Block are progressing, paving the way for drilling operations to commence in late Q4 2024.
      • Acordionero water treatment facilities expansion is expected to be completed mid-December which will result in an addition of 21,500 bbls of water handling per day which represents a 35% increase in water treatment capacity. This will allow for further well optimizations to increase injection and associated oil production. Gran Tierra continues to steadily increased total fluid production and water injection by ~18% per year to continue growing and maintaining oil production while improving sweep efficiencies and recoveries.

    Key Highlights of the Quarter:

    • Production: Gran Tierra’s total average WI production, which is before the i3 acquisition that has an effective date of October 31, 2024, was 32,764 BOPD, which was consistent with the second quarter 2024 (“the Prior Quarter”). During the Quarter the Company had lower volumes in the Acordionero field caused by downtime related to workovers, partially offset by higher production in the Costayaco field in Colombia, and increased production from the Chanangue and Charapa Blocks in Ecuador as a result of a successful exploration drilling campaign.
    • Net Income: Gran Tierra incurred net income of $1 million, compared to a net income of $36.4 million in the Prior Quarter and a net income of $7 million in the third quarter of 2023.
    • Adjusted EBITDA(2): Adjusted EBITDA(2) was $93 million compared to $103 million in the Prior Quarter and $119 million in the third quarter of 2023. Twelve month trailing Net Debt(2) to Adjusted EBITDA(2) was 1.3 times and the Company continues to have a long term target of 1.0 times.
    • Funds Flow from Operations(2): Funds flow from operations(2) was $60 million ($1.96 per share), up 31% from the Prior Quarter and down 24% from the third quarter of 2023.
    • Cash and Debt: As of September 30, 2024, the Company had a cash balance of $278 million, total debt of $787 million and net debt(2) of $509 million. During the Quarter, the Company issued additional $150 million of 9.50% Senior Notes due October 2029 and received cash proceeds of $140 million. Of the total amount of proceeds received, $100 million has been used for financing the purchase price and transaction costs related to the i3 Energy acquisition with the remainder to be used for general corporate purposes.
    • Share Buybacks: As a result of the i3 Energy acquisition announced on August 19, 2024, Gran Tierra was required to pause its share buyback program resulting in only 371,130 shares repurchased during the Quarter. From January 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024, the Company repurchased approximately 4.0 million shares, or 12% of shares issued and outstanding at January 1, 2023, from free cash flow(2).
    • Return on Average Capital Employed(2): The Company achieved return on average capital employed(2) of 17% during the Quarter and 16% over the trailing 12 months.

    Additional Key Financial Metrics:

    • Capital Expenditures: Capital expenditures of $53 million were lower than the $61 million in the Prior Quarter due to only operating one drilling rig during the Quarter compared to two in the Prior Quarter. Capital expenditures were up from $43 million compared to the third quarter of 2023 as a result of a more active exploration program in the Quarter when compared to the third quarter of 2023.
    • Oil Sales: Gran Tierra generated oil sales of $151 million, down 16% from the third quarter of 2023 as a result of weaker Brent pricing, higher Castilla, Vasconia and Oriente oil differentials and 4% lower sales volumes as a result of lower production. Oil sales decreased 9% from the Prior Quarter primarily due to a 7% decrease in Brent price and higher Castilla, Oriente, and Vasconia oil differentials offset by 1% higher sales volumes.
    • Quality and Transportation Discounts: The Company’s quality and transportation discounts per bbl were higher during the Quarter at $14.10, compared to $12.79 in the Prior Quarter and $11.83 in the third quarter of 2023. The Castilla oil differential per bbl widened to $8.83 from $8.21 in the Prior Quarter and from $6.64 in the third quarter of 2023 (Castilla is the benchmark for the Company’s Middle Magdalena Valley Basin oil production). The Vasconia differential per bbl widened to $5.07 from $4.00 in the Prior Quarter, and from $3.59 in the third quarter of 2023. Finally, the Ecuadorian benchmark, Oriente, per bbl was $9.15, up from $8.38 in the Prior Quarter, and up from $7.69 one year ago. The current(3) Castilla differential is approximately $8.50 per bbl, the Vasconia differential is approximately $5.00 per bbl and the Oriente differential is approximately $9.20 per bbl.
    • Operating Expenses: Gran Tierra’s operating expenses decreased by 2% to $46 million, compared to the Prior Quarter primarily due to lower workover costs, offset by higher lifting costs primarily associated with inventory fluctuations in Ecuador. Compared to the third quarter of 2023, operating expenses decreased by 7% from $49 million, primarily due to lower lifting costs associated with power generation, equipment rental and road maintenance, partially offset by higher workover activities. On a per bbl basis, operating expense decreased by 2% when compared to the third quarter of 2023 and decreased by 4% when compared to the Prior Quarter.
    • Transportation Expenses: The Company’s transportation expenses decreased by 31% to $4 million, compared to the Prior Quarter of $6 million and increased by 2% from the third quarter of 2023. Transportation expenses were higher than the same period in 2023 as a result of increases in trucking tariffs for Acordionero volumes and higher sales volumes transported in Ecuador during the Quarter. Transportation expenses, when compared to the Prior Quarter, were lower due to the utilization of shorter distance delivery points in the Quarter.
    • Operating Netback(2)(4): The Company’s operating netback(2)(4) was $34.18 per bbl, down 12% from the Prior Quarter and down 16% from the third quarter of 2023 commensurate with the decrease in Brent Price and higher differentials.
    • General and Administrative (“G&A”) Expenses: G&A expenses before stock-based compensation were $3.20 per bbl, down from $3.77 per bbl in the Prior Quarter due to lower consulting, business development and travel expenses and up from $2.68 per bbl, when compared to the third quarter of 2023.
    • Cash Netback(2): Cash netback(2) per bbl was $20.34, compared to $15.85 in the Prior Quarter primarily as a result of lower current tax expenses of $5.13 per bbl compared to a current tax expense of $14.54 per bbl in the Prior Quarter as a result of a one time tax adjustment incurred in the Prior Quarter. Compared to one year ago, cash netback(2) per bbl decreased by $5.14 from $25.48 per bbl as a result of lower operating netback primarily due to lower Brent pricing and higher differentials.

    Financial and Operational Highlights (all amounts in $000s, except per share and bbl amounts)

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,
      Three
    Months
    Ended
    June 30,
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
      2024 2023   2024   2024 2023
                   
    Net Income (Loss) $1,133 $6,527   $36,371   $37,426 $(13,998)
    Per Share – Basic and Diluted(5) $0.04 $0.20   $1.16   $1.20 $(0.42)
                   
    Oil Sales $151,373 $179,921   $165,609   $474,559 $482,013
    Operating Expenses (46,060) (49,367)   (47,035)   (141,561) (139,227)
    Transportation Expenses (3,911) (3,842)   (5,690)   (14,185) (10,599)
    Operating Netback(2)(4) $101,402 $126,712   $112,884   $318,813 $332,187
                   
    G&A Expenses Before Stock-Based Compensation $9,491 $8,307   $10,967   $31,240 $29,052
    G&A Stock-Based Compensation (Recovery) Expense (3,145) 1,931   6,160   6,376 3,748
    G&A Expenses, Including Stock Based Compensation $6,346 $10,238   $17,127   $37,616 $32,800
                   
    Adjusted EBITDA(2) $92,794 $119,235   $103,004   $290,590 $306,391
                   
    EBITDA(2) $97,365 $115,382   $101,187   $290,443 $294,391
                   
    Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $78,654 $70,381   $73,233   $212,714 $157,511
                   
    Funds Flow from Operations(2) $60,338 $79,000   $46,167   $180,812 $192,122
                   
    Capital Expenditures $52,921 $43,080   $61,273   $169,525 $179,707
                   
    Free Cash Flow(2) $7,417 $35,920   $(15,106)   $11,287 $12,415
                   
    Average Daily Volumes (BOPD)              
    WI Production Before Royalties 32,764 33,940   32,776   32,595 33,098
    Royalties (6,776) (7,164)   (6,774)   (6,650) (6,592)
    Production NAR 25,988 26,776   26,002   25,945 26,506
    (Increase) Decrease in Inventory (524) (380)   (811)   (367) (222)
    Sales 25,464 26,396   25,191   25,578 26,284
    Royalties, % of WI Production Before Royalties 21% 21%   21%   20% 20%
                   
    Per bbl              
    Brent $78.71 $85.92   $85.03   $81.82 $81.94
    Quality and Transportation Discount (14.10) (11.83)   (12.79)   (14.11) (14.76)
    Royalties (13.58) (16.06)   (15.31)   (13.97) (13.58)
    Average Realized Price 51.03 58.03   56.93   53.74 53.60
    Transportation Expenses (1.32) (1.24)   (1.96)   (1.61) (1.18)
    Average Realized Price Net of Transportation Expenses 49.71 56.79   54.97   52.13 52.42
    Operating Expenses (15.53) (15.92)   (16.17)   (16.03) (15.48)
    Operating Netback(2)(4) 34.18 40.87   38.80   36.10 36.94
    G&A Expenses Before Stock-Based Compensation (3.20) (2.68)   (3.77)   (3.54) (3.23)
    Transaction Costs (0.49)     (0.17)
    Realized Foreign Exchange Gain (Loss) 0.34 (0.64)   0.37   0.07 (1.77)
    Interest Expense, Excluding Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs (5.66) (3.84)   (5.38)   (5.38) (3.85)
    Interest Income 0.23 0.09   0.35   0.27 0.19
    Net Lease Payments 0.07 0.18   0.02   0.07 0.17
    Current Income Tax Expense (5.13) (8.50)   (14.54)   (6.96) (7.08)
    Cash Netback(2) $20.34 $25.48   $15.85   $20.46 $21.37
                   
    Share Information (000s)              
    Common Stock Outstanding, End of Period(5) 30,651 33,288   31,022   30,651 33,288
    Weighted Average Number of Shares of Common Stock Outstanding – Basic(5) 30,733 33,287   31,282   31,274 33,675
    Weighted Average Number of Shares of Common Stock Outstanding – Diluted(5) 30,733 33,350   31,282   31,274 33,675

    (1) Based on the i3 Energy GLJ Report report dated July 31, 2024. See “Presentation of Oil and Gas Information”.
    (2) Funds flow from operations, operating netback, net debt, cash netback, return on average capital employed, earnings before interest, taxes and depletion, depreciation and accretion (“DD&A”) (EBITDA) and EBITDA adjusted for non-cash lease expense, lease payments, foreign exchange gains or losses, stock-based compensation expense, other gains or losses, transaction costs and financial instruments gains or losses (“Adjusted EBITDA”), cash flow and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures and do not have standardized meanings under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Cash flow refers to funds flow from operations. Free cash flow refers to funds flow from operations less capital expenditures. Refer to “Non-GAAP Measures” in this press release for descriptions of these non-GAAP measures and, where applicable, reconciliations to the most directly comparable measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.
    (3) Gran Tierra’s fourth quarter-to-date 2024 total average differentials are for the period from October 1 to October 31, 2024.
    (4) Operating netback as presented is defined as oil sales less operating and transportation expenses. See the table titled Financial and Operational Highlights above for the components of consolidated operating netback and corresponding reconciliation.
    (5) Reflects our 1-for-10 reverse stock split that became effective May 5, 2023 and not inclusive of shares of common stock issued in connection with the i3 Energy acquisition on October 31, 2024.


    Conference Call Information:

    Gran Tierra will host its third quarter 2024 results conference call on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Interested parties may access the conference call by registering at the following link: https://https://register.vevent.com/register/BIc9cc718f582741cbbf0eb2cfe5a231b1. The call will also be available via webcast at www.grantierra.com.

    Corporate Presentation:

    Gran Tierra’s Corporate Presentation has been updated and is available on the Company website at www.grantierra.com.

    Contact Information

    For investor and media inquiries please contact:

    Gary Guidry
    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ryan Ellson
    Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    +1-403-265-3221

    info@grantierra.com

    About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.
    Gran Tierra Energy Inc. together with its subsidiaries is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. The Company is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional new growth opportunities that would further strengthen the Company’s portfolio. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Except to the extent expressly stated otherwise, information on the Company’s website or accessible from our website or any other website is not incorporated by reference into and should not be considered part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

    Gran Tierra’s Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

    Forward Looking Statements and Legal Advisories:
    This press release contains opinions, forecasts, projections, and other statements about future events or results that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States 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, and financial outlook and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our business strategy, plans and objectives of our management for future operations, capital spending plans and benefits of the changes in our capital program or expenditures, our liquidity and financial condition, and those statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “expect,” “plan,” “can,” “will,” “should,” “guidance,” “forecast,” “budget,” “estimate,” “signal,” “progress” and “believes,” derivations thereof and similar terms identify forward-looking statements. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this press release contains forward-looking statements regarding: the Company’s leverage ratio target, the Company’s plans regarding strategic investments, acquisitions, including the anticipated benefits and operating synergies expected from the acquisition of i3 Energy, and growth, the Company’s drilling program and capital expenditures and the Company’s expectations of commodity prices, including future gas pricing in Canada, exploration and production trends and its positioning for 2024. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect several material factors and expectations and assumptions of Gran Tierra including, without limitation, that Gran Tierra will continue to conduct its operations in a manner consistent with its current expectations, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates), the ability of Gran Tierra to successfully integrate the assets and operations of i3 Energy or realize the anticipated benefits and operating synergies expected from the acquisition of i3 Energy, the general continuance of assumed operational, regulatory and industry conditions in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador, and the ability of Gran Tierra to execute its business and operational plans in the manner currently planned.

    Among the important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to: certain of our operations are located in South America and unexpected problems can arise due to guerilla activity, strikes, local blockades or protests; technical difficulties and operational difficulties may arise which impact the production, transport or sale of our products; other disruptions to local operations; global health events; global and regional changes in the demand, supply, prices, differentials or other market conditions affecting oil and gas, including inflation and changes resulting from a global health crisis, geopolitical events, including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza region, or from the imposition or lifting of crude oil production quotas or other actions that might be imposed by OPEC and other producing countries and the resulting company or third-party actions in response to such changes; changes in commodity prices, including volatility or a prolonged decline in these prices relative to historical or future expected levels; the risk that current global economic and credit conditions may impact oil prices and oil consumption more than we currently predict. which could cause further modification of our strategy and capital spending program; prices and markets for oil and natural gas are unpredictable and volatile; the effect of hedges; the accuracy of productive capacity of any particular field; geographic, political and weather conditions can impact the production, transport or sale of our products; our ability to execute our business plan, which may include acquisitions, and realize expected benefits from current or future initiatives; the risk that unexpected delays and difficulties in developing currently owned properties may occur; the ability to replace reserves and production and develop and manage reserves on an economically viable basis; the accuracy of testing and production results and seismic data, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates); the risk profile of planned exploration activities; the effects of drilling down-dip; the effects of waterflood and multi-stage fracture stimulation operations; the extent and effect of delivery disruptions, equipment performance and costs; actions by third parties; the timely receipt of regulatory or other required approvals for our operating activities; the failure of exploratory drilling to result in commercial wells; unexpected delays due to the limited availability of drilling equipment and personnel; volatility or declines in the trading price of our common stock or bonds; the risk that we do not receive the anticipated benefits of government programs, including government tax refunds; our ability to access debt or equity capital markets from time to time to raise additional capital, increase liquidity, fund acquisitions or refinance debt; our ability to comply with financial covenants in our indentures and make borrowings under any future credit agreement; and the risk factors detailed from time to time in Gran Tierra’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, under the caption “Risk Factors” in Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed February 20, 2024 and its other filings with the SEC. These filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain assumptions made by Gran Tierra based on management’s experience and other factors believed to be appropriate. Gran Tierra believes these assumptions to be reasonable at this time, but the forward-looking statements are subject to risk and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Gran Tierra’s control, which may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied or expressed by the forward looking statements. The risk that the assumptions on which the 2024 outlook are based prove incorrect may increase the later the period to which the outlook relates. All forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the fact that this press release remains available does not constitute a representation by Gran Tierra that Gran Tierra believes these forward-looking statements continue to be true as of any subsequent date. Actual results may vary materially from the expected results expressed in forward-looking statements. Gran Tierra disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. In addition, historical, current and forward-looking sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future.

    Following Gran Tierra’s acquisition of i3 Energy, investors should not rely on Gran Tierra’s previously issued financial and production guidance for 2024, which is no longer applicable on a combined company basis.

    Non-GAAP Measures

    This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures as further described herein. These non-GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to net income or loss, cash flow from operating activities or other measures of financial performance as determined in accordance with GAAP. Gran Tierra’s method of calculating these measures may differ from other companies and, accordingly, they may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Each non-GAAP financial measure is presented along with the corresponding GAAP measure so as to not imply that more emphasis should be placed on the non-GAAP measure.

    Operating netback, as presented, is defined as oil sales less operating and transportation expenses. See the table entitled Financial and Operational Highlights above for the components of consolidated operating netback and corresponding reconciliation.

    Return on average capital employed as presented is defined as earnings before interest and taxes (“EBIT”; annualized, if the period is other than one year) divided by average capital employed (total assets minus cash and current liabilities; average of the opening and closing balances for the period).

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,
      Twelve Month Trailing
    September 30,
      As at September 30,
    Return on Average Capital Employed – (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)     2024       2024       2024  
    Net Income   $ 1,133     $ 45,137      
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to EBIT:            
    Interest Expense     19,892       74,503      
    Income Tax Expense     20,767       34,589      
    EBIT   $ 41,792     $ 154,229      
                 
    Total Assets           $ 1,533,378  
    Less Current Liabilities             263,492  
    Less Cash and Cash Equivalents             277,645  
    Capital Employed           $ 992,241  
                 
    Annualized EBIT*   $ 167,168          
    Divided by Average Capital Employed     992,241       992,241      
    Return on Average Capital Employed     17 %     16 %    

    *Annualized EBIT was calculated for the three months ended September 30, 2024, by multiplying the quarter-to-date EBIT by 4.

    Cash netback as presented is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense or recovery, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gain or loss and other gain or loss. Management believes that operating netback and cash netback are useful supplemental measures for investors to analyze financial performance and provide an indication of the results generated by Gran Tierra’s principal business activities prior to the consideration of other income and expenses. A reconciliation from net income or loss to cash netback is as follows:

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,
      Three
    Months
    Ended
    June 30,
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    Cash Netback – (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)   2024     2023       2024       2024     2023  
    Net Income (Loss) $ 1,133   $ 6,527     $ 36,371     $ 37,426   $ (13,998 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash netback              
    DD&A expenses   55,573     55,019       55,490       167,213     163,424  
    Deferred tax expense (recovery)   5,550     13,990       (51,361 )     (32,332 )   43,242  
    Stock-based compensation (recovery) expense   (3,145 )   1,931       6,160       6,376     3,748  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs   3,109     1,594       2,760       9,175     3,394  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,370     1,235       1,381       4,164     3,488  
    Lease payments   (1,171 )   (676 )     (1,311 )     (3,540 )   (1,918 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain   (2,081 )   (266 )     (3,323 )     (7,670 )   (7,814 )
    Other gain       (354 )               (1,444 )
    Cash netback $ 60,338   $ 79,000     $ 46,167     $ 180,812   $ 192,122  

    EBITDA, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, interest expense and income tax expense or recovery. Adjusted EBITDA, as presented, is defined as EBITDA adjusted for non-cash lease expense, lease payments, foreign exchange gain or loss, stock-based compensation expense, transaction costs and other gain or loss. Management uses this supplemental measure to analyze performance and income generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income, and believes that this financial measure is useful supplemental information for investors to analyze our performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,
      Three
    Months
    Ended
    June 30,
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    EBITDA – (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)   2024     2023       2024       2024     2023  
    Net Income (Loss) $ 1,133   $ 6,527     $ 36,371     $ 37,426   $ (13,998 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA              
    DD&A expenses   55,573     55,019       55,490       167,213     163,424  
    Interest expense   19,892     13,503       18,398       56,714     38,017  
    Income tax expense (recovery)   20,767     40,333       (9,072 )     29,090     106,948  
    EBITDA $ 97,365   $ 115,382     $ 101,187     $ 290,443   $ 294,391  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,370     1,235       1,381       4,164     3,488  
    Lease payments   (1,171 )   (676 )     (1,311 )     (3,540 )   (1,918 )
    Foreign exchange (gain) loss   (3,084 )   1,717       (4,413 )     (8,312 )   8,126  
    Stock-based compensation expense   (3,145 )   1,931       6,160       6,376     3,748  
    Transaction costs   1,459                 1,459      
    Other loss (gain)       (354 )               (1,444 )
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 92,794   $ 119,235     $ 103,004     $ 290,590   $ 306,391  

    Funds flow from operations, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gain, and other gain or loss. Management uses this financial measure to analyze performance and income or loss generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income or loss, and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. Free cash flow, as presented, is defined as funds flow from operations adjusted for capital expenditures. Management uses this financial measure to analyze cash flow generated by our principal business activities after capital requirements and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss to both funds flow from operations and free cash flow is as follows:

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,
      Three
    Months
    Ended
    June 30,
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    Funds Flow From Operations –
    (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)
      2024     2023       2024       2024     2023  
    Net Income (Loss) $ 1,133   $ 6,527     $ 36,371     $ 37,426   $ (13,998 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to funds flow from operations              
    DD&A expenses   55,573     55,019       55,490       167,213     163,424  
    Deferred tax expense (recovery)   5,550     13,990       (51,361 )     (32,332 )   43,242  
    Stock-based compensation (recovery) expense   (3,145 )   1,931       6,160       6,376     3,748  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs   3,109     1,594       2,760       9,175     3,394  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,370     1,235       1,381       4,164     3,488  
    Lease payments   (1,171 )   (676 )     (1,311 )     (3,540 )   (1,918 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain   (2,081 )   (266 )     (3,323 )     (7,670 )   (7,814 )
    Other loss (gain)       (354 )               (1,444 )
    Funds flow from operations $ 60,338   $ 79,000     $ 46,167     $ 180,812   $ 192,122  
    Capital expenditures $ 52,921   $ 43,080     $ 61,273     $ 169,525   $ 179,707  
    Free cash flow $ 7,417   $ 35,920     $ (15,106 )   $ 11,287   $ 12,415  

    Net debt as of September 30, 2024, was $509 million, calculated using the sum of the aggregate principal amount of 6.25% Senior Notes, 7.75% Senior Notes, and 9.50% Senior Notes outstanding, excluding deferred financing fees, totaling $787 million, less cash and cash equivalents of $278 million.

    Presentation of Oil and Gas Information

    All reserves value and ancillary information contained in this press release regarding Gran Tierra (not including reserves value and ancillary information regarding i3 Energy) have been prepared by the Company’s independent qualified reserves evaluator McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd. (“McDaniel”) in a report with an effective date of December 31, 2023 (the “Gran Tierra McDaniel Reserves Report”) and calculated in compliance with Canadian National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“NI 51-101”) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (“COGEH”), unless otherwise expressly stated. All reserves value and ancillary information contained in this press release regarding i3 Energy have been prepared by i3 Energy’s independent qualified reserves evaluator GLJ Ltd. (“GLJ”) in a fair market value report with an effective date of July 31, 2024 (the “i3 Energy GLJ Report”) and calculated in compliance with NI 51-101 and COGEH, unless otherwise expressly stated.

    Barrel of oil equivalents (“boe”) have been converted on the basis of six thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) natural gas to 1 bbl of oil. Boe’s may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In addition, given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared with natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalent of six to one, utilizing a boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 bbl would be misleading as an indication of value.

    The following reserves categories are discussed in this press release: Proved (“1P”), 1P plus Probable (“2P”) and 2P plus Possible (“3P”) and Proved Developed Producing (“PDP”). Proved reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves. Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves. Possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves. There is a 10% probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the sum of proved plus probable plus possible reserves. Proved developed producing reserves are those proved reserves that are expected to be recovered from completion intervals open at the time of the estimate. These reserves may be currently producing or, if shut-in, they must have previously been on production, and the date of resumption of production must be known with reasonable certainty. Certain terms used in this press release but not defined are defined in NI 51-101, CSA Staff Notice 51-324 – Revised Glossary to NI 51-101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“CSA Staff Notice 51-324”) and/or the COGEH and, unless the context otherwise requires, shall have the same meanings herein as in NI 51-101, CSA Staff Notice 51-324 and the COGEH, as the case may be.

    Estimates of reserves for individual properties may not reflect the same level of confidence as estimates of reserves for all properties, due to the effect of aggregation. There is no assurance that the forecast price and cost assumptions applied by McDaniel or GLJ in evaluating Gran Tierra’s or i3 Energy’s reserves, respectively, will be attained and variances could be material. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of crude oil and natural gas reserves. The reserves information set forth in the Gran Tierra McDaniel Reserves Report and the i3 Energy GLJ Report are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves will be recovered. Actual reserves may be greater than or less than the estimates provided therein. All reserves assigned in the Gran Tierra McDaniel Reserves Report are located in Colombia and Ecuador and presented on a consolidated basis by foreign geographic area.

    Booked drilling locations of i3 Energy disclosed herein are derived from the i3 Energy GLJ Report and account for drilling locations that have associated 2P reserves.

    References to a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume. Gran Tierra’s reported production is a mix of light crude oil and medium and heavy crude oil for which there is not a precise breakdown since the Company’s oil sales volumes typically represent blends of more than one type of crude oil. Well test results should be considered as preliminary and not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery. Well log interpretations indicating oil and gas accumulations are not necessarily indicative of future production or ultimate recovery. If it is indicated that a pressure transient analysis or well-test interpretation has not been carried out, any data disclosed in that respect should be considered preliminary until such analysis has been completed. References to thickness of “oil pay” or of a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume.

    This press release contains certain oil and gas metrics, including operating netback and cash netback, which do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. These metrics are calculated as described in this press release and management believes that they are useful supplemental measures for the reasons described in this press release.

    Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods.

    References in this press release to IP30, IP90 and other short-term production rates of Gran Tierra are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons, however such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will commence production and decline thereafter and are not indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production of Gran Tierra. Gran Tierra cautions that such results should be considered to be preliminary.

    Disclosure of Reserve Information and Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors

    Unless expressly stated otherwise, all estimates of proved, probable and possible reserves and related future net revenue disclosed in this press release have been prepared in accordance with NI 51-101. Estimates of reserves and future net revenue made in accordance with NI 51-101 will differ from corresponding estimates prepared in accordance with applicable SEC rules and disclosure requirements of the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), and those differences may be material. NI 51-101, for example, requires disclosure of reserves and related future net revenue estimates based on forecast prices and costs, whereas SEC and FASB standards require that reserves and related future net revenue be estimated using average prices for the previous 12 months. In addition, NI 51-101 permits the presentation of reserves estimates on a “company gross” basis, representing Gran Tierra’s working interest share before deduction of royalties, whereas SEC and FASB standards require the presentation of net reserve estimates after the deduction of royalties and similar payments. There are also differences in the technical reserves estimation standards applicable under NI 51-101 and, pursuant thereto, the COGEH, and those applicable under SEC and FASB requirements.

    In addition to being a reporting issuer in certain Canadian jurisdictions, Gran Tierra is a registrant with the SEC and subject to domestic issuer reporting requirements under U.S. federal securities law, including with respect to the disclosure of reserves and other oil and gas information in accordance with U.S. federal securities law and applicable SEC rules and regulations (collectively, “SEC requirements”). Disclosure of such information in accordance with SEC requirements is included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other reports and materials filed with or furnished to the SEC and, as applicable, Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The SEC permits oil and gas companies that are subject to domestic issuer reporting requirements under U.S. federal securities law, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only estimated proved, probable and possible reserves that meet the SEC’s definitions of such terms. Gran Tierra has disclosed estimated proved, probable and possible reserves in its filings with the SEC. In addition, Gran Tierra prepares its financial statements in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, which require that the notes to its annual financial statements include supplementary disclosure in respect of the Company’s oil and gas activities, including estimates of its proved oil and gas reserves and a standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas reserve quantities. This supplementary financial statement disclosure is presented in accordance with FASB requirements, which align with corresponding SEC requirements concerning reserves estimation and reporting.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit opens Hong Kong Legal Week 2024 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Legal Week 2024, an annual flagship event of the legal sector and the Department of Justice (DoJ) to showcase Hong Kong as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre, was launched today (November 4).

         Themed “Hong Kong Common Law System: World-Class Springboard to China and Beyond”, the five-day event provides an opportunity for participants from all corners of the world to engage in a series of insightful discussions and fruitful exchanges with prominent experts, practitioners and government officials on a wide spectrum of topics, including international law, developments in alternative dispute resolution, opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), and the rule of law in the region and beyond.

         The Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024, themed “Springboard to Opportunities: Utilising International Private Law and Technology to Facilitate Access to Credit, Investment, and Sustainable Development in the Asia-Pacific Region”, was held as the opening event of this year’s Hong Kong Legal Week. Organised by the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) and the DoJ, the biennial Summit brought together preeminent legal academics and renowned practitioners worldwide to discuss how the unification and co-ordination of various areas of international private law can support economic growth and facilitate smoother cross-border interactions. More than 1 100 registrations from 46 jurisdictions have been received for this event.

         In his welcome remarks, the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, said that today’s Summit gathered leading legal minds from across the Asia-Pacific region, which is home to enormous economic potential and encompasses a diverse array of legal systems, to explore how to unlock the region’s full economic potential and ensure long-term sustainable growth, harmonisation and modernisation of private law across the region, as well as how Hong Kong could contribute in this regard. Aside from the collaborative efforts of the DoJ and UNIDROIT in promoting the development, implementation, and deeper understanding of private international law and international commercial law across the Asia-Pacific region, the DoJ and UNIDROIT have also co-operated on other fronts. In particular, the Secretary for Justice expressed his gratitude for UNIDROIT’s support to the DoJ’s secondment programme, which offers opportunities to Hong Kong’s legal professionals to work at the UNIDROIT Secretariat. He further noted that the DoJ places great importance on nurturing legal talent and will continue to provide professional development opportunities to legal talent with a view to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a leading international legal and dispute resolution centre. To further the DoJ’s capacity building initiatives, the Secretary for Justice announced that the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy will be set up, and he extended a warm invitation to all to join the launch ceremony of the Academy, which will take place on the final day of the Hong Kong Legal Week 2024.

         The Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Cui Jianchun, and the Secretary-General of UNIDROIT, Professor Ignacio Tirado, also delivered their welcome remarks at the event. The closing remarks were delivered by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Mr Cheung Kwok-kwan.

         Mr Cui said that China has been consistently innovating its diplomatic ideas to make global governance and international law fairer and more equitable. He noted that the HKSAR has been proactively responding to national development strategies and committed to reforms that benefit the people of Hong Kong. He said he is confident that Hong Kong will make the best use of the strength of “one country” and the convenience of “two systems”, while leveraging its unique advantages, such as its systems, talent and location, to act as a “world-class springboard” for connecting China with the rest of the world.

         Professor Tirado said that he is glad to be back to Hong Kong again to join the Summit, which has become one of the legal world’s leading events in the international arena. He said he is also pleased to see Hong Kong back on its feet, stronger than ever, after getting through the pandemic, and has flourished back into its dynamic, efficient, cosmopolitan and multicultural self, an extraordinary and unique legal and financial hub that the entire world recognises.

         Other conferences and seminars of the Hong Kong Legal Week include the Second Legal Forum on Interconnectivity and Development organised by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR and the DoJ tomorrow (November 5); “Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong”, fireside chat on experience sharing of resolving sports disputes and the annual Hong Kong Mediation Lecture under the theme “Mediation and Sustainable Development along the Belt and Road” on Wednesday (November 6); and “Joint Contribution to the Construction of Rule of Law in the GBA” on Thursday (November 7). The Legal Week will end this Friday (November 8) with “Rule of Law: The Best Business Environment”, at which the Academy will be officially launched.

         In addition, an exhibition featuring the milestones and achievements in the construction of the rule of law by the country in the modern era, as well as the role played by Hong Kong in contributing to the developments, has been set up at the venue this year.

         For more details on the Hong Kong Legal Week 2024, please visit the dedicated website www.legalweek.hk. The event is broadcast live on the dedicated website and at webcast.info.gov.hk.                        

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Gran Tierra Energy Inc. Announces Normal Course Issuer Bid and Automatic Share Purchase Plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra”) (NYSE American: GTE)(TSX: GTE)(LSE: GTE), today announces that the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) has approved its notice of intention to make a normal course issuer bid (the “Bid”) for its shares of common stock (the “Shares”). As of October 31, 2024, there were 36,460,141 Shares issued and outstanding and the public float was 35,458,717 Shares. Pursuant to the Bid, Gran Tierra will be able to purchase for cancellation up to 3,545,872 Shares, representing 10% of the public float, at prevailing market prices at the time of purchase, through the facilities of the TSX, the NYSE American (the “NYSE”) or alternative trading platforms in Canada or the United States, if eligible, or by such other means as may be permitted by the TSX, the NYSE and applicable securities laws for a one year period commencing on November 6, 2024 and ending on November 5, 2025. Gran Tierra has also entered into an Automatic Share Purchase Plan (the “ASPP”) in connection with the Bid. The ASPP is intended to allow for the purchase of Shares under the Bid when Gran Tierra would ordinarily not be permitted to purchase Shares due to regulatory restrictions and customary self-imposed blackout periods.

    Gran Tierra may purchase up to 9,829 Shares during any trading day, which represents approximately 25% of 39,317, which represents the average daily trading volume on the TSX for the most recently completed six calendar months prior to the TSX’s acceptance of the notice of the Bid. Gran Tierra may effect repurchases from time to time in the open market or in negotiated transactions off the market at prevailing market prices at the time of purchase.

    Management of Gran Tierra believes that the Shares, at times, have been trading in a price range which does not adequately reflect their value in relation to Gran Tierra’s current operations, growth prospects and financial position. At such times, the purchase of Shares for cancellation or to satisfy awards granted under Gran Tierra’s Long Term Equity Incentive Plan may be advantageous to stockholders by increasing the value of the Shares.

    Within the past twelve months, Gran Tierra purchased 2,703,914 Shares at a volume weighted average price of CDN$9.34 under a previously approved normal course issuer bid through the facilities of the TSX and eligible alternative trading platforms in Canada and the United States permitting the purchase of up to 3,234,914 Shares (calculated on a post-10-for-1 reverse stock split basis), which expired on November 2, 2024.

    Pursuant to the ASPP, outside of a trading blackout period, Gran Tierra may, but is not required to, instruct the designated broker to make purchases under the Bid in accordance with the terms of the ASPP. Such purchases will be determined by the designated broker at its sole discretion based on purchasing parameters set by Gran Tierra in accordance with the rules of the TSX, the NYSE, applicable securities laws, including Rule 10b-18 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the terms of the ASPP. The ASPP has been pre-cleared by the TSX and will be implemented on November 6, 2024.

    Outside of blackout periods, Shares may be purchased under the Bid based on management’s discretion, in compliance with the rules of the TSX, the NYSE and applicable securities laws. Purchases made under the ASPP will be included in computing the number of Shares purchased under the Bid.

    As previously announced on February 20, 2024, Gran Tierra was granted an exemptive relief order by the Canadian securities regulators which permits Gran Tierra to purchase up to 10% of its “public float” (within the meaning of the rules of the TSX) of the Shares through the NYSE and other trading systems based in the United States as part of any NCIB implemented in the 36 months following the date of the exemption order, being February 12, 2024. Gran Tierra will therefore not be limited on such trading platforms to purchasing 5% of its outstanding Shares at the beginning of any 12-month period as Canadian securities laws would otherwise provide. The exemptive relief expires February 12, 2027 and is conditional upon, among other things, purchases being made in compliance with applicable U.S. rules, the TSX rules applicable to a normal course issuer bid, National Instrument 23-101 – Trading Rules, and at a price not higher than the market price at the time of purchase.

    About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

    Gran Tierra Energy Inc. together with its subsidiaries is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. Gran Tierra is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional growth opportunities that would further strengthen Gran Tierra’s portfolio. Gran Tierra’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Information on Gran Tierra does not constitute a part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

    Gran Tierra’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings are available on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Gran Tierra’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism (the “NSM”) website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism. Gran Tierra’s filings on the SEC, SEDAR+ and NSM websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release.

    Forward-Looking Statements and Advisories

    This press release contains statements about future events that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States 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, and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the belief of Gran Tierra’s management that the Bid will be advantageous to stockholders, potential purchases of the Shares for cancellation or redeployment under Gran Tierra’s Long Term Equity Incentive Plan, the potential value of the Bid for Gran Tierra’s stockholders and other benefits to be derived from the Bid. There can be no assurance as to how many Shares, if any, will ultimately be acquired by Gran Tierra.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements, including, among others, unexpected changes in general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained herein. Further information on potential factors that could affect Gran Tierra are included in risks detailed from time to time in Gran Tierra’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, under the caption “Risk Factors” in Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed February 20, 2024 and its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. These filings are available on a Website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    All forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the fact that this press release remains available does not constitute a representation by Gran Tierra that Gran Tierra believes these forward-looking statements continue to be true as of any subsequent date. Actual results may vary materially from the expected results expressed in forward-looking statements. Gran Tierra disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities laws. Gran Tierra’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    The information in this press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase, nor a solicitation of an offer to sell, subscribe for or buy any securities or otherwise, nor shall there be any purchase in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

    Contact Information:

    For investor and media inquiries please contact:

    Gary Guidry
    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ryan Ellson
    Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    +1-403-265-3221
    info@grantierra.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor’s pioneering policies set to halve emissions from new buildings as London leads the way in cutting energy use

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Sadiq’s ambitious planning policies ensure the capital is outperforming national requirements for cutting energy use in new buildings, driving down carbon emissions and supporting investment in green technologies – including solar panels and heat pumps
    • London achieved 57 per cent higher carbon savings in proposed new buildings than required by national building regulations in 2023 – a seven per cent increase compared to the previous year.
    • New data also reveals that London’s overall emissions have fallen 21 per cent since start of the Mayor’s tenure in 2016, significantly faster than the national average 

    London is leading the country in driving down energy use and reducing emissions, new City Hall data published today has revealed.

    The Mayor’s London Plan – which sets out policies that address the global climate emergency and the housing crisis whilst providing a blueprint to make London a greener and healthier city – is helping to drive these achievements.

    The Plan’s net zero carbon target, which applies to all major planning applications, is delivering 57 per cent higher carbon reductions in proposed new developments than required by national building regulations. Where developers cannot achieve net zero on site, the Plan ensures that they contribute funds to support other decarbonisation projects in London boroughs.   

    City Hall’s 2023 Energy Monitoring Report, published today, showcases the significant impact of the Mayor’s policies and highlights the vital role cities play when they are given power to drive down carbon emissions, reduce energy costs, support supply chains and drive investment in clean technology. The report highlights: 

    • Emissions from proposed new developments were less than half of the CO2 levels required to meet national Building Regulations, with a saving of over 32,000 tonnes. This is equivalent to 27,000 return flights from London to New York.  
    • More than a quarter of this saving came from energy efficiency measures – saving 8,552 tonnes of CO2 emissions. This is the equivalent to adding loft insulation to over 13,000 homes. 
    • 84 per cent of proposed developments in the capital, featuring over 20,000 homes and more than 1,000,000m2 of non-residential floor space, plan to use heat pumps for their heating system – the majority being large, centralised heat pumps supplying communal and site-wide heat networks. These heating systems service a number of buildings on a site.  
    • 92 per cent of proposed developments will include solar panels. Combined, these panels will be the size of approximately 14 football pitches (having a cumulative area of 70,000 m²), totalling £21 million in new solar investment. 
    • More than 28,000 homes (91 per cent of all new homes) are set to connect to either communal heat networks or area-wide district heat networks.   

    City Hall has also today published the London Energy and Greenhouse Gas Inventory, which looks at emissions in London between 1 January 2022 and 31 January 2022 and shows significant reductions in emissions in the capital in recent years:

    • Since Sadiq took office in 2016, total emissions in the capital have fallen 21 per cent, significantly faster than the national average (16 per cent). 
    • London’s emissions have dropped 43 per cent since their peak in 2000, despite a 23 per cent increase in population.
    • Emissions from transport are dropping faster in London than across the UK. Since 2016, London has had an 18 per cent drop in transport emissions compared with a 13 per cent drop nationwide.

    Since 2016, the Mayor’s carbon offsetting policy has enabled £333 million to be secured for net zero projects across London. This fund will be redirected by local authorities to projects in their neighbourhoods that will reduce London’s emissions. Projects include energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy installations on council-owned buildings such as schools and community centres.

    Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy Mete Coban said: “It’s fantastic to see London leading the country in reducing emissions and that the Mayor’s ambitious planning policies are bringing down energy bills and helping Londoners become more energy efficient. 

    “The Mayor has committed to making London a net zero-carbon city by 2030 and this new data shows we are progressing in the right direction. 

    “Sadiq and I continue will continue to work tirelessly to help boost London’s green economy to build a better, greener city for everyone.”  

    Helena Rivers, Net Zero Lead, Building and Places, Europe and India, AECOM said: “The GLA’s energy monitoring report for 2023 highlights a significant milestone, with on-site CO2 emission reductions from new development averaging 57.4% beyond national building regulation standards.  

    “This progress underscores the effectiveness of the GLA’s leading London Plan policies aimed at achieving net zero by 2030, which AECOM is proud to support in their implementation.  

    “The evolving policy landscape, including the Future Homes Standard and the Future Building Standard, will play a crucial role in this success.  

    “As we adapt to these new policies, it is essential to maintain our momentum in meeting the GLA targets, whilst striving to ensure a sustainable future for London.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Action to combat the canker disease affecting chestnut crops – E-001715/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission places significant importance on investing in research and innovation to address plant health challenges, with EUR 189 million allocated over the past 4 years through Horizon Europe[1][2].

    Plant health research and innovation, including the development of knowledge and tools to tackle plant pests, remains a priority in the future work programmes under Cluster 6[3] of Horizon Europe.

    Cryphonectria parasitica is regulated in the EU as protected zone quarantine pest. Furthermore, the pest is regulated in the EU as Union regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP) and as a result the propagating material specifically of Castanea sativa (chestnuts) introduced into or moved in the whole EU has to be free from the pest.

    As Greece is not a protected zone, eradication of the pest is not a legal obligation and therefore no financial contribution from the Single Market Programme is provided for such measures.

    However, the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan Regulation[4] offers Member States different possibilities to help farmers cope with pest infestations which may include support for investments, support in form of loans, guarantees and working capital, insurance schemes, cooperation projects and advisory services. I t is up to Member States to plan and implement such measures.

    The EU Horizon Europe funded project AdvisoryNetPEST[5] will establish and upgrade a network of advisory services across the EU, increasing the knowledge sharing between advisors, and among the whole AKIS[6], promoting the adoption of innovative solutions on crop protection by farmers.

    • [1] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en
    • [2] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/e8a5772e-9fca-4583-a81b-649729068f1e_en
    • [3] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/strategic-plan_en
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L 435/1, 6.12.2021.
    • [5] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101134122
    • [6] Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems.
    Last updated: 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News