NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to the communiqué of the third meeting of G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors under South African presidency

    Source: Oxfam –

    Reacting to the communique issued at the conclusion of 3rd G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting under the South African presidency, Nkateko Chauke, Interim Executive Director at Oxfam South Africa said:

    “Although the G20 acknowledged the need to reform the international tax system, it ignored the elephant in the room: the super-rich continue to evade taxes through legal loopholes and tax havens. Meanwhile governments in Africa and other low-income countries are forced to institute regressive taxes like VAT to raise more revenues, hence fuelling inequality and worsening poverty.

    “A fair global tax system must start by supporting the efforts of UN Tax Convention and ending the veto power of tax havens.

    “As droughts, floods, and climate devastation threaten the Global South and beyond, the G20’s inaction is a betrayal. They must urgently deliver on the Baku-to-Belém roadmap by securing public, grant-based climate finance, led by the richest polluters. Their focus on private finance and carbon markets dangerously evades responsibility, burdening the poorest. The money is there—it’s time to tax the super-rich and fossil fuel excessive profits.

    “We urge the G20 to follow the South African G20 Presidency’s call for solidarity, equality and sustainability. That includes backing bold proposals like taxing the super-rich, as supported in the Brazilian G20 Leaders’ Declaration and the recent UN Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. Fair taxation is essential to fight inequality and fund public services.”
     

    Oxfam’s latest report Africa’s inequality crisis and the rise of the super-rich reveals that at present, just four of Africa’s richest billionaires hold more wealth than half of the continent’s population combined.

    The report finds that the richest 5% in Africa hold nearly $4 trillion in wealth — more than double the combined wealth of the remaining 95%.

    It shows that an extra tax of 1% on wealth and 10% on income of Africa’s richest 1% could raise $66 billion annually — enough to close the funding gaps for free quality education and universal access to electricity.

    Despite worsening poverty, African governments remain the least committed globally to tackling inequality, and many are cutting spending on health, education and social protection to repay debt.

    Read the full report here.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: New market entities in Beijing up 17.64% in H1

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

    Beijing registered 176,800 market entities in the first half of 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 17.64%, the highest mid-year growth in the past four years. The surge was powered by strong momentum in producer services and the digital economy, according to the municipal market regulator.

    In the first half, 10,900 new entities were established in the digital economy sector, representing a 53.92% year-on-year increase. Software development and information technology services grew by 190.72% and 40.59%, respectively, together contributing to 81.3% of the sector’s overall growth.

    Producer services also showed strong momentum. The sector added 106,100 new entities in the period, a rise of 18.49% year on year. Key drivers included R&D and technical services, business support, and information services, which together accounted for more than 80% of the sector’s expansion. Several subfields, such as technology commercialization, consulting, and IT services, posted growth rates exceeding 30%.

    Beyond the two leading sectors, eldercare and cultural industries contributed additional vitality. The city saw 81,400 new eldercare-related entities, a 22.5% increase. Notably, smart eldercare services rose 96.08% year on year.

    Cultural and related industries registered 20,400 new entities, nearly 70% of which were in content creation. Cultural investment and operations saw the fastest growth, up 103.56%.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing E-Town to accelerate development of data industry

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

    Beijing E-Town recently released a package of measures on accelerating the high-quality development of the data industry.

    According to the measures, the area will explore the establishment of an inclusive, prudent, and flexible regulatory model regarding data in fields such as autonomous driving, healthcare, financial consumption, and industrial manufacturing. It will promote the implementation of a liability exemption mechanism and strive to expand the boundaries of compliant data use.

    At the same time, efforts will be made to build a high-standard public data training base, explore a joint government-enterprise model for developing high-quality datasets, support enterprises in actively seeking authorization to operate central and local public data, and explore pricing mechanisms for public data authorization in areas such as autonomous driving and aerospace.

    To provide support for enterprises, the latest measures aim to establish a tiered subsidy system that ensures businesses’ broad accessibility to financing while focusing on key sectors.

    Specifically, an annual fund of 100 million yuan (US$14 million) in “data vouchers” will directly subsidize the purchase of data products, meeting the data usage needs of enterprises of all sizes. Up to 10 million yuan and 20 million yuan in support will be provided for data labeling service platforms and data circulation infrastructure, respectively, targeting key bottlenecks. For enterprises engaged in cross-border data compliance and related activities, subsidies ranging from 500,000 yuan to 1 million yuan will be offered to address critical challenges in the marketization of data as a production factor.

    The measures also aim at developing an industry cluster area. To foster the cluster, Beijing E-Town will support the development of data enterprise incubators and the establishment of shared spaces such as exhibition centers, co-working spaces, and roadshow centers. 

    Beijing E-Town will also build high-speed information networks by accelerating 5G signal enhancement and upgrading to 10-gigabit optical networks, as well as supporting the renovation and upgrading of communication infrastructure such as urban optical fiber networks. Additionally, inclusive and open computing power services will be provided, along with support for the transformation and upgrading of existing data centers.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Executive Chair to strengthen government’s plan to unleash life sciences for a healthier, wealthier Britain

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New Executive Chair to strengthen government’s plan to unleash life sciences for a healthier, wealthier Britain

    Steve Bates OBE appointed to help champion research and innovation and the use of technology to transform health and grow the UK economy.

    • Industry leader Steve Bates OBE appointed as Executive Chair for the Office for Life Sciences.
    • Office for Life Sciences to report into Health, Science and Business departments, recognising the industry’s importance to the health and growth missions in the Plan for Change.
    • Appointment is immediate action on Life Sciences Sector Plan pledge to strengthen links between sector and government.

    Industry leader Steve Bates OBE has today (Tuesday 22 July) been appointed as Executive Chair of the Office for Life Sciences, the cross-Government unit that champions research, innovation and the use of technology to transform health and grow the economy across the UK.

    The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) will report directly into the Business Secretary in addition to the Health Secretary and Technology Secretary, recognising that driving economic growth and investment in this key sector will be a crucial part of the OLS agenda in support of the Plan for Change.

    The moves show the government is taking immediate action to deliver the Life Sciences Sector Plan, the ambitious blueprint for unleashing the UK’s circa £100 billion life sciences sector as a force for economic growth and bettering the nation’s health, in aid of the Plan for Change. Forming one of the 8 core pillars of the modern Industrial Strategy, the Plan sets out the government’s commitment to deepening its ties with the life sciences sector, and strengthening the Office for Life Sciences to do so.

    It builds on the positive momentum coming from recent successes for OLS, such as the recent £1 billion investment deal with BioNTech which the Office was instrumental in delivering, and backing for groundbreaking research like that supported by Our Future Health and UK Biobank, as well as its role in the up to £600 million investment to deliver a Health Data Research Service that will be unmatched globally – bringing the power of data to bear to unlock breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

    Steve Bates is a recognised industry figurehead, having led the UK BioIndustry Association as CEO since 2012. He sits on the UK Life Sciences Council, and was a founder member of the UK Government’s Vaccine Taskforce. Steve was made OBE for services to innovation in 2017 and became a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2020.

    Steve Bates OBE said:

    The UK is great at life sciences. Great science, growth finance, world leading entrepreneurs, agile regulators, and key health data assets, all network here within a sector focused industrial strategy.

    I know we can deliver global health outcomes and UK economic growth because we did so through the Vaccine Taskforce during COVID. I look forward to selling the sector’s great story to the globe. It’s a privilege to help life science businesses start, grow, scale and renew in the UK ecosystem to deliver economic growth, prosperity and health.

    Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    The life sciences sector plays a unique role, as a catalyst for both economic prosperity, and better health outcomes for people across the UK. Its ongoing success will be pivotal to both our Plan for Change, and our modern Industrial Strategy.

    It is only right that we draw upon the nation’s best talent and expertise to push this sector on to even greater heights, and to that end I am delighted that Steve will be joining us in these endeavours.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    We’re turning the UK into a life sciences powerhouse and harnessing the genius of our country’s greatest scientific minds.

    I know that Steve will bolster this mission and help make Britain the envy of the world when it comes to medical innovation.

    Under his leadership, I’m confident the Office for Life Sciences will continue to drive groundbreaking research and fulfil the Plan for Change’s goal to transform healthcare for patients across the country.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We want to make the UK a life sciences superpower. That’s why we earmarked it as a priority sector in our modern Industrial Strategy, which sets out how we will back the industry to keep it at the forefront of global innovation.

    This single front door for industry to engage with government will be key to achieving our life sciences mission, as will appointing talented leaders like Steve – boosting the sector to deliver on our Plan for Change to grow the economy.

    The Office for Life Sciences is a Directorate of 120 civil servants, which drives policy and delivery in the Life Sciences sector, supporting the government’s ambitions on economic growth and improved health that sit at the heart of the Plan for Change. Currently overseen by the Health Secretary and Technology Secretary, it will now also have more formalised links into the Department for Business and Trade to support the government’s Industrial Strategy.

    In his new role, Bates will act as an ambassador both domestically and internationally for the UK life sciences sector. He will work across government and the wider public sector to ensure engagement with industry around policy and investment happens productively and at pace, working closely with all 3 Secretaries of State, providing support and expert advice as required. 

    The UK is already a global leader in life sciences, with the sector worth around £100 billion to the economy, and employing around 300,000 people. These moves show the government’s determination to immediately deliver on its goals for the sector, as laid out in the Life Sciences Sector Plan. Developed in close coordination with the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan, the Plan is a vision for doubling down on the sector’s strengths – turning cutting-edge research into real-world results: new treatments, faster diagnoses, and more lives saved. It’s about making sure breakthroughs happen here – and stay here – creating jobs, improving lives in every part of the country, and driving growth.

    Notes to editors

    Steve Bates’ appointment will further strengthen our expert leadership in life sciences, working with OLS Director Rosalind Campion.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Business Box” and assistance in promotion: how the special project “Time of Opportunities” is organized

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The capital opens up new prospects for entrepreneurs. Thanks to the special project “Time of Opportunities”, which is being implemented as part of the project “Summer in Moscow”, they can promote and develop their business. Entrepreneurs from the sphere of public catering, services, education and creativity, culture and sports, the beauty industry, trade and hotel business are invited to join the special project.

    Step-by-step instructions on how to become a participant in the special project “Time of Opportunities” are in our material.

    Step 1: Create a unique offer

    To join the special project, you need to develop a special offer for city residents. Entrepreneurs can organize a free master class, an educational lecture, a theatrical show, hold a thematic event or provide visitors with a discount of 25 percent on goods and services.

    Step 2. Submit an application

    Once you have planned an event, you must submit an application for participation in the business section of the project website. “Summer in Moscow” or on the portal State Budgetary Institution “Small Business of Moscow”. In the questionnaire, you must specify the date, time and place of the event, age restrictions, upload photos for the announcement, provide information about your company and contact information. Specialists will review the questionnaire and notify the applicant of its status by e-mail specified in the questionnaire.

    Step 3. Get a summer “Business Box”

    After checking the application, specialists will come to the site to confirm the information provided in it. The entrepreneur will receive a branded sticker of the Summer in Moscow project with a unique QR code, which will become active after the application is approved. It will be used to open the company’s offer in the Russpass service. In addition, each participant will receive a summer Business Box as a gift – a set of free tools for promoting business from market leaders.

    Step 4: Get help with promotion

    Information about events and special offers with promotions and discounts will be posted in the Russpass service, event announcements will be published in a special poster of the Summer in Moscow project. In addition, businessmen will receive PR support in the media and promotion through geo-services, which will increase audience reach and attract new customers. The 100 most active entrepreneurs who hold the most events will receive a package offer for 100 thousand rubles: business promotion in VK or Yandex, as well as a training course on launching advertising campaigns on the Internet

    You can find out more about the special project and ask any questions by calling: 7 495 225-14-14.

    State Budgetary Institution “Small Business of Moscow”, subordinate Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development, helps people open and develop their business in the capital. In business service centers, everyone can learn about financial and non-financial measures of state support. Free educational and business events are held for entrepreneurs: forums, seminars, trainings, conferences that help improve professional competencies and find like-minded people. You can get advice on opening and running a business and learn more about current measures to support entrepreneurs in Moscow on the website MBM.Mos.ru and by phone: 7 495 225-14-14.

    Support for entrepreneurs is provided within the framework of the federal project “Small and medium entrepreneurship and support for individual entrepreneurial initiative”, which is part of the national project “Efficient and competitive economy”, as well as the Moscow Mayor’s strategy for supporting the capital’s entrepreneurship.

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

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

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP’s Growing Momentum in the Crypto World: How ALL4 Mining Empowers Smarter Investments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP continues to stand out as a leading digital asset in the global crypto ecosystem. Known for its fast transaction speeds, low costs, and scalability, XRP is widely used for cross-border payments and is now gaining traction among both institutional and individual investors. As blockchain adoption accelerates, XRP is increasingly becoming a core holding in diversified cryptocurrency portfolios.
    In this evolving landscape, platforms like ALL4 Mining offer a practical solution for those looking to gain consistent exposure to the crypto market while avoiding the complexities of traditional mining or trading.
    ALL4 Mining: A Smarter Way to Engage with the Blockchain Economy
    ALL4 Mining is not just another mining platform—it’s a high-efficiency cloud mining ecosystem built for users who want to earn stable daily returns through clean energy and cutting-edge computing. As interest in assets like XRP rises, ALL4 Mining allows users to invest in the broader blockchain economy with ease, offering a reliable source of passive income.
    By using a cloud-based infrastructure, ALL4 Mining removes the need for physical mining setups and technical know-how. Instead, users lease computing power contracts online and begin earning rewards—backed by advanced security, real-time dashboards, and eco-conscious energy usage.

    Why XRP Deserves Your Attention in 2025
    XRP is designed to be more than just a digital currency. As a bridge asset for international transfers, XRP boasts high liquidity, low transaction fees, and growing institutional acceptance. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, XRP does not rely on energy-heavy proof-of-work models, making it ideal for sustainable financial systems.
    This aligns with ALL4 Mining’s own commitment to green energy and efficient blockchain operations. While ALL4 Mining specializes in BTC, LTC, and DOGE mining, the platform’s overall approach to crypto investing complements the forward-looking nature of XRP.
    ALL4 Mining’s Key Features: Secure, Flexible, and Transparent
    ✔ Low Entry Barrier
    Users can start with as little as $100, making it easy to participate in the crypto economy without high upfront costs.
    ✔ Eco-Friendly Cloud Mining
    Powered by renewable energy, ALL4 Mining eliminates the carbon footprint traditionally associated with mining.
    ✔ Scalable Investment Options
    With multiple contract tiers, users can choose packages that suit their risk appetite and expected returns.
    ✔ Real-Time Monitoring
    Track performance and earnings through an intuitive dashboard that updates in real-time, ensuring full transparency.
    ✔ 24/7 Customer Support
    The platform offers round-the-clock assistance to address user concerns and provide investment guidance.
    ✔ Advanced Security Measures
    Using industry-standard SSL encryption, ALL4 Mining protects user data and financial assets from cyber threats.
    Available Mining Contracts on ALL4 Mining
    ALL4 Mining offers flexible contracts across various cryptocurrencies. While XRP mining isn’t directly available, these income-generating opportunities can be reinvested into XRP or used to build a diverse crypto portfolio.

    BTC basic computing power: investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, daily income of $4.0, expiration income: $100 + $8

    LTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $600, contract period: 6 days, daily income of $7.2, expiration income: $600 + $43.2

    BTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $3,000, contract period: 20 days, daily income of $42, expiration income: $3,000 + $840

    DOGE [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $5,000, contract period: 31 days, daily income of $74, expiration income: $5,000 + $2,294

    BTC [advanced computing power contract]: investment amount: $10,000, contract period: 40 days, daily income of $170, expiration income: $10,000 + $680

    BTC [advanced computing power contract]: investment amount: 50,000 USD, contract period: 48 days, daily income: USD 930, maturity income: USD 50,000 + USD 44,640

    BTC [Super Computing Power Contract]: Investment amount: USD 150,000, contract period: 45 days, daily income: USD 3,000, maturity income: USD 150,000 + USD 135,000

    Users can register for free and receive a $15 bonus to begin testing the platform. With consistent returns and zero technical hurdles, it’s an ideal option for crypto investors looking for stable, daily passive income.
    XRP + ALL4 Mining: A Winning Strategy for Diversification
    While ALL4 Mining currently focuses on Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Dogecoin contracts, the passive income generated can be converted into XRP via external wallets or exchanges. This provides an excellent strategy for building a diversified crypto portfolio where XRP remains a key asset for long-term growth.
    Pairing ALL4 Mining’s cloud infrastructure with XRP’s market potential creates a win-win scenario for both novice and experienced investors. You benefit from consistent income and can accumulate XRP at your own pace—without active trading or speculative risks.
    Final Thoughts: Positioning for the Future of Crypto
    XRP is a vital part of the evolving blockchain economy, and as regulatory clarity improves, its utility will only grow. By using services like ALL4 Mining, crypto investors can build steady wealth streams while aligning with eco-conscious and scalable technologies.
    If you’re looking for a smarter, easier, and more stable way to navigate the crypto market—ALL4 Mining is your starting point. Earn daily, stay secure, and grow your XRP holdings 
    along the way.

    Visit the official site to learn more or get started: https://all4mining.com/
    Download the app today and take control of your crypto journey.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP’s Growing Momentum in the Crypto World: How ALL4 Mining Empowers Smarter Investments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP continues to stand out as a leading digital asset in the global crypto ecosystem. Known for its fast transaction speeds, low costs, and scalability, XRP is widely used for cross-border payments and is now gaining traction among both institutional and individual investors. As blockchain adoption accelerates, XRP is increasingly becoming a core holding in diversified cryptocurrency portfolios.
    In this evolving landscape, platforms like ALL4 Mining offer a practical solution for those looking to gain consistent exposure to the crypto market while avoiding the complexities of traditional mining or trading.
    ALL4 Mining: A Smarter Way to Engage with the Blockchain Economy
    ALL4 Mining is not just another mining platform—it’s a high-efficiency cloud mining ecosystem built for users who want to earn stable daily returns through clean energy and cutting-edge computing. As interest in assets like XRP rises, ALL4 Mining allows users to invest in the broader blockchain economy with ease, offering a reliable source of passive income.
    By using a cloud-based infrastructure, ALL4 Mining removes the need for physical mining setups and technical know-how. Instead, users lease computing power contracts online and begin earning rewards—backed by advanced security, real-time dashboards, and eco-conscious energy usage.

    Why XRP Deserves Your Attention in 2025
    XRP is designed to be more than just a digital currency. As a bridge asset for international transfers, XRP boasts high liquidity, low transaction fees, and growing institutional acceptance. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, XRP does not rely on energy-heavy proof-of-work models, making it ideal for sustainable financial systems.
    This aligns with ALL4 Mining’s own commitment to green energy and efficient blockchain operations. While ALL4 Mining specializes in BTC, LTC, and DOGE mining, the platform’s overall approach to crypto investing complements the forward-looking nature of XRP.
    ALL4 Mining’s Key Features: Secure, Flexible, and Transparent
    ✔ Low Entry Barrier
    Users can start with as little as $100, making it easy to participate in the crypto economy without high upfront costs.
    ✔ Eco-Friendly Cloud Mining
    Powered by renewable energy, ALL4 Mining eliminates the carbon footprint traditionally associated with mining.
    ✔ Scalable Investment Options
    With multiple contract tiers, users can choose packages that suit their risk appetite and expected returns.
    ✔ Real-Time Monitoring
    Track performance and earnings through an intuitive dashboard that updates in real-time, ensuring full transparency.
    ✔ 24/7 Customer Support
    The platform offers round-the-clock assistance to address user concerns and provide investment guidance.
    ✔ Advanced Security Measures
    Using industry-standard SSL encryption, ALL4 Mining protects user data and financial assets from cyber threats.
    Available Mining Contracts on ALL4 Mining
    ALL4 Mining offers flexible contracts across various cryptocurrencies. While XRP mining isn’t directly available, these income-generating opportunities can be reinvested into XRP or used to build a diverse crypto portfolio.

    BTC basic computing power: investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, daily income of $4.0, expiration income: $100 + $8

    LTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $600, contract period: 6 days, daily income of $7.2, expiration income: $600 + $43.2

    BTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $3,000, contract period: 20 days, daily income of $42, expiration income: $3,000 + $840

    DOGE [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $5,000, contract period: 31 days, daily income of $74, expiration income: $5,000 + $2,294

    BTC [advanced computing power contract]: investment amount: $10,000, contract period: 40 days, daily income of $170, expiration income: $10,000 + $680

    BTC [advanced computing power contract]: investment amount: 50,000 USD, contract period: 48 days, daily income: USD 930, maturity income: USD 50,000 + USD 44,640

    BTC [Super Computing Power Contract]: Investment amount: USD 150,000, contract period: 45 days, daily income: USD 3,000, maturity income: USD 150,000 + USD 135,000

    Users can register for free and receive a $15 bonus to begin testing the platform. With consistent returns and zero technical hurdles, it’s an ideal option for crypto investors looking for stable, daily passive income.
    XRP + ALL4 Mining: A Winning Strategy for Diversification
    While ALL4 Mining currently focuses on Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Dogecoin contracts, the passive income generated can be converted into XRP via external wallets or exchanges. This provides an excellent strategy for building a diversified crypto portfolio where XRP remains a key asset for long-term growth.
    Pairing ALL4 Mining’s cloud infrastructure with XRP’s market potential creates a win-win scenario for both novice and experienced investors. You benefit from consistent income and can accumulate XRP at your own pace—without active trading or speculative risks.
    Final Thoughts: Positioning for the Future of Crypto
    XRP is a vital part of the evolving blockchain economy, and as regulatory clarity improves, its utility will only grow. By using services like ALL4 Mining, crypto investors can build steady wealth streams while aligning with eco-conscious and scalable technologies.
    If you’re looking for a smarter, easier, and more stable way to navigate the crypto market—ALL4 Mining is your starting point. Earn daily, stay secure, and grow your XRP holdings 
    along the way.

    Visit the official site to learn more or get started: https://all4mining.com/
    Download the app today and take control of your crypto journey.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Press Release: GAM Strengthens European Presence with Appointment of Karim Carmoun to Lead France, Benelux and Monaco

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich / Paris, 22 July 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    GAM Strengthens European Presence with Appointment of Karim Carmoun to Lead France, Benelux and Monaco

    GAM Investments (GAM) has appointed Karim Carmoun as Managing Director to lead its activities across France, Benelux and Monaco. Based in Paris, Karim will report directly to GAM’s incoming Group Chief Distribution Officer, Tim Rainsford, who will re-join the firm on 1 October. Tim returns to GAM after holding senior roles at Generali Investments Partners as CEO, and most recently as Chief Product and Distribution Officer at Generali Asset Management.

    Karim’s appointment marks a key moment in GAM’s growth strategy in Europe, supported by NJJ Holding SA, the private investment group of French entrepreneur Xavier Niel and GAM’s majority shareholder.   

    Under new leadership, GAM is sharpening its focus on its Specialist Active, Alternatives and Wealth Management capabilities, giving clients access to top-tier investment talent and differentiated strategies. Combining in-house expertise with high-quality partnerships, GAM’s model connects professional investors to distinctive sources of return, backed by a global distribution platform and a renewed commitment to local client service. 

    Karim brings over 20 years of experience in asset management and a deep understanding of the French and Benelux markets. He spent the past decade at Robeco, where he served as CEO of Robeco France, following senior roles at Fidelity, Crédit Agricole, and BNP Paribas. He is widely recognised for his client-centric approach and ability to navigate evolving market conditions. 

    “I am proud to join GAM at this pivotal moment in its growth strategy,” said Karim Carmoun. “With the strong support of NJJ, we are focused on re-establishing GAM’s presence in France, Benelux and Monaco. Investors increasingly seek access to specialist strategies, alternative solutions, and the highest-quality investment talent which are all areas where GAM has a distinctive proposition. I look forward to building this exciting business and working closely with professional clients across the region to help them with their investment needs.”   

    “France, Benelux and Monaco are strategically important for GAM, and Karim brings the experience, credibility and insight to help us build lasting relationships in the region,” said Rossen Djounov, GAM’s Global Head of Client Solutions. “His appointment reflects our belief in local expertise supported by global resources.” 

    GAM is a specialist asset manager focused on Specialist Active, Alternatives and Wealth Management, including high-conviction equity, multi-asset and fixed income strategies. Its capabilities span hedge funds, alternative credit, insurance-linked securities (ILS) and private markets, delivered through in-house expertise and high-quality partnerships with some of the world’s most respected investment teams. 

    Through this model, GAM connects professional investors to differentiated sources of return and specialist insights, offering a platform that is both future-ready and aligned with evolving portfolio needs. 

    To connect with Karim Carmoun regarding GAM’s plans in the region, please contact: 

    Karim Carmoun
    Managing Director
    Head of France, Benelux and Monaco
    Karim.Carmoun@gam.com

    Media Relations:
    Colin Bennett
    T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544        
    colin.bennett@gam.com
    Visit us: www.gam.com
    Follow us: X and LinkedIn  

    About GAM
    GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com.

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Top African and Global Voices in Technology to Speak at Africa Tech Festival 2025

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com), the longest running and most influential tech event on the continent, has announced the first wave of 25 headline speakers for its 2025 edition, bringing together influential voices from global tech, government, and business who are driving the growth and transformation of Africa’s digital economy.

    The 2025 speaker line-up features some of the most influential voices in global technology and African business leadership. Among them is Bernardo Mariano Junior, Assistant Secretary-General and Chief Information Technology Officer at the United Nations, who brings a global governance perspective to digital development. Mark Elliott, President for Africa at Mastercard, will offer insights into advancing inclusive finance across the continent. Representing the frontier of artificial intelligence, Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Senior Director and Head of Africa at OpenAI, will contribute to conversations around AI adoption and policy readiness in African markets.

    Also speaking is Odunayo Eweniyi, a prominent tech entrepreneur and investor, serving as Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PiggyVest and General Partner at First Capital, who will share perspectives on fintech growth and funding in Africa. From the telecoms and enterprise space, Tumi Chamayou, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at MTN South Africa, and Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer at Microsoft Africa, will explore enterprise innovation and the role of strategic partnerships in enabling digital infrastructure.

    They will be joined by senior decision-makers from across the public and private sectors, including technology and strategy executives from African Bank, Transnet, Cell C, Telkom, the Department of Public Service and Administration of South Africa, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Together, these leaders represent a broad spectrum of industries and expertise, united by a common goal: to drive forward Africa’s digital transformation.

    Africa Tech Festival 2025 will be held in Cape Town from 11 to 13 November. The conference will feature a structured programme built around four core tracks: AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town. Each track is designed to address key areas of technological advancement and policy development across the continent. This year’s agenda is also framed by four central themes: Responsible Innovation, Inclusive Investment, Connectivity for Development, and Policy Harmonisation. These themes reflect the Festival’s commitment to providing a platform for examining the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s digital economy.

    “We’re excited to share a speaker roster that truly represents the diversity of experience shaping Africa’s tech future,” said Kadi Diallo, Portfolio Manager for Africa Tech Festival. “These are individuals who are actively working to improve systems, close gaps, and build digital infrastructure that works for everyone.”

    “This year, you’ll also notice a bold new look and feel as we unveil our refreshed branding. It marks the start of a new era for the Africa Tech Festival—one that reflects the scale, ambition, and innovation of the continent’s thriving tech ecosystem.”

    Following the success of 2024, Africa Tech Festival will continue to provide in-depth discussions on national digital strategies, economic growth, infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. Although a formal partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) is still under consideration, last year’s engagement with senior government officials led to meaningful policy dialogue. Now in its third decade, the Festival remains a key platform for shaping Africa’s digital transformation through informed debate, investment, and strategic partnerships.

    Further programme details and additional speakers will be announced in the weeks ahead.

    Registration for Africa Tech Festival 2025 is now open and can be completed via the official portal here (https://apo-opa.co/450ROWS).

    – on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.

    About Africa Tech Festival:   
    Now in its 28th edition, Africa Tech Festival 2025 will take place from 11 to 13 November 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), bringing together over 15,000 technology leaders, policymakers, investors, startups, and visionaries. The festival encompasses four anchor events:

    • AfricaCom – The continent’s largest telecoms and connectivity event
    • AfricaTech – The hub for technology, innovation, and enterprise growth
    • AfricaIgnite – Driving growth and impact in Africa’s startup ecosystem
    • The AI Summit Cape Town – Where commercial AI comes to life
       

    With over 500 speakers, 300 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, Africa Tech Festival remains the largest and most influential tech event on the continent.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: July 2025 euro area bank lending survey

    Source: European Central Bank

    22 July 2025

    • Credit standards for firm loans remained broadly unchanged
    • Credit standards tightened slightly for housing loans and more markedly for consumer credit
    • Housing loan demand continued to increase strongly, while demand for firm loans remained weak

    According to the July 2025 bank lending survey (BLS), euro area banks reported broadly unchanged credit standards – banks’ internal guidelines or loan approval criteria – for loans or credit lines to enterprises in the second quarter of 2025 (net percentage of banks of -1%; Chart 1). Banks also reported a slight net tightening of credit standards for loans to households for house purchase (net percentage of 2%) and a more pronounced net tightening for consumer credit and other lending to households (net percentage of 11%). For credit standards on loans to firms, the net percentage was smaller than banks had expected in the previous survey (a net tightening of 5%) and follows the small net tightening in credit standards seen in the first quarter (3%). Perceived risks related to the economic outlook continued to contribute to a tightening of credit standards, whereas competition had an easing impact. For the most part, banks reported no specific additional tightening impact on their credit standards related to geopolitical uncertainty and trade tensions, although they intensified their monitoring of the most exposed sectors and firms. For loans to households for house purchase, the net tightening followed the easing of credit standards seen in the first quarter (-7%) but was lower than banks anticipated (7%). For both housing loans and consumer credit, changes in risk perceptions and the risk tolerance of banks were the main drivers of the net tightening of credit standards. For the third quarter of 2025, banks expect credit standards to remain unchanged for firms (0%), ease slightly for housing loans (-3%) and tighten further for consumer credit (4%).

    Banks’ overall terms and conditions – the actual terms and conditions agreed in loan contracts – eased for loans to firms, remained unchanged for housing loans and tightened for consumer credit.

    In the second quarter of 2025, euro area banks reported a slight net increase in demand for loans or credit lines to firms (Chart 2), with demand remaining weak overall. This followed a small net decrease in loan demand in the previous quarter (-3%) and was broadly in line with banks’ expectations in that quarter (4%). Loan demand was supported by declining interest rates, but dampened by global uncertainty and trade tensions, while the impact of fixed investment and inventories and working capital was neutral. Demand for housing loans continued to increase substantially in net terms. Declining interest rates, improved housing market prospects and, to a lesser extent, consumer confidence, were the main drivers of the continued increase in housing loan demand. Demand for consumer credit and other lending to households increased only slightly, with declining interest rates and other factors offsetting negative contributions from lower consumer confidence and spending on durable goods. In the third quarter of 2025, banks expect a net increase in loan demand from firms (net percentage of 7%), a further substantial net increase for housing loans (net percentage of 21%) and broadly unchanged demand for consumer credit (1%).

    Euro area banks’ access to retail and wholesale funding improved slightly in the second quarter of 2025, driven by short-term retail funding, money markets and debt securities, and remained broadly unchanged for securitisations. Over the next three months, banks expect access to these funding sources to remain broadly unchanged.

    Euro area banks reported that non-performing loan (NPL) ratios and other credit quality indicators had a net tightening impact on their credit standards across all loan categories, as well as a net tightening impact on terms and conditions for loans to firms and consumer credit. Banks expect these trends to continue in the third quarter for loans to firms and consumer credit, driven mostly by pressures related to supervisory or regulatory requirements.

    Changes in credit standards and loan demand were heterogeneous across the main economic sectors in the first half of 2025. Credit standards tightened in commercial real estate (CRE), manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade and, to a lesser extent, in construction, while they eased slightly across most services (excluding financial services and real estate) and in residential real estate (RRE). Banks reported a net decrease in loan demand for construction, manufacturing, CRE and wholesale and retail trade, and net increases in RRE and in the transport, accommodation and food services sectors. For the second half of 2025, in most of the main economic sectors, banks expect either broadly unchanged or easier credit standards and overall small changes in loan demand. The exception is RRE, for which banks expect a further moderate increase.

    Banks continue to take firms’ climate performance into consideration in their lending policies, reporting an easing impact on credit standards and terms and conditions for green firms and firms in transition and a tightening impact for high-emitting firms over the past twelve months. Both physical risk and firms’ transition risk had a moderate net tightening impact on banks’ lending policies, while climate-related fiscal support continued to have an easing impact. Banks also reported a net increase in demand for loans to green firms and firms in transition owing to climate change, while uncertainty over future climate regulation was perceived as an obstacle. Banks expect a similar impact overall over the next twelve months.

    Based on a new question on the impact of climate change on housing loans, banks reported an easing impact on credit standards for buildings with high energy performance and a tightening impact for buildings with low energy performance over the past twelve months. They expect a broadly corresponding impact over the next twelve months. As the easing impact for new buildings mostly offset the tightening impact for old buildings, the net impact of energy performance was low overall. The physical risk of real estate was, however, an important driver of further net tightening in lending conditions overall, and an even higher net percentage of banks reported that it will be a driver over the next year. Banks also reported a positive impact on loan demand for buildings with high and medium energy performance but a negative impact for those with low energy performance. Investment in energy performance was the key factor for climate-related loan demand, supported by preferential lending rates for increasing sustainability, whereas uncertainty over future climate regulation was reported as a dampening factor for loan demand.

    Banks indicated that changes in excess liquidity held with the Eurosystem in the first half of 2025 had a neutral impact on bank lending conditions. They expect to see similar effects in the second half of 2025.

    The quarterly BLS was developed by the Eurosystem to improve its understanding of bank lending behaviour in the euro area. The results reported in the July 2025 survey relate to changes observed in the second quarter of 2025 and changes expected in the third quarter of 2025, unless otherwise indicated. The July 2025 survey round was conducted between 13 June and 1 July 2025. A total of 155 banks were surveyed in this round, with a response rate of 100%.

    Chart 1

    Changes in credit standards for loans or credit lines to enterprises, and contributing factors

    (net percentages of banks reporting a tightening of credit standards, and contributing factors)

    Source: ECB (BLS).

    Notes: Net percentages are defined as the difference between the sum of the percentages of banks responding “tightened considerably” and “tightened somewhat” and the sum of the percentages of banks responding “eased somewhat” and “eased considerably”. The net percentages for “Other factors” refer to an average of the further factors which were mentioned by banks as having contributed to changes in credit standards. Data are for the euro area and for the largest four euro area countries.

    Chart 2

    Changes in demand for loans or credit lines to enterprises, and contributing factors

    (net percentages of banks reporting an increase in demand, and contributing factors)

    Source: ECB (BLS).

    Notes: Net percentages for the questions on demand for loans are defined as the difference between the sum of the percentages of banks responding “increased considerably” and “increased somewhat” and the sum of the percentages of banks responding “decreased somewhat” and “decreased considerably”. The net percentages for “Other factors” refer to an average of the further factors which were mentioned by banks as having contributed to changes in loan demand. Data are for the euro area and for the largest four euro area countries.

    For media queries, please contact William Lelieveldt, tel.: +49 170 227 9090.

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow colleges have increased the number of budget places for cooking specialties

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    This year, the capital’s colleges have expanded their enrollment in culinary specialties. More than 2,500 budget places are available for applicants – this is 20 percent more than in the previous academic year. This was reported by the press service of the capital’s Department of Education and Science.

    “In Moscow colleges, future chefs and pastry chefs are immersed in the profession from the very first days: they undergo practical training on modern equipment, master current trends and hone their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors. Thanks to close cooperation with the city’s leading enterprises, two-thirds of students begin working while still studying. The guys cook for premium establishments and work in food industry companies,” the department’s press service said.

    In Moscow, food industry professionals are trained in eight educational institutions: College of Services No. 10, College of Hospitality Industry and Management No. 23, food college no. 33, Polytechnic College No. 50 named after twice Hero of Socialist Labor N.A. Zlobin, Moscow educational complex “West”, First Moscow educational complex, Moscow educational complex named after Viktor Talalikhin AndMoscow College of Management, Hotel Business and Information Technology “Tsaritsyno”In total, more than seven thousand students are studying to become cooks and pastry chefs.

    Success Stories

    For example, Elizaveta Blokhina is a third-year student at College of the Service Sphere No. 10, majoring in pastry chef. In the fall of 2024 and spring of 2025, the student completed an internship at the White Rabbit restaurant. During her last internship, she realized that she wanted to become part of the team. Thanks to the close cooperation between the college and the restaurant, the girl met the chef, successfully passed the interview, and now works in the cold shop.

    Ekaterina Khmelevskaya, a graduate of the Moscow educational complex “West” in the specialty “cooking and confectionery”, graduated from college this summer. Already in her third year, she completed an internship at the prestigious Moscow restaurant Selfie, awarded a Michelin star, and soon began working there. After that, the student tried her hand at an unusual project – an immersive gastrotheatre, where she created desserts, combining them with video projections and light effects. However, she soon realized that she liked classical cooking more, and took part in the All-Russian open culinary championship among chefs Chef a la Russe, where she took second place. After participating in the competition, the girl was invited to an internship at a Moscow restaurant named after the philanthropist Savva Mamontov, and a week later she was offered the position of pastry chef.

    Capital colleges increase number of employer partners

    Darya Stelmakhova graduated from Food College No. 33 as a pastry chef in 2023. In her second year, the student began working at the Aist restaurant under the guidance of Italian chef Mirko Zago. Later, she moved to the Savva restaurant, where she worked in the hot shop. Thanks to her talent and responsible approach to work, the girl quickly won the respect of her colleagues and became a sous-chef two years later.

    Admissions campaign

    This year, the number of budget places in Moscow colleges for ninth-graders in the capital has increased to a record 43 thousand. Applicants can choose from more than 150 professions and specialties in all sectors of the city’s economy.

    Moscow ninth-graders who graduated from school this year will be able to submit applications until July 26. The application period for programs with entrance examinations ended on July 20. Moscow ninth-graders of previous years, Moscow eleventh-graders, as well as out-of-town applicants will be able to submit applications until August 15, and for programs with entrance examinations – until August 10.

    Applicants are allowed to choose five specialties at one educational institution at the same time or distribute them among several. Applications can be submitted electronically viamos.ru portal.

    Detailed information about in-demand professions and specialties taught in the capital’s colleges is available on the website “Colleges of Moscow”, in the same names telegram channel Andcommunity on the social network VKontakte.

    Sharpening Your Skills. Teachers on How Internships Work in Moscow Colleges

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

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists of Moscow presents the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    IN Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists On July 23, the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR” will open. The exposition will introduce visitors to the history of public relations in Russia and show how the reputations of domestic entrepreneurs and industrialists were formed, destroyed and restored.

    “By studying the origins of entrepreneurial activity, Moscow entrepreneurs will be able to learn not only about the legacy of business culture, but also find inspiration and practical guidelines for modern business communications. Such projects form the value of continuity and strengthen the connection between generations,” she noted.

    Kristina Kostroma, Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow.

    The exhibition is based on the study and analysis of primary sources — business press, memoirs, materials from industrialists’ congresses, and other historical documents. Among them are more than a thousand newspaper issues from 1861–1917, including Moskovskiye Vedomosti, Russkoye Slovo, Golos Moskvy, Birzhevye Vedomosti, and Kommersant.

    The exhibition includes stands describing historical cases from the second half of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the areas of education, patronage and social support. They feature examples of press publications, early press releases and anti-crisis PR campaigns from past eras. The exhibition will reveal the PR tools of Russian entrepreneurs — from creating a personal brand to influencing public opinion and government decisions.

    Examples include the educational project “Agronomic Train,” which clearly demonstrated modern agricultural technologies to farmers, the anti-crisis media strategy in the Savva Mamontov case, which influenced public perception of the trial, and the activities of the first advertising agencies, which were engaged not only in advertising, but also in promoting news items.

    “The practice and history of Russian PR is currently taught only in specialized educational institutions, and, unfortunately, we are still learning from Western examples. Meanwhile, a huge number of Russian entrepreneurs have contributed to the development of the economy, education, and culture. Our task as a museum is to continue and support research in this area, as well as in other insufficiently studied areas, such as the experience of building entrepreneurial dynasties,” emphasized Nadezhda Smirnova, director of the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons, and Philanthropists, member of the Moscow Council of Entrepreneurs.

    The exhibition will last until September 1. To visit, you must purchase a ticket to the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists, which includes a comprehensive tour. It includes a viewing of the permanent exhibition, as well as materials from the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR”.

    The organizers of the exhibition were the digital agency Interium, the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists, members of the Council of Entrepreneurs of the City of Moscow, participants of the working group on PR and advertising, operating at the site of the capital headquarters for business protection.

    The Business Protection Headquarters, subordinate to the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow, ensures the processing of individual requests from Moscow entrepreneurs, facilitates the resolution of systemic issues and builds effective communication between businesses and government bodies. More detailed information about the work of the headquarters is available at website and by phone number: 7 495 620-20-45.

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

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A production complex will appear in Zelenograd as part of a large-scale investment project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the Zelenograd Administrative District (ZelAO), as part of a large-scale investment project (MaIP), a production complex is being built for the companies Pervy DSK and Life Engineering. This is the third of four facilities being built in the Savelki area. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “In accordance with the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, the capital continues to implement projects to develop industrial infrastructure. For example, a complex of four production facilities for various purposes is being built in Zelenograd, where it is planned to produce windows, aerated concrete blocks and ready-made modules. Its creation became possible thanks to two key measures to support the city at once. Due to the status of a large-scale investment project, the investor was able to lease a plot of land on preferential terms. And thanks to the program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunities, after the completion of the construction of all enterprises, the complex will provide more than 600 new jobs for residents of the capital. This will strengthen the production potential of the city and increase the level of employment of the population,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    The complex will house two enterprises producing modern construction products.

    The plant of the company “First DSK” will produce window and door systems, as well as facades using glass and aluminum. The enterprise will provide a full cycle of work – from standard elements to individual solutions. The annual output will be up to 279 thousand square meters of PVC structures, 82 thousand square meters of products with warm glazing and 184 thousand square meters – with cold glazing.

    The Life Engineering company’s enterprise will produce 40 thousand square meters of ready-made modules per year using prefab technology. It involves the preliminary assembly of standard-sized modular structures with full or partial glazing.

    “The construction of an industrial facility, which will become part of the city’s modern infrastructure, is underway in Zelenograd Administrative Okrug. The project’s implementation will create over 100 jobs for residents of the district and open up additional employment opportunities near home. The new facility, with a total area of over 17 thousand square meters, will be located in the Savelki district,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    The city provides land plots for the construction of production facilities within the framework of the implementation of the MAIP at a preferential rate of one ruble per year. This contributes to the development of Moscow’s infrastructure and the reduction of pendulum migration of the population of different districts.

    “The provision of land plots at a preferential rate for the creation and expansion of production is a support measure that has been in effect in the capital since March 2022. The FSK Group of Companies was one of the first to take advantage of this opportunity. A plot of about 3.5 hectares was allocated for the construction of the complex. In total, more than 17 hectares of land in the Savelki area have been transferred to the company for the construction of four industrial facilities,” she noted.

    Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of City Property.

    The construction of the complex is under control Committee for State Construction Supervision of the City of Moscow (Moscow State Construction Supervision Authority).

    As the head of the department said Anton Slobodchikov, permitting documentation, which allows the developer to begin work on the territory of the complex, was issued at the end of December 2023. The facility will have workshops, warehouses, administrative blocks and checkpoints, offices, a medical center, a canteen, sanitary and household premises and dressing rooms. More than two thousand square meters are allocated for landscaping. Mosgosstroynadzor inspectors monitor each stage of construction – from site preparation to the delivery of the facility. The implementation is carried out in strict accordance with the design documentation and compliance with all technical requirements.

    Work is currently underway to install a reinforced concrete base and roof, as well as to install metal structures and sandwich panels.

    FSK Group Project Director Maxim Rybakov noted that the new industrial facility in Zelenograd will unite two high-tech production facilities at one site. This will increase the efficiency of using the provided land plot and provide residents of the district with a large selection of vacancies for employment at future enterprises. The partnership of the city and business in projects of this scale allows for a comprehensive approach to the development of territories and human resources. Maxim Rybakov also noted that construction is planned to be completed this year.

    The program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunities has covered almost all districts of the city since 2020. Investors will build over 230 facilities with a total area of over six million square meters. Among them are new industrial enterprises, office and shopping centers, as well as educational, cultural and sports institutions. The implementation of the projects will create more than 310 thousand new jobs in almost all sectors of the city’s economy.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

     

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Correction: LHV Group unaudited financial results for Q2 and 6 months of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    — The corrected Estonian interim report has been added in the revised version —

    In Q2 of 2025, LHV Group was able to earn higher net profit and increase business volumes against the background of lower interest rates. The loan portfolio of LHV Group reached 5 billion euros.

    In Q2 2025, LHV Group earned a net profit of 30.8 million euros, which was 1.6 million euros more than in the previous quarter (+6% increase). The return on equity attributable to the shareholders of the Group was 17.4% in Q2.

    All subsidiaries of the Group were profitable in the quarter. LHV Pank earned a net profit of 29.7 million euros, LHV Bank Ltd 0.1 million euros, LHV Varahaldus 0.5 million euros and LHV Kindlustus 1.1 million euros.

    On a consolidated basis, LHV Group earned 73.9 million euros in revenue in Q1 2025, i.e. 7% less than in the previous quarter and 14% less than a year ago. Of the revenue of Q2 of this year, net interest income accounted for 57.6 million euros, and net fee and commission income for 15.6 million euros of total net income. Expenditure totalled 40.5 million euros, being 8% more than in the previous quarter and 11% more than a year ago. Due to the improvement of the macroeconomic situation, the previous provisions were undervalued in the amount of 4.2 million euros in the second quarter, which finally had a positive effect at the level of net profit.

    As at the end of June, LHV Group consolidated assets amounted to 9.38 billion euros, which was 10% more than in the previous quarter and 28% more than in the same period last year. The consolidated loan portfolio increased by 269 million euros or 6% to 5.0 billion euros over the quarter (the loan portfolio increased by 1.1 billion euros or 28% year-on-year). Consolidated deposits of LHV Group increased by 760 million euros, i.e. by 12%, to 7.36 billion euros. The volume of funds managed by LHV increased by 3.7 million euros, to 1.56 billion euros. The number of payments made by clients who are financial intermediaries was 19.9 million in the second quarter, which was slightly less than in the previous quarter.

    LHV Group’s consolidated net revenue for the 6 months of 2025 amounted to 153.3 million euros, which is 16.5 million euros or 10% less compared to the same period last year. Expenditure totalled 78.1 million euros, which was 7.8 million euros or 11% more. The Group’s 6-month consolidated net profit was 59.9 million euros, being a decrease of 19.4 million euros, or 24%, compared to the previous year. In six months, LHV Pank earned a net profit of 54.9 million euros, LHV Bank Ltd 2.3 million euros, LHV Varahaldus 0.6 million euros and LHV Kindlustus 1.7 million euros. LHV Group’s ROE for the first half of the year was 17.0%.

    Based on the first half of the year, LHV Group outperforms the financial forecast at the level of net income by 2.0 million euros and at the level of net profit by 2.3 million euros.

    Income statement, EUR Th Q2 2025 Q1 2025 Q2 2024
    adjusted
    Net interest income 57,643 62,010 70,424
    Net fee and commission income 15,579 14,071 14,352
    Net financial income -380 2,747 -37
    Net insurance income 1,065 597 421
    Other operating income and expense 0 -4 638
    Total net income 73,907 79,421 85,798
    Staff costs -22,901 -22,655 -20,420
    Office expenses -679 -659 -874
    IT costs -4,017 -3,576 -3,267
    Marketing expenses -1,526 -1,258 -796
    Other operating expenses -11,387 -9,394 -10,741
    Total expenses -40,510 –37,542 –36,098
    Operating profit 33,397 41,879 49,700
    Profit before allowances 33,397 41,879 49,700
    Allowances 4,152 -5,667 -5,043
    Income tax expenses -6,784 -7,052 -6,071
    Net profit 30,765 29,160 38,586
    Minority holding 716 592 300
    Shareholders’ share of profit of parent    company 30,049 28,568 38,286
           
    Net earnings per share, EUR 0.09 0.09 0.12
    Diluted earnings per share, EUR 0.09 0.09 0.12
           
           
           
     Balance sheet, EUR Th June 2025 March 2025 June 2024
    Cash and due from banks 3,867,487 3,279,271 3,217,448
    Financial assets 454,979 442,463 157,131
    Loans to clients 5,038,379 4,774,970 3,925,877
    Loan impairment reserve -39,734 -45,629 -35,333
    Receivables from clients 16,626 9,439 15,380
    Other assets 46,058 47,771 49,220
    Total assets 9,383,795 8,508,285 7,329,723
    Demand deposits 4,669,435 4,189,062 3,659,675
    Term deposits 2,694,906 2,415,430 2,124,254
    Loans received 1,037,347 936,215 735,281
    Due to clients and loans received 8,401,688 7,540,707 6,519,211
    Accruals and other liabilities 105,692 163,690 100,709
    Subordinated loans 161,155 126,247 107,521
    Total liabilities 8,668,535 7,830,644 6,727,441
    Owners’ equity 715,260 677,641 602,282
    incl. minority holding 7,850 7,134 7,694
    Total liabilities and owner’s equity 9,383,795 8,508,285 7,329,723
             
                 

    LHV Group’s net income in the second quarter was affected by the continuing decline in interest rates. The higher profitability compared to the previous quarter resulted in a write-down effect of the previous provisions, which resulted in an increase of the Group’s net profit by 1.6 million euros in the second quarter. The second quarter was also marked by strong growth in loan volumes and deposits, which were 269 and 760 million euros, respectively, compared to the previous quarter.

    The number of LHV Pank clients increased by 8,300 over the quarter. During the same period, the bank’s deposits increased by 576 million euros, of which 113 million euros were deposits from financial intermediaries and 113 million euros were platform deposits. In the second quarter, an innovative banking service LHV Premium was also launched, combining everyday banking, insurance and travel services offering investment comfort. In addition, a new price list for the securities trading and investment account for pension entered into force in the second quarter, which reduced several investment-related fees by almost half.

    LHV Pank’s loan portfolio increased by 190 million euros and the quality of the portfolio remained strong. Due to the resolution of one of the major problems with creditworthiness and the improved economic situation, the provisions made earlier were reduced by 4.1 million euros.

    In the second quarter, LHV Pank issued covered bonds with a maturity of four years in the amount of 300 million euros, which were listed on the Dublin Stock Exchange for the purpose of diversifying financing sources. Covered bonds secured by Estonian home loans were sold to European institutional investors. 44 institutional investors participated in the offer and the offer was 2.5 times oversubscribed.

    The volume of deposits and loans of LHV Bank operating in the United Kingdom continued to grow in the second quarter – the loan portfolio increased by 79 million euros to 569 million euros. At the same time, loans worth 204 million euros have been approved by the Credit Committee but not yet issued.

    The deposits taken by LHV Bank increased by 202 million quarter-on-quarter and reached a record 1.02 billion euros. In the second quarter, the mobile bank of retail banking was launched, where the first 1,000 clients have opened an account and 17 million euros of new deposits have been received. LHV Bank earned a net profit of 0.1 million euros in quarter-on-quarter terms – lower profitability was due to higher marketing costs, conference participation fees, allocated costs and changes in the value of interest rate risk hedging contracts. In order to support the rapid growth of the loan portfolio, the share capital was increased by 12 million euros and subordinated bonds were issued in the amount of 12 million euros. As of the first half of the year, LHV Bank’s net income and net profit exceed strongly the financial plan.

    LHV Kindlustus showed strong growth in the second quarter, when the insurance revenue increased by 78% and net profit by 62% compared to the previous quarter, but the result of the second quarter was slightly below the financial plan. The volume of insurance premiums across the market decreased significantly compared to the same quarter of the previous year. The results for the first half of the year are well above the financial forecast. As of the end of June, LHV Kindlustus had 176,000 clients and 278,000 valid insurance contracts.

    The good rate of return shown by global financial markets in the second quarter was also reflected in LHV’s pension funds, which all offered a positive rate of return. The rates of return of LHV pension funds M, L and XL were 1.2%, 1.0% and 2.8%, respectively, in the quarter. The rate of return of the more conservative funds XS and S was 0.7% and 0.8%, respectively. Pensionifond Indeks increased by 3.0% and Pensionifond Roheline lost 4.4% in value. Net income of LHV Varahaldus remained largely the same as in the previous quarter and net profit increased. The number of second pillar clients making active monthly contributions was 110,000 by the end of the quarter.

    As important information, it was disclosed that as of September 2, the green pension funds of LHV II and III pillar will cease operations, merge with other LHV funds and will be consolidated into LHV pension funds S and M, and the names of the II pension pillar funds will change. As a result of the changes, LHV clients will have the option to choose from four actively managed pension funds to grow their savings. Starting in September, LHV’s actively managed pension funds will be named Julge, Ettevõtlik, Tasakaalukas, and Rahulik.

    As of the end of the half-year, LHV Group is well capitalised. AT1 bonds worth 50 million euros and unsecured bonds worth 60 million euros were issued in the second quarter. Moody’s Ratings raised the ratings for LHV Pank’s covered bond programme and covered bonds to the highest level, Aaa. The Moody’s Investors Service ratings agency left AS LHV Pank’s long-term deposits rating at A3 (with a positive outlook) and LHV Group’s long-term issuer rating at Baa3 (positive outlook).The ratings confirm LHV’s strong financial position and capitalisation and express the expectation of a strengthening of creditworthiness.

    Comment by Madis Toomsalu, the Chairman of the Management Board at LHV Group: 

    “We are pleased that LHV has continued on a strong growth trajectory. Over the past year, our loan portfolio has grown by 1 billion euros, reaching 5 billion euros by the end of the half-year. This reflects increased investment confidence among Estonian companies, as well as the expansion of our UK loan book, which has now surpassed the 500 million euros mark. We’ve also seen a rise in demand for home loans and an overall increase in client activity. Several initiatives are underway to support continued growth going forward.”

    To access the reports of AS LHV Group, please visit the website at https://investor.lhv.ee/aruanded.

    In order to present the results of the quarter, LHV Group will organise an investor meeting via the Zoom webinar platform. The virtual investor meeting will take place before the market opens on 22 July at 9.00. The presentation will be in Estonian. We kindly ask you to register at the following address: https://lhvbank.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RKaesfVT1qxJZ5BWiT4TA

    LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Group’s key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,100 people. As at the end of June, LHV Pank services are being used by 474,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 110,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

    Investor Relations

    Sten Hans Jakobsoo
    Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development
    Email: stenhans.jakobsoo@lhv.ee

    Communications

    Paul Pihlak
    Head of Investment Communications
    Email: paul.pihlak@lhv.ee 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Aid won’t close Africa’s $1.3 trillion Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) gap

    Source: APO


    .

    Foreign aid is no longer a viable solution for Africa’s growing development needs. The continent’s annual Sustainable Development Goal financing shortfall has reached $1.3 trillion, and leaders are increasingly clear-eyed about the limits of donor-driven models.

    At a high-level session on the margins of the 2025 UN High-level Political Forum, African leaders called for structural reforms to expand domestic resource mobilization, build regional value chains and shift away from exporting raw commodities.

    “Aid won’t close the gap. We must stop exporting raw materials and importing poverty,” said Claver Gatete, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    He called for greater investment in manufacturing, green industries and youth-led enterprises. More than 80 percent of Africa’s exports remain unprocessed, a model he described as unsustainable.

    Mr. Gatete was speaking at a session organized on the margins of the 2025 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York. The event, co-hosted by the Government of Uganda and the ECA, focused on how to translate the Kampala Declaration, adopted at this year’s Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD), into concrete action.

    Uganda’s Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja said the continent was “dangerously off track” but highlighted progress made in her country, including reductions in maternal mortality, gains in gender equality and increased national budget allocations linked to the Sustainable Development Goals.

    “The Kampala Declaration is practical,” said Ms. Nabbanja. “We’re proud to host this conversation and to take it forward in terms of implementation.” Her remarks underscored a broader shift toward self-determined development.

    Uganda chaired the ARFSD Bureau in 2025 and has introduced measures to align domestic planning with regional and global frameworks. Despite this, debt pressures, limited access to concessional finance and the high cost of capital continue to challenge many African economies.

    Mr. Gatete reiterated ECA’s support for the creation of an African Credit Rating Agency, arguing that current international rating practices distort risk and restrict access to affordable capital. He also called for scaling blended finance mechanisms, issuing local currency bonds and digitizing tax and revenue systems to boost efficiency and compliance.

    He noted that inclusive growth also depends on people-centered investments. “We must stop viewing youth as recipients of development and start recognizing them as drivers of it,” he said, emphasizing the need for vocational training, digital skills and youth entrepreneurship.

    Selma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, said the Kampala Declaration represents more than a political commitment. “It is not just about potential. It is about will,” she said. “Partnership is not patronage. It must be grounded in mutual recognition and institutional respect.”

    She warned against “performative partnerships” and called for better alignment between global funding frameworks and Africa’s priorities. Ms. Haddadi cited progress on regional integration, including the rollout of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System and implementation of the African Union’s climate finance strategy.

    With fewer than five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and with the second ten-year plan of Agenda 2063 now underway, speakers agreed that declarations must be backed by systems capable of delivery. The Kampala Declaration, they said, provides a roadmap, but only coordinated action will close the gap.

    The event drew senior-level representation from across the continent and the UN system, including Uganda’s Minister for General Duties, Justine Kasule Lumumba; UN Special Adviser on Africa, Cristina Duarte; and other experts and policymakers engaged in development financing, innovation and regional planning.

    “The future we want will not be given to us,” Mr. Gatete said. “It must be built. And we must build it now.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Three-month-long vocational trainings give Jonglei youth hope of brighter future

    Source: APO


    .

    Many young South Sudanese women and men are involuntarily idle and desperate for any opportunities to earn qualifications that may lead to gainful employment or enable them to start their own small businesses.

    In Akobo and Bor, in volatile Jonglei State, a significant number of them were given such chances, with the graduates of three-month-long vocational trainings in both towns determined to grab them with both hands.

    “Everyone should plant vegetables. If you do, you gain good health and a possibility to earn money without subjecting yourself to the risks of assaults we women run when we collect firewood,” says Rodah Nyathuok Lual in Akobo.

    There, more than 100 youth, with the majority being women, have learnt income-generating skills like farming, tailoring, hairdressing, marketing and financial management.

    The initiative, funded by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and implemented by the national non-governmental organization Community Initiative for Development, is timely as resources in Akobo, following the return of many previously conflict-displaced persons, have become scarcer than usual.

    “When we work, we become role models in our communities by promoting both development and peace. When everyone is busy, there is no time or room for conflict,” says Domach Makuach Mark, another proud owner of new and marketable skills who, like all graduates, was also given a starter kit and connected to banks and other lenders for possible investments.

    UN peacekeepers from South Korea have given 77 of Domach’s peers in Bor reason to be equally optimistic about their futures. In the state capital, they have learnt everything from wiring a building safely and repairing a leaking pipe to cultivating food and raising poultry.

    “From now on, I hope people will buy eggs and chickens from me,” says Akuoch Mary Atem as she details her plan to open a poultry farm to support herself and her family.

    More young, aspiring women and men in and around Bor are likely to benefit from similar opportunities in the future.

    “In cooperation with the government, we hope that we’ll be able to expand our vocational school,” says Colonel Kwon Byung Guk, Commander of the South Korean contingent, who also revealed that his government will provide five top students with full scholarships for advanced studies in the East Asian country.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Still time to have say and help shape domestic abuse services

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The council wants to hear from local residents, people affected by domestic abuse, and professionals from across Wolverhampton to help shape priorities and intentions for the new services to ensure they are effective, accessible and respond to local need.  

    Domestic abuse specialist support services provide victims of domestic abuse with practical help, advice, and guidance. In Wolverhampton, support is available to women, men, and children who are either living in the community or in accommodation such as a refuge.

    The types of support that may be offered can include safe accommodation, support through the criminal justice system, financial, legal, or housing advice, counselling or therapy, and emotional and peer support.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “This is an important piece of work which will help to ensure that Wolverhampton continues to deliver high quality domestic abuse support services. 

    “By completing a short survey, you can help us develop services that respond to victims of domestic abuse sensitively and effectively and meet the needs of local residents.  

    “This is a public consultation, and we would welcome responses from as many people as possible, so please take a few moments to have your say.” 
     
    The consultation is available at The Future of Wolverhampton’s Specialist Domestic Abuse Services – Have Your Say until midnight next Sunday 3 August, 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE – Net Asset Value(s)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    NBPE Announces June Monthly NAV Estimate

    St, Peter Port, Guernsey, 22 July 2025

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.2bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces its 30 June 2025 monthly NAV estimate.

    NAV Highlights (30 June 2025)

    • NAV per share was $27.42 (£20.01), a total return of 0.5% in the month
    • Total realisations of $68 million and $8 million of follow-on investments in the first half of 2025
    • $284 million of available liquidity at 30 June 2025
    • ~51k shares repurchased (~$1 million) during June 2025 at a weighted average discount of 30% which was accretive to NAV by ~$0.01 per share. Year-to-date, NBPE has repurchased ~759k shares (~$15 million) at a weighted average discount of 29% which was accretive to NAV by ~$0.11 per share
    As of 30 June 2025 Year to Date One Year 3 years 5 years 10 years
    NAV TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 1.3% 3.6% 5.8%
    1.9%    		 76.1%
    12.0%    		 158.3%
    10.0%
    MSCI World TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 9.3% 16.8% 68.0%
    18.9%    		 101.9%
    15.1%    		 189.9%
    11.2%
               
    Share price TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 (7.6%) (6.9%) 10.4%
    3.3%    		 91.6%
    13.9%    		 185.1%
    11.0%
    FTSE All-Share TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 9.1% 11.2% 35.5%
    10.7%    		 67.3%
    10.8%    		 92.7%
    6.8%

    * All NBPE performance figures assume re-investment of dividends on the ex-dividend date and reflect cumulative returns over the relevant time periods shown. Three-year, five-year and ten-year annualised returns are presented for USD NAV, MSCI World (USD), GBP Share Price and FTSE All-Share (GBP) Total Returns.

    Portfolio Update to 30 June 2025

    NAV performance during the month driven by:

    • 0.7% NAV increase ($9 million) from changes in FX rates
    • 0.1% NAV increase ($1 million) attributable to changes in prices of quoted holdings (which now constitute 6% of portfolio fair value)
    • Immaterial impact on NAV from additional private valuation information received during the month
    • 0.2% NAV decrease ($3 million) attributable to expense accruals

    $68 million of realisations in the first half of 2025

    • Of the $68 million received during the first half, over three-quarters of the proceeds are from full and partial sales / exits of private holdings; remaining realisations consisted of proceeds from the sales of quoted holdings and other partial realisations

    $284 million of total liquidity at 30 June 2025

    • $74 million of cash and liquid investments with $210 million of undrawn credit line available

    2025 Share Buybacks

    • ~51k shares repurchased in June 2025 at a weighted average discount of 30%; buybacks were accretive to NAV by ~$0.01 per share
    • Year-to-date, NBPE has repurchased ~759k shares at a weighted average discount of 29% which were accretive to NAV by ~$0.11 per share

    Portfolio Valuation

    The fair value of NBPE’s portfolio as of 30 June 2025 was based on the following information:

    • 6% of the portfolio was valued as of 30 June 2025
      • 6% in public securities
    • 94% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 March 2025
      • 94% in private direct investments

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations        +44 (0) 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason        NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com  

    Kaso Legg Communications        +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    Supplementary Information (as at 30 June 2025)

    Company Name Vintage Lead Sponsor Sector Fair Value ($m) % of FV
    Action 2020 3i Consumer 86.6 6.9%
    Osaic 2019 Reverence Capital Financial Services 63.4 5.0%
    Solenis 2021 Platinum Equity Industrials 59.8 4.7%
    BeyondTrust 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT 47.7 3.8%
    Monroe Engineering 2021 AEA Investors Industrials 44.7 3.5%
    Business Services Company* 2017 Not Disclosed Business Services 40.2 3.2%
    Branded Cities Network 2017 Shamrock Capital Communications / Media 37.3 3.0%
    True Potential 2022 Cinven Financial Services 35.6 2.8%
    Mariner 2024 Leonard Green & Partners Financial Services 33.7 2.7%
    FDH Aero 2024 Audax Group Industrials 32.9 2.6%
    Marquee Brands 2014 Neuberger Berman Consumer 31.6 2.5%
    GFL (NYSE: GFL) 2018 BC Partners Business Services 30.5 2.4%
    Auctane 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT 29.1 2.3%
    Fortna 2017 THL Industrials 28.7 2.3%
    Staples 2017 Sycamore Partners Business Services 27.7 2.2%
    Viant 2018 JLL Partners Healthcare 27.3 2.2%
    Engineering 2020 NB Renaissance / Bain Capital Technology / IT 27.2 2.2%
    Stubhub 2020 Neuberger Berman Consumer 26.4 2.1%
    Agiliti 2019 THL Healthcare 25.3 2.0%
    Kroll 2020 Further Global / Stone Point Financial Services 25.0 2.0%
    Benecon 2024 TA Associates Healthcare 24.7 2.0%
    Solace Systems 2016 Bridge Growth Partners Technology / IT 24.6 1.9%
    Excelitas 2022 AEA Investors Industrials 24.1 1.9%
    Exact 2019 KKR Technology / IT 24.0 1.9%
    Constellation Automotive 2019 TDR Capital Business Services 21.4 1.7%
    CH Guenther 2021 Pritzker Private Capital Consumer 21.2 1.7%
    Tendam 2017 PAI Consumer 20.0 1.6%
    Addison Group 2021 Trilantic Capital Partners Business Services 19.9 1.6%
    Bylight 2017 Sagewind Partners Technology / IT 19.9 1.6%
    Real Page 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT 18.8 1.5%
    Total Top 30 Investments                              $979.2 77.5%

    *Undisclosed company due to confidentiality provisions.

    Geography % of Portfolio
    North America 76%
    Europe 23%
    Asia / Rest of World 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Industry % of Portfolio
    Tech, Media & Telecom 23%
    Consumer / E-commerce 22%
    Industrials / Industrial Technology 17%
    Financial Services 14%
    Business Services 11%
    Healthcare 8%
    Other 3%
    Energy 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Vintage Year % of Portfolio
    2016 & Earlier 10%
    2017 16%
    2018 13%
    2019 13%
    2020 14%
    2021 18%
    2022 6%
    2023 2%
    2024 8%
    Total Portfolio 100%

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman
    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $538 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. The firm has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last eleven years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information, including www.nb.com/disclosure-global-communications for information on awards. Data as of June 30, 2025, unless stated otherwise.

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security.

    NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

    1Based on net asset value.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Financial Inclusion Index for March 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India had constructed a composite Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index) in consultation with the concerned stakeholders including the Government, to capture the extent of financial inclusion across the country, which was first published in August 2021 for the FY ending March 2021.

    Index for the year ending March 2025 has since been compiled. The value of FI-Index for March 2025 stands at 67.0 vis-à-vis 64.2 in March 2024, with growth witnessed across all sub-indices, viz., Access, Usage and Quality. Improvement in FI-Index in FY 2025 is contributed by Usage and Quality dimensions, reflecting deepening of financial inclusion, and sustained financial literacy initiatives.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/759

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sizewell C gets green light with final investment decision

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sizewell C gets green light with final investment decision

    Government agrees final investment decision to give Sizewell C nuclear plant the go-ahead.

    • Energy Secretary signs off on multi-billion-pound deal for Sizewell C, that will deliver clean power for the equivalent of six million homes and support 10,000 jobs at peak construction. 

    • Government secures deal that will see Sizewell deliver electricity system savings of £2 billion a year on average once operational. 

    • The government will become the largest shareholder, alongside private investors EDF, Centrica, La Caisse and Amber Infrastructure. 

    •  Project will be built for around 20 per cent less than virtual replica Hinkley Point C, as part of the government’s Plan for Change to kick-start economic growth and protect family finances.

    Millions of working people will benefit from cheaper clean power, as the government agrees a landmark, multi-billion-pound deal to build Sizewell C – a major step forward in the delivery of a new ‘golden age’ of nuclear under the government’s Plan for Change. 

    The Energy Secretary has today (22 July) signed the final investment decision for Sizewell C, which will deliver clean power for the equivalent of six million homes and support 10,000 jobs once operational. The deal represents the country’s most significant public investment in clean, homegrown energy this century – in a major boost for energy security, jobs and economic growth.  

    The deal ends an era of dithering and delay to give Sizewell C the go-ahead, that will help secure Britain’s home-grown nuclear supply far beyond 2030. It marks a major step in the government’s clean energy superpower mission, which is about replacing the UK’s dependence on fossil fuel markets with clean homegrown power that the country controls, to bring down bills for good and protect family finances. 

    The plant will deliver cheaper clean electricity for generations of families for at least six decades. Analysis shows the project could create savings of £2 billion a year across the future low-carbon electricity system once operational – leading to cheaper power for consumers. 

    The project will also help to kick-start economic growth and get Britain building. At peak construction, Sizewell C will support 10,000 jobs directly employed in the project, and thousands more in the nationwide supply chain, as well as creating 1,500 apprenticeships. Seventy per cent of the value of construction is set to be awarded to British businesses – Sizewell C Ltd anticipates it will have 3,500 UK companies in its supply chain across the entire country.   

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    It is time to do big things and build big projects in this country again- and today we announce an investment that will provide clean, homegrown power to millions of homes for generations to come. 

    This government is making the investment needed to deliver a new golden age of nuclear, so we can end delays and free us from the ravages of the global fossil fuel markets to bring bills down for good.

    The government has confirmed it will take an initial 44.9 per cent stake to become the single biggest equity shareholder in the project – meaning the British people will benefit from the government’s investment.  

    The new Sizewell C shareholders include La Caisse with 20 per cent, Centrica with 15 per cent, and Amber Infrastructure with an initial 7.6 per cent. This comes alongside French energy giant EDF taking a 12.5 per cent take in the project, set out earlier this month, as well as a proposed £5 billion debt guarantee from France’s export credit agency, Bpifrance Assurance Export, to back the company’s commercial bank loans.  

    Alongside this investment, the National Wealth Fund – the government’s principal investor and policy bank – is making its first investment in nuclear energy. It will provide the majority of the project’s debt finance, working alongside Bpifrance Assurance Export, to help support the building of the power plant. 

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    La Caisse, Centrica and Amber’s multi-billion pound investment is a powerful endorsement of the UK as the best place to do business and as a global hub for nuclear energy. 

    Delivering next generation, publicly-owned clean power is vital to our energy security and growth, which is why we backed Sizewell C.  This investment will create thousands of good quality jobs and boost the local economy as we deliver on our Plan for Change.

    Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, Joint Managing Directors of Sizewell C, said:

    We’re delighted to welcome new investors alongside Government and EDF who, like our suppliers, have strong incentives to keep costs under control and ensure we deliver Sizewell C successfully for consumers and taxpayers 

    By investing in Sizewell C, they are laying the foundations for a more secure, cleaner and more affordable energy system. Because 70% of our construction spend will be in the UK, with a £4.4bn commitment to the east of England, they will also help to create thousands of great jobs and new opportunities for people and businesses up and down the country.  

    We are determined to deliver this major infrastructure differently, and to make sure this is a project Britain can be proud of.

    The investment deal builds on lessons learnt from the construction of Hinkley Point C to provide a funding model that spreads the around £38 billion cost of constructing Sizewell C between consumers, taxpayers and private investors. This represents a saving of around 20 per cent compared with Hinkley Point C and demonstrates the value of building a virtual replica project. 

    For the first time, the British people will be co-owners of a nuclear power plant alongside experienced private sector partners – with consumers to benefit from the government’s investment. This will ensure the impact on consumer bills is limited to an average of around £1 per month over the duration of Sizewell C’s construction, with the nuclear plant to deliver cheaper clean power for decades to come once operational. 

    Despite the UK’s strong nuclear legacy, including opening the world’s first commercial nuclear power station in the 1950s, no new nuclear plant has opened in the UK since 1995, with all of the existing fleet except Sizewell B likely to be phased out by the early 2030s.   

    Sizewell C was one of eight sites identified in 2009 by then-Energy Secretary Ed Miliband as a potential site for new nuclear. However, the project was not fully funded in the 14 years that followed under subsequent governments.   

    The government’s nuclear programme is now the most ambitious for a generation. Once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more new nuclear to the grid than over the previous half century combined. 

    Recently, the government also set out next steps for small modular reactors in the UK and last month selected Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred bidder to build first reactors of this kind in the country. Following this, the Prime Minister signed a new agreement with Czech Prime Minister Fiala last week that will see the two countries work more closely on small modular reactors to seize export opportunities and support high-skilled jobs. 

    John Flint, National Wealth Fund CEO, said:

    Nuclear energy is a key component on the path to deliver the Government’s growth and clean energy missions, and our financing for Sizewell C will help provide decades of clean, reliable electricity for millions of homes across the country.  

    We have a critical role to play in solving financing problems across a broad waterfront of relevant sectors and Treasury has recognised that today by providing the NWF with additional capital required to enable our lending to Sizewell C. As the government’s flagship investor and policy bank, it is a privilege to be able to play such a significant role in a project of such national importance.

    Gavin Tait, Chief Executive Officer, Amber Infrastructure Group, a Boyd Watterson Global Company, investment adviser to International Public Partnerships Limited, said: 

    We have worked in partnership with the UK Government to adapt the way a construction project of Sizewell C’s scale and importance can be financed to attract the long-term investment of institutional investors and retail savers. INPP has helped finance new infrastructure in the UK since 2006, and Sizewell C is a landmark example of how the public and private sectors can invest together to strengthen national energy security and support future economic growth.

    Chris O’Shea, Centrica Group Chief Executive, said:

    The UK needs more reliable, affordable, zero carbon electricity, and Sizewell C will be critical to supporting the country’s energy system for many decades to come. That’s why I’m delighted to be announcing this milestone investment which will see Centrica commit £1.3 billion for a 15% equity stake in the project, and deepens our long-standing involvement in the UK nuclear industry. This isn’t just an investment in a new power station – it’s an investment in Britain’s energy independence, our net zero journey, and thousands of high-quality jobs across the country. 

    Sizewell C is a compelling investment for our shareholders and the country as a whole, and I look forward to working with our world-class partners, EDF, La Caisse, Amber Infrastructure Group and the UK government, to make the project a great success.

    Simone Rossi, CEO of EDF in the UK said:

    EDF welcomes the government’s announcement that it has delivered on its commitment to take a final investment decision on the Sizewell C project.  

    Alongside Hinkley Point C, the project will help drive economic growth, strengthen energy security and lower bills over the long term. 

    The confirmation of the private investment is very positive and reflects the growing attraction of the role of nuclear power in the energy transition. It could also pave the way for the financing of future large nuclear projects in the UK.

    Emmanuel Jaclot, Executive Vice-President and Head of Infrastructure at La Caisse said:

    Our commitment to invest in Sizewell C reflects La Caisse’s constructive capital approach, working to deliver optimal financial performance for our clients alongside broader economic and societal progress.  

    La Caisse has a strong track record of bringing private sector expertise alongside governments and industrial players to invest in complex, regulated infrastructure where value-for-money for consumers is key. Sizewell C is a positive development for UK consumers, as it is expected to provide long-term reliable baseload power and low carbon energy to more than 6 million homes across the UK, while contributing to the creation of 10,000 new jobs at peak construction and thousands more in the nationwide supply chain.  

    We’re proud to support the UK Government in delivering this landmark project, advancing the country’s energy security and economic growth ambitions. Our investment demonstrates our confidence in the UK market – our largest destination outside North America – and aligns with our commitment to the energy transition and decarbonization, enabled by our long-term capital and active ownership.

    Ofgem CEO Jonathan Brearley said:

    Ofgem welcomes the government’s decision to move forwards with the Sizewell C project. New nuclear power stations such as this have a key role to play in enhancing Great Britain’s energy security with reliable domestically generated clean power.  

    Ofgem has been working closely with the government to develop the new regulatory framework to help drive investment in nuclear energy and deliver the best deal for consumers.

    Neil McDermott, Chief Executive of LCCC, said:

    Sizewell C is a pivotal project in the transition to a clean, secure energy system. It will deliver reliable low carbon power for decades to come, while supporting jobs and investment across the country. 

    LCCC is proud to support this milestone through its role as the revenue collection counterparty. Our independent role ensures funds are managed fairly and transparently, protecting value for consumers and enabling long-term investor confidence in low carbon infrastructure.

    Notes to editors:

    • Sizewell C has already signed £330 million in contracts with local companies and will boost supply chains across the UK with 70% of contracts predicted to go to 3,500 British suppliers – supporting new jobs in construction, welding, and hospitality.  

    • The government has published a subsidy scheme for the Final Investment Decision in Sizewell C. This scheme covers the government’s equity and debt investment in the project, as well as the value of consumer levies from the RAB delivery model – a Government Support Package to protect investors from high-impact low-probability risks, and other guarantees.  

    • The Sizewell C project is consolidated to the government’s balance sheet, meaning that all investment from the government and new investors is on the balance sheet.  

    • The total equity and debt finance made available exceeds the target construction cost of around £38 billion (2024 prices), this acts as a safeguard for taxpayers in case of overruns and is standard for a project of this size and complexity.  The project supply chain is strongly incentivised to keep costs down and investors will lose potential revenue if there are overruns, reducing risk for taxpayers. 

    • According to our Value for Money assessment SZC could reduce the cost of a low-carbon electricity system by around £2 billion per year on average, once operational.  

    • Urenco recently confirmed a 15-year deal with EDF to produce fuel for nuclear power stations. The multi-billion-euro contract, with significant value for the UK, will support Urenco UK’s workforce of more than 1,400 people and support the company’s important contribution to UK economic growth, which represented more than £256 million in 2023.  

    • French engineering company Assystem has also set out plans to double its nuclear workforce in the UK, creating 1,000 new engineering, digital and management jobs by 2030 across 10 UK sites, including in Sunderland, Blackburn, Derby, Bristol and London. 

    • The government is providing the National Wealth Fund with additional capital to facilitate this lending to Sizewell C, separate to the existing £27.8bn which will continue to be invested across the NWF’s priority sectors. For National Wealth Fund queries, please contact press@nationalwealthfund.org.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UAE deal passes, unlocking $500 billion market

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The NZ-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) legislation has passed into law today, clearing the way for Kiwi exporters to tap into a $500 billion market that imports 90 per cent of its food, Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced. 

    “The NZ-UAE CEPA delivers real benefits for New Zealand exporters, lowering costs, increasing access, and securing a stronger presence in the Middle East,” Mr McClay says.

    This is the highest-quality, and fastest, agreement negotiated by New Zealand that will immediately remove tariffs on 98.5 per cent of New Zealand’s exports upon entry to force, rising to 99 per cent in three years. 

    “This high-quality trade agreement builds on New Zealand’s strengths. UAE consumers are actively seeking safe, fresh products from around the world and are willing to pay more for them. This agreement gives New Zealand exporters an opportunity to lead in this competitive market,” Mr McClay says.

    Two-way trade between New Zealand and the UAE was worth $1.35 billion last year, and CEPA will accelerate growth by reducing red tape, boosting services trade, and supporting investment links.

    “Trade agreements are about opening doors and levelling the playing field for New Zealand exporters,” Mr McClay says.

    “The CEPA is another step toward achieving the Government’s goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years. Growing our trade relationships helps boost the economy, lift incomes, and provide the public services Kiwis deserve.”

    The CEPA will enter into force following ratification procedures by both parties. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China hits 97 pct enrollment rate for disabled students in compulsory education

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

    BEIJING, July 22 — The enrollment rate of children and adolescents with disabilities in compulsory education in China has reached 97 percent, with over 30,000 disabled students entering universities each year, a senior official said Tuesday.

    Cheng Kai, chairman of the China Disabled Persons’ Federation, made the remarks at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office.

    According to Cheng, China’s education system for individuals with disabilities has undergone further improvement. Currently, 75,800 students with disabilities study in secondary vocational schools nationwide, while 59,800 attend regular high schools.

    Li Dongmei, vice chairperson of the federation, noted that China has taken multiple measures to facilitate such students’ access to education.

    For instance, a special campaign was launched to equip school campuses with assistive devices, benefiting nearly 100,000 students with disabilities. Standardized textbooks have been developed for special schools, as well as sign-language textbooks for nine subjects.

    Financially, in 2025, the per capita subsidy for students with disabilities receiving compulsory education was increased to more than 7,000 yuan (about 980 U.S. dollars) per year. Those whose families have financial difficulties are eligible to receive 12 years of free education from primary school to senior high school.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Bipartisan Delegation Meet with Canadian Prime Minister, Discuss Critical U.S.-Canada Trade Partnership  

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    On a bipartisan trip to Ottawa, Senator Cortez Masto highlighted the harm President Trump’s trade war with Canada is having on Nevada’s travel and tourism economy

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) returned from a bipartisan trip to Canada with Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.). While there, they met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to support the resolution of unnecessary trade conflicts between the United States and Canada, which are raising costs for American families and hurting Nevada’s travel and tourism industries.

    “Canada is one of America’s closest trade partners and allies, and in Nevada, we have a special connection with our neighbors to the north,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Every year, well over a million Canadians visit the Silver State. Despite the chaos of the Trump presidency, I will continue to fight to ensure American workers are treated fairly, while strengthening our ties with Canada to bolster our tourism economy and promote American national security. We can do both.”

    In 2024, Canada was Nevada’s most important foreign market for travel, and 1.49 million Canadian visitors traveled to the state, primarily to Las Vegas. Since President Trump took office, however, the relationship between the United States and Canada has declined, threatening this vital travel and tourism relationship. The airlines with direct flights from Canada to Las Vegas have shown significant passenger declines this year, including a decrease of 64 percent for Flair, 34.6 percent for WestJet, and 22 percent for Air Canada. Overall, visitation from Canada to Las Vegas is down 14.5 percent this year.  

    The Senators also met with Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Industry Melanie Joly and Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc. The members raised a number of trade, tourism and economic issues, the importance of partnering on national security and cybersecurity, and on working together to combat fentanyl trafficking. 

    Senator Cortez Masto has continued to push the Trump Administration to address the impacts of Trump’s tariffs on working families and Nevada small businesses. During a Senate Finance Committee hearing, Cortez Masto pressed U.S. Trade Representative Greer about the impacts of President Trump’s blanket tariffs on Nevadans, particularly those employed in the tourism and hospitality industry. The Senator introduced the Tariff Transparency Act to require the U.S. International Trade Commission to publicly investigate how Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada would impact the American people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • GST at Eight Years: Report Highlights Growth in Revenue and growing Women’s Inclusion in Formal Economy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    There are over 1.52 crore active Goods and Services Tax (GST) registrations and one-fifth of registered GST taxpayers in India now have at least one woman, and 14 per cent of registered taxpayers have all female members (on the basis of the constitution of business), an SBI report revealed on Tuesday.

    This representation is substantially high in limited liability partnership (LLP) and private limited companies and the vectors of increased formalization and momentum in corporate playbook augur well for equitable representation in the offing, according to the SBI’s Economic Research Department report.

    “This data, along-with 15 per cent share of women in overall income taxpayers and 40 per cent in overall deposits, mirrors women empowerment,” said Dr Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Advisor, SBI.

    In just five years (FY21-FY25), gross GST collection doubled and even average monthly gross GST collection is now Rs 2 lakh crore. Top five states account for 41 per cent of gross revenue and six states have crossed Rs 1 lakh crore mark, Dr Ghosh added.

    States having GST collection of more than Rs 1 lakh crore have Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST) share of more than 30 per cent in their total domestic collection, emphasising the contribution of larger states in pushing GST collection across other states.

    On July 1, the GST completed eight years since its rollout. Introduced in 2017 as a major step towards economic integration, GST replaced a maze of indirect taxes with a single, unified system.

    It made tax compliance easier, reduced costs for businesses, and allowed goods to move freely across states. By improving transparency and efficiency, GST helped lay the foundation for a stronger, more integrated economy.

    “Our results indicate that convergence pattern strengthens over time, peaking in FY25 across all quantiles. By FY25, convergence is strong across the spectrum, indicating a broad-based equalising effect of GST,” said Dr Ghosh.

    Surprisingly, some of the larger and richer states like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and even Karnataka have low share in active GST taxpayers vis-a-vis the state’s share in overall GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product).

    “Interestingly, states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat share in total GST taxpayers is larger than the state’s share in overall GSDP. This indicate that there is still a vast untapped potential in GST in these states,” the report mentioned.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI: LHV Group unaudited financial results for Q2 and 6 months of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    In Q2 of 2025, LHV Group was able to earn higher net profit and increase business volumes against the background of lower interest rates. The loan portfolio of LHV Group reached 5 billion euros.

    In Q2 2025, LHV Group earned a net profit of 30.8 million euros, which was 1.6 million euros more than in the previous quarter (+6% increase). The return on equity attributable to the shareholders of the Group was 17.4% in Q2.

    All subsidiaries of the Group were profitable in the quarter. LHV Pank earned a net profit of 29.7 million euros, LHV Bank Ltd 0.1 million euros, LHV Varahaldus 0.5 million euros and LHV Kindlustus 1.1 million euros.

    On a consolidated basis, LHV Group earned 73.9 million euros in revenue in Q1 2025, i.e. 7% less than in the previous quarter and 14% less than a year ago. Of the revenue of Q2 of this year, net interest income accounted for 57.6 million euros, and net fee and commission income for 15.6 million euros of total net income. Expenditure totalled 40.5 million euros, being 8% more than in the previous quarter and 11% more than a year ago. Due to the improvement of the macroeconomic situation, the previous provisions were undervalued in the amount of 4.2 million euros in the second quarter, which finally had a positive effect at the level of net profit.

    As at the end of June, LHV Group consolidated assets amounted to 9.38 billion euros, which was 10% more than in the previous quarter and 28% more than in the same period last year. The consolidated loan portfolio increased by 269 million euros or 6% to 5.0 billion euros over the quarter (the loan portfolio increased by 1.1 billion euros or 28% year-on-year). Consolidated deposits of LHV Group increased by 760 million euros, i.e. by 12%, to 7.36 billion euros. The volume of funds managed by LHV increased by 3.7 million euros, to 1.56 billion euros. The number of payments made by clients who are financial intermediaries was 19.9 million in the second quarter, which was slightly less than in the previous quarter.

    LHV Group’s consolidated net revenue for the 6 months of 2025 amounted to 153.3 million euros, which is 16.5 million euros or 10% less compared to the same period last year. Expenditure totalled 78.1 million euros, which was 7.8 million euros or 11% more. The Group’s 6-month consolidated net profit was 59.9 million euros, being a decrease of 19.4 million euros, or 24%, compared to the previous year. In six months, LHV Pank earned a net profit of 54.9 million euros, LHV Bank Ltd 2.3 million euros, LHV Varahaldus 0.6 million euros and LHV Kindlustus 1.7 million euros. LHV Group’s ROE for the first half of the year was 17.0%.

    Based on the first half of the year, LHV Group outperforms the financial forecast at the level of net income by 2.0 million euros and at the level of net profit by 2.3 million euros.

    Income statement, EUR Th Q2 2025 Q1 2025 Q2 2024
    adjusted
    Net interest income 57,643 62,010 70,424
    Net fee and commission income 15,579 14,071 14,352
    Net financial income -380 2,747 -37
    Net insurance income 1,065 597 421
    Other operating income and expense 0 -4 638
    Total net income 73,907 79,421 85,798
    Staff costs -22,901 -22,655 -20,420
    Office expenses -679 -659 -874
    IT costs -4,017 -3,576 -3,267
    Marketing expenses -1,526 -1,258 -796
    Other operating expenses -11,387 -9,394 -10,741
    Total expenses -40,510 –37,542 –36,098
    Operating profit 33,397 41,879 49,700
    Profit before allowances 33,397 41,879 49,700
    Allowances 4,152 -5,667 -5,043
    Income tax expenses -6,784 -7,052 -6,071
    Net profit 30,765 29,160 38,586
    Minority holding 716 592 300
    Shareholders’ share of profit of parent    company 30,049 28,568 38,286
           
    Net earnings per share, EUR 0.09 0.09 0.12
    Diluted earnings per share, EUR 0.09 0.09 0.12
           
           
           
     Balance sheet, EUR Th June 2025 March 2025 June 2024
    Cash and due from banks 3,867,487 3,279,271 3,217,448
    Financial assets 454,979 442,463 157,131
    Loans to clients 5,038,379 4,774,970 3,925,877
    Loan impairment reserve -39,734 -45,629 -35,333
    Receivables from clients 16,626 9,439 15,380
    Other assets 46,058 47,771 49,220
    Total assets 9,383,795 8,508,285 7,329,723
    Demand deposits 4,669,435 4,189,062 3,659,675
    Term deposits 2,694,906 2,415,430 2,124,254
    Loans received 1,037,347 936,215 735,281
    Due to clients and loans received 8,401,688 7,540,707 6,519,211
    Accruals and other liabilities 105,692 163,690 100,709
    Subordinated loans 161,155 126,247 107,521
    Total liabilities 8,668,535 7,830,644 6,727,441
    Owners’ equity 715,260 677,641 602,282
    incl. minority holding 7,850 7,134 7,694
    Total liabilities and owner’s equity 9,383,795 8,508,285 7,329,723
             
                 

    LHV Group’s net income in the second quarter was affected by the continuing decline in interest rates. The higher profitability compared to the previous quarter resulted in a write-down effect of the previous provisions, which resulted in an increase of the Group’s net profit by 1.6 million euros in the second quarter. The second quarter was also marked by strong growth in loan volumes and deposits, which were 269 and 760 million euros, respectively, compared to the previous quarter.

    The number of LHV Pank clients increased by 8,300 over the quarter. During the same period, the bank’s deposits increased by 576 million euros, of which 113 million euros were deposits from financial intermediaries and 113 million euros were platform deposits. In the second quarter, an innovative banking service LHV Premium was also launched, combining everyday banking, insurance and travel services offering investment comfort. In addition, a new price list for the securities trading and investment account for pension entered into force in the second quarter, which reduced several investment-related fees by almost half.

    LHV Pank’s loan portfolio increased by 190 million euros and the quality of the portfolio remained strong. Due to the resolution of one of the major problems with creditworthiness and the improved economic situation, the provisions made earlier were reduced by 4.1 million euros.

    In the second quarter, LHV Pank issued covered bonds with a maturity of four years in the amount of 300 million euros, which were listed on the Dublin Stock Exchange for the purpose of diversifying financing sources. Covered bonds secured by Estonian home loans were sold to European institutional investors. 44 institutional investors participated in the offer and the offer was 2.5 times oversubscribed.

    The volume of deposits and loans of LHV Bank operating in the United Kingdom continued to grow in the second quarter – the loan portfolio increased by 79 million euros to 569 million euros. At the same time, loans worth 204 million euros have been approved by the Credit Committee but not yet issued.

    The deposits taken by LHV Bank increased by 202 million quarter-on-quarter and reached a record 1.02 billion euros. In the second quarter, the mobile bank of retail banking was launched, where the first 1,000 clients have opened an account and 17 million euros of new deposits have been received. LHV Bank earned a net profit of 0.1 million euros in quarter-on-quarter terms – lower profitability was due to higher marketing costs, conference participation fees, allocated costs and changes in the value of interest rate risk hedging contracts. In order to support the rapid growth of the loan portfolio, the share capital was increased by 12 million euros and subordinated bonds were issued in the amount of 12 million euros. As of the first half of the year, LHV Bank’s net income and net profit exceed strongly the financial plan.

    LHV Kindlustus showed strong growth in the second quarter, when the insurance revenue increased by 78% and net profit by 62% compared to the previous quarter, but the result of the second quarter was slightly below the financial plan. The volume of insurance premiums across the market decreased significantly compared to the same quarter of the previous year. The results for the first half of the year are well above the financial forecast. As of the end of June, LHV Kindlustus had 176,000 clients and 278,000 valid insurance contracts.

    The good rate of return shown by global financial markets in the second quarter was also reflected in LHV’s pension funds, which all offered a positive rate of return. The rates of return of LHV pension funds M, L and XL were 1.2%, 1.0% and 2.8%, respectively, in the quarter. The rate of return of the more conservative funds XS and S was 0.7% and 0.8%, respectively. Pensionifond Indeks increased by 3.0% and Pensionifond Roheline lost 4.4% in value. Net income of LHV Varahaldus remained largely the same as in the previous quarter and net profit increased. The number of second pillar clients making active monthly contributions was 110,000 by the end of the quarter.

    As important information, it was disclosed that as of September 2, the green pension funds of LHV II and III pillar will cease operations, merge with other LHV funds and will be consolidated into LHV pension funds S and M, and the names of the II pension pillar funds will change. As a result of the changes, LHV clients will have the option to choose from four actively managed pension funds to grow their savings. Starting in September, LHV’s actively managed pension funds will be named Julge, Ettevõtlik, Tasakaalukas, and Rahulik.

    As of the end of the half-year, LHV Group is well capitalised. AT1 bonds worth 50 million euros and unsecured bonds worth 60 million euros were issued in the second quarter. Moody’s Ratings raised the ratings for LHV Pank’s covered bond programme and covered bonds to the highest level, Aaa. The Moody’s Investors Service ratings agency left AS LHV Pank’s long-term deposits rating at A3 (with a positive outlook) and LHV Group’s long-term issuer rating at Baa3 (positive outlook).The ratings confirm LHV’s strong financial position and capitalisation and express the expectation of a strengthening of creditworthiness.

    Comment by Madis Toomsalu, the Chairman of the Management Board at LHV Group: 

    “We are pleased that LHV has continued on a strong growth trajectory. Over the past year, our loan portfolio has grown by 1 billion euros, reaching 5 billion euros by the end of the half-year. This reflects increased investment confidence among Estonian companies, as well as the expansion of our UK loan book, which has now surpassed the 500 million euros mark. We’ve also seen a rise in demand for home loans and an overall increase in client activity. Several initiatives are underway to support continued growth going forward.”

    To access the reports of AS LHV Group, please visit the website at https://investor.lhv.ee/aruanded.

    In order to present the results of the quarter, LHV Group will organise an investor meeting via the Zoom webinar platform. The virtual investor meeting will take place before the market opens on 22 July at 9.00. The presentation will be in Estonian. We kindly ask you to register at the following address: https://lhvbank.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6RKaesfVT1qxJZ5BWiT4TA

    LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Group’s key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,100 people. As at the end of June, LHV Pank services are being used by 474,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 110,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

    Investor Relations

    Sten Hans Jakobsoo
    Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development
    Email: stenhans.jakobsoo@lhv.ee

    Communications

    Paul Pihlak
    Head of Investment Communications
    Email: paul.pihlak@lhv.ee 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    The Panasonic Group is implementing extensive management reform, but which direction is technology pointing us in? What sort of future is taking shape before our eyes in this era of transformation? To explore the heart of the matter, we spoke with Tatsuo Ogawa, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Group CTO overseeing technology strategy.

    One year later: Three concepts and an unshakable commitment

    We unveiled our Technology Future Vision in July 2024. Since then we’ve received a remarkable amount of internal and external feedback. The support we’ve received, and the specific discussions relating to possible collaboration, have been very encouraging. We see many exciting challenges ahead as we work to realize the vision. The future it embodies remains the same, and we continue to create new technology and businesses as we map out our unique path and push forward.
    In particular, the three core concepts of energy and resources, nurturing a sense of fulfillment, and co-caring are vital guiding principles, as we integrate Panasonic technologies to achieve our overall goal of enhancing quality of life for everyone. We are pressing forward with research and development, so I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress we are making in multiple directions.

    1. Toward a society where energy and resources flow: Tackling the hard challenges of the global environment

    We are boldly tackling global environmental challenges through a wide range of R&D initiatives centered on the Green Transformation and Manufacturing Innovation Divisions.

    Perovskite solar cells

    These glass panels can generate energy where conventional solar panels cannot, for example as windows in dense urban areas. We already have a pilot manufacturing line producing near-commercial-size construction elements (1.0 m × 1.8 m). Our industrial inkjet printing system used to produce these panels is so advanced that it received the prestigious Okochi Memorial Technology Prize. Our goal is to integrate renewable energy generation into everyday urban infrastructure for better energy self-sufficiency and greater resilience in case of disasters.

    A Perovskite panel on display at Osaka’s Expo 2025 demonstrates the design potential this technology offers.

    Novitek Bio-CO₂ Transformation technology

    This biostimulant technology promotes plant growth by harnessing the power of photosynthesis, and represents an important step toward turning CO2 into a valuable resource. Field trials are underway in collaboration with Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited, and Novitek is showing promise as a driver of sustainable agriculture with higher productivity and lower environmental impact.

    kinari (plant-derived cellulose fiber resin composite)

    Panasonic has developed moldable materials that are fully biodegradable in marine environments. It achieved this by taking its proprietary technology for blending high concentrations of plant-based cellulose fibers into resins and applying it to marine-biodegradable, plant-derived resins. In April 2025, Panasonic received the Ichimura Prize in Industry against Global Warming for this and related technologies.

    Tracephere traceability technology

    This technology uses the blockchain to make resource recycling and reuse transparent and trustworthy. It can bring us closer to realizing the circular economy by encouraging the use of recycled materials and preventing illegal dumping.

    Design for Circular Economy (DfCE)

    This initiative aims to drive the transition to a circular economy by designing products with ease of disassembly and recycling in mind. The effort is based on the MI Division’s perspective of maintaining and regenerating value in manufacturing, and will extend product lifespans and reduce waste.

    We also want to expand the positive impacts our activities are having on the environment in FY2025. Efforts in this direction are critically important, not only to halt but reverse biodiversity loss. To this end, we are investing resources in activities that directly support natural capital restoration. An example is our promotion of Nature Symbiosis Site research in areas where biodiversity is already being actively protected by companies, local government, NGOs, and others. These sites are part of Japan’s strategy to meet the global “30 by 30” goal of conserving at least 30% of land and sea by 2030. Another example would be conserving and regenerating blue carbon ecosystems by applying robotics and IoT technologies in collaboration with seaweed aquaculture startups. To ensure transparency and demonstrate our commitment to the environment, we are TCFD* disclosure-compliant and are working to meet TNFD** standards.
    * TCFD: Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. This organization promotes disclosure by enterprises and other entities of information relating to their climate change-related activities and policies, and how these relate to their financial posture.
    ** TNFD: Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. An international organization founded to structure frameworks for corporate risk management relating to natural capital, and for related disclosure.

    2. Toward a society of fulfillment: Creating meaningful time

    We want our technology to help every member of society find fulfillment in their work and daily activities, and be able to have more meaningful, quality time. At the heart of this concept are initiatives from the Digital Transformation & Cyber-Physical Systems Division.

    With digital collection and analysis of data from frontline environments like manufacturing sites, and by providing optimized feedback, we are working to boost operational efficiency and quality and create safer, more secure working environments. We plan to evolve beyond straightforward Kaizen toward Gemba CPS 2.0, a next-generation approach where we reimagine business processes ourselves from the design stage.
    We are also developing systems that provide direct support to keep workers safe and enhance their productivity. One of these is Reliable/Safe Operation Support, which helps users prevent work-related accidents.

    3. Toward a society of co-caring: Caring for self and others

    The third concept is a society where a harmonious state of mind and body encourages co-caring relationships with the people around us. The key to realizing this society is technology that deepens Human Insight.

    Verification test environment for time value enhancement of travel experience

    Human Insight technology

    This uses advanced sensing to collect a wide range, not only of biometric data like heart rate, respiration, and physical movements, but also of behavioral data. It then applies AI to model the individual’s physical and mental condition and characteristics, and even aspects of interactions with others. Then, by stimulating the five senses through environmental parameters including light, sound, scent, and temperature sensations, it aims to guide the individual toward an enhanced state of well-being.

    We are developing technologies that use heart rate to identify different types of stress, score a subject’s degree of meditative depth and provide constructive feedback, apply measured levels of concentration to the improvement of work environments, and other applications. We are also exploring unique research topics. Biophilic Hi-Res Sound enhances relaxation through wide-band audio and can strengthen brainwaves associated with relaxation. Therapeutic Sound promotes mental and physical well-being using sound with inaudible components, and can reduce stress levels during cognitive tasks.
    These technologies are undergoing development and field testing in a range of settings and realistic use cases. The success of this work will enhance physical and mental well-being and help people realize more creative, fulfilling lives.

    Cell therapy solutions

    Regenerative medicine is a key area of focus. Treatments that utilize the patient’s own cells and iPS cells offer great promise. Nevertheless, cell manufacturing remains inefficient, labor-intensive, and costly. We are currently collaborating with partners including the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University to develop an automated system that reliably produces high-quality therapeutic cells in a cost-effective way by combining Panasonic expertise in biotechnology, precision manufacturing equipment, data analysis, and simulation. We are confident we can help make individually-tailored treatments accessible to more people, and contribute materially to extending healthy life span and improving quality of life.

    Synergy between structural reform and technology development: Focusing on what truly matters

    Panasonic is implementing group-wide management reform, and the impact of these efforts naturally extends to our technology divisions. Budget cuts are part of our efforts to optimize our operations, but I don’t view this as a negative. Instead, I see it as a great opportunity to focus our resources on the initiatives that truly matter as we extend our technological development.
    Most important is to select the themes that are likely to have the greatest impact toward realizing our Future Technology Vision, and apply our limited resources to investments that will generate the greatest return.
    As we do so, open innovation-style collaboration with universities and enterprises will only become more important. To enhance the speed and quality of our development, we will actively incorporate external knowledge and technologies rather than attempt to go it alone.
    What matters most is that we foster a culture of embracing challenges. As our founder Konosuke Matsushita once said, “Don’t fear mistakes. Fear a lack of resolve.” The process of creating new value inevitably includes setbacks. What can we learn from them? How can we apply those lessons? I’m convinced that such experiences strengthen our entire technology organization.

    How will AI illuminate the future?

    AI is a critical enabling technology for current and future innovation. To reinforce our group commitment to AI, we have launched a new initiative called Panasonic Go. Its goal is to expand the share of AI-related businesses to 30% of group sales by FY2035. In my view, this transformation will mark our evolution into a new breed of enterprise, with seamless vertical and horizontal connections across multiple layers of the organization.

    While we are still defining specific business targets for FY2035, our goal is to leverage AI and data to connect value that is now provided through individual products and services. We will not simply embed AI in products, but apply it across R&D workflows to boost efficiency and boldly tackle the challenge of creating new value.
    As AI extends into every corner of society, security technology becomes more and more important. From individual product security to security for whole factories and complete IT systems, we are reinforcing our efforts to deliver safety and peace of mind to customers by combining cutting-edge AI with expertise accumulated over many years. We are already contributing to society in tangible ways, such as shielding manufacturing lines from malware, or structuring security systems for entire office buildings.

    Panasonic means hope to everyone invested in the future

    From my perspective as CTO, I’m continually giving thought to how Panasonic technologies can contribute to future society. I think the answer begins in our founding DNA, which embodies a deep-rooted desire to improve people’s lives through manufacturing.
    To those who will lead tomorrow’s society, especially young people shaping the future, and to our engineers at Panasonic, I would say this: Don’t do only what you can do, but keep asking yourself what you should do. No matter how challenging the circumstances, I hope you’ll never lose your optimism. My own motto is, “Good fortune comes to those who smile.” If you’re always optimistic and willing to tackle challenges, I’m confident that a path forward is certain to open up.
    For more than a century, Panasonic has been a part of people’s lives through technology. The trust and technological achievement we have accumulated throughout our history are precious assets. Nevertheless, we must keep our eyes on the future and continue to challenge ourselves to create new value.
    With the Future Technology Vision to guide us, we will achieve transformation as a united Panasonic Group, and do our utmost to deliver futures filled with promise.

    Related Articles

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    The Panasonic Group is implementing extensive management reform, but which direction is technology pointing us in? What sort of future is taking shape before our eyes in this era of transformation? To explore the heart of the matter, we spoke with Tatsuo Ogawa, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Group CTO overseeing technology strategy.

    One year later: Three concepts and an unshakable commitment

    We unveiled our Technology Future Vision in July 2024. Since then we’ve received a remarkable amount of internal and external feedback. The support we’ve received, and the specific discussions relating to possible collaboration, have been very encouraging. We see many exciting challenges ahead as we work to realize the vision. The future it embodies remains the same, and we continue to create new technology and businesses as we map out our unique path and push forward.
    In particular, the three core concepts of energy and resources, nurturing a sense of fulfillment, and co-caring are vital guiding principles, as we integrate Panasonic technologies to achieve our overall goal of enhancing quality of life for everyone. We are pressing forward with research and development, so I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress we are making in multiple directions.

    1. Toward a society where energy and resources flow: Tackling the hard challenges of the global environment

    We are boldly tackling global environmental challenges through a wide range of R&D initiatives centered on the Green Transformation and Manufacturing Innovation Divisions.

    Perovskite solar cells

    These glass panels can generate energy where conventional solar panels cannot, for example as windows in dense urban areas. We already have a pilot manufacturing line producing near-commercial-size construction elements (1.0 m × 1.8 m). Our industrial inkjet printing system used to produce these panels is so advanced that it received the prestigious Okochi Memorial Technology Prize. Our goal is to integrate renewable energy generation into everyday urban infrastructure for better energy self-sufficiency and greater resilience in case of disasters.

    A Perovskite panel on display at Osaka’s Expo 2025 demonstrates the design potential this technology offers.

    Novitek Bio-CO₂ Transformation technology

    This biostimulant technology promotes plant growth by harnessing the power of photosynthesis, and represents an important step toward turning CO2 into a valuable resource. Field trials are underway in collaboration with Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited, and Novitek is showing promise as a driver of sustainable agriculture with higher productivity and lower environmental impact.

    kinari (plant-derived cellulose fiber resin composite)

    Panasonic has developed moldable materials that are fully biodegradable in marine environments. It achieved this by taking its proprietary technology for blending high concentrations of plant-based cellulose fibers into resins and applying it to marine-biodegradable, plant-derived resins. In April 2025, Panasonic received the Ichimura Prize in Industry against Global Warming for this and related technologies.

    Tracephere traceability technology

    This technology uses the blockchain to make resource recycling and reuse transparent and trustworthy. It can bring us closer to realizing the circular economy by encouraging the use of recycled materials and preventing illegal dumping.

    Design for Circular Economy (DfCE)

    This initiative aims to drive the transition to a circular economy by designing products with ease of disassembly and recycling in mind. The effort is based on the MI Division’s perspective of maintaining and regenerating value in manufacturing, and will extend product lifespans and reduce waste.

    We also want to expand the positive impacts our activities are having on the environment in FY2025. Efforts in this direction are critically important, not only to halt but reverse biodiversity loss. To this end, we are investing resources in activities that directly support natural capital restoration. An example is our promotion of Nature Symbiosis Site research in areas where biodiversity is already being actively protected by companies, local government, NGOs, and others. These sites are part of Japan’s strategy to meet the global “30 by 30” goal of conserving at least 30% of land and sea by 2030. Another example would be conserving and regenerating blue carbon ecosystems by applying robotics and IoT technologies in collaboration with seaweed aquaculture startups. To ensure transparency and demonstrate our commitment to the environment, we are TCFD* disclosure-compliant and are working to meet TNFD** standards.
    * TCFD: Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. This organization promotes disclosure by enterprises and other entities of information relating to their climate change-related activities and policies, and how these relate to their financial posture.
    ** TNFD: Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. An international organization founded to structure frameworks for corporate risk management relating to natural capital, and for related disclosure.

    2. Toward a society of fulfillment: Creating meaningful time

    We want our technology to help every member of society find fulfillment in their work and daily activities, and be able to have more meaningful, quality time. At the heart of this concept are initiatives from the Digital Transformation & Cyber-Physical Systems Division.

    With digital collection and analysis of data from frontline environments like manufacturing sites, and by providing optimized feedback, we are working to boost operational efficiency and quality and create safer, more secure working environments. We plan to evolve beyond straightforward Kaizen toward Gemba CPS 2.0, a next-generation approach where we reimagine business processes ourselves from the design stage.
    We are also developing systems that provide direct support to keep workers safe and enhance their productivity. One of these is Reliable/Safe Operation Support, which helps users prevent work-related accidents.

    3. Toward a society of co-caring: Caring for self and others

    The third concept is a society where a harmonious state of mind and body encourages co-caring relationships with the people around us. The key to realizing this society is technology that deepens Human Insight.

    Verification test environment for time value enhancement of travel experience

    Human Insight technology

    This uses advanced sensing to collect a wide range, not only of biometric data like heart rate, respiration, and physical movements, but also of behavioral data. It then applies AI to model the individual’s physical and mental condition and characteristics, and even aspects of interactions with others. Then, by stimulating the five senses through environmental parameters including light, sound, scent, and temperature sensations, it aims to guide the individual toward an enhanced state of well-being.

    We are developing technologies that use heart rate to identify different types of stress, score a subject’s degree of meditative depth and provide constructive feedback, apply measured levels of concentration to the improvement of work environments, and other applications. We are also exploring unique research topics. Biophilic Hi-Res Sound enhances relaxation through wide-band audio and can strengthen brainwaves associated with relaxation. Therapeutic Sound promotes mental and physical well-being using sound with inaudible components, and can reduce stress levels during cognitive tasks.
    These technologies are undergoing development and field testing in a range of settings and realistic use cases. The success of this work will enhance physical and mental well-being and help people realize more creative, fulfilling lives.

    Cell therapy solutions

    Regenerative medicine is a key area of focus. Treatments that utilize the patient’s own cells and iPS cells offer great promise. Nevertheless, cell manufacturing remains inefficient, labor-intensive, and costly. We are currently collaborating with partners including the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University to develop an automated system that reliably produces high-quality therapeutic cells in a cost-effective way by combining Panasonic expertise in biotechnology, precision manufacturing equipment, data analysis, and simulation. We are confident we can help make individually-tailored treatments accessible to more people, and contribute materially to extending healthy life span and improving quality of life.

    Synergy between structural reform and technology development: Focusing on what truly matters

    Panasonic is implementing group-wide management reform, and the impact of these efforts naturally extends to our technology divisions. Budget cuts are part of our efforts to optimize our operations, but I don’t view this as a negative. Instead, I see it as a great opportunity to focus our resources on the initiatives that truly matter as we extend our technological development.
    Most important is to select the themes that are likely to have the greatest impact toward realizing our Future Technology Vision, and apply our limited resources to investments that will generate the greatest return.
    As we do so, open innovation-style collaboration with universities and enterprises will only become more important. To enhance the speed and quality of our development, we will actively incorporate external knowledge and technologies rather than attempt to go it alone.
    What matters most is that we foster a culture of embracing challenges. As our founder Konosuke Matsushita once said, “Don’t fear mistakes. Fear a lack of resolve.” The process of creating new value inevitably includes setbacks. What can we learn from them? How can we apply those lessons? I’m convinced that such experiences strengthen our entire technology organization.

    How will AI illuminate the future?

    AI is a critical enabling technology for current and future innovation. To reinforce our group commitment to AI, we have launched a new initiative called Panasonic Go. Its goal is to expand the share of AI-related businesses to 30% of group sales by FY2035. In my view, this transformation will mark our evolution into a new breed of enterprise, with seamless vertical and horizontal connections across multiple layers of the organization.

    While we are still defining specific business targets for FY2035, our goal is to leverage AI and data to connect value that is now provided through individual products and services. We will not simply embed AI in products, but apply it across R&D workflows to boost efficiency and boldly tackle the challenge of creating new value.
    As AI extends into every corner of society, security technology becomes more and more important. From individual product security to security for whole factories and complete IT systems, we are reinforcing our efforts to deliver safety and peace of mind to customers by combining cutting-edge AI with expertise accumulated over many years. We are already contributing to society in tangible ways, such as shielding manufacturing lines from malware, or structuring security systems for entire office buildings.

    Panasonic means hope to everyone invested in the future

    From my perspective as CTO, I’m continually giving thought to how Panasonic technologies can contribute to future society. I think the answer begins in our founding DNA, which embodies a deep-rooted desire to improve people’s lives through manufacturing.
    To those who will lead tomorrow’s society, especially young people shaping the future, and to our engineers at Panasonic, I would say this: Don’t do only what you can do, but keep asking yourself what you should do. No matter how challenging the circumstances, I hope you’ll never lose your optimism. My own motto is, “Good fortune comes to those who smile.” If you’re always optimistic and willing to tackle challenges, I’m confident that a path forward is certain to open up.
    For more than a century, Panasonic has been a part of people’s lives through technology. The trust and technological achievement we have accumulated throughout our history are precious assets. Nevertheless, we must keep our eyes on the future and continue to challenge ourselves to create new value.
    With the Future Technology Vision to guide us, we will achieve transformation as a united Panasonic Group, and do our utmost to deliver futures filled with promise.

    Related Articles

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • PM Modi extends birthday greetings to Maha CM Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended warm birthday wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, lauding their contributions to the state and wishing them long and healthy lives.

    Fadnavis, born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur and Pawar, born on the same date in 1959 in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, received praise and blessings from leaders across the political spectrum.

    Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Best wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji on his birthday. He’s working tirelessly for Maharashtra’s progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden. May he lead a long and healthy life in service of the people.”

    For Ajit Pawar, who leads the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction aligned with the Mahayuti, PM Modi posted, “Birthday greetings to Shri Ajit Pawar Ji. He is making a valuable contribution to strengthening the NDA’s good governance agenda in Maharashtra. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended heartfelt greetings. “Happy birthday to Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Under the leadership of Modi ji, you are continuously doing commendable work towards public welfare and revival of cultural heritage in Maharashtra,” Shah wrote on X.

    “We are also moving forward firmly on the path of public welfare by providing basic facilities to the poor, deprived and exploited in a transparent manner. May Ganpati Bappa grant you long life and healthy life,” he added.

    For Ajit Pawar, Shah wrote, “Heartiest birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. You are playing a commendable role in bringing the work of the Mahayuti government to the ground in Maharashtra. I pray to God for your good health and long life.”

    Joining in the celebrations, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered his wishes to both leaders.

    In a message posted in Marathi (loosely translated into English), he wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to the Honourable Chief Minister Devendraji Fadnavis, the steadfast warrior of Maharashtra’s development journey! A trusted friend and colleague of the Mahayuti alliance, leading all comrades with strength, a leader who amplifies the voice of the people, taking bold steps in Maharashtra’s journey toward prosperity.”

    He further praised Fadnavis as “an excellent administrator, a wise leader with expertise in economics and law, and a visionary leader,” and prayed for his long and healthy life.

    Wishing his counterpart Ajit Pawar, Shinde wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to Deputy Chief Minister Hon. Ajitdada Pawar, who steadfastly supports the Mahayuti! An exceptional administrator with a remarkable grasp of economics, a steadfast companion of visionary development, and a sensitive and punctual leader who carries the aspirations of Maharashtra’s progress — that’s our Ajitdada.”

    He added, “To our friend who firmly believes nothing comes before Maharashtra’s development and walks this path with conviction, we pray at the feet of the Almighty for a long and healthy life!”

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi extends birthday greetings to Maha CM Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended warm birthday wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, lauding their contributions to the state and wishing them long and healthy lives.

    Fadnavis, born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur and Pawar, born on the same date in 1959 in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, received praise and blessings from leaders across the political spectrum.

    Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Best wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji on his birthday. He’s working tirelessly for Maharashtra’s progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden. May he lead a long and healthy life in service of the people.”

    For Ajit Pawar, who leads the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction aligned with the Mahayuti, PM Modi posted, “Birthday greetings to Shri Ajit Pawar Ji. He is making a valuable contribution to strengthening the NDA’s good governance agenda in Maharashtra. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended heartfelt greetings. “Happy birthday to Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Under the leadership of Modi ji, you are continuously doing commendable work towards public welfare and revival of cultural heritage in Maharashtra,” Shah wrote on X.

    “We are also moving forward firmly on the path of public welfare by providing basic facilities to the poor, deprived and exploited in a transparent manner. May Ganpati Bappa grant you long life and healthy life,” he added.

    For Ajit Pawar, Shah wrote, “Heartiest birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. You are playing a commendable role in bringing the work of the Mahayuti government to the ground in Maharashtra. I pray to God for your good health and long life.”

    Joining in the celebrations, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered his wishes to both leaders.

    In a message posted in Marathi (loosely translated into English), he wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to the Honourable Chief Minister Devendraji Fadnavis, the steadfast warrior of Maharashtra’s development journey! A trusted friend and colleague of the Mahayuti alliance, leading all comrades with strength, a leader who amplifies the voice of the people, taking bold steps in Maharashtra’s journey toward prosperity.”

    He further praised Fadnavis as “an excellent administrator, a wise leader with expertise in economics and law, and a visionary leader,” and prayed for his long and healthy life.

    Wishing his counterpart Ajit Pawar, Shinde wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to Deputy Chief Minister Hon. Ajitdada Pawar, who steadfastly supports the Mahayuti! An exceptional administrator with a remarkable grasp of economics, a steadfast companion of visionary development, and a sensitive and punctual leader who carries the aspirations of Maharashtra’s progress — that’s our Ajitdada.”

    He added, “To our friend who firmly believes nothing comes before Maharashtra’s development and walks this path with conviction, we pray at the feet of the Almighty for a long and healthy life!”

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pāua poacher jailed for 2 and a half years

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    A Porirua poacher found with 619 pāua he intended to sell, has been sent to prison for 2 years and 6 months. 

    Ruteru Sufia (63) was sentenced in the Porirua District Court today on 4 charges under the Fisheries Act and one charge under the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing) Regulations, following a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries. The Court also banned him from all forms of fishing for 3 years.

    In November 2022, Fishery Officers carried out a search warrant at Mr Sufia’s home and found 65 pāua in a freezer along with 554 shucked pāua in another freezer.

    “This was a large amount of pāua, more than 60 times the daily catch limit and more than 30 times the accumulation limit. Also, 45 of the pāua found were undersize. 

    While on bail on those charges, Mr Sufia was caught with a further 48 pāua, with 29 less than the minimum legal size. Mr Sufia was sentenced today on all matters.

    “Mr Sufia intended to sell this seafood, which is also illegal. We have zero tolerance for poachers – they affect the sustainability of our shared fisheries, and they affect people who legitimately trade in seafood,” says Fisheries New Zealand regional manager, Fisheries Compliance, Phil Tasker.

    “Mr Sufia claimed the pāua in his freezer was for a wedding in Auckland, an explanation the court didn’t believe. Mr Sufia’s offending was deliberate. He wasn’t concerned with legal size and catch limits; he was driven by financial gain from poaching this pāua. 

    When we find evidence of illegal fishing – you can be assured that we will investigate and depending on the circumstances, place the matter before the court,” Mr Tasker says.

    Ruteru Sufia has a long record of breaking fisheries rules with over 35 offences dealt with by MPI over a number of years.

    MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 476 224)

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –