Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Secures Commitment from EPA Nominee to Help Combat Tijuana River Pollution Crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Secures Commitment from EPA Nominee to Help Combat Tijuana River Pollution Crisis

    WATCH: Padilla highlights importance of federal infrastructure investments to address cross-border sewage flowsWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) secured a commitment from Jessica Kramer, nominee for Assistant Administrator for the Office of Water at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to help address the ongoing Tijuana River transboundary pollution crisis and its harmful environmental and public health impacts.
    During a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee nominations hearing, Padilla highlighted the hundreds of millions in federal funding he secured along with the late Senator Dianne Feinstein and the San Diego Congressional delegation to expand and upgrade the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant (SBIWTP) to address harmful sewage flows. Kramer echoed Senator Padilla’s characterization of these transboundary pollution flows as a “crisis” and emphasized the importance of federal infrastructure investments to combat the crisis. Padilla and Kramer agreed that collaboration and communication, with both Mexico and federal partners like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the State Department, is essential to address these harmful cross-border flows.
    The hearing comes after Padilla, Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Representatives Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50) and Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52) recently invited EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to visit San Diego’s South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant (SBITWP) to see firsthand the ongoing environmental and public health consequences of the cross-border Tijuana River sewage crisis on local communities. Administrator Zeldin also recently expressed concern about the flow of sewage flowing across the border, posting about a briefing he received on the crisis and pushing Mexico to “honor its commitments to control this pollution and sewage.”
    PADILLA: I want to begin by expressing my appreciation for EPA Administrator Zeldin’s interest in one of my top EPA priorities, which is finally resolving the Tijuana River sewage crisis. For decades, communities in that part of Southern California have faced persistent both environmental as well as public health impacts of untreated sewage that has flowed across the border. … We recently invited Administrator Zeldin to tour the plant to see firsthand the challenges that we face. So I’d like to just begin by asking you, Ms. Kramer, how familiar you are with this issue, with the projects because assuming you are confirmed, I’d look forward to working with you to bring this project to completion.
    KRAMER: Absolutely. Thank you, Senator, for that question. During my first tenure at EPA under the first Trump Administration, this is, in fact, one of the issues that I worked on. And so EPA had been appropriated that first amount of funding that you referenced, and I was involved in the consideration of the various projects that could be funded to ensure that this transboundary flow crisis — to be completely frank, raw sewage flowing anywhere, in my mind, is a crisis — comes to an end. … I think the challenges that we’re seeing there, one, stems to ensuring that the infrastructure that is in place to ensure that these flows cease, but also two, ensuring that there is communication, robust communication that allows for partnership that is required to ensure that operation and maintenance of those infrastructure investments takes place. And it’s especially easy when it’s in the U.S., and it’s a little bit more challenging when we have infrastructure on the other side of the border that we need to be collaborating on.
    PADILLA: Well, that’s music to my ears, your familiarity with it, your history with it, your commitment to it as a priority. And yes, collaboration is key, not just with partners south of the border, but even within the federal government. We’ve brought to bear U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the intricacies of the State Department involvement here. So thank you for that.
    KRAMER: Absolutely.
    Senator Padilla also questioned Brian Nesvik, nominee to be Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service at the Department of the Interior, highlighting the complexities of California’s water system and threats to the state’s water security and quality in the face of climate change. He urged Nesvik to roll up his sleeves on California water challenges and encouraged him to listen to career professionals at the Fish and Wildlife Service and experts within California’s state agencies to navigate complex water and wildlife issues.
    Video of Padilla’s full line of questioning is available here.
    Since 2018, more than 100 billion gallons of toxic sewage, trash, and unmanaged stormwater have flowed across the United States-Mexico border into the Tijuana River Valley and neighboring communities, forcing long-lasting beach closures and causing harmful impacts on public health, the environment, and water quality. U.S. military personnel, border patrol agents, and the local economy have also suffered harmful impacts from airborne and waterborne transboundary sewage flows. In 2023, sewage flowed across the border at the highest volume in a quarter century, exceeding 44 billion gallons.
    Senator Padilla has prioritized addressing the Tijuana River pollution crisis since he first came to the Senate, recently working with the San Diego Congressional delegation to secure $250 million in the federal disaster relief package to clean up the Tijuana River. This marked the final tranche of funding required to complete the SBIWTP upgrade project. The SBIWTP project broke ground in October 2024, and over the coming years, the SBIWTP will double in capacity, reducing transboundary flows by 90 percent. Importantly, Mexico’s rehabilitated San Antonio de los Buenos wastewater treatment plant is expected to be fully operational by Spring 2025, further reducing flows to California communities. 
    In response to a request from Padilla and the San Diego Congressional delegation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently opened an investigation into the public health impacts of air pollution caused by the ongoing Tijuana River transboundary pollution crisis. Senator Padilla and the delegation also recently secured a $200 million authorization for the Tijuana River Valley Watershed and San Diego County through the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 to help address the ongoing transboundary sewage crisis through stormwater conveyance, environmental and ecosystem restoration, and water quality protection projects. They also delivered over $103 million in additional funding for the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) in the bipartisan FY 2024 appropriations package. Padilla previously successfully secured language in the FY 2023 appropriations package to allow the EPA to unlock $300 million previously secured in the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to the IBWC for water infrastructure projects. Last year, Padilla and Representatives Peters and Vargas announced bicameral legislation to help combat the Tijuana River sewage pollution crisis.
    More information on the hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: Liu Cixin’s novels set for more screen adaptations

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Several classic works by China’s leading sci-fi writer Liu Cixin are to be adapted into high-profile films and TV series. This includes a newly announced movie adaptation of “With Her Eyes,” to be produced by Chen Sicheng, the filmmaker behind the blockbuster “Detective Chinatown” franchise.

    Chen Sicheng, Liu Cixin and Dai Mo (left to right) pose for a photo at an event announcing the “With Her Eyes” movie in Wenchang, Hainan province, March 21, 2025. [Photo courtesy of As One Production]

    At an event announcing the new adaptation held at the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site on March 21, As One Production confirmed Chen Sicheng as executive producer, with Dai Mo — director of hits including “Fireflies in the Sun” and “Detective Chinatown 1900” — set to direct. Meanwhile, the screenwriting team will unite Liu Cixin with Italian cinema legend Giuseppe Tornatore, the Oscar-winning creator of “Cinema Paradiso,” “The Legend of 1900” and “Malèna.”

    The short story “With Her Eyes” won China’s prestigious sci-fi Galaxy Award in 1999. It follows a space engineer who, after returning from a mission, takes a special pair of “eyes” on vacation — connecting him to a mysterious “her.” Through their shared senses, they explore nature together, her shifting emotions sparking his growing curiosity. With its concept of “shared senses,” the story delves into human loneliness and has been praised by readers as Liu Cixin’s “most tender sci-fi parable.”

    Liu noted at the film’s announcement that “With Her Eyes” differs from his other works, framing humanity’s grand exploration of the unknown through a gentle, poetic lens tinged with melancholy. “I believe the film adaptation will create a unique sci-fi universe,” he said. “Through my deep involvement in the cinematic process, we’ll deliver unprecedented visual artistry and emotional impact to audiences.”

    During his visit to China’s cutting-edge aerospace facilities at the launch site, Chen Sicheng expressed his admiration at the nation’s rapid space technology advancements. “I’m fully committed to preserving Liu Cixin’s poetic and romantic vision, and sharing this profoundly moving wonder with audiences,” he said.

    For director Dai Mo, this marks his second collaboration with Liu Cixin, having just wrapped up on the highly anticipated sci-fi series “Ball Lightning” — another Liu Cixin adaptation executive produced by Chen Sicheng.

    Crew and collaborators of the “With Her Eyes” film project pose for a group photo at the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site in Wenchang, Hainan province, March 21, 2025. [Photo courtesy of As One Production]

    Liu Cixin’s works have become crown jewels for sci-fi film and TV adaptations. Recently, it was reported that his military sci-fi story “Full-Spectrum Barrage Jamming” will be directed by Guan Hu, best known for his 2020 war epic “The Eight Hundred.”

    Other major projects in development include Frant Gwo’s 2027 sci-fi epic “The Wandering Earth 3,” Zhang Yimou’s film adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem,” and Yang Lei’s TV series “Three-Body II: The Dark Forest.” Additionally, a spin-off series centered on “Three-Body” protagonist Shi Qiang is in the works, while Tian Li’s TV adaptation of “Sea of Dreams” is currently in post-production. A movie adaptation of “The Supernova Era” is also underway.

    Previously, Liu Cixin’s “The Wandering Earth” inspired two blockbuster films directed by Frant Gwo — the 2019 release grossing 4.69 billion yuan, followed in 2023 by its prequel earning 4.04 billion yuan. Director Ning Hao adapted Liu’s “The Rural Teacher” into “Crazy Alien,” which generated 2.2 billion yuan in 2019. The Hugo Award-winning “The Three-Body Problem” has spawned two successful TV adaptations: Tencent Video’s Chinese version and Netflix’s international production, both achieving critical and commercial success. Industry analysts estimate the “Three-Body” franchise — spanning publishing, film, TV, animation, digital ventures and exhibitions — has reached a total co-branded consumer market value of over 2 billion yuan.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic announces EIZO Joins KAIROS Alliance Partners

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic announces EIZO Joins KAIROS Alliance Partners

    Osaka, Japan, March 27, 2024 – Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd. (“Panasonic”) today announced EIZO, which develops and sells visual display systems such as monitors, has joined the “KAIROS Alliance Partner,” a partnership with IT and video-related equipment manufacturers and suppliers of IT/IP platform KAIROS, a live video production solution. In addition, the 30.5-inch HDR “ColorEdge PROMINENCE CG1”, the first EIZO monitor to support SMPTE ST 2110, and KAIROS were verified to work together, making the CG1 a third-party device that has been confirmed to work with KAIROS. Through collaboration with EIZO and cross-validation with the ST 2110 compatible display CG1, we will provide the video production industry with a freer, higher-quality video production environment and workflow improvements.
    With this collaboration and validation, KAIROS and CG1 will make it easier to use the ST 2110 ecosystem for video input and output including the color mode of YCbCr 4:4:4 and RGB. Since the output of the ST 2110 from KAIROS can be received by the CG1 without using a converter or gateway, it is possible to reduce the equipment of the system and check the output of the ST 2110 in advance. And both KAIROS and CG1 are compatible with NMOS* and ST 2022-7. Therefore, it is also possible to build a system with NMOS control and network redundancy.
    “We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the development of ST 2110 and the use of IP in the video industry through our collaboration with EIZO,” said Kageyuki (Kenny) Fujimoto, lead manager of KAIROS Alliance Partners. “Through collaboration with KAIROS Alliance partners, we believe that bringing together industry leaders to create a single, integrated production environment simplifies installation and operation for creatives who rely on KAIROS to create dynamic, fresh content on a daily basis around the world.”
    KAIROS for touch-and-try will be held at the Panasonic booth (N1311) at “2025 NAB Show” be held in Las Vegas, USA from April 6 to April 10, 2025, and CG1 will be exhibited at the booth. In addition, EIZO’s “ColorEdge PROMINENCE CG1” HDR reference monitor will also be on display at the EIZO booth (SL5829) at “2025 NAB Show”.

    Notes:
    *EIZO, the EIZO Logo and ColorEdge are registered trademarks of EIZO Corporation in Japan and other countries.
    *NMOS (Networked Media Open Specifications) is a protocol standardized by AMWA (Advanced Media Workflow Association) for controlling and managing devices via IP networks.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: China Cultural Center in Myanmar presents free Chinese film screenings

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The China Cultural Center in Myanmar’s Yangon region presents free Chinese film screenings every Saturday, according to the center on Wednesday.

    The weekend film screening program had been running since 2018 following the establishment of the center, but was suspended during the COVID-19 period. It resumed on March 15 this year, an official from the center told Xinhua.

    Attendees include both individual moviegoers and groups from Chinese schools, she said.

    During the summer holidays, visitors can not only enjoy Chinese films, but also learn about the Chinese language, culture, and current affairs through cinema, she added.

    A variety of films are screened, including popular Chinese movies, romance films, and documentaries, she said.

    The films have Chinese and English subtitles, making them accessible even for those unfamiliar with the language but interested in Chinese movies, she added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ahead of 2025 NAB Show: How Microsoft tech is transforming sports

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Ahead of 2025 NAB Show: How Microsoft tech is transforming sports

    In the dynamic world of sports, where every second counts, technologies such as cloud computing, AI, and real-time data analysis have emerged as pivotal forces for optimizing strategies and captivating audiences. Ahead of the 2025 NAB Show, we’re sharing how Microsoft is at the forefront of this transformation, partnering with sports organizations worldwide to integrate technology and gain a competitive edge.

    Join Microsoft at the 2025 NAB Show

    Technology integration opportunities in sports 

    Microsoft technology helps drive the quality of the game and create new business opportunities for organizations by:

    • Enhancing performance with real-time data insights and analytics for data-driven decision-making. 
    • Improving operational efficiency through streamlined workflows, increased collaboration, and seamless data integration. 
    • Elevating fan engagement with AI and real-time customer insights to create a comprehensive ecosystem of personalized experiences.   
    • Unlocking broadcast and media integration opportunities by using advanced cloud and AI technologies to scale content operations and reach more audiences.  
    • Supporting secure data storage and processing by implementing advanced cloud technologies to secure content with high-speed data storage and processing. 

    Whether it’s supporting Formula One engineers to make split-second race decisions, empowering tennis players with AI-assisted match analysis, or delivering personalized experiences to fans, Microsoft technology is redefining the future of sports—making organizations faster, smarter, and more connected than ever before.  

    Learn more about Microsoft’s technical solutions through key partnerships below. 

    Data-driven decision-making 

    In high-performance sports, every decision can alter the course of the game. From AI-powered analytics that provide real-time insights for athletes to cloud-based solutions that optimize operations, learn more about how Microsoft technology is driving data-led decision-making and reshaping how teams compete in the Women’s World Cup of Tennis, the NFL, and Formula One. 

    Billie Jean King Cup: Transforming tennis strategy with AI 

    The Billie Jean King Cup uses Microsoft AI and cloud technologies to provide players and coaches with data visualizations and real-time insights during matches.  

    Key highlights include: 

    • Match Insights App: Azure hosted application that delivers critical gameplay data, such as player movement, ball trajectories, and shot accuracy, to coaches and players in near real-time. 
    • AI-powered analytics: Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service analyzes vast datasets to provide actionable rally and serve insights, helping coaches anticipate opponent strategies and make informed decisions. 
    • Secure data management: Microsoft Azure Cloud Services help to ensure the secure storage and processing of high-volume data generated during matches. 

    Read more about how Microsoft and the Billie Jean King Cup are elevating competition through data-driven insights.

    NFL: Game-changing technology on the sidelines 

    The NFL uses Microsoft hardware and software to enhance game-day operations and team collaboration. 

    Key highlights include: 

    • Microsoft Surface Sideline Viewing System (SVS): Hardware and software solution that provides coaches and players with near real-time, high-resolution images of plays, enabling rapid strategic adjustments. 
    • NFL Combine App: Application that streamlines talent evaluation by providing real-time access to key performance metrics. 
    • Enhanced collaboration: Microsoft Teams and Azure facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among NFL teams. 

    Read more about how Microsoft and the NFL are changing the game with new levels of operational efficiency.

    BWT Alpine Formula One Team: Data-powered racing innovation 

    BWT Alpine Formula One Team uses advanced AI and Azure’s robust cloud infrastructure to unlock new capabilities in data insights, regulatory compliance, and business operations.  

    Key highlights include: 

    • AI-powered race strategies: Azure Computer Vision and Multi-Agent Resourcing Optimization (MARO) reinforcement learning allows Alpine to optimize race day strategy and car setup based on real-time telemetry. 
    • High-speed data processing: Azure provides secure, high-speed data storage and retrieval, allowing split-second decisions during races. 
    • Regulatory compliance: Azure AI Search and Microsoft Copilot Studio streamline compliance processes, helping to ensure adherence to Formula One regulations. 

    Read more about how Microsoft and BWT Alpine Formula One Team are maximizing performance on and off the track.

    Integrated fan engagement 

    In today’s digital world, sports leagues are expected to meet fans at multiple touchpoints with highly personalized and easily accessible content. Learn more about how leagues such as LALIGA and the NBA are using Microsoft technology to redefine the sports and entertainment industries and take the fan ecosystem to the next level. 

    LALIGA: Enhancing fan engagement with data-driven insights 

    LALIGA uses real-time data processing and AI-powered analytics with Azure to deliver match insights and personalized digital experiences across platforms. 

    Key highlights include: 

    • Beyond Stats: Fan-facing data and insights platform powered by Azure that captures and analyzes more than 3.5 million data points per match to provide engaging content for fans across multiple platforms including social media, broadcast, and the LALIGA app. 
    • Data Sports Platform (DSP): Comprehensive system powered by Azure that unifies fan interaction data across touchpoints to generate tailored content and products to match fan preference. 
    • Seamless infrastructure: Azure’s high-performance infrastructure helps to ensure reliable content delivery and enhanced fan experiences across digital platforms. 

    Read more about how Microsoft and LALIGA are personalizing the experience for fans around the world.

    NBA: Building a next-generation fan engagement platform 

    The NBA integrates Azure and AI technology to provide fans with personalized content, real-time insights, and tailored experiences across digital platforms.  

    Key highlights include:  

    • AI-integrated platform: The NBA Insights and Top Performances platforms within the NBA App provide real-time game updates and AI-generated highlights to enhance the fan experience by utilizing Microsoft AI technology. 
    • The reimagined NBA App: Powered by Azure, the NBA App offers personalized content recommendations, real-time game insights, and a social-style video experience. 

    Read more about how Microsoft and the NBA are deeply engaging fans at every level.

    Transforming the sports industry

    Microsoft innovative technologies are transforming the sports industry, driving performance, enhancing fan engagement, and streamlining operations. From the racetracks of Formula One to the courts of the NBA, Microsoft’s partnerships are setting new standards for excellence in sports. As technology continues to evolve, the future of sports looks brighter than ever, with Microsoft leading the way in this exciting journey.

    Learn more about how Microsoft is transforming sports and other media and entertainment organizations around the world through our customer stories page. 

    Microsoft allows media organizations to achieve more through a trusted and secure platform, built to empower content creators and distributors, enhance the viewer experience, and reimagine monetization strategies. More information can be found on the Microsoft media and entertainment industry solutions website. 

    Next steps 

    Microsoft will be showcasing some of these case studies and more at our upcoming exhibition with NAB Show, April 5–9, 2025, in Las Vegas. Go through a journey of interactive demos that illustrate the capabilities needed to deliver fan-focused content and that highlight key aspects of the transformation process required to implement cutting-edge technologies for enhanced performance and fan engagement.

    Microsoft at the 2025 NAB Show

    See how Microsoft is helping to shape the future of broadcast and entertainment

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: Multiple US airstrikes hit Yemen’s Houthi-held capital Sanaa

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The U.S. military conducted multiple airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Wednesday evening, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV and residents said.

    According to the Houthi television, three airstrikes targeted the Jarban area in the Sanhan district, in the southern part of Sanaa, two airstrikes hit the al-Jumaymah area in the Bani Hushaysh district, northeast of Sanaa, as well as two other airstrikes hit the al-Daylami air base in the northern part of Sanaa.

    All those targeted areas are well-known military sites.

    Local residents said the airstrikes caused explosions.

    There were no immediate reports of casualties. The Houthi group, which controls the capital Sanaa and several northern provinces, rarely discloses its losses.

    The U.S. Central Command has not issued any comment yet.

    It was the latest in a series of airstrikes conducted by the U.S. naval forces in the Red Sea against Houthi targets two weeks ago.

    Earlier in the day, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a televised statement that his group had launched fresh rocket and drone attacks on “military targets” in central Israel and the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman in the northern Red Sea.

    The military exchanges are part of an ongoing air campaign launched by U.S. forces in mid-March against Houthi-controlled areas in northern Yemen.

    The Houthi group has vowed to continue targeting Israeli sites and ships in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and to respond to what they describe as “American aggression.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Reports Annual Shareholder Meeting Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech” or the “Corporation”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-powered low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, announces the voting results of its annual general and special meeting of shareholders held on March 26, 2025 (the “Meeting”). Shareholders voted on various proposals and elected directors to the board.

    Key Highlights of the Meeting

    1. Election of Directors: The full slate of six directors was elected to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until a successor is elected or appointed.

    Nominee Votes For % of Voted Votes Against % of Voted
    Frantz Saintellemy 22,429,293 99.69% 68,631 0.31%
    Charles Boulanger 22,392,108 99.53% 105,816 0.47%
    Derek Aberle 22,470,109 99.88% 27,815 0.12%
    Yann Delabrière 22,475,831 99.90% 22,093 0.10%
    Sylvie Veilleux 22,471,696 99.88% 26,228 0.12%
    Lizabeth Ardisana 22,474,890 99.90% 23,034 0.10%

    As previously disclosed, Nick Stone and Michelle Sterling, who were members of the Board up to the Meeting, have decided not to stand for reelection.

    2. Approval of Auditor: The appointment of Richter LLP as auditors of the Corporation was approved, and the board of directors of the Corporation was authorized to fix the auditors’ remuneration.

    Votes For % of Voted Votes Withheld % of Voted
    25,480,228 99.81% 49,275 0.19%


    3. Other

    3.1 The amendment to the Corporation’s omnibus equity-based incentive plan to increase the number of common shares available for issuance thereunder was approved and ratified.

    Votes For % of Voted Votes Against % of Voted Votes Abstain % of Voted
    22,187,011 98.62% 199,079 0.88% 111,834 0.50%

    3.2 A second and separate amendment to the Corporation’s omnibus equity-based incentive plan for the adoption of an evergreen provision to the omnibus equity-based incentive plan, providing for an automatic annual increase in the common shares available for issuance thereunder over the next five years, was approved and ratified.

    Votes For % of Voted Votes Against % of Voted Votes Abstain % of Voted
    15,862,324 70.51% 6,630,055 29.47% 5,545 0.02%

    For further details on each of these matters, please refer to the Corporation’s management information circular dated February 7, 2025, available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Meeting will be posted on the Investor Relations section of LeddarTech.com and filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

    About LeddarTech

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to the Property Council Residential Development Summit

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good morning. 
    I’m excited to be here at the Residential Development Summit. 
    Thank you to the Property Council for hosting this event. 
    Residential developers, investors, and the broader property community will play a key role in fixing New Zealand’s housing crisis.
    We need your knowledge, expertise, and big ideas to help New Zealand’s housing system grow. We need to go up, we need to go out, we need more housing choice, and we need more tenure types.
    Today I’d like to give you an update on our Going for Housing Growth programme, and how changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) will make it simpler and easier to supply the housing that New Zealanders so desperately need. 
    I will also be announcing actions Government has agreed to that will enable more greenfield development – allowing our cities to grow out.
    Letting our cities grow
    I am, unapologetically, an urbanist – dare I say, an ‘urban nerd’ – and a proponent of growth. 
    I won’t dwell on our housing challenge. You’ve all heard me bang on about that before. Our housing crisis is holding New Zealand back socially and economically. 
    Report after report and inquiry after inquiry has found that our planning system, particularly restrictions on the supply of urban land, are at the heart of our housing affordability challenge.
    I believe that fixing our planning system by making it more enabling and getting the fundamentals right in housing are the best things we can do to unleash New Zealand’s potential.
    Getting this right will:

    lift economic growth and productivity,
    reduce the cost-of-living pressure from housing, and
    ensure New Zealanders can enjoy a higher standard of living. 

    As the Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Minister of Housing, and now Minister of Transport, I get up every day determined to try and make a difference.
    Update on Going for Housing Growth 
    Let me start with an update of our Going for Housing Growth programme. 
    It has three pillars: 

    Pillar One: freeing up land for development and removing unnecessary planning barriers,
    Pillar Two: improving infrastructure funding and financing to support urban growth, and
    Pillar Three: providing incentives for communities and councils to support growth.
    Housing Growth Targets for Tier 1 and 2 councils to “live-zone” 30-years of housing demand,
    making it easier for cities to expand,
    strengthening the intensification provisions in the National Policy Statement on Urban Development (NPS-UD),
    putting in new rules requiring councils to enable mixed-used development, and
    abolishing minimum floor areas and balcony requirements.

    Pillar One
    We have made good progress on Pillar One which includes:
    I announced these changes last year and officials have been working hard on the finer details.
    The changes I announced last year build on the NPS-UD brought in by the previous government in 2020, but they obviously sit within the existing RMA structure.
    As you’ll have seen on Monday, the Government is replacing the RMA entirely with two new laws.
    This presents an obvious sequencing problem. We are committed to housing growth targets, strengthening density requirements, and so on.
    This year we will consult on changes through Pillar One, as intended. You can expect that around May.
    However, if we implemented them straight away in 2026, Councils would be forced to conduct expensive and lengthy plan changes – only to start all over again a year or so later once the new RMA comes into effect.
    So, we’ve made the pragmatic decision to implement Pillar One of our Housing Growth changes as part of the replacement of the RMA.
    This also allows us to think about housing growth targets in the context of standardised zones.
    So, councils will implement Phase 3 of the Resource Management reforms through development of new plans, starting from 2027.
    Rest assured, Pillar One will be ready to go for Councils’ 2027 Long Term Plan cycle. 
    Pillar Two
    Now, let’s talk about Pillar Two – improving infrastructure funding and financing.
    Pillar One is about upending the system by flooding the market with development opportunities and fundamentally making housing more affordable.
    But, freeing up urban land is not enough on its own. We also need to ensure the timely provision of infrastructure. 
    Put simply, you can’t have housing without land, water, transport, and other community infrastructure. 
    But under the status quo, councils and developers face big challenges to fund and finance enabling infrastructure. 
    So, last month I announced five changes to our infrastructure funding and financing toolkit to get more houses built. 

    The first is replacing Development Contributions (DCs) with a Development Levy System, where growth pays for growth,
    The second is establishing regulatory oversight of these Levies to ensure charges are fair and appropriate,
    The third is increasing the flexibility of targeted rates,
    The fourth is making changes to the Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act (IFF Act) that will make it more effective and simplify processes, and
    The fifth is broadening the IFF Act so that beneficiaries can help pay for major transportation projects.

    I won’t go into too much detail here today.
    But at a high-level, these changes will help create a flexible funding and financing system to match our flexible planning system. 
    These are some big changes, and it will take some time to get them right. 
    Our aim is to have legislation in the House by September this year, to come into effect next year. 
    Councils will be able to make the shift to development levies on the same timeline as the 2027 Long Term Plan cycle. 
    You can see, I hope, a lot of really good things coming together around 2027.
    Pillar Three 
    On Pillar Three, officials are working away on this, and we will have more to say later this year.
    Changes to RMA will support more housing
    I want to quickly talk about how RMA reform will make it simpler and easier to supply the housing New Zealanders need.
    For example, standardised zones will be a game changer. 
    I completely agree with urban economist Stuart Donovan – zoning is so balkanised that even large developers tend to stick to one or a few main centres as branching out requires reconfiguring to different planning rules.
    Developers currently face a Gordian knot of these rules. 
    Maximum building heights of 9m in Kapiti versus 8m in Dunedin. Porirua requires an outdoor living space of at least 20m2 for a medium-density residential unit – in the Manawatu it’s 36m2. In Dunedin, maximum building site coverage can vary from 30% to 60% whereas in Taupō it varies from 2.5% to 55%. 
    Councils are even getting involved with things as niche as whether it is possible for someone to see the TV from the likely location of their couch – or whether doors should face out for “privacy” or in for “inclusion and community”. 
    I get email after email about this stuff. People stop me in the street to tell me about it. It is utterly out of control.
    Councils should be focusing on engaging with communities, looking at capacity in the network, and making decisions on where growth is most appropriate. 
    And we need to grow both up and out. 
    For the remainder of this speech, I want to focus on what we are doing to enable more greenfield development. 
    Changes to the NPS-HPL
    The National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land – or the NPS-HPL, was introduced by the last Government to protect New Zealand’s highly productive soils. This piece of national direction is intended to boost food security for both our domestic food supply and primary exports.
    However, it is clear that it has gone too far. As currently drafted, the NPS-HPL protects a total of 15 percent of the country’s landmass. That’s nearly as large as the entire Canterbury region.
    This protected land often surrounds our biggest and fastest growing cities where growth is busting to get out.
    I have lost count of the number of developers who have come up to me since this has been introduced, frustrated that they are unable to secure land for greenfield housing to be developed. 
    There needs to be a balance between how we protect our most productive land with our need for more housing to tackle our housing crisis. 
    Right now, that balance is out of whack. 
    National campaigned on amending the NPS-HPL to remove the lowest classification of land protected, what is known as LUC-3. 
    This kind of land is not the golden soils we need in Pukekohe – instead, it’s much lower quality land that is good for housing. 
    Despite being a lower quality of soil, two thirds of land protected by the NPS-HPL is classified as LUC-3.
    I am pleased to announce today that Cabinet has agreed to remove LUC-3 from the NPS-HPL this year, fulfilling our election promise. 
    Across the country, this will open up land for housing roughly equivalent to the size of the Waikato region. 
    Alongside this, we are going to consult on whether we should establish what we’ve called ‘special agriculture zones’ around key horticulture hubs like Horowhenua or Pukekohe. This would essentially protect LUC 1, 2 and 3 land when it is grouped together in a natural configuration.
    We need more houses, and we need more greenfield development. 
    Removing these restrictions will allow us to have our vegetables and eat them too. 
    Changes to the NPS-HPL will be progressed as part of our National Direction changes in Phase 2 of our RMA reforms. 
    I will announce further details about the timing and shape of that package tomorrow but wanted to announce this change today to highlight our Government’s commitment to greenfield housing.
    Greenfield Model 
    To further demonstrate this commitment, we are also taking action to get more greenfield houses built in the near term. 
    I am pleased to announce that the Government will provide finance to developers to ensure more medium-sized greenfield developments – think around 1,000 to 2,000 dwellings – are enabled through the Infrastructure Funding and Finance Act.  
    We are calling this the Greenfield Model. 
    The Government will support National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Ltd – or NIFFCo – in lending up to $100 million to developers for infrastructure needed to enable new greenfield housing. 
    This model is being funded using existing unallocated funding within NIFFCo. 
    Here is how it will work. 
    NIFFCo will lend to an IFF Act Special Purpose Vehicle at a very competitive interest rate during the development phase of a project. 
    Then, the debt will be refinanced to private markets once the development is complete, with the funding ultimately being repaid by future homeowners through an annual levy.
    The development phase of a project is often the riskiest – and private financiers reflect this by charging higher interest rates.
    NIFFCo’s loan will provide lower cost financing to developers over the development period by charging approximately what private financiers would charge for completed developments. 
    This is a big win for growth.  
    NIFFCo will also be able to recycle capital into new projects after the five- to seven-year development period. 
    We are putting the Greenfield Model in place as a targeted interim measure while our Going for Housing Growth policy and Local Government reforms bed-in from 2027 or so onwards.
    To date, the IFF Act has not been used for greenfield housing developments. 
    The Act is complex, and levies are deemed too expensive. The higher than anticipated levies are also much less favourable than using DCs which are often artificially low, under-recover growth costs, and are cross subsidised by rates. 
    The economics of IFF Act levies just don’t make sense right now. 
    The changes we are making through Pillar Two, particularly around improvements to the IFF Act and our shift from DCs to Development Levies, will do the heavy lifting to fix incentives and put in place a more effective infrastructure funding and financing system where growth pays for growth. 
    But, as fast as we are going on this, it won’t happen overnight. 
    So, the Greenfield Model is a good short-term, cost-effective intervention as the lower interest rate provides benefits of around $10,000 per dwelling. 
    For comparison, the Infrastructure Acceleration Fund, which was set up to support new housing by the previous government, cost around $28,000 per house. 
    This model will support growth that otherwise wouldn’t have happened – or would have happened much later. 
    I am excited to just crack on. 
    Conclusion
    Let me finish by saying that solving our housing crisis is one of this Government’s top priorities.
    And to be honest, it is my number one priority. 
    I look forward to working with you to grow up and out, and to deliver more housing that New Zealanders need. 
    Thank you. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Live on View invites emerging contemporary musicians to take centre stage

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Up and coming contemporary musicians and bands who are living, working, or studying in Greater Bendigo are invited to apply for a Live on View subsidy to perform at the Engine Room on View Street.

    The City will provide the venue, staffing, ticketing, and marketing support for the live performances at the iconic location in the heart of the city centre.

    The performers will receive the revenue from ticket sales.

    Live on View will support evening performances with two 45 min (approx.) sessions on the night. These may be allocated to a single act (musician/group) performing two sessions or may be allocated to two acts (one session each).

    Live on View covers:

    • One day of venue access: up to 8 hours including performance
    • A multi-skilled technician for eight hours of venue access
    • Pre-event consultation with a BV&E staff member to discuss technical and other requirements
    • Audio set up
    • Standard lighting rig including front and back light and colour changing stage wash
    • Projector and screen
    • Events will be ticketed via gotix, the City’s ticketing service. Tickets to all performances will be $10 each

    Manager Bendigo Venues & Events Julie Amos said this was a new subsidy for contemporary musicians and bands.

    “For emerging talent, this is an opportunity to get gig ready and take centre stage,” Ms Amos said.

    “It is a fantastic way to raise your profile and reach a wider audience and finesse your live performance. Priority will be given to emerging artists or those presenting new work.

    “BV&E will look after everything that is needed to host a professional gig, and the bands will receive revenue from the ticket sales for their gig.

    “Tickets are $10 each so residents and visitors can experience live performances from a range of local artists playing different genres in contemporary music.

    “The iconic Engine Room is an ideal location for a great vibe and intimate atmosphere, so I encourage emerging musicians to apply.”

    Live on View applications are now open. To find out more, or to apply, visit:

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Create Lab emerging artists progress creative works with mentor support

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Four local emerging artists have been awarded $2000 each in the 2025 Create Lab small grants program to explore a creative idea with the support of an artist mentor.

    A diverse range of projects across a variety of artforms including theatre, design, music and animation are included in the Create Lab program. 

    Creative City Officer Mandy Field said the focus of the funding was to encourage participating artists to experiment with ideas, develop their skills and capacity to work creatively.

    “It has been wonderful to support these innovative ideas from emerging artists who are exploring their unique ways of making and working creatively,” Ms Field said.

    “Artists have met with their mentors over a six-week period to gain insight into creative possibilities, explore new and different ways of working and methodologies.

    “Participating artists have had time to develop ideas, receive feedback and advice, get their project documented and present their works in progress, all important stages in the creative process.”

    Funded projects include:

    • The creative development of a solo version of MacBeth by local emerging actor and theatre maker Kody Austin, involving one actor and a bucket of fake blood
    • A stop motion animation based on an original script and intricate set pieces that will be manipulated and captured frame by frame by animator Zak Westcott
    • A series of show posters with original designs by Gemma Fitzgerald in conjunction with the Bendigo Pride Festival
    • A video clip for a new single by Mannix Harrington and band Sugargum

    The community is invited to attend a showcase of works in progress which will take place at 5pm on Friday March 28 at the Engine Room, 58 View Street.

    For more information about the Create Lab Showcase, please email: 

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: 2024 Annual Results: Record activity driving strong performance and reinforcing the attractiveness of AFL’s model

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release

    March 27, 2025

    2024 Annual Results:
    Record activity driving strong performance and reinforcing the attractiveness of AFL’s model

    As of December 31, 2024, AFL Group reports solid results:

    – Net banking income exceeds €24 million, while gross operating profit rises to €7.8 million
    – Credit production to local authorities reaches €2 billion for the first time
    – New memberships, totalling 269 local authorities, a record since AFL Group’s inception over 10 years ago, bring the total number of local authorities shareholders to 1,045
    – Liquidity remains high, with an LCR ratio of 447% and an NSFR ratio of 220%
    – CET1 ratio stands at 63%
    – Leverage ratio for public development credit institutions reaches 11.25%

    Key Figures of the consolidated results as of 12/31/2024 (IFRS)

    Committed capital: €328 million (+€34.6 million vs. 12/31/2023)

    Credit production: €2 billion (+3% vs. 12/31/2023)

    Market funding raised: €2.4 billion (+13% vs. 12/31/2023)

    Net banking income: €24.1 million (+3% vs. €23.4 million as of 12/31/2023)

    Gross operating profit: €7,848K (+3% vs. 12/31/2023)

    Net profit before tax: €7,466K (-3.5% vs. 12/31/2023)

    Net profit after tax: €5,407K (vs. €5,739K as of 12/31/2023)

    Cost-to-income ratio: 67.4% (vs. 67.4% as of 12/31/2023)


    Results driven by the growth of credit activity

    Since reaching breakeven in 2020, the AFL Group has recorded 10 consecutive semesters of positive results, with steady growth in gross operating profit. These results stem from the strong expansion of the bank’s lending activity to local authorities, combined with strict cost management, while continuing to monitor the scaling up of workforce and IT investments.

    Relative to outstanding loans, operating expenses stands at 17 basis points as of December 31, 2024, compared to 20 basis points at year-end 2023. The cost-to-income ratio remains stable year-over-year at 67.4%.

    Risk cost, very limited due to the sector, increases with the deterioration of the economic and financial environment and the balance sheet growth

    AFL’s risk cost remains intrinsically limited due to the public development credit institution model, the company’s prudent management, and the excellent solvency of local authorities. The risk weighting of local authorities was reduced to 0%1 following a decision of the ACPR’s supervisory board on June 21, 2024.

    As of December 31, 2024, AFL has made a provision of €381K for ex-ante impairments on expected credit losses under IFRS 9, compared to a reversal of provisions of €117K in 2023. This provision reflects the growth in AFL’s balance sheet and a change in the weighting of underlying macroeconomic scenarii in the provisioning model, while recognizing that loans to local authorities and securities held in AFL’s portfolio are inherently low-risk.

    A robust financial structure enabling balanced growth

    The AFL Group boasts a very strong financial structure:

    • The CET1 solvency ratio (consolidated) stands at 63% (with a regulatory minimum of 11.75%, excluding the countercyclical capital buffer).
    • The leverage ratio, calculated in accordance with the methodology applicable to public development credit institutions, is 11.25% (with a regulatory minimum of 3%).
    • The LCR ratio stands at 447% (with a regulatory minimum of 100%).
    • The 12-month internal liquidity ratio (NCRR) reaches 90% as of December 31, 2024, corresponding to a liquidity reserve of €1.9 billion. This ensures that AFL can meet all of its needs for more than 11 months without needing to access the market.
    • The NSFR ratio stands at 220% (with a regulatory minimum of 100%).

    Key Highlights of 2024

    Cost efficient Funding

    In 2024, despite a significant deterioration in general refinancing conditions, AFL, the Group’s issuer, successfully raised €2.4 billion in funding on favorable terms for several reasons:

    • The continuation of a diversification strategy in both currencies and instruments.
    • The benefit of HQLA 1 classification for AFL’s debt by the ACPR since June 2024.
    • A rating by rating agencies on par with that of France.

    AFL rating

      Fitch Ratings Standard & Poor’s
    Long-Term rating Aa3 AA-
    Outlook Negative Negative
    Short-Term rating P-1 A-1+

    Strengthening of the financial structure

    In order to support the strong growth of its balance sheet, AFL has issued super-subordinated debt instruments intended to be recognized as Additional Tier 1 (AT1) capital. With this issuance, the AFL Group will be able to meet the borrowing needs associated with increased investment expenditures of French local authorities in the context of transition financing.

    Post-year end Events and Outlook

    • AFL-ST completed its 43rd capital increase on March 13, 2025, which enabled 57 new local authorities to join the AFL Group, bringing the total promised capital to nearly €331 million.
    • The AFL Group aims to exceed 1,300 member local authorities by the end of 2025.

    The AFL’s Executive Board approved the annual financial statements, both individual and consolidated, for the year 2024 on March 11, 2025. The AFL’s Supervisory Board favorably examined the financial statements on March 26, 2025.

    The Board of Directors of AFL-ST, Société Territoriale, convened on March 26, 2025, approved the financial statements of its parent company, Société Territoriale, and the consolidated financial statements of the AFL Group.

    Audit procedures on the annual and consolidated financial statements, related to the period from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, were conducted by the statutory auditors, whose reports are available at the following address: http://www.agence-france-locale.fr

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. Although AFL Group believes that these statements are based on reasonable assumptions on the date of publication of this press release, they are by their nature subject to risks and uncertainties, relating to geopolitical tensions and changes in macroeconomic forecasts and monetary policies, which could cause actual figures to differ from those indicated or implied in these statements.

    The financial information of AFL Group for the year 2024 consists of this press release, complemented by the report available on the website:

    https://www.agence-france-locale.fr/actualite/2024-annual-resu…ss-of-afls-model/

    AFL 2024 Annual Results Report: https://www.agence-france-locale.fr/app/uploads/2025/03/publi_vdef-rapport-annuel-afl-2024-eng.pdf

    AFL-ST 2024 Annual Results Report: https://www.agence-france-locale.fr/app/uploads/2025/03/publi-vdef-rapport-annuel-afl-st-2024-en.pdf

    About the AFL, the bank for local authorities

    “To embody responsible finance in order to strengthen the local world’s ability to act, addressing the present and future needs of citizens.”

    The only French bank fully owned (100%) by local authorities, the AFL has a unique and innovative model: a bank created by and for all local authorities. By becoming AFL’s shareholders, local authorities gain access to fast, tailored financing for their local investments while committing to sustainable and responsible finance practices. For local authorities, it is the freedom to invest, with a controlled management of their finances. Since its launch in 2015, the AFL has already granted nearly €11.5 billion in loans, including €2 billion in 2024, and currently has 1,101 shareholders.


    1 0% risk-weighing applies to regions (régions), departments (départements), communes and intercommunal cooperation public establishments (établissements publics de coopération intercommunale à fiscalité propre).

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Prairie Operating Co. Completes Transformative Acquisition from Bayswater

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Expands footprint in DJ Basin to ~55,000 net acres and inventory life to ~10 years

    Increases average daily production by ~25,700 net BOEPD

    Immediately accretive and maintains strong balance sheet

    Houston, TX, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Operating Co. (Nasdaq: PROP) (the “Company,” “Prairie,” “we,” “our” or “us”), today announced the successful closing of its previously announced $602.75 million acquisition of certain Denver-Julesburg Basin (DJ Basin) assets (the “Bayswater Assets”) from Bayswater Exploration and Production and its affiliated entities (collectively, “Bayswater”). This acquisition further strengthens Prairie’s position as a leading operator in the DJ Basin, enhancing its production base and long-term growth potential.

    “This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Prairie, significantly expanding our operational footprint in the DJ Basin,” said Edward Kovalik, Chairman and CEO of Prairie. “By integrating these high-quality assets, we are materially enhancing our production profile, strengthening our financial position, and creating meaningful value for our shareholders. Prairie remains singularly focused on executing our strategic vision to become a premier high-growth, low-cost oil producer.”

    Gary Hanna, President of Prairie, added, “the addition of the Bayswater Assets further establishes Prairie as a leading operator in the DJ Basin. These assets are a strong complement to our existing portfolio, and we remain focused on maximizing operational efficiencies, optimizing production, and delivering sustainable growth for shareholders.”

    Transaction Highlights:

    • Transformational Increase in Oil-Weighted Production: Adds ~25,700 net BOEPD (69% liquids).
    • Expands Footprint / Inventory Life: Additional 24,000 net acres, adding to approximately 600 highly economic drilling locations and roughly 10 years of drilling inventory.
    • Significantly Increases Free Cash Flow: Expected to be immediately accretive to per-share cash flow metrics.
    • Maintains Strong Balance Sheet: Expected leverage ratio of ~1.0x at closing with upsized credit facility and ample liquidity.
    • Meaningful Infrastructure Synergies: Leverages advantageous takeaway contracts and existing infrastructure to drive operational efficiencies and reduce development costs.

    Completed at an attractive valuation, the assets contribute 77.9 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMBOE) in proved reserves with an estimated PV-10 value of $1.1 billion (a non-GAAP financial measure reconciled below), further enhancing the Company’s financial position. With this expansion, Prairie anticipates a substantial uplift in its 2025 production, revenue, and adjusted EBITDA, reinforcing its commitment to delivering long-term shareholder value.

    Transaction Details and Advisors

    The transaction was funded through a combination of proceeds from a new issuance of Series F convertible preferred stock to a single institutional investor, a common stock public offering, a draw on the newly expanded Company’s $1 billion credit facility, and a direct issuance of common stock to Bayswater. Following the closing, Prairie has approximately 35.4 million shares of common stock outstanding.

    Citi served as exclusive financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP served as legal advisor to Prairie. Citibank N.A. also led the financing under the Company’s expanded credit facility, with Latham & Watkins LLP as legal advisor to Citibank N.A.

    About Prairie Operating Co.

    Prairie Operating Co. is a Houston-based publicly traded independent energy company engaged in the development and acquisition of oil and natural gas resources in the United States.  The Company’s assets and operations are concentrated in the oil and liquids-rich regions of the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with a primary focus on the Niobrara and Codell formations.  The Company is committed to the responsible development of its oil and natural gas resources and is focused on maximizing returns through consistent growth, capital discipline, and sustainable cash flow generation.  More information about the Company can be found at www.prairieopco.com.

    Pro-Forma Reserve Data

    A summary of the estimated reserves and values of our properties (inclusive of the Bayswater Assets), as of December 31, 2024, and as determined by Cawley, Gillespie & Associates, Inc., the Company’s independent petroleum reserve evaluation firm, using SEC pricing.

    Pro-Forma Reserve Data

    (1)  PV-10 is a non-GAAP financial measure.  Please see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measure” below.

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measure

    PV-10

    This press release contains PV-10, which is a financial measure not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. PV-10 is derived from the Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows (“Standardized Measure”), which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for proved reserves.  PV-10 is a computation of the Standardized Measure on a pre-tax basis. PV-10 is equal to the Standardized Measure at the applicable date, before deducting future income taxes discounted at 10%.  Neither PV-10 nor standardized measure represents an estimate of the fair market value of the applicable crude oil, natural gas and NGLs properties.  We believe that the presentation of PV-10 is relevant and useful to our investors as a supplemental disclosure to the Standardized Measure, or after-tax amount, because it presents the discounted future net cash flows attributable to our reserves before considering future corporate income taxes and our current tax structure. While the Standardized Measure is dependent on the unique tax situation of each company, PV-10 is based on prices and discount factors that are consistent for all companies.

    The following table reconciles PV-10 to the Standard Measure, which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure:

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measure

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information included herein and in any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included herein, are forward-looking statements, including statements about  our acquisition of the Bayswater Assets, including the expected benefits of such transaction, our financial performance following such acquisition, estimates of oil, natural gas and NGLs reserves, estimates of future oil, natural gas and NGLs production. When used herein, including any oral statements made in connection herewith, the words “could,” “should,” “will,” “may,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” the negative of such terms and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. The Company cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including the risks related to our acquisition of the Bayswater Assets, our ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Assets, the possibility that we may be unable to achieve expected free cash flow accretion, production levels, drilling, operational efficiencies and other anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Assets within the expected time-frames or at all, and our ability to successfully integrate the Bayswater Assets. There may be additional risks not currently known by the Company or that the Company currently believes are immaterial that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact the Company’s expectations can be found in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 6, 2025, and any subsequently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Current Report on Form 8-K. The Company’s SEC filings are available publicly on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Wobbe Ploegsma
    info@prairieopco.com 
    832.274.3449

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warner Introduce Legislation to Update Performing Artist Tax Deduction

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act, bipartisan legislation that would update the Qualified Performing Artist (QPA) tax deduction, an above-the-line tax deduction which allows certain performing artists to deduct the cost of expenses incurred in the course of their employment. 

    “The arts play a vital role in North Carolina’s culture and economy, yet many artists struggle with financial burdens that make it difficult to sustain their careers,” said Senator Tillis. “By updating this outdated tax deduction, this commonsense legislation ensures that hardworking artists can deduct necessary expenses, just like other professionals. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to provide long-overdue tax relief to the creative community.”  

    “Middle class and up-and-coming artists have found their home in the Commonwealth making meaningful contributions to our rich culture,” said Senator Warner. “This legislation levels the playing field for more artists by treating them like the small businesspeople they are, enriching our society and spurring our commerce.”

    “We commend Senators Warner and Tillis for championing tax fairness for our members and all entertainment professionals. Their bipartisan leadership ensures our members’ voices continue to be heard on this critical issue. It’s time to lower the cost of living for entertainment workers by including PATPA in tax legislation expected later this year, correcting an oversight that has taken money out of the pockets of middle-class IATSE members since 2017,” said Matthew D. Loeb, International President, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).

    “With just a few weeks until Tax Day, Senator Tillis and Senator Warner could not have better timed this critically important bipartisan bill that would mean actors, stage managers and other creative professionals won’t have to pay hundreds, and sometimes thousands of dollars more in taxes simply due to common business costs like their agents and managers fees and travel to auditions. I’m grateful for the leadership of Senator Tillis and Senator Warner and look forward to working with them as we fight to make this bill law,” said Brooke Shields, President, Actors’ Equity Association. 

    “Entertainment is one of the United States’ top industries, and the work of performing artists has made an immeasurable impact on our national identity. It’s time for the tax code to address the skyrocketing business costs of this highly risky profession and allow performers to deduct legitimate expenses such as agent and manager fees. This will enable working-class performers to continue supporting local economies that generate income from performers living and working in their communities. SAG-AFTRA enthusiastically supports the reintroduction of the bipartisan Performing Artist Tax Parity Act in the Senate and applauds Sens. Tillis and Warner for their work in addressing the financial challenges of those who dedicate their lives to human artistry,” said Fran Drescher, President, SAG-AFTRA.

    “The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA) is a critical step toward restoring financial fairness for performing artists across the country. For too long, we’ve been unfairly burdened by a tax system that fails to recognize the realities of our profession. This legislation paves the way for artists to be treated less like expendable contractors and more like the vital parts of an institution that we are. It’s an important step toward ensuring that performing artists are no longer penalized for the cost of doing our jobs and toward a future where we receive the same workplace protections and benefits as others who work within the companies we sustain,” said Ned Hanlon, President, American Guild of Musical Artists. 

    “Addressing the unique challenges artists and musicians face under the tax code is imperative to supporting the creative community’s impact on culture and the economy. RIAA appreciates Senators Warner and Tillis’ continued leadership driving the bipartisan, bicameral Performing Artist Tax Parity Act. This bill is designed to balance outdated burdens on performers now and enable the next generation to thrive,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

    “The Motion Picture Association thanks Sens. Thom Tillis and Mark Warner for re-introducing the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA) – an important bipartisan effort to deliver essential economic relief to a creative community that includes more than 2.3 million jobs supported by the film, television, and streaming industry. The MPA is again proud to endorse this legislation and support the American creative economy,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO, Motion Picture Association.

    “The bipartisan and bicameral Performing Artist Tax Parity Act is commonsense legislation that benefits working musicians.  PATPA makes long overdue updates to restore the intention our tax code.  We are grateful to Senators Tillis and Warner for championing fairness for all performing artists and arts workers,” said Tino Gagliardi, President, American Federation of Musicians.

    “Supporting working artists through tax relief creates ripple effects that build more vibrant communities across the country. Beyond the arts and culture sector’s $1.1 trillion economic impact, one of the largest public opinion studies ever conducted on the arts in the U.S. found that 86% of Americans believe arts and culture improve their community’s quality of life and livability. By modernizing the tax code nationally, we can support artists and strengthen every community. We applaud Senators Warner and Tillis for introducing the Senate companion to the Performing Arts Tax Parity Act, alongside the House bill championed by Representatives Buchanan and Chu, to modernize an outdated tax code that hasn’t been updated since 1986,” said Erin Harkey, CEO, Americans for the Arts.

    “Musicians nationwide are essential contributors to the U.S. workforce and the communities in which they perform,” said Simon Woods, President and CEO, League of American Orchestras. “We are grateful for the leadership of Senators Tillis and Warner in re-introducing this critical legislation to support tax fairness for performing artists.”

    “The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA) is a lifeline for the artists who bring independent stages to life. The Senate is taking an important step toward building a fairer, more sustainable live ecosystem that benefits independent stages, artists, audiences, and communities alike. We hope that Congress will move quickly to enact PATPA this year,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director, National Independent Venue Association. 

    Background

    The Qualified Performing Artist tax deduction has not been updated since its inception in 1986 and is currently only available to those making less than $16,000 a year, meaning that very few artists qualify. This legislation would update and increase the income ceiling to $100,000 for individuals and $200,000 for married joint filers, allowing more lower- and middle-income performing artists to receive tax relief for work-related expenses. This bill also indexes the deduction for inflation so it automatically adjusts for increases in the cost of living in the future. 

    Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 24, 2025, by Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Judy Chu (D-CA).

    The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act is endorsed by numerous organizations advocating for the rights of emerging artists, including the Actors’ Equity Association, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and the Recording Academy/GRAMMYs.  

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Velázquez Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Support Music Education for More Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-7) introduced a resolution that aims to support and provide students with more access to music and arts in our schools. The Music In Our Schools Month Resolution would support music in schools by affirming the importance of music education, highlighting the benefits students receive from its instruction, and recognizing the hard work of music educators across the country. 
    “Music has been in America’s schools since before our nation’s inception, and research shows that access to a music education promotes development and teaches valuable skills that kids carry with them into adulthood,” said Senator Booker. “However, many kids today lack access to music education in their schools. This resolution recognizes the impact music has made on the culture of the United States, and the importance of ensuring every public school has the resources and support they need to include music in their curriculum.” 
    “Music education opens doors for students in so many ways, whether creatively, emotionally, or academically,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “With arts federal arts funding under threat, we must recognize the importance of music education to students across the country and honor the teachers who make it possible.”
    The resolution is endorsed by a broad coalition of organizations and institutions, including ArtPride New Jersey Foundation, New Jersey Council for the Humanities, New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA), Newark School of the Arts, Wharton Arts, Art Educators of New Jersey, Arts Ed NJ, NJ Symphony, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Music Will, El Sistema USA, Conn Selmer, Inc., Music Travel Consultants, Musicians Abroad, Heart of America Choir, Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, Bennett Travel, Education Through Music, A. Cuthbertson Consulting, the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society, JazzSLAM, the Tullman Family Office, Hawaii Youth Symphony, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Percussive Arts Society (PAS), Rock and Soul Forever Foundation / TeachRock, George Mason University, League of American Orchestras, New Harmony Line, Feierabend Association for Music Education (FAME), the American Orff-Schulwerk Association, and the Music Teachers National Association, National Association for Music Education.
    “Music is a powerful force that brings people together, fosters creativity, and strengthens communities. By supporting Music in Our Schools Month, we affirm the vital role that music education plays in shaping an innovative and empathetic society,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey Foundation.
    “Music, like the humanities, helps us explore and share the stories that embody the human experience. It connects us across time and culture, fostering understanding, creativity, and community. The New Jersey Council for the Humanities is proud to support Music in Our Schools Month because every student deserves the opportunity to engage with this essential part of our shared heritage,” said Carin Berkowitz, Ph.D., Executive Director, New Jersey Council for the Humanities.
    “On behalf of the members of the New Jersey Music Educators Association, I’d like to thank Senator Booker for sponsoring this important resolution in recognition of the 40th anniversary of Music in Our Schools Month. This year’s theme, United Through Music, reminds us that despite our differences, music has the power to challenge perspectives, inspire action, and bridge divides. For four decades, this initiative has highlighted the critical role of high-quality music education in shaping well-rounded, career-ready students. As a core academic subject, music education fosters essential skills such as collaboration, teamwork, and critical thinking. Beyond performances, it nurtures creativity, self-discipline, and resilience while supporting students’ social-emotional well-being. We urge communities to recognize and celebrate music education as a vital part of every student’s learning experience,” said David Westawski, President, New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA).
    “At Newark School of the Arts, we believe music education fosters creativity, discipline, and emotional expression. Our inclusive program develops technical proficiency while instilling an appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of music, encouraging collaboration and innovation. We support Senator Booker’s Resolution for March 2025 as Music in Our Schools Month and urge others to join us,” said Sharon Salvador, Interim Executive Director, Newark School of the Arts.
    “As a proud product of a public school music program, I know firsthand the transformative power of music education. At Wharton Arts, we see every day how music fosters creativity, confidence, and community. Senator Booker’s ‘Music in Our Schools’ bill ensures that all students, regardless of background, have access to these life-changing opportunities. We strongly support this initiative and applaud his commitment to music education,” said Helen H. Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director, Wharton Arts.
    “Art Educators of NJ (AENJ), proudly stands in support of our colleagues across all artistic disciplines, including the resolution of Music in Our Schools Month. We recognize the invaluable role that music plays in the development of our youth and we are thrilled to celebrate the creative journey of New Jersey’s young artists. Together, we champion the importance of the arts in education and the endless possibilities it brings to our future creators,” said Tamika Diaz, President, Art Educators of New Jersey.
    “Arts Ed NJ proudly supports the Senate resolution designating March 2025 as Music in Our Schools Month. As a national leader in arts education access, New Jersey understands that music and the arts are essential to student wellbeing, engagement, and academic success. Every day, we see how the arts provide a vital space for students to express themselves, build resilience, and develop the critical skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex world. A comprehensive arts education is not a luxury—it is a cornerstone of creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for our communities and our nation,” said Wendy Liscow, Executive Director, Arts Ed NJ.
    “As President & CEO of New Jersey Symphony, I express my support for the designation of March 2025 as Music in Our Schools Month. As both a patron of the arts and President & CEO of an arts organization, I believe that this resolution is vital to the Garden State and is in line with our mission of bringing the arts and music education to all residents in New Jersey. I am proud to be a part of such a dynamic organization that has been a key contributor to the arts in the state. I am especially proud of our Youth Orchestra, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary season, as well as our other education and community programs in Newark, N.J., and throughout the state. We will continue this expansion of music education into Jersey City, N.J., and serve even more youth with the opening of a new Symphony Center arts venue and education complex. New Jersey is the place to be for music, and this Music in Our Schools Month resolution is a vital step to ensuring future generations receive an opportunity to develop musical talent and a love for the artform,” Terry D. Loftis, President & CEO, NJ Symphony.
    “Since 1997, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center has offered music education programs in Greater Newark schools, from assemblies on jazz history to programs that teach middle-schoolers to write musicals,” says John Schreiber, NJPAC’s President and CEO. “Our arts education programs touch more than 50,000 students every season through performances, masterclasses, in-classroom residencies and instruction in jazz, hip hop, acting and musical theater. We know the latest science shows us that the arts are profoundly beneficial to our physical and mental well-being, at every age. And we see every day how engagement with the arts is life-enhancing for our students — and how sometimes it can transform a young person’s future,” said John Schreiber, President and CEO, New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC).
    “On behalf of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association, I am honored to support this Resolution for Music in Our Schools Month. Music is a means to speak across cultures and generations – a communication tool that often transcends spoken language, uniting us where other means fail. Students in schools with strong music programs often see improved academic performance, enhanced social interaction, and higher motivation,” said Karen Bingert, Executive Director of NJPSA. “As every principal in New Jersey can attest, music education and programming can provide students with a powerful outlet for self-expression, allow them to explore emotions and creativity in ways that words sometimes cannot, develop essential life skills, improve communication, and collaborate with others toward a common goal. We thank Senator Booker for his leadership in introducing this  important Resolution, and we urge all Senators to demonstrate their commitment to the value of arts in education by supporting this pertinent measure.”
    The Music In Our Schools Month Resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA).
    To read the full text of the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Urges New Yorkers to Claim Compensation for Inflated Generic Drug Prices

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined a bipartisan coalition of 49 other attorneys general in urging consumers to check their eligibility for compensation as part of a $39.1 million settlement they secured with generic drug manufacturer Apotex Corp. (Apotex) for its role in a massive, long-running scheme to inflate prices of generic drugs and reduce competition. Attorney General James and the multistate coalition previously announced a settlement in principle with Apotex along with a $10 million settlement with Heritage Pharmaceuticals (Heritage). The settlements are part of an ongoing multistate investigation into companies for prescription drug price fixing. The companies in the scheme, some of which increased prices by 1,000 percent, manufactured essential medications to treat diseases ranging from diabetes to cancer to ADHD. 

    “When companies collude behind closed doors to raise prescription drug prices, they put everyday New Yorkers at serious risk,” said Attorney General James. “The companies involved in this scheme inflated prices of vital medications used to treat everything from diabetes and heart conditions to cancer, and now we are holding them accountable. I urge any New Yorker who may have been a victim of this scheme to check their eligibility and claim the restitution they are owed.” 

    New Yorkers who purchased a generic prescription drug listed here between May 2009 and December 2019 may be eligible for compensation. To determine your eligibility, call 1-866-290-0182 (toll-free), email info@AGGenericDrugs.com, or visit www.AGGenericDrugs.com. 

    The settlements are the result of three lawsuits filed by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and a coalition of attorneys general against some of the nation’s largest generic pharmaceutical companies. The first complaint included Heritage and 17 other corporate defendants, two individual defendants, and 15 generic drugs. Two former executives from Heritage Pharmaceuticals, Jeffery Glazer and Jason Malek, have since entered into settlement agreements and are cooperating. The second complaint was filed in 2019 against Teva Pharmaceuticals and 19 of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers. The complaint names 16 individual senior executive defendants. The third complaint, to be tried first, focuses on 80 topical generic drugs that account for billions of dollars of sales in the United States and names 26 corporate defendants and 10 individual defendants. Six additional pharmaceutical executives have entered into settlement agreements with the coalition of attorneys general and have been cooperating to support the states’ claims in all three cases.  

    The lawsuits allege these companies engaged in a broad, coordinated, and systematic conspiracy to fix prices, avoid competition, and rig bids for more than 100 different generic drugs. The companies maintained an interconnected web of industry executives where these competitors met with each other during industry dinners, “girls’ nights out,” lunches, cocktail parties, and golf outings, and communicated via frequent telephone calls, emails, and text messages that sowed the seeds for their illegal agreements. Defendants used terms like “fair share,” “playing nice in the sandbox,” and “responsible competitor” to describe how they unlawfully discouraged competition, raised prices, and enforced an ingrained culture of collusion. 

    The drugs included in the scheme span all types – including tablets, capsules, creams, and ointments – and classes – including antibiotics, anti-depressants, contraceptives, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They treat a range of diseases and conditions from basic infections to diabetes, cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, HIV, ADHD, and more. In some instances, the coordinated price increases were over 1,000 percent. For example, Digoxin, an essential heart medication manufactured by Heritage, tripled in price, causing patients to pay hundreds of dollars more for the drug. 

    In November 2024, Attorney General James announced the coalition of attorneys general had secured settlements with Apotex and Heritage. As part of the settlement agreements, both Apotex and Heritage have agreed to cooperate in the ongoing multistate litigations against 30 corporate defendants and 25 individual executives. Both companies have further agreed to injunctive relief to prevent future misconduct and a series of internal reforms to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust laws. At the time of the announcement, the settlement with Apotex was conditioned on the signatures of all necessary states and territories. Those signatures have been obtained, and the coalition is filing the settlement today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut.

    Joining Attorney General James in securing the settlements are the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, the District of Columbia, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

    These settlements are the latest example of Attorney General James taking action to stop companies from engaging in anticompetitive conduct and harming New Yorkers. Earlier this month, Attorney General James won her case against ski resort owner Intermountain for illegally buying and shutting down a competitor. Also in March, Attorney General James secured a settlement with the NCAA that will end its anticompetitive rules preventing student athletes from learning about name, image, and likeness compensation opportunities before committing to a school. In January 2025 and December 2024, Attorney General James secured settlements stopping anticompetitive no-poach agreements in the building services industry. In May 2024, Attorney General James joined 40 other states and the Department of Justice in suing Live Nation and Ticketmaster for monopolizing the live music industry.

    New York’s investigation has been led by Assistant Attorneys General Bob Hubbard, Saami Zain, and Ben Cole, and Legal Assistant Arlene Leventhal of the Antitrust Bureau, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Amy McFarlane and Bureau Chief Elinor Hoffmann of the Antitrust Bureau. The Antitrust Bureau is part of the Division for Economic Justice, overseen by Chief Deputy Attorney General Christopher D’Angelo and First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Rights Committee Adopts Annual Report 2024-2025

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee this morning adopted its annual report on the work of its one hundred and forty-first (1-23 July 2024), one hundred and forty-second (14 October-7 November 2024), and one hundred and forty-third sessions (3-28 March 2025). 

    Introducing the report, Ivan Šimonović, Committee Rapporteur, said that as of 26 March 2025, 174 States were parties to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 116 States were parties to the Optional Protocol to the Covenant on individual communications, and 92 States were parties to the Second Optional Protocol, on the abolition of the death penalty.  Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia had acceded to the Second Optional Protocol in May and December 2024 respectively. 

    Country report task forces met during the three sessions to consider and adopt lists of issues on the reports of Chad and Latvia and lists of issues prior to reporting for Antigua and Barbuda, Austria, Barbados, Benin, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, the Dominican Republic, Jordan, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Poland, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and South Africa.

    At its one hundred and forty-first session, the Committee adopted concluding observations on Croatia, Honduras, India, Maldives, Malta, Suriname and the Syrian Arab Republic.  At its one hundred and forty-second session, the Committee adopted concluding observations on Ecuador, France, Greece, Iceland, Pakistan and Türkiye.  At its one hundred and forty-third session, the Committee would adopt concluding observations on Albania, Burkina Faso, Mongolia, Montenegro and Zimbabwe.  The review of Haiti had been postponed to the Committee’s next session, due to the human rights situation in the country. 

    During the one hundred and forty-first session, the Special Rapporteur for follow-up on concluding observations submitted interim reports to the Committee.  During that session, the Committee reviewed the following States parties under the follow-up process: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Liberia, and Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

    Regarding communications, at its one hundred and forty-first session, the Committee examined 21 drafts concerning 63 communications: 53 communications were decided on the merits, 10 were declared inadmissible and 32 were closed. Regarding communications decided on the merits, the Committee found violations in 51 of them.  At its one hundred and forty-second session, the Committee examined 19 drafts concerning 308 communications: 287 were decided on the merits, 10 were declared inadmissible and 11 were closed.  With regard to the communications for which a decision was taken on the merits, the Committee found violations in 287 of them. At its one hundred and forty-third session, the Committee examined 19 drafts concerning 66 communications: 38 were decided on the merits, five were declared inadmissible and 23 were closed. The Committee found violations in 37 of the communications for which decisions were taken on the merits.  The Committee had successfully started applying its multifaceted strategy aimed at ending the high number of communications pending consideration and adoption.  Mr. Šimonović reiterated the Committee’s concern regarding the lack of resources and emphasised the importance of allocating adequate staff resources to service its sessions. 

    Following the presentation, various Committee experts took the floor, thanking the Rapporteur for his work on the report.  A speaker said that the Committee’s follow-up procedure allowed the Committee to remain in a dialogue with States parties on the implementation of the Covenant. States parties that had been under the Committee’s review were invited to submit their follow-up information and continue the dialogue.  The liquidity crisis was challenging, a speaker noted, and the Committee was approaching a point where it would be difficult to continue the high quality of their work without the required resources.  The Committee was sometimes the last beacon of hope for persons from countries to obtain legal redress outside their own legal system.  The report was worth being shared more broadly and could be further developed and enhanced, another speaker said. 

    The Committee then adopted the annual report, before closing the meeting.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-third session is being held from 3 to 28 March 2025.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 11 a.m. on Friday 28 March to close its one hundred and forty-third session.

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CCPR25.007E

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Delivering Relief to Middle Class Families

    Source: US State of New York

    strong>B-ROLL of the Governor during the visit can be found on YouTube here and in TV quality (h.264, mp4) format here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page has photos of the event here.

    Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul visited a supermarket in Albany County to speak with shoppers about her 2025 State of the State Affordability Agenda.

    “The cost of living is too high and my Budget takes meaningful steps to put money back in the pockets of New York families,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m proposing a common-sense agenda that delivers real relief and lifts up middle-class families.”

    To make New York more affordable, Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget proposes:

    • Nearly $1 billion in tax relief to more than 8.3 million New Yorkers through a middle-class tax cut
    • New York’s first-ever Inflation Refund, delivering checks of up to $500 for families
    • Increasing the Child Tax Credit to offer up to $1,000 for children ages 0-3 and $500 for children ages 4-16

    This year’s proposals build on Governor Hochul’s strong focus on affordability. She worked to raise the minimum wage and index it to inflation, so New Yorkers get a raise when costs go up. The Governor also fought to implement the country’s first-ever statewide paid prenatal leave policy, giving pregnant women the opportunity to access vital medical care, and also banned co-pays for insulin on all State-regulated health care plans.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Snail, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter & Full Year 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CULVER CITY, Calif., March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNAL) (“Snail” or “the Company”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced financial results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    Fourth Quarter & Full Year 2024 Highlights

    • ARK: Survival Ascended. On October 25, 2023, the Company launched its flagship remake of the ARK franchise leveraging Unreal Engine 5’s stunning graphics and introduced a game-altering cross-platform modding system, ushering in a new era of creativity.
      • ARK: Survival Ascended was ranked the top #1 selling game on Steam on launch day.  
      • Since its launch, ARK: Survival Ascended sold 3.4 million units and has an average of 94,000 daily active users (“DAUs”) with a peak of 308,000 DAUs.
    • ARK: Survival Evolved. In the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, ARK: Survival Evolved averaged a total of 136,000 DAUs and 135,000 DAUs, respectively.
      • ARK: Survival Evolved units sold were approximately 621,000 for the fourth quarter 2024 as compared to 745,000 units during the same period in 2023.  
      • Units sold for the year ended December 31, 2024 were approximately 2.3 million, as compared to 4.4 million units during the year ended December 31, 2023.
    • Product and Business Updates:
      • Game portfolio expansion: In December 2024, we released the highly anticipated next-gen ARK mobile game, ARK Ultimate Mobile Edition on iOS and Android platforms. In the launch month, over 2 million users downloaded the mobile game across the two mobile platforms. In an effort to further broaden our game portfolio, we acquired eleven games through our gaming network and partners in 2024. We expect to release nine acquired games in 2025. A few notable titles include Honeycomb: The World Beyond – A sci-fi survival adventure where players assume the role of a bioengineer navigating the mysterious planet Sota7, Echoes of Elysium – an airship survival RPG set in a breathtaking procedural world of mystery and discovery, and Robots at Midnight – a retro-futuristic action-RPG aiming to captivate players with its dynamic gameplay and immersive storytelling.
      • New Product Segment: To bring more entertainment to our users, we have soft launched a short film mobile application on iOS and Android platforms. The short film mobile application, SaltyTV, brings exclusive, original stories from heart-racing thrillers to jaw-dropping romances to our viewers. We have released thirty-one short film dramas to date and expect a consistent roll out of new short film dramas throughout 2025 and beyond.    
      • Growing Indie Portfolio: Snail Games showcased its expanding indie catalog at Steam Scream Fest, featuring a variety of immersive and genre-diverse titles that enhance player engagement and reinforce the company’s presence in the indie gaming space.

    Net revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was $26.2 million as compared to $28.6 million in the three months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in revenues during the three months ended December 31, 2024 was due to a reduction in sales of ARK that was partially offset by the recognition of deferred revenues upon the release of ARK: Survival Ascended DLC’s.

    Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $84.5 million, an increase of $23.6 million, or 38.7%, compared to $60.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in net revenues was due to an increase in recognition of deferred revenues of $32.2 million related to the ARK franchise, an increase in Bellwright sales of $5.9 million, partially offset by a decrease in total ARK sales of $13.0 million, a decrease in ARK Mobile sales of $1.0 million and a decrease in the Company’s other titles of $0.7 million.

    Net income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was $1.1 million compared to a net income of $2.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in net income is a result of increased research and development costs of $3.0 million to support our future game releases partially offset by an increase in gross profit of $1.4 million, a decrease in advertising and marketing expenses of $0.9 million and an increase in expenses related to the revaluation of outstanding and exercised warrants of $1.5 million.

    Net income was $1.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared to a net loss of $9.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, representing an increase of $10.9 million. The increase was primarily due to an increase in net revenue of $23.6 million, decreased general and administrative expenses of $2.9 million, partially offset by increased research and development costs of $6.5 million, increased costs of revenues of $5.9 million, a decrease in income tax benefit of $3.0 million and an increase in expenses related to the revaluation of outstanding and exercised warrants of $1.2 million..

    Bookings for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was $17.0 million as compared to $52.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease was due to the strong release of ARK: Survival Ascended on the Steam, PlayStation and Xbox platforms in 2023.

    Bookings for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $75.7 million as compared to $85.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease was due to increased sales at a higher average selling price (“ASP”) driven by the release of ARK: Survival Ascended in the fourth quarter of 2023. The releases of Bobs Tall Tales and Bellwright along with the ARK: Survival Ascended DLCs, Scorched Earth in April 2024, Aberration in September 2024 and Extinction in December 2024 partially offset the decrease in unit sales in 2024 but each product release was at a lower ASP than the initial release of ARK: Survival Ascended.

    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $2.0 million, or 55.6%, as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease was primarily the result of a decrease in net income of $1.3 million, a decrease in interest expense and interest expense – related parties of $0.4 million, and a decrease in provision for income taxes of $0.3 million.

    EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $3.2 million as compared to a loss of $9.7 million in the prior year period. EBITDA increased by $12.9 million, or 133.4%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily because of an increase in net income of $10.9 million and a decrease in the benefit from income taxes of $3.0 million, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense and interest expense – related parties of $0.8 million.

    As of December 31, 2024, unrestricted cash was $7.3 million versus $15.2 million as of December 31, 2023.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to the financial results determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, Snail believes Bookings and EBITDA, as non-GAAP measures, are useful in evaluating its operating performance. Bookings and EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures that are presented as supplemental disclosures and should not be construed as alternatives to net income (loss) or revenue as indicators of operating performance, nor as alternatives to cash flow provided by operating activities as measures of liquidity, both as determined in accordance with GAAP. Snail supplementally presents Bookings and EBITDA because they are key operating measures used by management to assess financial performance. Bookings adjusts for the impact of deferrals and, Snail believes, provides a useful indicator of sales in a given period. EBITDA adjusts for items that Snail believes do not reflect the ongoing operating performance of its business, such as certain non-cash items, unusual or infrequent items or items that change from period to period without any material relevance to its operating performance. Management believes Bookings and EBITDA are useful to investors and analysts in highlighting trends in Snail’s operating performance, while other measures can differ significantly depending on long-term strategic decisions regarding capital structure, the tax jurisdictions in which Snail operates and capital investments.

    Bookings is defined as the net amount of products and services sold digitally or physically in the period. Bookings is equal to revenues, excluding the impact from deferrals. Below is a reconciliation of total net revenue to Bookings, the closest GAAP financial measure.

        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31,
     
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
        (in millions)  
    Total net revenue   $ 26.2     $ 28.6     $ 84.5     $ 60.9  
    Change in deferred net revenue     (9.2 )     24.0       (8.8 )     24.8  
    Bookings   $ 17.0     $ 52.6     $ 75.7     $ 85.7  

    We define EBITDA as net income (loss) before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) income tax provision (benefit from) and (iv) depreciation expense. The following table provides a reconciliation from net income (loss) to EBITDA:

        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Fiscal Year Ended
    December 31,
     
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
        (in millions)  
    Net income (loss)   $ 1.1     $ 2.4     $ 1.8     $ (9.1 )
    Interest income and interest income – related parties     (0.1 )           (0.3 )     (0.1 )
    Interest expense and interest expense – related parties     0.1       0.5       0.7       1.5  
    Provision for (benefit from) income taxes     0.3       0.6       0.6       (2.4 )
    Depreciation expense     0.2       0.1       0.4       0.4  
    EBITDA   $ 1.6     $ 3.6     $ 3.2     $ (9.7 )

    Webcast Details

    The Company will host a webcast at 4:30 PM ET today to discuss the fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results. Participants may access the live webcast and replay on the Company’s investor relations website at https://investor.snail.com/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Snail’s intent, belief or current expectations. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of Snail’s business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives. The statements Snail makes regarding the following matters are forward-looking by their nature: growth prospects and strategies; launching new games and additional functionality to games that are commercially successful; expectations regarding significant drivers of future growth; its ability to retain and increase its player base and develop new video games and enhance existing games; competition from companies in a number of industries, including other casual game developers and publishers and both large and small, public and private Internet companies; its ability to attract and retain a qualified management team and other team members while controlling its labor costs; its relationships with third-party platforms such as Xbox Live and Game Pass, PlayStation Network, Steam, Epic Games Store, My Nintendo Store, the Apple App Store, the Google Play Store and the Amazon Appstore; the size of addressable markets, market share and market trends; its ability to successfully enter new markets and manage international expansion; protecting and developing its brand and intellectual property portfolio; costs associated with defending intellectual property infringement and other claims; future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the ongoing conflicts involving Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Hamas, on its business and the global economy generally; rulings by courts or other governmental authorities; the Company’s current program to repurchase shares of its Class A common stock, including expectations regarding the timing and manner of repurchases made under this share repurchase program; its plans to pursue and successfully integrate strategic acquisitions; and assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.

    Further information on risks, uncertainties and other factors that could affect Snail’s financial results are included in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) from time to time, including its annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. You should not rely on these forward-looking statements, as actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Snail, and Snail does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements provided to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

    About Snail, Inc.

    Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.

    For additional information, please contact: investors@snail.com 

     
    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
        December 31, 2024     December 31, 2023  
                 
    ASSETS                
                     
    Current Assets:                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 7,303,944     $ 15,198,123  
    Accounts receivable, net of allowances for credit losses of $523,500 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023     9,814,822       25,134,808  
    Accounts receivable – related party     2,336,274        
    Loan and interest receivable – related party     105,759       103,753  
    Prepaid expenses – related party     2,521,291       6,044,404  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     1,846,024       639,693  
    Prepaid taxes     7,318,424       9,529,755  
    Total current assets     31,246,538       56,650,536  
                     
    Restricted cash and cash equivalents     935,000       1,116,196  
    Accounts receivable – related party, net of current portion     1,500,592       7,500,592  
    Prepaid expenses – related party     9,378,594       7,784,062  
    Property, plant and equipment, net     4,378,352       4,682,066  
    Intangible assets, net     973,914       271,717  
    Deferred income taxes     10,817,112       10,247,500  
    Other noncurrent assets     1,683,932       164,170  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net     1,279,330       2,440,690  
    Total assets   $ 62,193,364     $ 90,857,529  
                     
    LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
                     
    Current Liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 4,656,367     $ 12,102,929  
    Accounts payable – related parties     15,383,171       23,094,436  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     4,499,280       2,887,193  
    Interest payable – related parties     527,770       527,770  
    Revolving loan     3,000,000       6,000,000  
    Notes payable           2,333,333  
    Convertible notes, net of discount           797,361  
    Current portion of long-term promissory note     2,722,548       2,811,923  
    Current portion of deferred revenue     3,947,559       19,252,628  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     1,444,385       1,505,034  
    Total current liabilities     36,181,080       71,312,607  
                     
    Accrued expenses     265,251       254,731  
    Deferred revenue, net of current portion     21,519,888       15,064,078  
    Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion     57,983       1,425,494  
    Total liabilities     58,024,202       88,056,910  
                     
    Commitments and contingencies                
                     
    Stockholders’ Equity:                
    Class A common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized; 9,626,070 shares issued and 8,275,795 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024, and 9,275,420 shares issued and 7,925,145 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023     962       927  
    Class B common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 28,748,580 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.     2,875       2,875  
    Additional paid-in capital     25,738,082       26,171,575  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (279,457 )     (254,383 )
    Accumulated deficit     (12,117,385 )     (13,949,325 )
    Treasury stock at cost (1,350,275 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023)     (3,671,806 )     (3,671,806 )
    Total Snail, Inc. equity     9,673,271       8,299,863  
    Noncontrolling interests     (5,504,109 )     (5,499,244 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     4,169,162       2,800,619  
    Total liabilities, noncontrolling interests and stockholders’ equity   $ 62,193,364     $ 90,857,529  
     
    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
     
        Three months ended
    December 31,
        Years Ended
    December 31,
     
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
                             
    Revenues, net   $ 26,214,296     $ 28,570,222     $ 84,467,047     $ 60,902,098  
    Cost of revenues     14,866,526       18,646,615       54,236,342       48,306,403  
                                     
    Gross profit     11,347,770       9,923,607       30,230,705       12,595,695  
                                     
    Operating expenses:                                
    General and administrative     3,943,985       3,900,961       12,867,210       15,816,088  
    Research and development     4,123,964       1,165,382       11,647,293       5,057,421  
    Advertising and marketing     192,235       1,094,146       1,523,398       1,582,464  
    Depreciation     68,420       86,222       303,714       432,306  
    Loss on disposal of fixed assets             427               427  
    Total operating expenses     8,328,604       6,247,138       26,341,615       22,888,706  
                                     
    Income (loss) from operations     3,019,166       3,676,469       3,889,090       (10,293,011 )
                                     
    Other income (expense):                                
    Interest income     35,451       31,443       260,679       129,854  
    Interest income – related parties     504       504       2,005       2,000  
    Interest expense     (88,776 )     (570,523 )     (723,038 )     (1,531,719 )
    Other income (expense)     (1,527,706 )     (55,351 )     (981,223 )     265,980  
    Foreign currency transaction loss     43,741       (42,574 )     11,686       (68,180 )
    Total other income (expense), net     (1,536,786 )     (636,501 )     (1,429,891 )     (1,202,065 )
                                     
    Income (loss) before benefit from income taxes     1,482,380       3,039,968       2,459,199       (11,495,076 )
                                     
    Provision for (benefit from) income taxes     362,623       643,728       632,124       (2,400,652 )
                                     
    Net income (loss)     1,119,757       2,396,240       1,827,075       (9,094,424 )
                                     
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests     (215 )     (1,128 )     (4,865 )     (8,349 )
                                     
    Net income (loss) attributable to Snail, Inc.   $ 1,119,972     $ 2,397,368     $ 1,831,940     $ (9,086,075 )
                                     
    Comprehensive income (loss) statement:                                
                                     
    Net income (loss)   $ 1,119,757     $ 2,396,240     $ 1,827,075     $ (9,094,424 )
                                     
    Other comprehensive income (loss) related to currency translation adjustments, net of tax     (48,600 )     33,302       (25,074 )     52,817  
                                     
    Total comprehensive income (loss)   $ 1,071,157     $ 2,429,542     $ 1,802,001     $ (9,041,607 )
                                     
    Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common stockholders:                                
    Basic   $ 248,176     $ 516,955     $ 400,576     $ (1,960,813 )
    Diluted   $ 248,176     $ 516,955     $ 400,576     $ (1,960,813 )
                                     
    Net income (loss) attributable to Class B common stockholders:                                
    Basic   $ 871,796     $ 1,880,413     $ 1,431,364     $ (7,125,262 )
    Diluted   $ 871,796     $ 1,880,413     $ 1,431,364     $ (7,125,262 )
                                     
    Net income (loss) per share attributable to Class A and B common stockholders:                                
    Basic   $ 0.03     $ 0.07     $ 0.05     $ (0.25 )
    Diluted   $ 0.03     $ 0.07     $ 0.05     $ (0.25 )
                                     
    Weighted-average shares used to compute income (loss) per share attributable to Class A common stockholders:                                
    Basic     8,183,918       7,914,564       8,045,469       7,909,715  
    Diluted     8,183,918       7,914,564       8,045,469       7,909,715  
                                     
    Weighted-average shares used to compute income (loss) per share attributable to Class B common stockholders:                                
    Basic     28,748,580       28,748,580       28,748,580       28,748,580  
    Diluted     28,748,580       28,748,580       28,748,580       28,748,580  
     
    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
     
    For the years ended December 31,   2024     2023  
                 
    Cash flows from operating activities:                
    Net income (loss)   $ 1,827,075     $ (9,094,424 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:                
    Amortization – intangible assets, net     7,804       1,384,862  
    Amortization – loan origination fees and debt discounts     62,855       124,595  
    Accretion – convertible notes     222,628       306,664  
    Loss on change in fair value of warrant liabilities     1,332,815       32,883  
    Depreciation – property and equipment     303,714       432,306  
    Stock-based compensation expense     (890,208 )     848,035  
    Loss (gain) on disposal of fixed assets           427  
    Credit losses           581,498  
    Deferred taxes, net     (569,601 )     (2,644,964 )
                     
    Changes in assets and liabilities:                
    Accounts receivable     15,319,987       (18,939,465 )
    Accounts receivable – related party     3,663,726       3,824,775  
    Prepaid expenses – related party     1,928,581       (8,245,966 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (1,206,331 )     501,104  
    Prepaid taxes     2,211,331        
    Other noncurrent assets     (1,523,065 )      
    Accounts payable     (7,183,648 )     2,992,856  
    Accounts payable – related parties     (8,001,265 )     3,176,177  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     46,542       626,764  
    Interest receivable – related party     (2,005 )     (2,000 )
    Lease liabilities     (266,800 )     (205,520 )
    Deferred revenue     (8,849,259 )     24,765,261  
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     (1,565,124 )     465,868  
                     
    Cash flows from financing activities:                
    Repayments on promissory note     (89,374 )     (79,897 )
    Repayments on notes payable     (2,333,333 )     (6,500,000 )
    Repayments on convertible notes     (1,020,000 )      
    Repayments on revolving loan     (3,000,000 )     (3,000,000 )
    Borrowings on notes payable           3,000,000  
    Cash proceeds from exercise of warrants     220,000        
    Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes           847,500  
    Refund of dividend withholding tax overpayment           1,886,600  
    Purchase of treasury stock           (257,093 )
    Payments of offering costs in accounts payable     (262,914 )     (342,318 )
    Release of restricted escrow deposit           1,003,804  
    Net cash used in financing activities     (6,485,621 )     (3,441,404 )
                     
    Effect of currency translation on cash and cash equivalents     (24,630 )     51,670  
                     
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents     (8,075,375 )     (2,923,866 )
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period     16,314,319       19,238,185  
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents – end of period   $ 8,238,944     $ 16,314,319  
                     
    Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information                
    Cash paid during the period for:                
    Interest   $ 467,188     $ 934,523  
    Income taxes   $ (1,100,302 )   $ 248,388  
    Noncash finance and investing activity during the period for:                
    Debt converted to equity   $ (60,000 )   $  
    Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for a lease liability   $ (85,588 )        
    Liabilities converted to equity upon exercise of warrants   $ 176,750          
    Acquisition of software in accounts payable – related parties   $ 290,000     $  
    Acquisition of license rights in accrued expenses and other liabilities   $ 420,000     $  
    Issuance of warrants in connection with equity line of credit   $     $ (105,411 )

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: GigaCloud Technology Inc Welcomes Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan™, the Signature Home Brand of Drew and Jonathan Scott, to Its BaaS Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EL MONTE, Calif., March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GigaCloud Technology Inc (Nasdaq: GCT) (“GigaCloud” or the “Company”), a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise, today announced that Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan™, the home furnishings brand created by TV hosts and renovation experts Drew and Jonathan Scott, has joined its Branding-as-a-Service (BaaS) Program. This collaboration will bring Scott Living’s trusted brand into the GigaCloud B2B Marketplace, creating new avenues for sellers and broadening product selection for buyers. Scott Living’s expertise in outdoor furniture and décor aligns with current consumer trends and presents potential growth opportunities for sellers and retailers in this product category.

    “Brand has always been a powerful driver in the industry, and by introducing Scott Living into BaaS, we aim to help our marketplace participants reach consumers faster with the right combination of quality products and design solutions from a brand they can trust,” said Larry Wu, Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of GigaCloud.

    “GigaCloud is more than just a marketplace,” added Wu. “We are a service toolbox offering diverse, tailored solutions that empower our customers to build and scale efficiently. Our Supplier Fulfilled Retailing model serves as the backbone of the program, streamlining supply chain management while enhancing our ecosystem through advanced technology and robust infrastructure to drive operational efficiency. This partnership unlocks new opportunities for our sellers and delivers greater value across our marketplace network worldwide.”

    “Partnering with GigaCloud marks an exciting new chapter for Scott Living,” said Drew and Jonathan Scott. “Since launching our very first product line over a decade ago, our mission has always been to make high-quality home furnishings that work for a variety of families and lifestyles. GigaCloud’s platform opens new doors for us to reach a broader audience and allows us to collaborate with more suppliers and retail channels to continue delivering home products that our customers love. We look forward to seeing how this partnership will help us connect with even more families, create opportunities, and inspire future innovations in the home space.”

    “Scott Living brings a fresh, design-forward appeal that resonates with younger and trend-conscious consumers, a perfect complement to our growing ecosystem that is redefining how furniture is marketed and distributed globally,” said Marshall Bernes, Head of GigaCloud’s BaaS Program and a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. 

    About GigaCloud Technology Inc
    GigaCloud Technology Inc is a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise. The Company’s B2B ecommerce platform, the “GigaCloud Marketplace,” integrates everything from discovery, payments and logistics tools into one easy-to-use platform. The Company’s global marketplace seamlessly connects manufacturers, primarily in Asia, with resellers, primarily in the U.S., Asia and Europe, to execute cross-border transactions with confidence, speed and efficiency. GigaCloud offers a comprehensive solution that transports products from the manufacturer’s warehouse to the end customer’s doorstep, all at one fixed price. The Company first launched its marketplace in January 2019 by focusing on the global furniture market and has since expanded into additional categories, including home appliances and fitness equipment. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.gigacloudtech.com.

    About Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan
    Scott Living by Drew & Jonathan helps people create a home that looks good and feels good. After transforming houses for hundreds of families, the designers, renovators, entrepreneurs, and Property Brothers hosts Drew and Jonathan Scott know that each family is unique in the way they live, love, grow, and gather, and the best design solutions prioritize functionality and value. With curated collections of quality furniture, lighting, textiles, decor, and home improvement products, the brothers help families reimagine what’s possible in their spaces to reflect their personal style.

    Scott Living collections are widely available at a variety of North American and online retailers, including Amazon, Wayfair, Costco, Sam’s Club, QVC, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Home Goods.

    In 2025, Drew and Jonathan Scott are celebrating ten years of creating home products that help families make beautiful, functional spaces that feel as good as they look through their Scott Living and Drew & Jonathan Home brands.

    For more information, please visit ScottLivingHome.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements reflect our current view about future events. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “propose,” “potential,” “continue” or similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
    GigaCloud Technology Inc
    Investor Relations – ir@gigacloudtech.com

    PondelWilkinson, Inc.
    Laurie Berman (Investors) –lberman@pondel.com
    George Medici (Media) – gmedici@pondel.com

    Scott Brothers Global
    Media – SBG@Rubenstein.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Week 2 of “Dirty Dems” campaign exposes Mike Gipson

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    GARDENA, CA — (March 25, 2025) — As part of the ongoing “Dirty Dems” campaign, Greenpeace USA, in collaboration with the California Working Families Party and Courage California, continues to hold California State legislators accountable for their damaging connections to the oil and gas industry and their track record of voting against critical climate, economic justice, and other progressive priorities.

    This week, the spotlight is on Assemblymember Mike Gipson, who represents the 65th District of Los Angeles’ South Bay, including Gardena, Compton, and Wilmington. Serving in the California State Legislature since 2014, Gipson has amassed an alarming $260,000 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry, the most of any of the Dirty Dems. This overwhelming influence is juxtaposed to his voting record and his failure to take decisive action to protect the health of his constituents.

    Amy Moas, Ph.D., Greenpeace USA Senior Climate Campaigner, said: “Mike Gipson is a prime example of a ‘Dirty Dem’ who has chosen corporate donors over the people he is supposed to represent. His repeated failures to vote on critical environmental, economic, and social justice issues are an affront to his constituents and a betrayal of the values we need in our leaders.”

    Assemblymember Gipson has a disturbing pattern of abstaining from votes on key progressive legislation, earning a series of failing grades from environmental groups like the Sierra Club and California Environmental Voters. In both 2023 and 2024, he received these failing grades, mostly due to his repeated absences on critical bills aimed at fighting climate change and protecting the health and safety of his community.

    Mike Gipson represents a district that is over 80% people of color, many of whom live in close proximity to oil refineries and one of the largest ports in the United States. The devastating impact of these industries, such as high rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses, is felt daily by his constituents. Yet, Gipson has failed to take action on key legislation designed to protect his community from harmful pollutants and hold the oil industry accountable. In 2024, he scored an F from the California Environmental Justice Alliance for his lack of action on environmental and climate justice.

    The “Dirty Dems” campaign will continue to expose the harmful practices of legislators who prioritize corporate donations over their duty to their constituents. 

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Downtowns in Western New York

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Village of Cattaraugus will receive $10 million in funding as the Western New York winner of the eighth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and the Villages of Westfield and Angola will each receive $4.5 million as the Western New York winners of the third round of NY Forward. For Round 8 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Round 3 of the NY Forward Program, each of the state’s 10 economic development regions are being awarded $10 million from each program, to make for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods.

    “Our state’s downtowns unite friends and families, and these investments will only help reshape neighborhoods to become more vibrant destinations for shopping, dining and living,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our Pro-Housing Communities Program, affordable housing opportunities will open up in neighborhoods across Western New York and local economies will thrive from these opportunities.”

    To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program — an innovative policy created to recognize and reward municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential. Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities initiative allocates up to $650 million each year in discretionary funds for communities that pledge to increase their housing supply; to date, 287 communities across New York have been certified as Pro-Housing Communities. This year, Governor Hochul is proposing an additional $100 million in funding to cover infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing in Pro-Housing Communities, and a further $10.5 million for technical assistance to help communities seeking to foster housing growth.

    Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 4,400 units of housing — 1,823 of which are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed over $8.5 million to 11 projects that provide affordable or free child care and child care worker training. DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art (such as murals and sculptures) and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

    $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for Cattaraugus
    The Village of Cattaraugus is a vibrant community that is protected and tucked away, perched on a steep incline and sheltered by surrounding hills, productive farmlands and mature verdant forests. The original 19th century brick heart of the village, amazingly intact and a designated National Historic District, imbues a sense of history and character. Stores and businesses are locally owned, and the surrounding area abounds with hundreds of creative artists and artisans. The Village seeks to transform its historic red brick Main Street into a communal gathering place where our natural beauty, cultural heritage and small-town character converge to foster economic growth and enhance quality of life. The Village would become a regional attraction for dining and lodging using its industrial rail heritage to encourage outdoor recreation on its trails that will attract visitors and new residents to stay and enjoy the welcoming nature of the Village.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Westfield
    Westfield is a charming village that graces the southern shore of Lake Erie. This picturesque locale is defined by its stunning waterfront vistas and a wealth of recreational opportunities, inviting residents and visitors to embrace the natural beauty that surrounds them. Visitors and residents enjoy Westfield events like First Fridays, the Arts and Crafts Festival, the weekly Farmer’s Market, the Tour Chautauqua Cycling Event, the Grape and Wine Festival, Christmas in the Village, the Hot Toddy Crawl and the Christmas Cookie weekend. Historically, Westfield’s economy depended on agriculture and industry. Westfield’s vision is to cultivate a vibrant and sustainable community that celebrates its rich history, natural beauty and agricultural heritage while fostering economic growth, creating housing choices and celebrating diverse cultural activities in a safe and welcoming environment.

    $4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Angola
    Located within the Town of Evans, the waterfront cottage village of Angola is a tourism destination area that draws thousands of regional, national and international visitors each year. While the Town benefits from its lakefront, the Village possesses entertainment options that are attractive to visitors like festivals, art attractions and more. The Village seeks to capitalize on community strengths and its strategic location near key assets — waterfront, rich history and natural resources — to create a unique and vibrant downtown destination in the rural Southtowns of Erie County. Leveraging the historic Angola Theater as the anchor, the Village will bolster the local economy and quality of life through its quaint historic buildings, creative visual and performing arts, unique retail and special events.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Governor Hochul recognizes that when we are investing in our communities, we can positively impact not just that community, but the entire region. And that’s exactly what will happen for these three communities receiving awards from our Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program. We can’t wait to see how these investments will make Cattaraugus, Westfield, Angola and the entire Western New York region flourish.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The three Western New York communities selected to be reinvigorated by the latest round of Governor Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs each have unique projects that will boost business, create new housing, improve quality of life for local families, and attract new visitors. We congratulate the Villages of Cattaraugus, Angola, and Westfield for submitting solid plans to improve their downtowns by making smart investments in the existing assets. We are excited to see your blueprints for revitalization become a reality.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Today’s $19 million DRI and NY Forward award represents monumental investment in the villages of Cattaraugus, Westfield and Angola, that will assist these three picturesque communities as they increase housing supply while transforming their downtowns to increase vibrancy and bring modern improvements to historic surroundings. This commitment to Western New York is only the latest example of Governor Hochul’s focus on enhancing communities and creating economic opportunities in all of New York’s regions.”

    Western New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Steve Stoute and Eric Reich said,“These investments mark a significant step in the revitalization of these vibrant communities. Each village boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, and this funding will help unlock their full potential, while enhancing economic growth, fostering sustainability, and creating welcoming destinations for both residents and visitors. By preserving their distinct character while promoting long-term development, the funding will strengthen local economies and ensure a lasting impact for generations to come. The council extends its gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her steadfast support through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and the NY Forward program, and we look forward to witnessing the transformative outcomes of these investments.”

    Village of Cattaraugus Mayor Anthony Nagel said, “The Village of Cattaraugus is deeply honored to receive the Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant, a transformative investment in our community’s future. This funding will enable us to revitalize our infrastructure, support local businesses, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents and visitors. We extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing the potential of our village and making this significant investment. With this grant, we are committed to preserving our heritage while fostering a stronger, more vibrant future for generations to come.”

    Village of Westfield Mayor Dennis Lutes said, “On behalf of the Village of Westfield, I am deeply honored that we have been selected as recipients of a NY Forward grant. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her leadership and for establishing the NY Forward program to support small communities like ours. This investment marks a pivotal moment for Westfield, providing us with an incredible opportunity to revitalize our village and build upon the progress we have already made. We are truly grateful to Governor Hochul, Department of State, the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council, Empire State Development, the Westfield Development Corporation, and all the dedicated stakeholders who contributed to making this application a success. Their hard work and commitment to our community are greatly appreciated.”

    Village of Angola Mayor Thomas M. Whelan said, “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to receive the NY Forward grant. This funding will have a transformative impact on our community, enabling us to revitalize key areas and enhance the quality of life for our residents, businesses, and visitors. The NY Forward grant reflects New York State’s steadfast commitment to supporting small communities like ours, fostering growth, and driving meaningful progress. We are honored to be a recipient of this initiative and eager to put these funds to work for the betterment of our village. I sincerely appreciate Governor Kathy Hochul and her team for their support and belief in our vision. Her dedication to strengthening small communities is truly inspiring, and we look forward to working together to bring our vision to fruition.”

    Cattaraugus, Westfield and Angola will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community’s vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state’s investment.

    The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Dassault Systèmes: filing of the English version of the 2024 Universal Registration Document

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, FranceMarch 26, 2025

    Publication of the English version of the 2024 Universal Registration Document

    Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) announces that the English version of its 2024 Universal Registration Document (constituting the Annual Financial Report) is now available on Dassault Systèmes’ website at https://investor.3ds.com/ (sections Regulated information or Events & Publications/Reports).

    Hard copies of the 2024 Universal Registration Document in English are also available upon request at Dassault Systèmes’ headquarters (10, rue Marcel Dassault, CS 40501 – 78946 Vélizy-Villacoublay, France).

    ###

    ABOUT DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Since 1981, the company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients and citizens. With Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 350 000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact. For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

    Dassault Systèmes Investor Relations Team                FTI Consulting
    Béatrix Martinez :                                        Arnaud de Cheffontaines: +33 1 47 03 69 48
    +33 1 61 62 40 73                                        Jamie Ricketts : +44 20 3727 1600
    investors@3ds.com                                        

    Dassault Systèmes Press Contacts
    Corporate / France        
    Arnaud Malherbe: +33 1 61 62 87 73
    arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com        

    © Dassault Systèmes. All rights reserved. 3DEXPERIENCE, the 3DS logo, the Compass icon, IFWE, 3DEXCITE, 3DVIA, BIOVIA, CATIA, CENTRIC PLM, DELMIA, ENOVIA, GEOVIA, MEDIDATA, NETVIBES, OUTSCALE, SIMULIA and SOLIDWORKS are commercial trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes, a European company (Societas Europaea) incorporated under French law, and registered with the Versailles trade and companies registry under number 322 306 440, or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are owned by their respective owners. Use of any Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries trademarks is subject to their express written approval.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Top spots to hang with your friends in Canberra’s CBD

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    We asked Canberrans on the WeAreCBR Instagram page to let us know where their favourite places to hang out with friends in the city centre. If you are on the lookout for the next best place to hang here are the best of the best!

    You reel-y love movies

    Whether you love a rom-com, fancy a thrilling drama, or want to have a good chuckle, there is a movie around for everyone! City favourites include:

    Looking to have a yummy drink or two?

    Summer time is the perfect time to catch-up with friends and try out new bars, and the CBD has no shortage of amazing places to head to! Local favourites include:

    Coffee and friends make the perfect blend

    Cafes, patisseries and restaurants are Canberra’s speciality, we have an abundance of different places to test out and try and offer a wide variety of selections, so why not head over to some fan favourites like:

    Needing to have a shopping trip with your pals?

    The Canberra Centre is home to a wide variety of shops that will cater to all! From everything from fashion, beauty, homewares, food and more! It’s the perfect place to head to too ensure everyone can have a look at their favourite things!

    Check out some outdoor beauty too!

    This city centre also has some beautiful artwork, sculptures and public art surrounding the town! From murals, to fountains, to wacky and quirky sculptures. Find the whole list here: https://www.arts.act.gov.au/public-art

    Stay up to date with news and events in the ACT, sign up to our email newsletter: Subscribe to OurCBR

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Calls Out The Trump Administration’s Continued Efforts To Intimidate Judges & Undermine The Rule Of Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 25, 2025

    Once again, Senate Republican objects to Durbin’s UC request to pass a resolution that simply affirms the rule of law and the legitimacy of judicial review

    WASHINGTON  In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, once again spoke against efforts by the Trump Administration to intimidate judges and undermine the rule of law. Durbin then asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution that simply affirms that the Constitution vests the judicial power in the federal courts and that both the Constitution and established precedent require the executive branch to comply with all federal court rulings. U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) objected to Durbin’s UC request. This is the second time that Senate Republicans have objected to Durbin’s UC request.

    “I have come to the floor several times in recent weeks to speak about unacceptable attacks on the federal judiciary—the federal courts—by President Trump and his allies. These attacks are not only wrong, but dangerous—and pose a serious threat to our constitutional order. I am sorry to say that the attacks on our judges and our judiciary have not stopped as I have made these requests on the floor. Instead, they have grown worse,” Durbin said. “Last week, President Trump himself called for the impeachment of a federal judge simply because the judge ruled against the Trump Administration. The President’s MAGA loyalists were quick to pile on when he did that. Elon Musk has demanded the impeachment of federal judges dozens of times, and House Republicans rushed to introduce articles of impeachment in the House.”

    In response to the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attack on the federal judiciary, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare statement: “For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”

    “Yet, this relentless campaign against the judiciary has continued,” Durbin said. “On Friday, President Trump issued a wild rant that read in part: ‘Unlawful Nationwide Injunctions by Radical Left Judges could very well lead to the destruction of our Country! These people are Lunatics.’”

    Durbin went on to argue that the U.S. Senate must stand up and defend the judiciary.

    “There has been a lot of debate about when we will cross the threshold into a genuine constitutional crisis. I pray that it will never happen,” Durbin said. “But it will come down to a basic principle. The question is not when we are going to face this, it is that we cannot afford to hold our breath and wait and see if the President will formally announce that he will defy a court order. We must respond to the dangerous attacks on our courts and judges now. The Senate must speak with one voice, Republicans and Democrats, in defense of the judiciary, the separation of powers, the Constitution, and the country we love.”

    Durbin continued, “Some have argued that impeachment of judges is necessary because of the number of injunctions issued against President Trump compared to other Presidents. They claim this is evidence that federal judges are biased against President Trump. I would suggest there is a more obvious explanation: the number of injunctions issued against the first and second Trump Administrations is evidence of a President who has repeatedly violated the law.”

    Durbin also responded to baseless claims from Elon Musk and other MAGA allies that the most recent judge to be targeted by President Trump, Judge Boasberg, is a radical ideologue.

    “Let’s be clear. Judge Boasberg is no partisan. He was appointed to the Superior Court of the District of Columbia by a Republican President: George W. Bush. As a D.C. district court judge, Judge Boasberg has issued many rulings that clearly illustrate impartiality. For example, he was the judge who ordered the release of thousands of Hillary Clinton’s emails. And his decisions have favored President Trump’s interests on several occasions,” Durbin said. “Other judges who have ruled against the Trump Administration were appointed by Republican Presidents—including some who were appointed by President Trump himself. He is not always going to win in court. He seems to think he should.”

    Durbin concluded, “The danger posed by the Trump Administration’s attack on the judiciary is not abstract. The recent invective by the President and his allies has resulted in increased threats to the lives of judges and their families. That is absolutely unacceptable. Our judges should not fear for their lives and those of their loved ones because of their work. And if judges feel compelled to decide cases in favor of the President to avoid his wrath, we will no longer have an independent judiciary. We can debate the value of nationwide injunctions and the merits of any particular judicial decision. But violence or threats of violence, whether from the right or the left of the political spectrum are never – never – acceptable… it is up to both political parties to protect it [an independent judiciary]. We’ve sworn to uphold and defend this Constitution, and now we are going to be tested.”

    Durbin’s resolution on the rule of law is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jean Shaheen (D-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Jon Ossoff (D-GA).

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

    Full text of the resolution is available here.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

    NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services along with Positive Childhood Alliance is holding an event as Governor Josh Stein proclaims April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in North Carolina. Recognizing the role everyone plays in helping North Carolina’s children reach their full potential, this Child Abuse Prevention Month, community organizations, government agencies, businesses, faith groups and other stakeholders will come together to amplify a message of hope for strong families and supportive communities. A free family-friendly public event will be held on Tuesday, April 1st at Pullen Park in Raleigh, North Carolina from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes free food and entertainment while supplies last.

    The 2025 national campaign theme, “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention,” highlights the importance of working together to create the conditions that build a stronger future for all.

    “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment with hope for the future,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai. “By ensuring families have the resources, support, and connections they need before challenges become crises, we can build a stronger North Carolina where all children and families can thrive.”

    In collaboration with statewide partners like NCDHHS, Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC) is committed to driving systems change and building a strong family support ecosystem across North Carolina. We are working to create the conditions where children grow up with positive experiences and nurturing relationships—while also equipping local communities with the tools and support they need to strengthen all families.

    “For every $10 spent on child welfare in the U.S., only $1.50 goes toward prevention—we can and must do better,” said Sharon Hirsch, President and CEO of Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. “By investing in family resource centers and community-based solutions, we can ensure families have the support they need before challenges become crises. When we shift our focus to prevention, we create a future where all children grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing environments, surrounded by positive experiences and hope.”

    During Child Abuse Prevention Month, PCANC and NCDHHS are joining the national effort to reshape the narrative around child maltreatment prevention and increase investments in programs and policies that prioritize children and families. This month, and all year long, communities and individuals can help NCDHHS and PCANC advance family-centered prevention programs and policies by taking action in the following ways:

    • Attend a Pinwheel Planting hosted by NCDHHS and PCANC on Tuesday, April 1, 11:00 a.m., at Pullen Park (520 Ashe Ave. Raleigh, NC). Learn more.
      • The public and media are invited to attend. Speakers include NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai, NCDHHS Director of Human Services Lisa Tucker Cauley, Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina President and CEO Sharon Hirsch, and Parent Leader Sanaa Sharrieff. Food and drink will be provided while supplies last.
    • Wear blue on Friday, April 4 – Wear Blue Day – to show support for children and families. Post a photo or video on social media and include the #WearBlueDay2025 and #NC hashtags.
    • Participate in digital advocacy day on Tuesday, April 9, to advocate for increased federal investment in community-based child abuse prevention grants that provide states and communities with the resources to implement community-based solutions to prevent child abuse and neglect.
    • Follow PCANC on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram and share our posts throughout April. Encourage friends and family to do the same. Click here to follow NCDHHS on all social media platforms.

    For more ways to get involved in Child Abuse Prevention Month, please visit PositiveChildhoodAllianceNC.org.

    ###

    About Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina 
    Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina connects organizations and individuals with what they need to help children and families meet their full potential. Founded in 1979 (as Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina), Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina has demonstrated 46 years of commitment to nurturing positive childhoods for all. Through data-driven coaching, professional development, advocacy efforts and building public understanding PCANC strives to build and share solutions that work for all families. In partnership with state and local level child advocates and network members, PCANC is creating a state where families live in connected, supportive communities and as a result, all North Carolina children will live purposeful lives, filled with positive experiences and hope for the future. PCANC is the North Carolina chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America, the National Family Support Network, and Circle of Parents®. It is a proud recipient of Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating and GuideStar’s Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information, contact Kris Demers, Director of Communications and Marketing, at (919) 829-8009, ext. 619 or kdemers@positivechildhoodnc.org. 

    About North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
    The NC Department of Health and Human Services manages the delivery of health- and human-related services for all North Carolinians, especially our most vulnerable people – children, elderly, disabled and low-income families. In collaboration with partners, NCDHHS provides essential services to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians. The department works closely with health care professionals, community leaders and advocacy groups; local, state and federal entities; and many other stakeholders to make this happen.

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, junto con Positive Childhood Alliance, está celebrando un evento mientras el gobernador Josh Stein proclama abril como el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil en Carolina del Norte. Reconociendo el papel que todos desempeñan para ayudar a los niños de Carolina del Norte a alcanzar su máximo potencial, este Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil,organizaciones comunitarias, agencias gubernamentales, empresas, grupos religiosos y otras partes interesadas se unirán para amplificar un mensaje de esperanza para familias fuertes y comunidades de apoyo. El martes 1 de abril se celebrará un evento público gratuito para toda la familia en Pullen Park en Raleigh, Carolina del Norte, a partir de las 11:00 a. m. hasta la 1:00 p.m. e incluye comida y entretenimiento gratis hasta agotar abastecimiento.

    El tema de la campaña nacional de 2025, “Impulsado por la esperanza, fortalecido por la prevención”, destaca la importancia de trabajar juntos para crear las condiciones que construyan un futuro más sólido para todos.

    “Todos los niños merecen crecer en un entorno seguro y enriquecedor con esperanza para el futuro”, dijo  el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Dr. Dev Sangvai. “Al garantizar que las familias tengan los recursos, el apoyo y las conexiones que necesitan antes de que los desafíos se conviertan en crisis, podemos construir un Carolina del Norte más fuerte donde todos los niños y las familias puedan prosperar”.

    En colaboración con socios estatales como el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés), Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC, por sus siglas en inglés) está comprometida a impulsar el cambio de sistemas y construir un sólido ecosistema de apoyo para las familias en Carolina del Norte. Estamos trabajando para crear las condiciones en las que los niños crezcan con experiencias positivas y relaciones enriquecedoras, al tiempo que equipamos a las comunidades locales con las herramientas y el apoyo que necesitan para fortalecer a todas las familias.

    “Por cada $10 gastados en bienestar infantil en los Estados Unidos, solo $1.50 se destinan a la prevención, podemos y debemos hacerlo mejor”, dijo Sharon Hirsch, presidenta y directora ejecutiva de Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. “Al invertir en centros de recursos familiares y soluciones basadas en la comunidad, podemos garantizar que las familias tengan el apoyo que necesitan antes de que los desafíos se conviertan en crisis. Cuando cambiamos nuestro enfoque a la prevención, creamos un futuro en el que todos los niños crecen en entornos seguros, estables y enriquecedores, rodeados de experiencias positivas y esperanza”.

    Durante el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil, PCANC y NCDHHS se unen al esfuerzo nacional para remodelar la narrativa en torno a la prevención del maltrato infantil y aumentar las inversiones en programas y políticas que priorizan a los niños y las familias. Este mes, y durante todo el año, las comunidades y las personas pueden ayudar a NCDHHS y PCANC a promover programas y políticas de prevención centrados en la familia tomando medidas de las siguientes maneras:

    • Asista a una plantación de molinillos organizada por NCDHHS y PCANC el martes, 1 de abril, 11:00 a.m., en Pullen Park (520 Ashe Ave. Raleigh, NC. Más información.
      • El público y los medios de comunicación están invitados a asistir. Los oradores incluyen al   secretario de la NCDHHS, Dr. Dev Sangvai , la directora de Servicios Humanos de NCDHHS Lisa Tucker Cauley, la presidenta y directora ejecutiva de Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina, Sharon Hirsch, y la líder de padres Sanaa Sharrieff. Se proporcionará comida y bebida hasta agotar abastecimiento.
    • Vístase de azul el viernes 4 de abril – Día de Vestirse de azul – para mostrar su apoyo a los niños y las familias. Publique una foto o un vídeo en las redes sociales e incluya los hashtags # WearBlueDay2025 y #NC.
    • Participe en el día de la defensa digital el martes, 9 de abril, para abogar por una mayor inversión federal en subvenciones comunitarias para la prevención del abuso infantil que proporcionen a los estados y las comunidades los recursos para implementar soluciones comunitarias para prevenir el maltrato y la negligencia infantil.
    • Siga a PCANC en LinkedInFacebook Instagram y comparta nuestras publicaciones a lo largo de abril. Anime a sus amigos y familiares a hacer lo mismo. Haga clic aquí para seguir a NCDHHS en todas las plataformas de redes sociales.

    Para conocer más formas de participar en el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil, visite PositiveChildhoodAllianceNC.org.

    Acerca de Positive Childhood Alliance (Alianza para la infancia positiva) de Carolina del Norte
    Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina conecta a organizaciones e individuos con lo que necesitan para ayudar a los niños y las familias a alcanzar su máximo potencial. Fundada en 1979 (como Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina), Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina ha demostrado 46 años de compromiso para fomentar infancias positivas para todos. A través del coaching basado en datos, el desarrollo profesional, los esfuerzos de promoción y la construcción de la comprensión pública, PCANC se esfuerza por construir y compartir soluciones que funcionen para todas las familias. En asociación con defensores de los niños a nivel estatal y local y miembros de la red, PCANC está creando un estado donde las familias viven en comunidades conectadas y de apoyo y, como resultado, todos los niños de Carolina del Norte vivirán vidas con propósito, llenas de experiencias positivas y esperanza para el futuro. PCANC es el capítulo de Carolina del Norte de Prevent Child Abuse America, la Red Nacional de Apoyo Familiar y Circle of Parents®. Se enorgullece de haber recibido la prestigiosa calificación de 4 estrellas de Charity Navigator y el Sello de Transparencia Platino de GuideStar. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Kris Demers, Director de Comunicaciones y Marketing, al (919) 829-8009, ext. 619 o kdemers@positivechildhoodnc.org

    Sobre el Departamento de Salud Y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte
    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte gestiona la prestación de servicios relacionados con la salud y el ser humano para todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte, especialmente nuestras personas más vulnerables: niños, ancianos, discapacitados y familias de bajos ingresos. En colaboración con los socios, NCDHHS proporciona servicios esenciales para mejorar la salud, la seguridad y el bienestar de todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte. El departamento trabaja en estrecha colaboración con profesionales de la salud, líderes comunitarios y grupos de defensa; entidades locales, estatales y federales; y muchas otras partes interesadas para que esto suceda.

    Mar 26, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man given hospital order after attack which led to death of man in Harrow

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been sentenced following two violent assaults that left one his victims dying from stab wounds.

    Abdul Khan, 27 (14.08.97), of Durham Road, Harrow was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 25 March.

    Khan was also placed under an additional Section 41 order, which means that only the Secretary of State for Justice or a tribunal can give approval for him to be discharged from hospital.

    Khan pleaded guilty to the manslaughter – through diminished responsibility – of Bohdan Vandzhura, and possession of an offensive weapon. He was also admitted to the attempted murder in relation to a second man who he attacked in Harrow. He was also found guilty of ABH in relation to this victim.

    His father, Khalid Khan, 62 (22.04.62) of Durham Road, Harrow was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment for assisting an offender in relation to this incident.

    Detective Chief Inspector Tom Williams, who led the investigation, said:

    “Our thoughts remain with Mr Vandzhura’s family and friends.

    “Bohdan was a loving father-of-two who was assaulted, unprovoked, and tragically died from his injuries.

    “Abdul Hussain demonstrated a pattern of violent behaviour and posed a clear threat to the public.

    “He will now remain in a safe place to get the treatment he needs.”

    An investigation was launched by the Specialist Crime Command after police were called on the morning of 8 July 2023 to reports of a stabbing on Pinner Road in North Harrow.

    Officers attended along with the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance. At the scene, they found 49-year-old Bohdan with stab wounds. Despite their efforts he died.

    A post-mortem examination carried out the following day confirmed he died as a result of multiple stab wounds to the chest and neck.

    Detectives reviewed CCTV footage from the area and were able to track Khan’s movements, capturing him disposing of the weapon and walking away from Bohdan’s home.

    This led them to quickly identify and then arrest Khan.

    The footage also provided them with evidence of his father – Khalid Khan – leaving his home with a carrier bag that was later discovered to contain his son’s bloodied clothing.

    Abdul Khan was arrested on 8 July and charged within 24 hours. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter – through diminished responsibility – and possession of an offensive weapon.

    As part of this investigation, detectives also established that Khan was a suspect for two further offences that predated the death of Bohdan.

    On 20 August 2022, in Pinner Road, Harrow, Khan punched a 43-year-old man to the ground before repeatedly stamping on him, leaving him unconscious.

    He also attacked the same man on a second occasion on 10 February 2023.

    Officers carried out an investigation at the time but were unable to identify a suspect. However, following the investigation into the assault of Bohdan, detectives were able to piece together evidence which made it clear that Khan was the chief suspect of the assault.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: QUADIENT SA: Appointment and renewals to Quadient’s Board of directors to be proposed to the Annual General Meeting on June 13, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Appointment and renewals to Quadient’s Board of directors to be proposed to the Annual General Meeting on June 13, 2025

    • Delphine Segura Vaylet to be proposed to the Annual General Meeting on June 13, 2025 for appointment as non-executive and independent director
    • Didier Lamouche and Nathalie Wright to be proposed for renewal to the Annual General Meeting on June 13, 2025
    • Martha Bejar and Paula Felstead will not stand for re-election, and resignation of Vincent Mercier with effect at the close of the Board meeting which will be held on 2 June 2025
    • Downsizing of the Board of directors from 10 to 8 members (excluding employee directors)​ as from the next Annual General Meeting, on June 13, 2025

    Paris, 26 March 2025

    Upon recommendation of the Appointments and Remuneration Committee, Quadient’s Board of directors (the “Board”) has approved the list of Directors for appointment and renewal to be put forward at the Company’s Annual General Meeting  that will be held on June 13, 2025.

    At the next Annual General Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve the appointment of Delphine Segura Vaylet as a new independent Director for a three-year term, until the Annual General Meeting approving the financial statements for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2028.

    Shareholders will also be asked to approve the renewal for additional three-year terms of:

    • Didier Lamouche, with the Board’s intention, if renewed, to subsequently reappoint him as Chairman of the Board, and
    • Nathalie Wright, with the Board’s intention, if renewed, to subsequently appoint her as Chair of the Appointments and Remuneration Committee, replacing Martha Bejar.

    Additionally, it is noted that Martha Bejar and Paula Felstead will not stand for re-election, and that Vincent Mercier will step down from the Board with effect at the close of the meeting to be held on 2 June 2025.

    The Board wishes to express its sincere gratitude for their dedication and significant contributions to the Company — Paula for her thoughtful oversight as a member of the Audit Committee, Martha for her leadership and governance as Chair of the Appointment and Remuneration Committee, and Vincent for his 16 years of committed service across various strategic and leadership roles. Their expertise, integrity, and steadfast support have been instrumental in guiding the Company through key phases of growth and transformation.

    Following these changes, subject to shareholders approval of the resolutions, the Board, which consists of 10 members (excluding employee directors) until June 2, 2025, will be reduced to 8 members (excluding employee directors) after the June 13, 2025 Annual General Meeting. The Board’s composition will continue to align with best governance practices, keeping a highly independent representation, with 75% independent directors, and complying with French legal parity rules, with a balanced structure of 5 men and 3 women, while ensuring a well-balanced mix of experience.

    Delphine Segura Vaylet is 54 years old and a French citizen. She holds a Master’s degree (DEA) in Social Law, European  Law from the University of Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne. Delphine Segura Vaylet began her career at Groupe Bayard Press from 1993 to 1994 before joining Thales in 1994, where she held various operational Human Resources (HR) leadership roles until 2006. In 2007, she joined STMicroelectronics as HR Director for the Digital Consumer division. In parallel, she led Talent and Organizational Development as well as Training at the Group level for four years. In 2014, she became Group HR Director of Zodiac Aerospace, serving as a member of the Executive Committee until the company’s acquisition by Safran. She then joined Total in 2017 as Vice-President Strategy and HR Policy. Since January 2021, Delphine Segura Vaylet held the position of  Senior Executive Vice President Human Resources at Groupe SEB. She also holds non-executive roles at Soitec and Artelia.

    Didier Lamouche has been the Chairman of the Board of Quadient S.A. since June 28, 2019. He holds a PhD in Semiconductor Technology from École Centrale de Lyon. Didier Lamouche has had a distinguished career, including serving as President and CEO of Idemia until 2018, the world leader in cyber security and digital identity technologies, which he had headed since 2013. From 2005 to 2013, he also held key leadership roles at ST-Microelectronics, ST-Ericsson, and Bull Group, where he successfully turned the company around and repositioned on growth segments. Earlier in his career, Didier Lamouche worked at Philips, IBM Microelectronics, Motorola Semiconductor, and Altis Semiconductor. Didier Lamouche has extensive experience in corporate governance, in both public and private environments, having served as a director of eight public and four private-equity backed companies for nearly 20 years.

    Nathalie Wright has been a member of the Board of Quadient S.A. since September 25, 2017. Nathalie Wright is a graduate in economics from Paris Assas University, IAE, and INSEAD. She began her career at Digital Equipment France and NewBridge Networks France, later holding roles at MCI, Easynet, and AT&T, where she oversaw commercial strategy for Southern Europe and the Middle East. In 2009, she joined Microsoft, serving as director of the Public Sector division and General Manager for Enterprise & Strategic Alliances. She became Vice President of Software France at IBM in 2017, then joined Rexel in 2018 as Chief Digital Officer and member of the executive committee until September 2023, overseeing digital transformation and ESG strategy. Since 2024, Nathalie Wright has focused on non-executive roles at Quadient, Keolis, and Amundi, supporting organizations with transformation challenges.

    ***

    CALENDAR

    • 26 March 2025: FY2024 results release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 3 June 2025: Q1 2025 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 13 June 2025: Annual General Meeting

    ***

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en-US.

    Contacts

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sidetrade Annual Results for 2024: Operating Margin exceeds 15% of Revenue and Net Profit up 40%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New record in year-over-year bookings (+13% in ACV)

    Strong revenue growth: up 26% with SaaS subscriptions up 22%

    Operating margin (3)exceeds 15% of revenue (+45%)

    Surge in net profit to €7.9 million, up 40%

    Operating cash flow strongly supporting the acquisition of SHS Viveon

    Recognized ESG commitment: Platinum by EthiFinance and Silver by EcoVadis

    Sidetrade, the global leader in AI-powered Order-to-Cash applications, today announces a 26% increase in revenue for 2024, with a surge in operating margin (3)of €8.4 million (+45%) and in net profit of €7.9 million (+40%).

    Sidetrade

    (€m)

    2024 2023 Change
           
    Revenue 55.0 (1) 43.7 +26%
    SaaS subscriptions 45.5 (2) 36.6 +22%
           
    Gross margin 43.1 35.3 +22%
           
    Operating expenses (OPEX) (34.6) (29.4) +18%
           
    Operating margin (3) 8.4 5.8 +45%
    as a % of revenue 15% 13%  
    Net profit 7.9 5.6 +40%

    2024 information is from consolidated, unaudited data.
    (1) includes €4.4m in SHS Viveon revenue
    (2) includes €3.0m in SHS Viveon recurring revenue
    (3) Operating margin corresponds to operating profit based on 2024 accounting standards in France, including the French Research Tax Credit.

    Olivier Novasque, CEO of Sidetrade commented:

    2024 once again illustrates the strength of Sidetrade’s business model, combining growth with profitability. Our 26% revenue increase was driven by a major breakthrough in the North American market, a leading-edge AI offering embraced by large enterprises, and the acquisition of SHS Viveon in Germany, which has further solidified our leadership in Order-to-Cash solutions across Europe. For the first time in our history, we have surpassed €8 million in operating profit, a significant 45% increase, highlighting the effectiveness and balance of our expansion strategy. But the real story goes beyond this impressive performance. We are witnessing an accelerated revolution in how businesses leverage artificial intelligence, marked by the emergence of specialized AI agents. Unlike traditional automation models that rely on rigid rule-based programming and constant human oversight, AI agents bring a new level of autonomous decision-making and real time operational optimization. These are no longer mere automation tools; they are intelligent entities capable of anticipating needs and acting independently within a company’s IT infrastructure, with minimal human intervention. Where traditional software simply organizes workflows using pre-defined rules, an AI agent trains, learns, adapts, and executes complex processes on its own. And this agentic revolution is only just beginning! At Sidetrade, Aimie represents the next generation of AI, evolving into an agentic AI that will orchestrate a network of AI agents, each managing a specific link in the Order-to-Cash cycle: risk, disputes, collections, cash application, and more. Aimie will direct, coordinate, and interconnect these high-specialized agents. Backed by the Sidetrade Data Lake, the most unique in the Order-to-Cash market and built on $7.2 trillion in B2B transactions spanning over 39.9 million businesses, Aimie is already powered by a one-of-a-kind training dataset in our field that will give its AI agents unmatched intelligence. Thanks to intensified R&D investments in 2024, we are set to launch our first next-gen AI agent in 2025, one that will redefine the boundaries of autonomy and capability. Companies that fail to embrace this paradigm shift will be rapidly outpaced by those that embed AI agents at the core of their operational excellence. With Aimie, Sidetrade is fully aligned with this AI agent revolution and is uniquely positioned to lead the race in its field.

    New record in year-over-year bookings (+13% in ACV)
    Sidetrade maintained its growth trajectory in 2024 and set a new record with Annual Contract Value (ACV) reaching €12.73 million, up 13% compared to 2023. Annual Recurring Revenue (New ARR), increased by 6%, amounting to €6.53 million while Services bookings grew by 21%, totaling €6.2 million.

    Bookings by new customers (“New Business”) accounted for 63% of total new bookings in 2024, while contract extensions (“Cross-sell”) and additional modules to existing customers (“Upsell”) contributed 18% and 19% of bookings, respectively.

    Strong revenue growth in 2024: up 26% with SaaS subscriptions up 22%

    In 2024, Sidetrade reported annual revenue of €55.0 million, marking a 26% increase compared to the previous year, and a 16% increase on a reported basis (excluding the acquisition of SHS Viveon finalized in June 2024). Several factors contributed to this strong performance:

    • Sustained organic growth: Overall revenue (excluding the acquisition of SHS Viveon) grew by 16%, while SaaS subscriptions increased by 15%. Meanwhile, Services showed impressive growth of 24%, driven by global implementation projects.
    • Strategic acquisition of SHS Viveon opening the DACH region: Since July 1, 2024, SHS Viveon has contributed €4.4 million to Sidetrade’s revenue, now accounting for 15% of total revenue in the second half of 2024.
    • Expanding international reach: The integration of SHS Viveon has increased the share of revenue generated outside of France to 65%. With 70% of its workforce now based internationally, Sidetrade demonstrates its ability to scale globally while maintaining strong local client relationships, key to building trust and driving operational efficiency.
    • Outstanding performance in North America: North America recorded the highest growth in 2024, with a 36% increase, bringing annual revenue to €16.6 million. This strategic market is central to Sidetrade’s ambitions.

    Sidetrade continues to strengthen its position among multinationals, with a 44% increase in subscriptions from companies generating over €2.5 billion in revenue. These contracts now represent 50% of total subscriptions. More broadly, companies generating over €1 billion in revenue account for 79% of the portfolio, cementing Sidetrade’s status as a preferred partner for large enterprises.

    Gross margin and operating margin: strongly accelerating performance

    • Strong growth in gross margin: +22% with an increase of €7.8 million

    The sustained momentum in subscription growth continued to drive the expansion of the gross margin in 2024. On a like-for-like basis (excluding SHS Viveon), the gross margin rate for subscriptions remained particularly high at 92%, compared to 93% in 2023. SaaS subscriptions now represent 97% of the total gross margin.

    Sidetrade’s overall gross margin rate on a like-for-like basis stood at 80%, versus 81% the previous year. Including the impact of SHS Viveon acquisition, the consolidated gross margin rate reached 78% of total revenue for the 2024 fiscal year.

    In total, in 2024, Sidetrade delivered an incremental gross margin increase of €7.8 million compared to 2023, representing a +22% year-over-year growth.

    • Operating margin exceeding 15% of revenue (vs 13% in 2023)

    Sidetrade’s operating margin showed a remarkable increase, reaching €8.4 million in 2024, up 45% from €5.8 million in 2023. This profitability is driven by sustained business growth, an excellent gross margin and disciplined cost management.

    Thanks to this momentum, Sidetrade has continued its investment strategy, with an increase in expenditure of €5.2 million over 2023, and a particular focus on R&D (+€2.4 million), notably to accelerate the integration of generative AI into its core product offering.

    The 2024 operating margin includes a French Research Tax Credit of €2.6 million (versus €2.4 million in 2023) as well as activation of €0.16 million in marginal R&D costs, i.e., 2% of R&D costs for the full year.

    As a result, Sidetrade’s operating margin stands at 15% of revenue versus 13% in 2023, representing a 2-point gain year-over-year.

    Surge in net profit to €7.9 million: up 40%

    Sidetrade’s financial income, recorded as of December 31, 2024, stands at €0.7 million, up significantly from 2023 (€0.4 million). This performance is mostly due to interest earned on short-term investments during the year and the foreign exchange gains realized over the period.

    Corporate income tax for 2024 is estimated at €1.1 million, versus €0.6 million in 2023.

    All told, Sidetrade’s net profit for 2024 was €7.9 million, an increase of 40%, confirming the solid balance between growth and profitability.

    Operating cash flow strongly supporting the acquisition of SHS Viveon

    In 2024, Sidetrade generated a solid operating cash flow of €9.6 million, up €3.3 million (excluding the timing impact of the French Research Tax Credit refund). This level of cash generation enabled the Company to fully self-finance the acquisition of SHS Viveon, with a net cash outlay of €5.2 million (€6.6 million for the purchase of shares, offset by €1.4 million in available cash held by SHS Viveon).

    As of December 31, 2024, Sidetrade reported €25.2 million in gross cash, up €1.3 million compared to year-end 2023.

    In addition, Sidetrade held 85,437 of its own shares, valued at €19.1 million as of December 31, 2024.

    Financial debt stood at €7.9 million, down €2.3 million year-over-year. Even after the SHS Viveon acquisition, Sidetrade retains substantial investment capacity, well-positioned to support its continued expansion strategy.

    Recognized ESG commitment: Platinum by EthiFinance and Silver by EcoVadis

    In 2024, Sidetrade accelerated its transition toward becoming a more responsible company and was awarded a Platinum medal from EthiFinance and a Silver medal from EcoVadis, with respective scores of 84/100 and 70/100. Now ranked among the top 15% of the most highly rated companies audited by EcoVadis, demonstrating its leadership in social responsibility.

    These accolades confirm the relevance of Sidetrade’s strategy and its ability to anticipate the environmental and social challenges of tomorrow.

    Sidetrade looks ahead to the fiscal year 2025 with confidence and a clear vision, and has the resources to fulfill its ambitions.

    Next financial announcement
    First Quarter Revenue for 2025: April 15, 2025, after the stock market closes.
    Investor relations
    Christelle Dhrif                00 33 6 10 46 72 00           cdhrif@sidetrade.com
    Media relations @Sidetrade
    Becca Parlby                  00 44 7824 5055 84           bparlby@sidetrade.com

    About Sidetrade (www.sidetrade.com)
    Sidetrade (Euronext Growth: ALBFR.PA) provides a SaaS platform designed to revolutionize how cash flow is secured and accelerated. Leveraging its next-generation AI, nicknamed Aimie, Sidetrade analyzes $7.2 trillion worth of B2B payment transactions daily in its Cloud, thereby anticipating customer payment behavior and the attrition risk of 39.9 million buyers worldwide. Aimie recommends the best operational strategies, dematerializes and intelligently automates Order-to-Cash processes to enhance productivity, results and working capital across organizations.
    Sidetrade has a global reach, with 400+ talented employees based in Europe, the United States and Canada, serving global businesses in more than 85 countries. Amongst them: Bidcorp, Biffa, Bunzl, Engie, Inmarsat, KPMG, Lafarge, Manpower, Page, Randstad, Saint-Gobain, Securitas, Tech Data, UGI, and Veolia.
    Sidetrade is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, adhering to its principles-based approach to responsible business.

    For further information, visit us at www.sidetrade.com and follow @Sidetrade on LinkedIn.
    In the event of any discrepancy between the French and English versions of this press release, only the French version is to be taken into account.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Quadient SA: FY 2024 results: Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)


    Quadient FY 2024 results:
    Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Key highlights

    • FY 2024 financial targets achieved
    • Two operating profitability milestones reached:
    • Digital EBITDA margin at 17.5%, up 5.7pts yoy, reflecting strong profitability improvement
    • All three solutions are EBITDA positive
    • Consolidated sales of €1,093 million, up +2.8% on a reported basis, including the contribution of the latest acquisitions
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue up +10.2% in Digital and up +11.5% in Lockers
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue of €777m, representing 71% of total revenue, up +30m yoy,
      vs. +
      90m 2026 target
    • FY 2024 Group current EBIT of €146 million, up +2.2% organically
    • Proposed dividend of €0.70 per share, up by €0.05 for the fourth consecutive year
    • FY 2025 outlook: acceleration both in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth vs. 2024

    Paris, 26 March 2025

    Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), an Intelligent automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, today announces its 2024 fourth-quarter consolidated sales and full-year results (period ended on 31 January 2025). The full year 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 25 March 2025.

    Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated: “We have delivered a solid first year of our Elevate to 2030 strategic plan.

    Our Digital Automation platform has reached the record level of c.€270 million in revenue thanks to both the addition of 2,600+ new customers and the contribution from the increased usage and upsell from our existing 16,500 customer base. This strong revenue increase has been delivered together with a significant improvement in profitability with EBITDA rising by 61% to reach €47 million. We are now in a good position to exceed the 20% EBITDA margin ambition set for 2026.

    2024 also saw the highest level of Digital cross-sold deals into our Mail customer base while at the same time our Mail business continues to outpace competition. In Lockers, investments made over the past couple of years are paying off, contributing to a strong performance in H2 with double digit growth in revenue thanks to increased usage of the locker base across all regions. In addition, Lockers have reached EBITDA breakeven over the full year and profitability will further improve as we continue to increase the size of our network, grow its usage and take advantage of the recent addition of Package Concierge in the US residential sector.

    At Company level, this solid performance translates into a €30 million increase in annual recurring revenue, well on track to deliver the €90 million increase targeted by 2026. Based on this solid start to the strategic plan, we are confident in our ability to continue building a €1bn recurring revenue platform by 2030, generating €250 million current EBIT. Therefore, we are proposing to increase our dividend for the fourth consecutive year in a row, to €0.70.

    While macro uncertainties have recently been growing, we are expecting an acceleration of organic growth in revenue and current EBIT in 2025 against 2024 levels.”

    Comments on FY 2024 performance

    Group sales came in at €1,093 million in FY 2024, a +2.8% increase on a reported basis, and +0.4% organic growth compared to FY 2023, in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €2 million and a positive scope effect of €24 million, which is related to the acquisitions of Daylight (September 2023), Frama (February 2024) and Package Concierge (December 2024).

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, reported revenue growth stood at +4.1% and organic revenue growth was broadly flat, at -0.2%, compared to Q4 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue reached €777 million in FY 2024, growing +1.6% organically, and representing 71% of total sales. This represents a €30 million increase year-on-year (compared to the +€90 million target by 2026), progressing toward the €1 billion subscription-related revenue target by 2030. Performance in the fourth quarter of 2024 was steady, up 2.1% organically against Q4 2023, driven by a double-digit organic increase in Digital and in Lockers. Non-recurring revenue declined by 2.4% organically in FY 2024, including a 5.1% decline in Q4 2024, essentially due to a high comparison basis in Mail hardware sales.

    By geography, North America (58% of revenue) continued to outperform other regions with a +2.8% organic growth achieved in FY 2024.

    Consolidated sales and EBITDA by Solution

    FY 2024 consolidated sales

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 267 245 +9.1% +7.7%
    Mail 732 729 +0.4% (2.5)%
    Lockers 94 88 +5.7% +4.3%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%

     

    EBITDA and EBITDA margin

      FY 2024 FY 2023
    In € million EBITDA EBITDA margin EBITDA EBITDA margin
    Digital 47 17.5% 29 11.8%
    Mail 200 27.4% 218 29.9%
    Lockers 1 0.6% (3) (3.0)%
    Group total 247 22.6% 244 23.0%
     

    Digital

    In FY 2024, revenue from Digital reached €267 million, up 7.7% organically (+10.1% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023) and up 9.1% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to FY 2023.

    This solid performance was driven by a strong 10.2% organic growth in subscription-related revenue in FY 2024 (+10.5% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), including a good contribution from North America and continued positive commercial trends across the platform with further solid cross-selling and up-selling. In FY 2024, subscription-related revenue was representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in FY 2023.

    At the end of FY 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €232 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 12.7% organic growth.

    EBITDA for Digital was €47 million in FY 2024, up +61% year-on-year. EBITDA margin was at 17.5%, a strong improvement of 5.7 points compared to FY 2023. In H2 2024, EBITDA margin further improved, reaching 19.1%, after 15.7% in H1 2024. This positive evolution in profitability reflects the combination of subscription-related revenue growth and platform maturity. The Digital solution is well on track to reach its target of EBITDA margin greater than 20% in 2026.

    As part of its customer acquisition strategy, Digital continues to demonstrate strong commercial momentum. Over
    2,600 new customers were added
    in FY 2024 thanks in particular to robust cross-selling with Mail, especially in North America. Digital experienced a dynamic fourth quarter, with several key deals secured in the US. Additionally, a new partnership was established with Avaloq to deliver Customer Communications Management capabilities to the financial services industry.

    As part of the customer expansion process, the focus continues to be on further increasing up-selling, notably in financial automation process. Several platform innovations have been made, to bring added value to customers, including the ramp-up and extension of Repay for direct supplier invoice payments in the US and Canada, and new electronic invoice formats (UBL, CII, Factur-X) to align with upcoming European e-invoicing regulation.

    In Quadient’s core geographies, the addressable demand for its Digital automation platform is set to grow from
    c.€6 billion in 2023 to c.€9 billion in 2027, representing a +10% CAGR, creating substantial growth opportunities in both communication and financial automation.

    To capture this growth, Quadient is strongly positioned, leveraging on:

    • a sound base of highly predictable business, with over 16,500 customers, 82% subscription-based revenue,
      and a churn rate well below 5%,
    • a highly recognized platform in financial & communication automation, and 84.5% of Saas customers,
      across three regions,
    • a fully scalable and modulable platform, for small to large customers, driving new client acquisition (+2,600 in FY 2024) and record cross-sell of Digital solutions into Quadient Mail customers and increased upsell opportunities among existing customers,
    • an efficient go-to-market organisation that driving a 34% year-on-year increase in bookings in Q4 2024 and +12.7% growth of ARR at the end of the year.

    Mail

    Mail revenue reached €732 million in FY 2024, down 2.5% on an organic basis (-4.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023). The reported growth stood at +0.4%, including the contribution of Frama.

    Hardware sales recorded a minor -1.7% organic decline in FY 2024, despite a 7.3% drop registered in Q4 2024, mainly reflecting a high comparison basis related to deals signed in H2 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a 2.9% organic decline in FY 2024.

    EBITDA for Mail was €200 million for FY 2024. EBITDA margin reached 27.4%, down 2.5 points compared to FY 2023. Mail EBITDA margin was impacted by the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, including integration costs. Frama’s performance is due to improve significantly from 2025 onward, with positive current EBIT already reached in FY 2024 and payback of the acquisition expected in FY 2025.

    Thanks to its strong focus on customer acquisition, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. In Q4 2024, commercial performance remained resilient in North America, particularly in highly regulated industries where secure mail communications are key.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, outlook remains strong driven by a high customer satisfaction rate of 95.7% and robust cross-selling performance, especially in the US where a record-breaking performance in placement of Digital solutions was recorded in Q4 2024. Mail business also benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification, though this impact is expected to conclude in Q1 2025. Lastly, Quadient aims at upgrading Frama’s installed base and initiating some cross-selling to promote its Digital offer to Frama’s customers.

    At the end of January 2025, already 42.4% of Quadient installed base has been upgraded with its newest technology.

    Lockers

    Lockers revenue reached €94 million in FY 2024, a +4.3% increase on an organic basis, with strong momentum in the latter part of the year (+8.0% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023, after a strong Q3 2024, up +14.3% year-on-year) and a +5.7% increase on a reported basis compared to FY 2023, including a marginal contribution from Package Concierge.

    Subscription-related revenue was up 11.5% organically in FY 2024 (+19.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), benefiting from:

    • the continued strong volumes ramp up in the British and the French open networks;
    • the sustained strong momentum in the US, driven by higher monetization of usage fees;
    • a resilient performance in Japan, despite an unfavorable e-commerce environment.

    Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 64% of total revenue in FY 2024, up from 61% in FY 2023.

    Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 6.8% organically in FY 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

    Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.25,700 units at the end of FY 2024, including c. 3,000 units from Package Concierge, vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

    EBITDA for Lockers was above breakeven, at €1 million in FY 2024. EBITDA margin stood at 0.6%, up by 3.6 points compared to FY 2023. This significant profitability improvement, illustrated by a 6.7% EBITDA margin in H2 2024, was driven by growing recurring revenue and increased usage. Additionally, the revised commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base was implemented at the beginning of H2 2023.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the pace of installation for new lockers in its open networks in Europe, mostly in France and the UK, with installed base up 145% year-on-year. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations (including Morrisons Daily Stores and ScotRail…). Additionally, the trend for new installations in North America has turned positive in Q4, where market share leadership position in Residences and Universities remains robust.

    As part of the customer expansion strategy, volumes from both pick-up and drop-off in European open networks saw a significant increase, growing sevenfold between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The momentum in North America for the locker network, particularly across the multifamily sector and higher education campuses was strong in Q4 2024. In Japan, macroeconomic conditions have impacted parcel volumes, but new initiatives, such as the new partnership with Japan Post, are aimed at driving volume growth and increasing adoption.

    REVIEW OF 2024 FULL-YEAR RESULTS

    Simplified P&L

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change
    Sales 1,093 1,062 +2.8%
    Gross profit 818 788 +3.7%
    Gross margin 74.8% 74.2%  
    EBITDA 247 244 +1.2%
    EBITDA margin 22.6% 23.0%  
    Current EBIT 146 147 (0.5)%
    Current EBIT margin 13.4% 13.8%  
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15) +58.0%
    EBIT 123 132 (7.0)%
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31) +24.8%
    Income before tax 84 101 (16.8)%
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0) n/a
    Income taxes (17) (17) +2.8%
    Net income of continued operations 68 84 (19.4)%
    Net income from discontinued operations (0) (14) (98.7)%
    Net attributable income 66 69 (3.4)%
    Earnings per share 1.94 2.02  
    Diluted earnings per share 1.94 2.01  
     

    Gross margin stood at 74.8% in FY 2024 slightly up compared to FY 2023, due to lower cost of sales.

    EBITDA(1) for the Group reached €247 million in FY 2024, up €3 million compared to FY 2023. EBITDA grew by 3.0% organically, driven by strong growth of 80% in Digital and improved profitability in Lockers, which more than compensated for the softer EBITDA performance in Mail. The EBITDA margin reached 22.6% in FY 2024. It was almost stable compared to FY 2023: despite the impact of the change in revenue mix and the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, the Group EBITDA margin was supported by significant profitability gains in Digital and Lockers.

    Depreciation and amortization stood at €101 million in FY 2024, compared to €98 million in FY 2023. This slightly higher depreciation mainly reflects the increase in Lockers’ asset base.

    Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €146 million in FY 2024 compared to €147 million in FY 2023, up 2.2% on an organic basis. Current EBIT margin stood at 13.4% of sales in FY 2024 compared to 13.8% in FY 2023.

    Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €23 million in FY 2024, versus €15 million in FY 2023. This increase mainly relates to the write-off of an IT project, additional office optimization and Frama restructuring costs.

    Consequently, EBIT reached €123 million in FY 2024, versus €132 million recorded in FY 2023.

    Net attributable income

    Net cost of debt was up from €29 million in FY 2023 to €39 million in FY 2024, impacted by higher interest rates. The currency gains & losses and other financial items was broadly flat in FY 2024, compared to a loss of €2 in FY 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €39 million in FY 2024 compared to a loss of €31 million in FY 2023.

    Income tax expense was stable year-on-year at €17 million.

    Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary was null in FY 2024, compared to a €14 million loss in FY 2023. This loss included exceptional charges related to the sale process for this subsidiary, which was sold to a local mail distribution company in October 2024.

    Net attributable income after minority interests amounted to €66 million in FY 2024 compared to €69 million in FY 2023.

    Earnings per share(2) stood at €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.02 in FY 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(2) was €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.01 in FY 2023.

    Cash flow generation

    The change in working capital was a net cash inflow of €9 million in FY 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €6 million in FY 2023, mostly reflecting the positive impact from timing on prepaid expenses and customers deposits.

    The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €623 million as of 31 January 2025, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024, up on an organic basis (i.e. excluding currency impact of €18 million) for the first time in several years thanks to good hardware placements in Mail. While generating future subscription-related revenue, this increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment translates into a cash outflow of
    €7 million in FY 2024. At the end of FY 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.1% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

    Interest and taxes paid increased to €67 million in FY 2024 versus the amount of €55 million paid in FY 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in FY 2024.

    Capital expenditure reached €108 million in FY 2024, up €7 million compared to FY 2023, mostly due to UK locker open network deployment. Capex for Digital reached €24 million in FY 2024, slightly up compared to €22 million in FY 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D and platform development. Capex for Mail remained at fairly high level of €51 million
    (vs. €53 million in FY 2023), due to continued high placement of machines related to the US decertification, which is expected to end in Q1 2025. Capex for Lockers increased from €26 million to €33 million to support the ramp-up of the deployment of the open network in the UK. The sale of Frama real estate in Switzerland generated €6 million in cash inflows in FY 2024.

    All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure (free cash flow) reached €66 million in FY 2024, compared to €64 million in FY 2023.

    Leverage and liquidity position

    Net debt stood at €741 million as of 31 January 2025, a slight increase against €709 million as of 31 January 2024. In FY 2024, Quadient successfully raised approximately €325 million in new facilities, including the following transactions in H2 2024:

    • in October 2024, the Company secured EBRD financing, including a €25 million Schuldschein;
    • in December 2024, the Company secured a USD 50 million bank loan;
    • in January 2025, Quadient further strengthened its financial position with the issuance of a USD 100 million USPP.

    These new facilities enabled Quadient to repay post-closing its €260 million bond due in February 2025 and settle the repayment of Schuldschein loans for €29 million, also due in early 2025. As a result of these transactions, the Company’s average debt maturity has been extended to four years as of the end of February 2025, compared to three years at the end of FY 2023.

    The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable at 3.0x(3) as of 31 January 2025 compared to 2.9x(3) as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio remained stable at 1.7x(3) as of 31 January 2025, despite the acquisitions of Frama and Package Concierge in 2024, as well as the implementation of a share buyback programs.

    As of 31 January 2025, the Group had a strong liquidity position of €667 million, split between €367 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

    Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,113 million as of 31 January 2025 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio(4) stood at 66.6% as of 31 January 2025.

    SHAREHOLDER RETURN

    Proposed dividend for FY 2024 stands at €0.70 per share, representing an 8% increase against FY 2023, and a payout ratio of 36.1% of net income, higher than Quadient’s minimum 20% pay-out ratio of net income as per the Group’s dividend policy. This represents a €0.05 year-on-year increase, for the fourth consecutive year. The dividend is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 13 June 2025, and will be paid in cash in one instalment on 6 August 2025.

    In addition, Quadient’s announced in September 2024 the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million. To date, €10 million worth of shares have been repurchased, with the program set to be executed over an
    18-month(5) period. This operation demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target(6) and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company, while improving shareholders’ return.

    OUTLOOK

    The evolving dynamics within Quadient’s business portfolio, characterized by strong growth in Digital and Lockers revenue alongside a moderate decline in Mail revenue, will naturally drive a year-on-year acceleration in the Company’s total revenue growth.

    As Digital and Lockers continue to expand their share of Quadient’s revenue and profit, while simultaneously improving their profitability, this shift is expected to contribute to a higher growth in current EBIT

    As a result, Quadient targets an acceleration in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth in 2025 compared to 2024.

    Quadient also confirms its 3-year guidance for the 2024-2026 period of minimum 1.5% organic revenue CAGR and minimum 3% organic current EBIT CAGR.

    Q4 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    Avaloq and Quadient Partner to Elevate Client Communications for Financial Services
    On 3 December 2024, Quadient and Avaloq announced today their partnership to offer unrivaled customer communications management (CCM) capabilities for the financial services industry. Avaloq has selected Quadient Inspire as its standard CCM solution, seamlessly integrating it into the Avaloq platform.

    Quadient Launches SimplyMail in Europe to Help Small Businesses Leverage Digital Solutions to Enhance Efficiency in Mail Operations
    On 11 December 2024, Quadient announced the launch in Europe of SimplyMail, a solution designed to address the growing needs for smaller businesses to automate and optimize their mail operations with ease.

    Quadient Named a Worldwide Automated Document Generation and CCM Leader by IDC
    On 12 December 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Automated Document Generation and Customer Communication Management 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Recognized in Two IDC MarketScape Reports for Accounts Receivable Automation Applications
    On 16 December 2024, announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for Small and Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment. Additionally, Quadient has been recognized for the first time as a Major Player in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for the Enterprise 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Surpasses 25,000 Global Locker Installations with US Package Concierge Acquisition, Setting Sights on Exceeding €100M of Locker Revenue in 2025
    On 18 December 2024, Quadient announced the acquisition of US-based parcel management solutions provider Package Concierge®, exceeding the 25,000-unit mark in its global installed base. Package Concierge provides innovative digital locker technology that addresses the growing challenges of package management in residential, commercial, retail and university campuses across the United States.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position with a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America
    On 20 December 2024, announced a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America. This new credit facility, which comes with a 3-year maturity at a variable rate, strengthens Quadient’s financial position ahead of debt maturities due in 2025.

    Report by Leading Analyst Firm Shows Quadient Recorded the Fastest Growth in 2023 Among CCM Market Leaders
    On 10 January 2025, Quadient announced that a newly released report by market research and consulting firm IDC shows Quadient rapidly closing the gap on the top position. Quadient’s 13.7% year-on-year revenue growth in 2023 has accelerated from its 11% growth in 2022. This is also the fastest growth among the major Customer Communications Management (CCM) vendors globally, outperforming the overall market growth.

    Quadient Secures New c.$1.6 Million Contract to Enhance US Government Agency’s Mail Automation Capacity
    On 14 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has been selected by a US government agency to modernize its mail automation infrastructure in a contract valued at c.$1.6 million. This follows a previous announcement in October 2024, where Quadient was awarded a contract worth nearly $1 million for a similar modernization project with another federal agency.

    Leading Human Resources Technology Company Selects Quadient for Accessibility Compliance in Customer Communications
    On 16 January 2025, Quadient announced that a leading US provider of integrated benefits, payroll, and human resources cloud solutions has selected customer communications management (CCM) platform Quadient Inspire to ensure accessibility compliance for its US federal agency client.

    Quadient Partners with ScotRail to Introduce Parcel Lockers at Stations Across Scotland
    On 21 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with ScotRail to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers across Scotland’s rail network. ScotRail, Scotland’s national rail operator, is enhancing its passenger experience and operational efficiency with the installation of parcel lockers in its stations.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position through a USD100 million US Private Placement from MetLife
    On 22 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has signed a new USD100 million US Private Placement (USPP) with MetLife Investment Management (“MIM”), reinforcing its financial position. This new USPP of USD 100 million senior notes has a
    7-year average maturity and comes with an additional shelf facility allowing the issue of senior notes for a maximum aggregate principal amount of USD50 million.

    Quadient Teams Up with Buzz Bingo to Bring Convenient Parcel Lockers to Bingo Clubs Across the UK
    On 28 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with Buzz Bingo to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers in 35 of its 81 bingo clubs across the UK, with plans for further installations in the future. This collaboration enhances parcel collection, delivery, and return convenience while improving the customer experience at Buzz Bingo locations.

    Leading US Law Firm Chooses Quadient in a Deal Over $1M to Streamline Mailing, Shipping, and Accounting Processes
    On 30 January 2025, Quadient announced a new contract with one of the largest injury law firms in the US, transitioning the firm from its long-standing provider to Quadient. Under the new agreement, worth over 1 million dollars, the firm is rolling out nearly 100 Quadient iX-Series mailing systems at offices across the country, all seamlessly integrated with Quadient’s cloud-based S.M.A.R.T. accounting and shipping software.

    Quadient Reports Strong Year-End Locker Usage Growth in Multifamily and Higher Education Campuses in North America
    On 31 January 2025, Quadient announced strong year-end momentum in the adoption and usage of its Parcel Pending by Quadient locker network across multifamily and higher education campuses in North America.

    POST-CLOSING EVENTS

    Morrisons Partners with Quadient for Convenient Parcel Delivery at its Morrisons Daily Stores
    On 18 February 2025, Quadient announced a new partnership with Morrisons. The partnership will see Parcel Pending by Quadient parcel lockers installed at 230 Morrisons Daily stores by spring 2025.

    Quadient Enables New Shipping Service with Japan Post on its Open Locker Network, Driving Convenience and Increased Parcel Volume
    On 3 March 2025, Quadient announced an expanded partnership between Japan Post and Packcity Japan, a joint venture between Quadient and Yamato Transport. Thanks to the extended partnership, consumers will not only receive Japan Post deliveries at Packcity Japan’s nationwide open network of automated parcel lockers, but they will also now be able to ship parcels from the lockers, called PUDO stations. Consumers using Japan Post’s Yu-Pack parcel service use a mobile app to ship from a PUDO station, eliminating the need to wait at delivery counters or manually handling shipping slips.

    Quadient Maintains Leader Position on Aspire Leaderboard for Customer Communications and Interaction Experience Software
    On 13 March 2025, Quadient announced it has maintained its leadership position on the Aspire Leaderboard. Produced by independent advisory firm Aspire CCS, the Aspire Leaderboard highlights and compares vendors in the customer communications management (CCM) and customer experience management software space. It is updated in real-time as vendors release enhancements and adjust strategies.

    To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

    CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

    Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

    To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

    To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

    ▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.
    ▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.
    ▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

    Password: Quadient

    A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.


     

    Calendar

    • 3 June 2025: Q1 2025 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 13 June 2025: Annual General Meeting

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

    Contacts

    APPENDIX

    Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

    Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

    Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

    FY 2024 and Q4 2024 consolidated sales

    FY 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million 2024 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 632 607 +4.0% +2.8%
    Main European countries(a) 369 354 +4.5% (2.0)%
    International(b) 92 101 (9.7)% (5.4)%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 73 65 +11.5% +10.1%
    Mail 196 196 (0.3)% (4.6)%
    Lockers 27 22 +20.2% +8.0%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
     

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 171 160 +7.0% +2.5%
    Main European countries(a) 100 97 +3.3% (2.9)%
    International(b) 24 27 (10.7)% (6.9)%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Financial statements – Full-year 2024

    Consolidated income statement

    In € million FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)
    FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Sales 1,093 1,062
    Cost of sales (275) (274)
    Gross margin 818 788
    R&D expenses (63) (63)
    Sales and marketing expenses (287) (275)
    Administrative and general expenses (187) (176)
    Service and support expenses (116) (109)
    Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses (10) (7)
    M&A and strategic projects expenses (8) (11)
    Current operating income 146 147
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15)
    Operating income 123 132
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31)
    Income before taxes 84 101
    Income taxes (17) (17)
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0)
    Net income from continued operations 68 84
    Net income of discontinued operations (0) (14)
    Net income 67 70
    Of which:

    • Minority interests
    1 1
    • Net attributable income
    66 69

    Simplified consolidated balance sheet

    Assets
    In € million
    FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)
    FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Goodwill 1,131 1,082
    Intangible fixed assets 119 121
    Tangible fixed assets 170 156
    Other non-current financial assets 65 65
    Other non-current receivables 2 2
    Leasing receivables 623 598
    Deferred tax assets 38 17
    Inventories 75 67
    Receivables 240 228
    Other current assets 79 84
    Cash and cash equivalents 367 118
    Current financial instruments 1 2
    Assets held for sale 0 9
    TOTAL ASSETS 2,910 2,550
    Liabilities
    In € million
    FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)
    FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Shareholders’ equity 1,113 1,069
    Non-current provisions 12 12
    Non-current financial debt 722 715
    Current financial debt 347 66
    Lease obligations 38 46
    Other non-current liabilities 3 2
    Deferred tax liabilities 101 104
    Financial instruments 5 5
    Trade payables 104 79
    Deferred income 223 212
    Other current liabilities 242 225
    Liabilities held for sale 0 15
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,910 2,550

    Simplified cash flow statement

     

    In €millions

    FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)
    FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    EBITDA 247 244
    Other elements (15) (19)
    Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax 233 225
    Change in the working capital requirement 9 (6)
    Net change in leasing receivables (7) (0)
    Cash flow from operating activities 235 219
    Interest and tax paid (67) (55)
    Net cash flow from operating activities 168 165
    Capital expenditure (108) (101)
    Disposal of assets 6 0
    Net cash flow after investing activities 66 64
    Impact of changes in scope (37) (5)
    Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments 29 59
    Dividends paid (22) (21)
    Change in debt and others 219 (39)
    Net cash flow after financing activities 226 (1)
    Cumulative translation adjustments on cash (6) (2)
    Net cash from discontinued operations (1) (9)
    Change in net cash position 219 (11)

    ([1]) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
    ([2]) For the FY 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 34,114,060. Diluted number of shares is 34,486,288.
    ([3]) Including IFRS 16
    ([4]) Net debt / shareholder’s equity
    ([5]) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
    ([6]) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Cheems: The Resilient Memecoin That Rose From the Ashes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a remarkable turn of events, $CHEEMS has emerged as one of the most resilient and triumphant memecoins in history. Overcoming early struggles, lack of ecosystem support, and technical limitations, Cheems has defied the odds and today achieved a milestone: the circulating market cap of $CHEEMS has flipped $ZK, the blockchain it originally launched on. This groundbreaking moment marks a defining chapter in the memecoin revolution.

    From its inception, Cheems faced challenges that would have led most projects to failure. The attempt to open-source the project was obstructed by compatibility issues with zkSync, a hurdle that many would have seen as insurmountable. Yet, rather than succumbing to adversity, the Cheems community persevered, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to its vision.

    Christian, the whale and core developer of Cheems, reflects on this journey:

    “I still remember the tough times our community had in the beginning, when no one cared, no support from the ecosystem. @LordCheems_bsc is a project that failed to open source due to compatibility issues with @zksync. I think most people would have rug-pulled, but $CHEEMS survived and is making its own history. Background, technique, VCs—it doesn’t matter. What matters is the spirit of never giving up and being responsible. We are all CHEEMS. We are making history.”

    The rise of $CHEEMS is not just a testament to its strong community but also an embodiment of the true spirit of decentralization. Unlike traditional projects that rely on venture capital and corporate backing, Cheems is a fair-launch project that has relied solely on its community’s belief and resilience.

    Today, while the market cap of zkSync sits at $500M, Cheems remains under $50M—yet its momentum is undeniable. Long-term holders and early believers recall the struggles of Cheems before its migration to BNB Chain. The initial airdrop attracted many retail investors who were drawn by zkSync’s promise, but as ecosystem narratives shifted, Cheems was left without institutional support or a clear leader. What seemed like an inevitable demise instead turned into a rebirth, fueled by the community’s determination to carve its own path.

    With the memecoin sector experiencing a new wave of enthusiasm, many are beginning to recognize Cheems as the biggest wealth creation opportunity of this cycle. The project’s resurgence has established a renewed sense of faith and unity among its supporters, proving that true success is not dictated by technical backing or venture capital endorsements, but by the strength of its believers.

    Cheems has rewritten history—and this is just the beginning.

    About Cheems
    Cheems is a community-driven memecoin that has defied the odds and established itself as a leading force in the decentralized finance and cryptocurrency space. Initially launched on zkSync, Cheems faced numerous challenges, from technical limitations to a lack of institutional support. However, through the unwavering dedication of its community, Cheems survived and thrived, evolving into a symbol of resilience and fair-launch success. With a commitment to decentralization, innovation, and financial inclusivity, Cheems continues to make history in the crypto space.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Email: contact@cheems.pet

    Romeo Kuok

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