Category: Europe

MIL-OSI Russia: The largest screen in Russia for creating special effects appeared at the Moskino film factory

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The largest LED display structure in Russia has been installed on the territory of the Moskino film factory on Ryazansky Prospekt. It will be used to create visual effects for films of any complexity. This was reported by Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

“The project will open up new opportunities for the industry, simplify many work processes and reduce costs. The area of the huge screen exceeds 300 square meters,” said Natalia Sergunina.

The puck-shaped structure will allow film crews to be independent of the season and weather conditions. It will eliminate the need to travel to other locations, change scenery or resort to computer graphics. A specific background and visual images will be selected for each scene, which will be transmitted by the screens. The actors will immediately see the same thing as the audience.

The creator of the equipment is the flagship resident of the Moskino film factory. The studio produces full-length films, TV series, commercials and music videos using modern technologies. It has more than 500 completed projects, including Chelyuskin. The First and Red Silk, which were released in March 2025.

“We call this design a ‘washer’. Inside it, you can create effects of any complexity that will look natural on the cinema screen. The technology itself is unique for Russia, and we are glad that we managed to implement this idea,” shared the company’s founder, Yuri Yarushnikov.

Another studio pavilion on the film factory premises is designed for filming scenes of travel in cars and other types of transport. The movement is simulated using a special complex that includes dynamic platforms.

The capital pays great attention to the development of the industry within the framework of Sergei Sobyanin’s project “Moscow – City of Cinema”, which will unite 1170 hectares of creative space. It already includes the Gorky Film Studio on Sergei Eisenstein Street and in Valdaisky Proyezd, a chain of cinemas, a cinema park and the Moskino film factory.

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

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

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/151796073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Residential buildings and infrastructure within walking distance: what is being built within the framework of the KRT for the purposes of the renovation program

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

New neighborhoods will be created in the capital under the program of integrated development of territories (IDT). Investors and city operators plan to build 6.7 million square meters of housing for the purposes of the renovation program. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

“The integrated territorial development program has been in effect in the capital since 2020. It currently includes 302 KRT projects at various stages of development and implementation. Various real estate objects will be built under them. In particular, the area of residential development will be 37 million square meters, of which 6.7 million are intended for the purposes of the renovation program. This will also speed up the renovation program in 78 districts of the capital,” said Vladimir Efimov.

For the purposes of the renovation program, the necessary infrastructure will be created within walking distance.

“The KRT projects, which provide for the construction of housing for the purposes of the renovation program and other city needs, also provide for the construction of social facilities. Thus, along with residential buildings in the new microdistricts, it is planned to build 48 kindergartens, 39 schools and 11 medical facilities. The adjacent territories will be landscaped and improved, children’s and sports playgrounds will be installed, and new roads will be laid,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

Maxim Gaman.

Thanks to the comprehensive transformation of the capital’s neighborhoods, Muscovites will receive not only modern housing, but also a high-quality urban environment.

According to the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky, within the framework of the KRT, residential complexes with a total area of about 4.3 million square meters will be built for the purposes of the renovation program. This will provide new housing for about 150 thousand Muscovites. Elevators will be installed in the entrances of the new buildings, rooms for concierges, rooms for strollers and bicycles will be equipped. The first floors will be made non-residential – in the future, social and household facilities will open there.

According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional city blocks are created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 302 KRT projects with a total area of about 4.2 thousand hectares are at various stages of development and implementation in Moscow. This work is carried out on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Technology that reduces risks during vascular surgeries has appeared in the capital’s X-ray operating rooms

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The capital’s doctors have begun to use a new method of ultrasound examination of blood vessels during operations on the coronary vessels of the heart and the vessels of the lower extremities, as well as in the context of other interventions. The technology allows obtaining detailed images in real time and is already available in all X-ray operating rooms in the capital, reported Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development.

“Cardiovascular diseases remain one of the most common pathologies that threaten health. To combat them, we continue to develop a network of vascular centers in the capital equipped with modern X-ray operating rooms. Now doctors can use intravascular ultrasound, which helps to accurately assess the condition of blood vessels, monitor the progress of surgery and reduce the risk of complications. This technology has already been implemented in all X-ray operating rooms in Moscow. Using this method makes treatment safer, allows you to avoid additional control X-ray examinations, which reduces the radiation load on patients and medical personnel,” said Anastasia Rakova.

The new technique allows for the construction of detailed images of the operated vessel using a microcatheter up to two millimeters in diameter, which is delivered to the site of the pathology using a guidewire. The data is displayed on the screen in real time. This helps surgeons accurately determine the size and position of plaques, assess the extent and nature of vascular lesions, and control the installation of stents.

In Moscow’s X-ray operating rooms, minimally invasive surgeries are performed using high-tech angiographic devices that allow vascular pathology to be detected under X-ray control. There are 60 such devices in total, with 13 of them arriving at hospitals in 2024. They allow doctors to perform high-tech X-ray surgical interventions and diagnostic studies. These include operations to install stents, remove blood clots, embolize large vessels, coronary angiography studies, and other types of medical care.

Sobyanin: Reconstruction of three buildings of the Loginov Moscow Scientific Center will be completed in 2026 Almost 2.5 thousand interventions were performed in hybrid operating rooms of the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care in two years Reduce radiation exposure: the equipment in the X-ray operating room of the M.P. Konchalovsky City Clinical Hospital has been completely updated

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MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Caring for the Elderly: Muscovites Do Good Deeds with Million Prizes

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Participants in the city loyalty program donated over 17.6 million rubles to help the elderly “A Million Prizes” since the moment this opportunity appeared on the program website.

Muscovites willingly join charitable initiatives, because there are always those around us who sometimes need special attention and protection. By joint efforts, we can make their lives more comfortable, help solve everyday or medical issues. The funds go to the wards of the program partners – funds and non-profit organizations that provide support to the older generation. Among them is the Hospice Aid Fund “Faith”, funds “Old age is a joy” And “Memory of Generations”as well as other charitable organizations.

Thanks to the help of caring citizens, food and care products (linen, disposable diapers, gels, protective creams) are delivered to needy grandparents, veterans, and people living in nursing homes and mental health care facilities. Glasses, glucometers, tonometers, hearing aids and much more are also purchased for the wards. The funds donated by Muscovites are used to open home care services, elderly people receive qualified medical care and nursing care in nursing homes and at home, and their loved ones receive the necessary support. The funds are also used to develop palliative care for the seriously ill.

Targeted and reliable: how to help and give hope to those in need

Even the busy schedule does not prevent people from showing compassion, supporting those who need special care, and showing an example of mercy. On the Million Prizes website, Muscovites can transfer from 500 to five thousand city (green) dollars in one click. points, received for participation in city electronic projects. The number of transfers is not limited. One point is equal to one ruble.

To contribute to a good cause, you must log in to the site “A Million Prizes” using the login and password from your account on the mos.ru portal and go to the “Incentives” section. Here you should select the category “Charity”, the card of the required fund and click on the “Place an order” button. After this, the points will be debited from the user’s account, their cash equivalent will be sent to the fund.

Transferring points is a simple and reliable way to provide targeted assistance to people who find themselves in a difficult life situation and need care and attention. Each participant in the city loyalty program can track their donation in the report on the website of the selected charity (you can go to a special page from the card on the Million Prizes website). It is enough to open the document for the required period and find the unique promo code that each user receives after transferring points. Reports are updated periodically.

Users of the Million Prizes website regularly participate in charity initiatives. Thanks to the caring attitude of Muscovites, children with special needs and adults with serious illnesses receive the necessary support. Help is also provided to four-legged friends. About this mos.ru told earlier.

“A Million Prizes” — a website where Muscovites can use city points to receive goods and services from more than 400 partner organizations. The loyalty program allows you to use accumulated points to receive discounts in stores, cafes and restaurants, purchase tickets to theaters and museums, as well as top up your Troika transport card and your parking account in the Parking of Russia app.

The project is being developed by the State Institution “New Management Technologies” and Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.

The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State”and the capital’s regional project “Digital Public Administration”.

In addition, you can support children, adults, seniors, animals, environmental and scientific and educational projects with the help of charity service mos.ru.

Sergei Sobyanin spoke about the largest volunteer projects involving Muscovites

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MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister and cricketers face off in ‘Battle of the Buses’, as government pledges to get buses back on track through new bill
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Minister and cricketers face off in ‘Battle of the Buses’, as government pledges to get buses back on track through new bill

We’re determined to ensure our bus services stay safe, inclusive and comfortable for all passengers.
Local Transport Minister took part in a precision time trial at First Bus’ ‘Battle of the Buses’, which saw participants learn more about the learner bus driver test

Simon Lightwood meets apprentice drivers and competes alongside Essex cricketers Matt Critchley and Paul Walters, to understand elements of the learner driver test

£1 billion investment and incoming Bus Services Bill set to boost local control and unlock transport links, getting the country moving to drive growth through our Plan for Change

A ‘Battle of the Buses’ saw Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, compete against pro cricketers to promote apprenticeships for the next generation of bus drivers, as the government accelerates journey to growth through our Plan for Change.

Arranged by First Bus, one of the UK’s largest bus operators, the time trial event is designed to showcase the rigorous tests taken by learner bus drivers, emphasising the high skill level and rigorous standards expected of all staff.

Minister Lightwood and pro-cricketers were put through their paces, tackling elements of the real-life driving test, including reversing, roundabouts and turning the bus without knocking over cones.

Increasing opportunities for young people across the country is vital to drive up living standards and the government is supporting apprentices in the bus sector by including measures to enhance their training in the incoming Bus Services Bill.

The event comes alongside £1 billion of investment to improve bus stop infrastructure, enhance bus service frequency and reliability and boost bus connectivity – and the incoming Bus Services Bill – which will deliver on the government’s Plan for Change by boosting local control of services, upskilling staff and better linking local people to job opportunities.

The minister and Essex County cricketers, Paul Walter and Matt Critchley, were all scored on safety, speed, checking mirrors and using the correct turning signals. To understand the versatility required from learner drivers, they also took a 10-question theory test. Last week, the Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, also took part in the challenge, alongside Essex Women’s cricketers, Eva Gray, Cordelia Griffith and Kelly Castle.

Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

Today has been a fantastic opportunity to better understand the commitment and skill required of our incredible bus driver apprentices up and down the country.

As the future of the industry, we’re determined to provide apprentice drivers with the skills they need to deal with challenges facing the bus sector and to ensure our bus services stay safe, inclusive and comfortable for all passengers.

Delivering better bus services will ensure people have proper access to jobs and opportunities, putting more money in their pockets and powering growth in every corner of the country.

As part of the incoming Bus Services Bill, all bus staff will get mandatory training on improving women’s safety by responding to anti-social behaviour and incidents of violence against women and girls. The bill will be introduced in the House of Commons shortly and will support the government’s mission to keep our streets safe by also giving local authorities new powers to crack down on offenders.

The bill will also hand control to local leaders to operate bus services to deliver the reliability that local people deserve, whether they choose to emulate the achievements of Manchester’s Bee Network by taking operations fully in house or work closely with operators to improve bus services, which has had great success in Cornwall.

Piers Marlow, Managing Director of First Bus East of England, said:

This is a fantastic and fun challenge for our partners at Essex County Cricket and the Department for Transport, but it also highlights the incredible skill required to be a bus driver.

At First Bus, we place a huge emphasis on training to ensure our drivers are equipped with the expertise and confidence to navigate our roads safely and efficiently. Events like this help to showcase the professionalism of our drivers and the importance of ongoing development across the industry.

Paul Walter, Essex County Cricket Club all-rounder, said:

The Battle of the Buses challenge was a lot of fun. I didn’t realise how tough driving a bus would be, it felt like something out of Top Gear, with the leaderboard, obstacles and the First Bus Stig.

We’re all naturally competitive and it’s always good to get one over a teammate. I also really enjoyed going head-to-head with Critch [Matt Critchley] and I understand that Kelly, Cordelia and Eva got on great.

Thank you to First Bus for having us down for the day.

A measure is also included to push ahead with a bright, new and clean future for the sector, by ending the use of new diesel and petrol buses on English bus services by 2030, heralding a green new era for buses across the country,

The government is ensuring that industry bosses and local leaders have a voice by hosting panel sessions, the first of which took in Sheffield on 13 March 2025. This discussion considered how British manufacturing of new zero emission buses will grow our regional economies and drive up quality of life, as outlined in the Plan for Change.

Local authorities are also currently being supported with £1 billion in bus service improvement funding, including £17.8 million for Essex County Council to maintain and improve bus services and enhance infrastructure. They are expected to outline their full plans for the funding in due course.

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Published 26 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: GAM announces 2024 full year results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

26 March 2025

PRESS RELEASE

Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

GAM announces 2024 full year results

Strong progress in implementing turnaround strategy. GAM continues to target profitability in fiscal year 2026.

Financial Highlights for Full Year 2024

IFRS net loss of CHF 70.9 million compared to CHF 82.1 million for FY 2023.
Underlying loss before tax of CHF 66.8 million compared to CHF 49.5 million for FY 2023.
AuM at CHF 16.3 billion compared to CHF 19.3 billion as at 31 December 2023.
Cost optimisation initiatives across the business resulted in a 20% decrease in underlying expenses compared to FY 2023. The full impact of these cost optimisation initiatives will be reflected in FY 2025 and beyond.
Successful CHF 100 million rights issue completed in November 2024, which resulted in our anchor shareholder, NJJ Holding SAS (through its holding in Rock Investment SAS (“Rock”)) becoming our majority shareholder.
The maturity of the existing CHF 100 million Rock loan facility has been extended until 31 December 2027.
GAM is now a highly scalable pure investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas to drive sustainable growth and profitability: Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management.
GAM continues to target profitability in fiscal year 2026.

Strategic Highlights

Launched GAM Alternatives, providing access to in-house and third-party alternative managers focusing on absolute return strategies and best-in-class talent.
A new, high performing and successful European Equity team joins GAM in 2025.
Partnering with Sun Hung Kai & Co. Ltd to drive growth and enhance our distribution capabilities across Greater China including Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, and Macau.
In 2025, GAM will continue to partner with best-in-class external managers, to include the development of new products and the distribution of their own existing products to GAM clients.

Elmar Zumbuehl, Group CEO at GAM said: “We have made strong progress in implementing GAM’s turnaround strategy and have now evolved into being a pure play investment management firm, but we are not finished yet. The cost optimisation initiatives implemented in 2024 will yield their full benefit in 2025 and beyond. While we stay focused on further cost optimisation, our main emphasis is growing our AuM and revenues as we continue our turnaround. With an unwavering commitment to our clients, and an expanding suite of innovative and distinctive products, we continue to build positive momentum and strengthen our market position. Backed by our majority shareholder, we continue to target profitability in fiscal year 2026 and remain focussed on delivering for our clients and all our stakeholders.”

Summary Financials

In 2024, we reported IFRS net loss after tax of CHF 70.9 million, compared with an IFRS net loss after tax of CHF 82.1 million in 2023. The loss in 2024 was mainly driven by the underlying net loss after tax of CHF 66.9 million.

Please refer to the ‘Financial Results for FY 2024’ section later in this press release for full information.

Financial Strength

In November 2024, GAM completed its CHF 100 million fully underwritten ordinary capital increase by way of a rights issue to support the implementation of GAM’s strategy and provide long-term financial stability. Given Rock’s underwriting commitment, NJJ Holding SA (indirectly) is now the majority shareholder of GAM following the rights issue.

The existing CHF 100 million Rock loan facility remains in place with its maturity extended to 31 December 2027.

Strategy Update

GAM’s strategy is designed to achieve sustainable growth and profitability by delivering best possible investment performance and exemplary service for our clients by focusing on our Investment and Wealth Management capabilities. The four pillars of our strategy remain:

Focusing on clients in existing core markets;
Amplifying and growing core active equity, fixed income and multi-asset strategies by investing in talent and product ideas;
Diversifying into new investment product areas and our Wealth Management offering by leveraging GAM’s heritage in active management, building strategic partnerships, and its alternatives and hedge funds platform; and
Enhancing effectiveness by reducing complexity.

GAM is now focusing exclusively on its Investment (Specialist Active and Alternatives) and Wealth Management businesses, expanding its distribution reach and capabilities, amplifying its core active strategies, and diversifying into new product areas, including building out our higher margin alternatives capabilities.

We have made strong progress throughout 2024 on our four-pillar strategy to transform GAM into a focused, client-centric, and profitable business.

Focusing on clients

Focusing on our clients in our existing core markets has been the most important way to rebuild GAM. In key markets where we have clients, but lack scalable distribution, we have, and will continue to, add partnerships to support our growth strategy and provide a broader range of client’s access to unparalleled investment expertise, opportunities, and exceptional outcomes across specialist active and alternative investment strategies.

We established a strategic alliance with Sun Hung Kai & Co. Ltd. to grow our client base, distribute our products, and innovate our alternatives offering across the Greater China region, including Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, and Macau.

We have also enhanced our regional presence and client coverage by hiring new Heads of Distribution across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Iberia, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and France to drive our local market presence. This significant investment into our client facing teams will enable GAM to provide clients with excellent local contacts, strong relationship management and access to unparalleled investment expertise targeting exceptional outcomes.

We additionally expanded our client reach through opening a second US office in Miami to cover the US international and Latin American markets and we are close to gaining customary approvals to open our planned branches in Paris and Milan.

Amplifying and growing core active equity, fixed income, and multi-asset strategies by investing in talent and product ideas

We are enhancing our capabilities by recruiting first-class investment talent in alternatives, systematic and equities teams.

We have established a multi-asset centre of excellence in a global team to optimise all our multi-asset investment capabilities, enhance client outcomes, and align with evolving market dynamics and client needs. The high quality and excellent performance of this team will allow GAM to grow its wealth management business.

In February 2025, we announced the hiring of three high performing and successful European Equity team members from Janus Henderson Investors. These strategic hires underscore GAM’s steadfast dedication to providing clients with access to unparalleled investment expertise and exceptional outcomes. The team brings extensive experience, having managed over EUR 6.5 billion in European Equity funds on behalf of institutional and retail clients globally.

In addition, we have strengthened our sustainability and stewardship practices, meeting the principles of the UK and Swiss Stewardship Codes. Today GAM released its 2024 Sustainability Report which is available at www.gam.com

Diversifying into new investment products while expanding the wealth management offering by leveraging GAM’s heritage in active management, strategic partnerships, and its alternatives and hedge funds platform

Randel Freeman joined GAM in 2024 as Co-head / Co-CIO of GAM Alternatives to build out our alternative investments platform to meet growing investor demand with differentiated offerings. In addition, in 2025, we hired two senior sales specialists with deep experience in Alternatives distribution.

In 2024, we launched GAM funds to introduce and distribute Avenue Capital’s Sports Opportunities fund, plus partnered with Arcus Investment to distribute their Japanese long/short equities fund. GAM also partnered with world leading Trafigura Group’s subsidiary Galena Asset Management to manage the GAM Commodities fund providing best-in-class sector expertise. This provides our clients access to exclusive and attractive commodity investment opportunities.

We are launching the GAM LSA Private Shares strategy in Europe to provide access for European clients to this award-winning evergreen, late-stage private equity fund.

Throughout 2025, GAM will be assessing M&A opportunities to enhance existing offerings, attracting best-in-class long-term strategic partnerships, and recruiting top talent to our core business areas globally.

Enhancing effectiveness by reducing complexity

Following the transfer of our fund services business for third-party funds we also successfully transitioned our Luxembourg, Irish and Swiss fund management company (ManCo) activities to Apex Group and 1741 Group in Q4 2024. In addition, we consolidated our operations onto our cloud based SimCorp investment management platform. GAM now operates on a global platform that delivers operational efficiencies.

These implementations pave the way to a much less complex operating model underpinning and delivering best outcomes for our clients.

GAM is now a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas to drive sustainable growth and profitability: Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management.

Business Areas

GAM Investments is focused on three core business areas to drive sustainable growth and profitability:

GAM Specialist Active: Deep expertise, experience and specialisms unlocking core and niche returns in equities, fixed income, and multi-asset investing;
GAM Alternatives: Access to in-house and third-party alternative investment managers focusing on absolute return strategies and best-in-class talent; and
GAM Wealth Management: Multi-asset solutions with tailored portfolios for high-net-worth individuals, charities and trusts, utilising best-of-breed GAM and third-party products.

These three core business areas share and benefit from GAM’s global platform and agile operating model and modern technology.

Investment Performance

GAM has continued to deliver strong overall investment performance across our diverse and distinctive products, with 64% of assets under management (AuM) outperforming their three-year benchmark and 89% outperforming their five-year benchmark, as at 31 December 2024. Despite some weaker short-term performance in equities, the longer-term 5-year performance remains strong.

Percentage of GAM Fund AuM Outperforming Benchmark

		3 years	3 years	5 years	5 years
Business Area	Asset Class	31 Dec 2024	31 Dec 2023	31 Dec 2024	31 Dec 2023
Specialist Active	Fixed income	94%	98%	95%	91%
Specialist Active	Equity	1%	39%	79%	59%
Alternatives	Alternatives	60%	73%	75%	96%
Total		64%	78%	89%	81%

% of AuM in funds outperforming their benchmark (excluding mandates and segregated accounts) across our business areas. Three- and five-year investment performance based on applicable AuM of CHF 9.0 billion and CHF 9.0 billion, respectively.

Compared to our peer group performance remained strong, 66% of AuM outperformed their three-year Morningstar peer group and 82% outperformed their five-year Morningstar peer group, as at 31 December 2024.

Percentage of GAM Fund AuM Outperforming Morningstar Peer Group

		3 years	3 years	5 years	5 years
Business Area	Asset Class	31 Dec 2024	31 Dec 2023	31 Dec 2024	31 Dec 2023
Specialist Active	Fixed income	61%	53%	60%	50%
Specialist Active	Equity	20%	51%	89%	89%
Alternatives	Alternatives	91%	89%	95%	96%
Total		66%	66%	82%	76%

GAM continues to be recognised for its investment performance, including having been awarded the overall best European small group 2025 by Lipper. Four GAM funds (including two funds of our Swiss Equity strategy) won Lipper’s 2025 top performance awards across multiple countries. For the second time, at the Citywire Investment Performance Awards, GAM Multi-asset won the Best Large Firm Award. GAM won the Wealth Management PAM 2024 award for its growth portfolios. GAM’s Sustainable Climate Bond strategy won and was chosen as the best ESG Investment Fund in the Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds category at the ESG Investing Awards 2024. For further details on these and other awards please visit http://www.gam.com/awards.

Assets Under Management and Net Flows by Business Area

Total AuM were CHF 16.3 billion as at 31 December 2024, compared to CHF 19.3 billion as at 31 December 2023. Net outflows of CHF 4.4 billion were partially offset by positive market and foreign exchange movements of CHF 2.0 billion.

Business Area	Opening AuM 1 Jan 2024	Net flows	Disposal⁽¹⁾	Market/FX movements	Closing AuM 31 Dec 2024
Specialist Active	17.5	(3.9)	(0.6)	1.9	14.9
Alternatives	0.9	(0.4)		–	0.5
Wealth Management	0.9	(0.1)		0.1	0.9
Total	19.3	(4.4)	(0.6)	2.0	16.3
⁽¹⁾ In the second half of 2024, the sale of the UK Equity Income Fund to Jupiter Asset Management completed and subsequently is reflected as a disposal. Therefore, net outflows of CHF 0.6 billion in 2024 have been reflected as a disposal.

Financial Results for FY 2024

The average management fee margin earned on investment management AuM in 2024 was 40.4 basis points, compared with the average margin for the financial year 2023 of 49.7 basis points. The change in average management fee margin primarily reflects the mix of assets under management across products and sub-advisory agreements with existing and new partners.

Net management fees and commissions in 2024 totalled CHF 75.9 million, down from CHF 124.4 million in 2023 due primarily to the sale of the third-party fund services business in January 2024, lower average AuM and reduced average management fee margin in investment management.

Underlying net performance fees totalled CHF 1.9 million, down from CHF 4.8 million in 2023.

Underlying net other income/expenses includes net interest income and expenses, the impact of foreign exchange movements, net gains and losses on seed capital investments and hedging, as well as fund-related fees and service charges. In 2024, a net loss of CHF 2.3 million was recognised, compared with a CHF 0.4 million net loss in 2023. The 2024 net loss was mainly driven by the interest expenses incurred on the Rock Investment SAS loan facility and the impact of foreign exchange movements. The IFRS net other expense in 2024 amounts to CHF 4.4 million. The difference between the underlying and the IFRS net other expense of CHF 2.1 million mainly relates to a net foreign exchange loss on pension loan note offset by other income driven by the assignment of the UK property lease to a third party.

Underlying personnel expenses decreased by 26% to CHF 76.6 million in 2024, compared with CHF 96.8 million in 2023. Fixed personnel costs decreased by 28%, driven by lower headcount. Headcount stood at 294 FTEs as at 31 December 2024, compared to 478 FTEs as at 31 December 2023. Variable compensation in 2024 fell to CHF 11.2 million from CHF 13.1 million in 2023, mainly driven by lower management and performance fees which impacted variable compensation arrangements. The underlying personnel expenses compares to IFRS personnel expenses of CHF 81.0 million. The difference between the underlying and the IFRS personnel expenses of CHF 4.4 million primarily relates to a reorganisation charge. (For further information, see note 6 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements).

Underlying general expenses in 2024 were CHF 52.1 million, down from CHF 65.0 million in 2023 due to cost optimisations initiatives across the business. This compares to IFRS general expenses of CHF 54.0 million. The difference between the underlying and the IFRS general expenses of CHF 1.9 million mainly relates to the Group’s reorganisation initiatives.

Underlying depreciation and amortisation charges were CHF 13.8 million in 2024 compared to CHF 16.5 million in 2023. There is no difference between underlying and IFRS amounts.

The underlying pre-tax loss in 2024 was CHF 66.8 million, compared to a CHF 49.5 million underlying pre-tax loss in 2023. The higher loss was driven mainly by lower net fee and commission income being only partially offset by lower personnel and general expenses. The underlying loss compares to an IFRS net loss before tax of CHF 69.6 million. The difference of CHF 2.8 million mainly relates to the remeasurement of the brand intangible, strategic initiative expenses and foreign exchange loss on pension loan note. (For further information, see note 6 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements).

The underlying income taxes in 2024 was a tax expense of CHF 0.1 million compared to a tax expense of CHF 0.3 million in 2023.

Diluted underlying losses per share in 2024 was a negative CHF 0.25, compared to a negative of CHF 0.32 in 2023. This compares to a diluted IFRS earnings per share of negative CHF 0.27 in 2024. The difference between the diluted underlying and the diluted IFRS earnings per share of CHF 0.02 relates to the lower underlying net loss.

Cash and cash equivalents as at 31 December 2024 were CHF 65.1 million, down from CHF 87.2 million as at 31 December 2023.This reduction was driven by the losses made by the Group partially offset by the proceeds received from the ordinary capital increase made by way of a rights offering in November 2024.

Adjusted tangible equity as at 31 December 2024 was CHF 58.5 million, up from CHF 20.9 million as at 31 December 2023.The main contributor to this increase was ordinary capital increase by way of a rights issue that took place in November 2024. See page 17 of our Annual Report 2024 for full definition of adjusted tangible equity.

The Board of Directors proposes to shareholders that no dividend will be paid for financial year 2024 given the underlying net loss in 2024.

Outlook

GAM continues to focus on implementing its strategy. Our priority is to achieve sustainable overall positive net inflows by rebuilding GAM’s distribution capabilities with a focus on our existing products and new product launches. The timeline for achieving these net inflows will be driven by our success in delivering our strategy, subject to market conditions. GAM continues to target profitability in fiscal year 2026.

Additional information

Investor Relations
Magdalena Czyzowska
T +44 (0) 207 917 2508

Media Relations
Colin Bennett
T +44 (0) 207 393 8544

Visit us: www.gam.com
Follow us: X and LinkedIn

About GAM Investments

GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983 and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8037 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com

Other Important Information

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

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

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

Attachment

GAM announces FY 2024 results_EN_adhoc

The MIL Network –

March 26, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Human rights in Ukraine, multilateralism gets airborne, enforced disappearances in Colombia

Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

5 December 2024 Human Rights

The UN human rights chief on Thursday told a conference in the Ukrainian capital that in the face of Russia’s continuing full-scale invasion, they must unite and keep faith in democratic institutions.

Addressing the conference in Kyiv on reclaiming human rights and preserving dignity, High Commissioner Volker Türk once again voiced his “full solidarity” with the Ukrainian people and concern over the latest wave of attacks on energy facilities as temperatures plummet.

“Children, older people and those with disabilities will suffer most,” he added.

Relentless assault

“From relentless drone attacks to the occupation of territory, from the suppression of culture to the abuse of prisoners of war – the human rights of Ukrainians are under siege. And this must end.”

He said it was more important than ever for unity, “moment to recommit to human rights and human dignity, and to build and maintain trust in each other and in democratic institutions.”

He added that the UN human rights office he leads, OHCHR, is doing its part to ensure accountability and justice by creating a public record of rights violations occurring during Ukraine’s war of national survival, which has already informed cases before the European Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice.

“I commend Ukrainians for coming together around human rights and around human dignity and assure you of our full commitment and support,” he concluded.

ICAO, ‘a powerful example of multilateralism in action,’ says UN chief

UN Secretary-General António Guterres marked the 80th anniversary of the signing of the convention that opened the way to mass civilian air travel, by praising the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a testament to global cooperation.

“Across the decades, your organization, which the Convention established, has expanded dramatically, from 54 nations gathered in Chicago in 1944 to a membership of 193 today,” he noted.

Mr. Guterres highlighted the significant challenges facing the aviation industry today, particularly its role in addressing the climate crisis.

[embedded content]

Tourism revival

According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the UN Tourism agency, global travel is on track for a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024, with 1.1 billion international tourists recorded in the first nine months of the year. However, this resurgence brings about sustainability challenges.

“Accounting for around 2 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions, aviation is one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonise. But with innovation and investment, it can be done,” Mr. Guterres noted.

ICAO’s new Long-Term Strategic Plan outlines its commitment to achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.

The Secretary-General commended ICAO’s leadership for aligning its efforts with the 2030 Agenda, ensuring that all countries benefit from sustainable aviation advancements.

Enforced disappearances remain daily reality in Colombia

Enforced disappearances remain a daily occurrence in Colombia, not just a historical legacy of the past, according to findings released on Thursday by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED) following their two-week mission to the country.

The preliminary findings painted a grim picture of disappearances including children, journalists, social leaders and migrants.

With estimates ranging from 98,000 to 200,000 missing persons, the exact scope of the crisis remains unclear due to fragmented record-keeping and institutional inefficiencies.

“Although enforced disappearances started in Colombia around the 1940s, they are not just a crime of the past. They continue to occur daily across the country in diverse circumstances,” the delegation reported after visiting six cities and meeting with 80 authorities, including the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

The investigation exposed a bureaucratic system where victims’ families face challenges in seeking justice.

‘No end in sight’ to anguish

One victim told investigators, “We don’t know where to turn. We’re tossed between institutions, no end in sight”.

The situation is further complicated by overlapping mandates among various agencies, with officials reporting that coordination efforts often result in endless meetings rather than concrete action. A single search process may require coordination with up to 60 different national and territorial authorities.

The Committee emphasised that immediate action is needed to streamline institutional responses and improve coordination. They noted that marginalised individuals, face additional obstacles in reporting disappearances, particularly in areas controlled by armed groups.

“Families of the disappeared deserve clarity, justice and accountability. Every disappeared person represents a family waiting for answers, a community torn apart and a society grappling with unresolved pain,” the delegation said.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: April Astronomical Events in Review: Moon and Pleiades Star Cluster Approach, Micromoon, and Lyrid Meteor Shower

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

Alfiya Nesterenko, head of the Vega observatory at NSU, spoke about objects that can be observed near the Moon in April 2025:

Since the position of the Moon in the sky is known, finding objects near which the Moon passes in the sky becomes a simple task for anyone who takes the time to look at the evening sky.

On April 1, Uranus will be near the crescent Moon, the distance at the moment of maximum approach: 4°40′. But only those in the central regions of the country will be able to see such an approach. In Novosibirsk, it will be morning. The time of approach: 02:47 GMT, and the time zone of Novosibirsk is GMT 7 hours.

Uranus is a small and distant planet in the Solar System, with a magnitude of 5.8. Uranus can be observed with binoculars or a telescope in the constellation Aries.

Around 4am on April 1st, there will be a very beautiful star cluster called the Pleiades near the Moon. If you look at the Pleiades through binoculars, you can see the outline of a small ladle with a short handle. The light from the crescent Moon will be small, so you can choose the shutter speed for photography so that both the Pleiades and the crescent Moon are distinguishable.

This is the star cluster M52, one of a large number of open clusters in the sky, but quite bright and compact. Many star clusters are interesting because new stars are born in their depths. And this haze-veil that covers the stars of the Pleiades is the “material” from which stars are born.

The photo of the Pleiades cluster, taken in 2023 by Mikhail Maslov, an engineer at our observatory, was taken using a lens with a focal length of 77 mm, which gave an increase of about 2.3 times. This is a summary image of the object, assembled from 54 shots, with an exposure of 15 seconds.

The time of the closest approach of the Moon and the Pleiades constellation is 20:28 GMT, the minimum separation is 0°36′, the Pleiades (magnitude 1.2) are visible without binoculars with good vision, and with binoculars the cluster is distinguishable for any observer. The Pleiades are located in the constellation Taurus, not far from them you can easily find Alpha Tauri, the brightest star of the constellation, which is called Aldebaran, which in Arabic means “follower”: the star in the night sky makes its way after the Pleiades.

On April 5, the Moon will be close to Mars, time of closest approach: 19:04-19:49 GMT, minimum separation – 2°12′.

The brightness of Mars will be 0.5 magnitude, it will be visible in the sky with the naked eye in the constellation Gemini, next to two stars on the same line – Castor and Pollux.

During the few days before and after April 10, there will be a conjunction of Mercury (1.0 star) and Saturn (1.2 star), which will approach to a minimum distance at 12:00 GMT (in Novosibirsk it will be 7 am), the distance at the moment of approach: 2°06′. Saturn will be in the constellation Aquarius, and Mercury – in the constellation Pisces. At the latitude of Novosibirsk, this conjunction will not be visible.

On April 13, there will be a full moon, during which the moon will be at its smallest disk size, so this full moon will be a “micro moon.” The moon will appear 5.1% smaller and 11% dimmer than during a normal full moon. This is because the moon will be at the farthest point in its orbit, called apogee.

Also in April, it will be possible to observe the Lyrid meteor shower, which reaches its maximum annually on April 22-23. Mikhail Maslov, an engineer at the Vega observatory of NSU, spoke about this in more detail:

The Lyrid meteor shower is associated with comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher), which orbits the Sun every 422 years. The comet’s orbit is close enough to Earth’s orbit that the material it ejects produces meteor activity each year, with a maximum of about 15-20 meteors per hour.

The average annual zenith hourly number of Lyrid meteors at maximum, according to the International Meteor Organization IMO, is 18 meteors. At the same time, the solar longitude of the moment of maximum varies slightly from year to year, and for 2025 it falls on the period from 10:30 to 18:00 UT on April 22 (for Novosibirsk time this is from 17:30 on April 22 to 1:00 on April 23).

The Lyrid shower is known for its bursts of activity in some years. The most recent such burst occurred in 1982, when hourly activity briefly reached 90 meteors. Also in the 20th century, bursts of activity up to about 100 meteors per hour were noted in 1922 and 1945. The results of calculations by Finnish researcher Esko Lyytinen show that these bursts are associated with the Earth passing through fresh cometary material ejected by the comet one revolution back (with a trail of one revolution). The same calculations indicate that the next bursts of the shower’s activity are likely in 2039 and 2040.

Thus, no unusual manifestations of Lyrid activity are predicted for 2025 and typical activity for this stream is expected.

The coordinates of the Lyrid radiant are α = 271°, δ = 34°, it is located in the sky between the constellations Lyra and Hercules, somewhat closer to the constellation Lyra, after which the stream got its name Lyrids. The radiant of the stream rises highest in the sky during the dark time of day towards morning, although at the end of April at the latitude of Novosibirsk the nights are already quite short, therefore even in the evening it is already quite high in the sky, at an altitude of approximately 25-30°, therefore the Lyrids can be observed as soon as it becomes dark enough, starting at approximately 11 pm and then throughout the night.

The speed of entry of Lyrid meteors into the Earth’s atmosphere is 49 km/s, i.e. meteors of this stream can be classified as medium-speed. The Moon will be in the waning phase and will rise only at about 5 am, so it will create practically no interference for observations. At the same time, to ensure better conditions for observations, it is necessary to move away from large settlements and other sources of light pollution by a distance of 50-100 km; under a dark country sky, the number of meteors observed will be several times greater.

Although the Lyrids are not the most active meteor shower, their active time is in the spring, when there are practically no other significant meteor showers, so for meteor watchers they are a good target and a rare opportunity to see quite a large number of meteors in the first half of the year.

Photo of the Pleiades cluster, taken in 2023 by Mikhail Maslov, an engineer at the Vega Observatory of NSU.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow simplifies procedure for placing summer verandas — Sergei Sobyanin

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The capital will simplify the placement of certain types of summer verandas at stationary public catering facilities. This was announced by Sergei Sobyanin in his telegram channel.

Now, by notification and without approval of the architectural and artistic design project, it will be possible to place summer verandas, for the operation of which no installation of various structures and equipment is required. That is, when arranging them, only umbrellas, tables, chairs and compact elements of flower arrangement can be used.

The height of the umbrellas should not exceed the first floor of the enterprise (restaurant, cafe). Moreover, the material of their frame is metal, wood, composite materials, and the covering can be made of fabric treated from precipitation. It is prohibited to use country, garden and interior furniture – only industrially manufactured equipment elements are allowed.

Summer verandas must be adjacent to a permanent public catering establishment or located no more than five meters away from it, and must not obstruct the free passage of pedestrians.

“You can submit a notification about placing a summer veranda on the mos.ru portal. The new season will traditionally begin on April 1,” noted Sergei Sobyanin.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

After the applicant reports the placement of the veranda, he will receive a notification in his personal account. It can be cancelled if violations are found during the inspection.

For verandas that use complex equipment (awnings, pergolas, decorative fences, lighting and heating devices, flower boxes, etc.), as well as in cases of implementing individual projects, the current procedure for inclusion in the placement scheme is maintained. In particular, approval of the architectural and artistic solution project is required.

Summer verandas are a recognized calling card of Moscow. The city’s placement scheme includes over four thousand seasonal objects. In the winter of 2024/2025, verandas were able to continue working for the first time. This became an additional factor in the growth of popularity of Moscow cafes and restaurants, provided that comfortable conditions for visitors are created and an appropriate menu is offered.

Sobyanin made a decision on the possibility of leaving seasonal verandas for the winter Over two million tourists from the regions visited Moscow’s cafes and restaurants in six months

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

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

HTTPS: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12544050/

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Austria

Source:

There’s an ongoing threat of terrorism in Austria. There have been terrorist attacks and arrests relating to planned attacks. Most recently, there was an attack in Villach in February 2025. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. Report anything suspicious to the police.

MIL OSI News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Belgium

Source:

There’s an ongoing threat of terrorism in Belgium. The threat level issued by Belgian authorities remains at level 3 of 4 – ‘Serious’ (see ‘Safety’). Crowded places, such as music and cultural events, festivals, tourist areas, shopping areas, transport hubs, major sporting events and other public areas, are possible targets. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. There are temporary border controls in place to travel into France and Germany from Belgium (see ‘Travel’).

MIL OSI News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Mastery Made Easy: A First Look at HIKMICRO’s New Devices at JAGD & HUND 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DORTMUND, GERMANY, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HIKMICRO, a pioneering optics manufacturer, is set to unveil two groundbreaking thermal monoculars at JAGD & HUND Dortmund 2025, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in hunting technology. The FALCON 2.0 and CONDOR LRF 2.0 will be showcased at Germany’s Messe Dortmund from January 28 to February 2, 2025, embodying the company’s “Mastery Made Easy” philosophy.

These new devices represent a significant leap forward in thermal hunting technology, focusing on one-handed operation and superior image quality. The FALCON 2.0 and CONDOR LRF 2.0 feature a highly sensitive 15mK thermal detector, capturing minute temperature differences and providing rich image details on a 0.49″ display.

Both models offer precise laser rangefinding capabilities up to 1000 meters and incorporate HIKMICRO’s Shutterless Image System (HSIS) for continuous, uninterrupted viewing.

Mr. Wang, HIKMICRO’s R&D expert, stated, “We have made comprehensive improvements to the FALCON and CONDOR models with ‘Mastery Performance’ and ‘One-handed, easy operation’ functions. We made these advancements while maintaining high image quality to provide the most comfortable observation, with usability enhancements delivering a simplified and intuitive operating experience.”

The thermal monoculars boast an optimized 21700 battery, providing over six hours of operation time, and are compatible with external power banks. Both models feature a rear focus wheel and inline button arrangement for intuitive one-handed use, catering to hunters of all ages and handedness preferences.

HIKMICRO equips the CONDOR LRF 2.0 series with an integral laser rangefinder and sculpts it to cradle the hand. Meanwhile, the FALCON 2.0 maintains a traditional cylindrical shape, and the FQ50L 2.0 model features an in-lens LRF module design. These ergonomic designs guarantee comfortable operation and reduced fatigue during extended use.

Its commitment to user-centered innovation is evident in the development process of these thermal monoculars. The company conducted extensive market research and rigorous testing, including sending prototypes to professional hunters for real-life scenario evaluations. This meticulous method certifies that the final products meet the highest performance and usability standards.

The new thermal monoculars also offer enhanced connectivity through the HIKMICRO Sight App, allowing users to live-view, browse and save captured images and videos, share with friends, upgrade products, and track after-sales information. This feature enhances the overall hunting experience and fosters a sense of community among users.

Stefan Li, the company’s overseas director, emphasized the company’s vision: “We aim to keep blazing the trail by creating more precise, faster, and easier ways to help hunters master the mystery of the night. Our new FALCON 2.0 and CONDOR LRF 2.0 are testament to this commitment, providing hunters with the tools they need to enhance their skills and enjoy their passion to the fullest.“

As HIKMICRO prepares to showcase these innovative devices at JAGD & HUND Dortmund 2025, the company continues to push the boundaries of thermal hunting technology while respecting traditional hunting values and expert craftsmanship.

About HIKMICRO

HIKMICRO is a world-leading optics brand committed to “Continually Make Crafted Confidence” for hunters. The company focuses on user-centered innovation, pushing the boundaries of technological performance while respecting traditional hunting values and expert craftsmanship. With a dedication to providing mastery solutions, HIKMICRO aims to make hunting easier and more rewarding for enthusiasts around the globe.

Contact Information

Contact: Lina Wang

Brand: HIKMICRO

Email Address: wanglina21@hikmicrotech.com

Website: https://www.hikmicrotech.com/en/

The MIL Network –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Three NSU teachers became winners of the Potanin Foundation grant competition

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

The names of the winners of the grant competition for teachers of Russian universities participating in the Vladimir Potanin Scholarship Program in 2024/2025 were recently announced. In total, 1,290 teachers showed interest in the competition this season, 574 applications were received from 68 universities, and 526 applications were admitted to expert evaluation. Based on the results of the selection, 150 teachers will receive a grant for the redesign and transformation of educational products. The total amount of support is 73.8 million rubles.

The most popular areas for redesign and transformation of educational products: teacher education (11), management (10), computer science and engineering (7), economics (6), information systems and technologies (5), psychology (5), history (5).

Novosibirsk State University was among the leading universities in terms of the number of applications admitted to the examination; there were 15 of them. Following the results of the competition, three NSU teachers became winners:

Elina Arnoldovna Biberdorf, redesign of the course “Methods and Applications of Linear Algebra”. Alexander Vladimirovich Bobrovskikh, redesign of the course “Gene Networks: Advanced Approaches to Analysis and Reconstruction”. Ulyana Stanislavovna Zubairova, redesign of the course “Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science in Biology Problems”.

We spoke to the winners and found out why they decided to apply, what their projects are about, and what emotions they feel when they win.

Alexander Bobrovskikh, Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU, teacher Advanced Engineering School of NSU:

— I decided to participate in the competition quite spontaneously when I saw the announcement at NSU in December. I didn’t think long about the idea of the application, since I had recently completed the creation of the module “Reconstruction of Gene Networks” for the NSU Advanced Engineering School, which covers basic concepts in this area. I thought that it would be great to expand and deepen the content of this module, making it a full-fledged course with the support of the Vladimir Potanin Foundation. I wrote the application to the Foundation in a few days during the New Year holidays. I am grateful to the NSU Advanced Engineering School for supporting my idea and to the Foundation for the high assessment of my application. I am especially glad that I will be able to implement this within the walls of my native university and support the initiatives of our Advanced Engineering School.

Ulyana Zubairova, Senior Lecturer, Department of Informatics Systems Faculty of Information Technology NSU:

— I learned about the competition from the department’s newsletter and immediately realized that this was a great opportunity to update our course “Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science in Biology Problems”. It is located at the intersection of two very rapidly developing fields — biology and artificial intelligence. We have long wanted to make the course more practice-oriented and interdisciplinary, with an emphasis on real-world problems. Nowadays, biologists increasingly work with large data sets, and AI specialists — with problems where it is important to take into account the biological context. Our course is an attempt to combine these two worlds. We want students to not only know how algorithms work, but also to be able to apply them in real biological research: from gene analysis to spatial transcriptomics and medical imaging.

AI in biology is developing at breakneck speed, and for the course to remain relevant and truly useful, it needs to be regularly revised. Thanks to the grant support, we will be able to seriously update the structure: add cases based on real biological data, develop interactive practical tasks, include blocks on visualizing results and integrate all this with laboratory practice. In addition, we plan to hold several intensive courses where students will be able to work on real scientific projects and apply the knowledge gained in the course in practice. This will help not only to better assimilate the material, but also to feel how modern bioinformatics works “live”.

I am very happy with the victory! This is not just good news, but an opportunity to take an important step forward. We believe in the power of interdisciplinary education and want the course to be more than just a set of lectures, but a real space where scientific and engineering ideas are born. Special thanks to the Department of Informatics Systems of the Faculty of Information Technology of NSU. The support when submitting the application and in general during the course discussion was both very valuable and humanly warm. When there is a team nearby that believes in the project, it becomes much easier to move forward. And this victory is also a great reason to rethink the very approach to teaching: listen to students, be flexible, adapt the format. And most importantly, do not be afraid to try something new. Participation in the competition itself was a step towards change, and we will definitely not stop there.

Elina Biberdorf, Associate Professor, Department of Differential Equations Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics, NSU:

— I teach a course in the master’s program called “Methods and Applications of Linear Algebra”. I take the fate of this course to heart, because its content is close to the main direction of my scientific work. In addition, this course is the brainchild and legacy of my scientific supervisor, Academician Sergei Konstantinovich Godunov. In order for the material to be interesting and useful for master’s students, it must be regularly updated, improved, and include something new and modern.

In recent years, most of the course participants have been graduates of other universities and foreign students. This creates a big problem due to the difference in the level of preparation. The teacher needs to make additional methodological efforts to make it interesting and understandable for everyone. That is why I jumped at the chance to participate in the competition and get support to transform my course.

After this victory, first of all, I will revise the material of practical classes and synchronize the lecture presentations with it. These changes will affect the students of the next year. Later, a new teaching aid will be written, as well as a methodological manual for completing practical assignments.

Of course, I am glad that the foundation supported my project. But this feeling is mixed with a bit of anxiety, because now there is serious work ahead, which will require quite a lot of effort from me. You could say that I expected to win. It seems to me that my application was quite high-quality and convincing.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Russia, US agree to ensure implementing Black Sea initiative

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

Russia and the United States have agreed to ensure the implementation of the Black Sea Initiative, provided that sanctions were eased on Russia’s agricultural and food trade, the Kremlin said Tuesday.

The Kremlin said the agreement includes ensuring the safety of navigation in the Black Sea, the non-use of force, and preventing commercial ships from being used for military purposes, with inspections in place to enforce this.

It also added that the United States will help in restoring Russia’s access to global markets for agricultural and fertilizer exports, lowering shipping insurance costs, and improving access to ports and international payment systems.

The agreement will enter into force after a series of sanctions and restrictions related to its agricultural and food trade were lifted, the Kremlin noted.

The move would include lifting Western sanctions on the Russian Agricultural Bank, which services agricultural businesses, and reconnecting the bank to the SWIFT international messaging system.

Russia has also listed in the conditions the removal of restrictions on its food and fertilizer producers and exporters, on the servicing of related Russian-flagged vessels in ports, and on the related agricultural machinery supplies to Russia.

The Kremlin statement came after Russian and U.S. representatives wrapped up their Monday’s talks in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, where both sides sought arrangements for the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

Russia and Ukraine signed separately with Türkiye and the United Nations the Black Sea Grain Initiative in Istanbul in July 2022, which secured the export of Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products from Black Sea ports.

As a parallel agreement, Russia and the UN signed a memorandum of understanding on the facilitation of Russian food and fertilizer exports.

On July 17, 2023, Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea deal, citing unfulfilled commitments to the Russian part.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Lukashenko officially takes office as Belarusian president

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

Alexander Lukashenko takes the oath of office during an inauguration ceremony in Minsk, Belarus, March 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Alexander Lukashenko has officially taken office as President of Belarus on Tuesday.

Lukashenko assumed office for his seventh term following his victory in the January 26 elections.

The inauguration ceremony took place at the Independence Palace in Minsk, attended by top officials and invited guests.

During the event, Lukashenko took the presidential oath. He pledged to faithfully serve the people of Belarus, uphold and protect the rights and freedoms of its citizens, and observe and defend the nation’s constitution.

The Chairman of the Central Election Commission, Igor Karpenko, presented the newly inaugurated president with a presidential certificate.

According to the Central Election Commission of Belarus, Lukashenko won the presidential election with 86.82 per cent of the vote.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: BMW launches 360-degree full-chain AI strategy in China

Source: China State Council Information Office

German automaker BMW on Tuesday announced the launch of its 360-degree full-chain artificial intelligence (AI) strategy in China, aimed at accelerating the integration of AI across its operations in the country.

The newly unveiled AI strategy has three main pillars of focus: enhancing user experience, empowering business processes to improve efficiency, and fostering win-win supply chain cooperation, according to the German auto behemoth.

“BMW views AI as a key driver in creating more human-centered, smarter and safer mobility solutions. The Group remains committed to innovation and responsibility, advocating for the responsible use of AI,” said BMW CEO Oliver Zipse, who recently visited China and addressed the China Development Forum 2025.

The German company said AI-powered large language models (LLMs) and intelligent systems will be integrated into its first China-made, next-generation model, set to launch in 2026, which will enhance the natural and seamless interaction between cars and drivers. Earlier this month, BMW revealed that the next-generation model, Neue Klasse, will feature a smart interconnection solution from Huawei.

With research and development (R&D) centers in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang and Nanjing, BMW has established its largest R&D network outside of Germany in China.

“As a central focus of our AI strategy, BMW will continue to innovate based on the next-generation technology cluster, consistently enhancing and enriching the all-scenario intelligent experience for Chinese users,” said Sean Green, president and CEO of BMW Group Region China.

In 2012, BMW became the first automotive client of Chinese battery giant CATL. Moving forward, the German carmaker has announced plans to collaborate with more top Chinese tech companies in cutting-edge areas such as AI LLMs and intelligent voice interaction, jointly developing solutions that best meet the needs of Chinese users.

Since 2010, BMW’s total investment in its Shenyang production base has totaled 116 billion yuan (about 16.16 billion U.S. dollars), making the city home to BMW’s largest production facility worldwide.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: German chancellor, gov’t dismissed by president

Source: China State Council Information Office

Olaf Scholz (C) attends the first gathering of the 21st Bundestag in Berlin, Germany, on March 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his cabinet were officially dismissed by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Tuesday afternoon.

Scholz will remain as caretaker chancellor until a new government takes office.

The negotiation to build a ruling coalition is underway. Germany’s conservative bloc, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU), took the lead in the country’s 2025 federal election, followed by the Social Democratic Party (SPD). The results have paved the way for a CDU/CSU and SPD coalition.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz is expected to head the new government. He has voiced the willingness to put the government in place by Easter.

Also on Tuesday, CDU’s Julia Kloeckner was elected as the new president of the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament.

Born in 1972, Kloeckner served as a Bundestag member from 2002 to 2011. She held the position of Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection from 2009 to 2011. From 2018 to 2021, she served as minister of food and agriculture and again a member of the Bundestag from 2021.

The election took place during the first gathering of the 21st Bundestag following February’s election. The first sitting marks the end of the previous electoral term and the Bundestag adopted its rules of procedure.

The term of the current federal government concludes with the constitution of the new Bundestag.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Russia, US agree on energy facility categories subject to ceasefire

Source: China State Council Information Office

Russia and the United States have agreed on a category list of energy facilities spared from being targeted during a 30-day energy ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to a Kremlin statement Tuesday.

The list includes oil refineries, oil and gas pipelines and storage facilities, electricity generation and transmission infrastructure, nuclear power plants, and hydroelectric dam facilities.

The Kremlin added that the 30-day ceasefire on energy facilities is in effect starting from March 18 and may be extended by mutual agreement or cease to be in effect if violated by one of the parties.

In an earlier statement, the Kremlin noted that Russia and the United States agreed to form measures to implement the 30-day ceasefire agreement.

Russia and Ukraine held separate talks with the United States in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, on March 23-25.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said earlier in the day after the talks with the U.S. delegation that “all parties” agreed to develop measures implementing the energy facility ceasefire.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Europe urged to unite amid US tariffs, rising debt, and big tech challenges

Source: China State Council Information Office

European unity is vital to tackling economic challenges ranging from new U.S. tariffs and rising public debt to the expanding influence of big tech firms, Italian political figures and analysts have said at a conference in Rome.

The conference, titled “Governing Europe and Italy in the Age of Donald Trump,” was hosted by LUISS University on Monday evening and featured prominent speakers, including former Italian Prime Ministers Mario Monti and Giuliano Amato, Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, European Commission Vice-President Raffaele Fitto, and LUISS professors.

“What we are seeing today is not the only time Europe has faced big challenges,” said Monti, who served as Italy’s prime minister between 2011 and 2013 during the global sovereign debt crisis. “But we must act together to confront the current challenges.”

Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25-percent tariff on aluminum, steel, and related imports, with another round set to take effect on April 2, though details remain unclear. In response, the European Union initially planned retaliatory tariffs for April 1 but postponed them by at least two weeks following a European Council meeting to allow more time for negotiations.

On the sidelines of the conference, economics professor Pietro Reichlin told Xinhua that the Trump administration’s unpredictable tariff policies complicate the EU’s response strategies.

Reichlin stressed the importance of understanding U.S. trade goals to reach an agreement, pointing to the EU’s surplus in goods and the U.S. strengths in services and energy as potential negotiation points.

Italy’s Finance Minister Giorgetti warned that mounting debt and the growing influence of big tech firms – particularly U.S. giants such as Google and leading players in artificial intelligence, are increasingly limiting the policymakers’ options.

According to Eurostat, the EU’s average debt stood at 81.6 percent of GDP at the end of the third quarter of 2024 while the eurozone recorded an average ratio of 88.1 percent. Italy’s debt-to-GDP ratio reached 136.3 percent, second only to Greece.

Speakers stressed the need for greater cohesion within Europe to address external trade pressures, the Ukraine conflict, and internal disputes within the bloc. Amato emphasized that cooperation, not conflict, drives prosperity.

Reichlin also stressed the importance of adapting to evolving trade dynamics with China. “Adjusting trade relations is crucial, as both sides stand to benefit from deeper engagement,” he said.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Russia, Ukraine hold parallel US-mediated talks in Saudi Arabia

Source: China State Council Information Office

Three days of technical-level negotiations on the details of a potential ceasefire in Ukraine concluded Tuesday without an official joint statement, as participating parties offered somewhat conflicting assessments of the talks.

The intense parallel interactions between the United States and delegations from Ukraine and Russia on the table, including a 12-hour one between the United States and Russia on Monday, and two shorter rounds between the United States and Ukraine on Sunday and Tuesday, came as fighting on the battlefield remains intense.

Although Washington signaled on Tuesday its willingness to continue facilitating negotiations between the warring parties, analysts remain skeptical about the prospects of such a diplomatic push, citing deep-seated distrust, conflicting demands among stakeholders, and the inherent complexities of the process.

Conflicting assessments

For the latest talks, which build on previous negotiations held in Saudi Arabia and subsequent phone exchanges between the presidents of the three countries, the U.S. delegation included Andrew Peek, a senior director at the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior official from the State Department. The Russian delegation was led by Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council’s Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sergei Beseda, an advisor to the director of the Federal Security Service. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov headed the Ukrainian delegation.

On Tuesday, hours after the U.S. and Ukrainian delegations concluded their second round of talks, the White House issued separate statements elaborating on its understanding of the parallel meetings.

It stated that the United States had agreed separately with Russia and Ukraine to “ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea,” and to develop measures for implementing the presidents’ agreement to “ban strikes against energy facilities of Russia and Ukraine.”

The United States, with Russia and Ukraine respectively, also “welcomes the good offices of third countries with a view toward supporting the implementation of the energy and maritime agreements” and “will continue working toward achieving a durable and lasting peace,” the statement added.

Among the outcomes of the U.S.-Russia talks, the United States pledged to help restore Russia’s access to the global market for agricultural and fertilizer exports, reduce maritime insurance costs, and improve access to ports and payment systems for such transactions.

In the U.S.-Ukraine talks, both sides reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to facilitating the exchange of prisoners of war, securing the release of civilian detainees, and ensuring the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin stated on Tuesday that Russia and the United States had agreed to ensure the implementation of the Black Sea Initiative, contingent on the easing of sanctions on Russia’s agricultural and food trade.

Russia also stipulated the removal of restrictions on its food and fertilizer producers and exporters, the servicing of related Russian-flagged vessels in ports, and the supply of agricultural machinery to Russia, according to the Kremlin.

It further announced that a “temporary moratorium” on strikes against energy facilities — including nuclear power plants, oil refineries, gas pipelines, and hydroelectric dams — would be in effect for 30 days starting March 18 and “may be extended by mutual agreement.”

Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on March 18 to halt attacks on energy facilities in a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

As for Kiev, while Umerov stated on Tuesday that “all parties” had agreed on the need to prohibit attacks on energy infrastructure in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he also warned that any movement of Russian military vessels beyond the eastern part of the Black Sea would “violate the agreement’s spirit” and be considered a “threat to Ukraine’s national security.” In response, Ukraine would exercise its right to self-defense, he cautioned.

Mixed sentiments

Commenting on the three-day peace negotiations, Trump said the U.S. side was “in deep discussions with Russia and Ukraine,” which were “going well.”

He added that he would look into Russia’s requests for sanctions relief.

However, the mood is quite different for both Russia and Ukraine. Although the meetings in Saudi Arabia hinted at the possibility of a broader ceasefire, the two countries remain wary of the latest deal, voicing contrasting concerns over its implementation.

In an interview with local media, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow needs “clear guarantees” from the White House regarding the agreement on the safety of shipping in the Black Sea.

“Given the sad experience of agreements with just Kiev, the guarantees can only be the result of an order from Washington to (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky and his team,” Lavrov said.

Zelensky accused the Kremlin of “lying” and “manipulating” by saying the Black Sea ceasefire depends on “sanctions,” warning that the Russians “must understand that if they launch strikes, there will be a strong response.”

At a press conference earlier Tuesday, Zelensky criticized Washington’s decision to help restore Russia’s access to the world market for agricultural goods, dismissing it as “a weakening of the position and a weakening of sanctions.”

The Ukrainian president said he hopes to gain clarity from an upcoming summit in Paris regarding which countries would deploy forces to enforce the peace agreements.

“Our task is to come out with the result of understanding who we have and who is ready” to contribute forces to implement measures to halt the conflict, Zelensky said.

In the meantime, Europe, once again finding itself sidelined in addressing the conflict, has been actively organizing support for Ukraine in recent weeks.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that leaders of the so-called “coalition of the willing” will meet again this week, focusing on short-term military support for Ukrainian forces and exploring long-term “security guarantees” to help sustain Ukraine’s defense. Macron’s remarks have been dismissed by the United States as “a posture and a pose.”

The meeting in Paris with Zelensky will be the latest in a series of high-stakes gatherings among European leaders, following London’s hosting of discussions on Thursday among European military chiefs from the coalition backing Ukraine.

Britain and France are taking a leading role in organizing Western support for Ukraine after Trump surprised Europe by initiating talks with Putin. The two European powers have pledged to help provide the military force needed to keep Russia “at bay” if a ceasefire is reached.

Uncertain future

Notably, the battlefield showed no signs of quieting despite the peace talks in Saudi Arabia, with both Russia and Ukraine reporting fresh waves of drone strikes and accusing each other of escalation.

On Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry said Ukraine had “continued to deliberately strike Russian peaceful energy infrastructure facilities using UAVs.”

“By continuing daily attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, Zelensky confirms his inability to negotiate and his lack of control by external guarantors responsible for ensuring compliance with any possible agreements,” the ministry said.

In Ukraine, the number of people injured on Monday in a Russian missile strike on the northeastern city of Sumy rose to 101, including 23 children, according to the Sumy regional administration.

Preliminary data indicated that a Russian missile struck a residential area of the city, damaging several apartment buildings and an educational institution, the Sumy Regional Prosecutor’s Office said in a statement.

Experts have pointed out that a real, permanent peace settlement could be far off, citing deep-rooted divisions and a growing trust deficit among the stakeholders.

Khalid Almatrafi, Bureau Chief of Asharq TV in Saudi Arabia, told Xinhua that “the escalating mutual attacks … reflect the deepening gap between the two sides and complicate any negotiating process.”

The repeated accusations deepen mistrust and make it difficult to establish any “confidence-building measures,” which are essential for transitioning from a ceasefire to a sustainable political settlement, said Almatrafi.

Echoing Almatrafi’s viewpoint, Abdulaziz Alshaabani, a Saudi researcher at Al Riyadh Center for Political and Strategic Studies, said that “a lack of trust” poses a major threat to reaching an agreement, “given the history of violations of agreements between the two sides.”

“In 2022, several rounds of negotiations took place … in the end, nothing came of it,” said Andrey Kortunov, a scholar with the Valdai Discussion Club in Russia. “Over the past three years, there has been a major escalation, and the situation has changed,” making it “difficult for both sides to find compromises,” Kortunov said.

“Given the difficulty in enforcing a halt to strikes on energy infrastructure agreed upon last week, it remains to be seen how effective the latest deal will be,” The Independent, a British online newspaper, reported.

The newspaper also questioned Washington’s motives in assuming the mediator’s role, particularly concerning Ukraine’s mineral and energy resources.

“The Trump administration has claimed that Washington’s stake in Ukraine’s minerals and energy resources could deter Russia from launching future attacks,” but such a diplomatic push would, in fact, grant Washington “a vast stake in Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits,” it said.

“Ukraine’s gas infrastructure could also be of interest to the White House, with Kiev owning the world’s third-largest underground gas storage capacity,” it noted.

MIL OSI China News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New anti-racism commitment for policing published

Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

A new anti-racism commitment for policing has been published in a major update from the Police Race Action Plan.

Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson is among several senior leaders to renew their commitment to tackling racial disparities in policing and the wider criminal justice system in a plan update report published today (Wednesday).

At the heart of the update is a new anti-racism commitment for policing.

The commitment aims to set out the goals of an anti-racist police service, describes anti-racism in a policing context, and the action required to achieve it.

Views from policing, partners in the criminal justice system, civil society groups and communities have shaped the commitment, as well as other published statements of anti-racism.

The update also outlines proposals for a new maturity matrix being developed by the plan, a set of performance standards to help assess delivery of the plan and efforts to address racial disparities.

The maturity matrix is a cornerstone of the vision for long term scrutiny and accountability for the plan’s delivery, further details of which are included in the update.

The document contains contributions from 12 different organisations outlining their views on the Police Race Action Plan (PRAP) and its progress, as well as wider efforts to tackle discrimination and address racial disparities.

This includes contributions from the policing minister, senior police officers, agencies such as the Crown Prosecution Service as well as representatives from civil society groups and the National Black Police Association.

The PRAP has also published an update on its progress in delivering actions in the original plan, as well as bringing together examples of work being delivered in local forces in support of the PRAP’s objectives.

[embedded content]

T/Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dr Alison Heydari, programme director for the plan, said: “This update marks another milestone in our efforts to embed our ambition of delivering an anti-racist police service into the DNA of policing.

“The reason I joined the plan was to shape its future and lead the changes we need to deliver. It remains the case that people from Black communities have the lowest levels of confidence in the police, are underrepresented in our workforce and are more likely to experience police powers such as stop and search or use of force.

“Black communities need to see and, crucially, feel change in policing. While we have a long way to go, this update outlines the work that is happening to deliver significant cultural change and improvements for the longer term.

“Explaining or reforming race disparities and addressing mistrust with Black communities will mean we are more effective at fighting crime and protecting all communities.”

The update is the second major report published by the plan in nine months, following publication of its first ever progress report in August.

Chief Constable Sir Andy Marsh, CEO of the College of Policing, said: “This is an important benchmark for police forces to show they are serious about becoming fairer, stronger, and, crucially, better equipped to tackle crime and keep their communities safe.

“We are committed to supporting police forces to stamp out racism wherever they see it so that the public are served by a modern and effective service.

“Cutting crime is a priority and one of the ways policing does this is by increasing trust with all communities which can lead to better cooperation with police appeals, more effective crime reporting, and a greater sense of safety among the public.”

For more information about the plan visit the plan’s webpages.

MIL Security OSI –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: BTCC Exchange Enhances VIP Program to Empower High-Volume Traders Worldwide
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VILNIUS, Lithuania, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, one of the world’s longest-serving cryptocurrency exchanges, is thrilled to announce a significant revamp of its VIP program, specifically designed to cater to high-volume traders among its 6.8 million users globally. This initiative highlights BTCC’s continued commitment to delivering an exceptional trading experience through increased efficiency, exclusive rewards, and personalized support.

Founded in 2011, BTCC has been a trusted name in crypto, offering reliable and user-friendly trading services across the globe. The newly enhanced VIP program ushers in a new era of perks, prestige, and personalization for elite traders seeking more than just competitive fees.

The revamped VIP program introduces several exciting features:
- Competitive Trading Fees: VIP futures trading fees have been reduced to an industry-leading rate of as low as 0.007%.
- Enhanced Liquidity: SVIP users can now withdraw up to 2,500,000 USDT daily, catering to the demands of high-volume traders.
- Generous Upgrade Rewards: Each upgrade in VIP levels unlocks rewards worth up to 2,500 USDT, including trading vouchers and exclusive merchandise.
- 24/7 Personalized Support: VIPs enjoy round-the-clock access to dedicated account managers for tailored trading assistance.
- Community Prestige: Users receive a custom VIP badge that reflects their status within the BTCC community.
- Luxury Experiences: SVIP users will be randomly selected to win premium vacation packages to destinations like the Maldives and Bali.
- VIP Status Protection: SVIP users benefit from a grace period that prevents immediate downgrades, even during periods of reduced trading activity.
“We’re incredibly excited to launch this revamped VIP program, which truly puts our users at the heart of everything we do,” expressed Alex, Head of Operations at BTCC. “This revamped program is all about empowering high-volume traders. With tailored services, competitive fees, and exclusive rewards, we are dedicated to providing the tools and support that our most active users need to thrive in the fast-paced crypto market.”

About BTCC

Founded in 2011, BTCC is a leading global cryptocurrency exchange with the vision to make crypto trading reliable and accessible to everyone. With a strong presence in over 100 countries and regions and a user base of over 6.8 million, BTCC continues to deliver innovation, security, and unmatched user experience in the cryptocurrency world.

Official website: https://www.btcc.com/en-US

X: https://x.com/BTCCexchange

Contact: press@btcc.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dd06d721-8eb5-4cc5-8234-5a5cc7bf7c5e

The MIL Network –
March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Shareholder activism: reflections on the current, and future, landscape
Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

Campaigns keep evolving, with more high stakes ahead 11 min read

Last year was another big one for shareholder activists globally, with investor sentiment in 2024 taking its cues from disruption across the broader economic and geopolitical landscape. Closer to home, activity was more stable in Australia—as it typically is, owing to our smaller footprint, more stringent company laws and stable markets—but campaigns continue to evolve, with activists refining their strategies to both capitalise on financial opportunities and seek redress for governance concerns.

We expect high stakes for the rest of the year as the Trump administration’s policies upend commercial and regulatory settings and potentially tip the scales in favour of activists. While shareholder activism is now a standard part of the investment landscape in the US, the practice is reverberating around Australia and the rest of the world.

In this Insight, we bring together the key takeaways from 2024 and provide our thoughts on what we see ahead.

A snapshot of the numbers

Activist activity has well and truly bounced back from the subdued levels brought about by the pandemic.

Over 1000 companies were targeted by activist campaigns worldwide for the second consecutive year.¹ The US continues to be the epicentre of activity, with nearly 600 US-listed companies facing activist demands, marking a 7% increase from 2023 and 16% from 2022. There was a strong showing from non-traditional and first-time activists—a record-breaking 160 different investors launched campaigns in the US in 2024, which included 45 first-time activists, also a record.

Activity in Asia was similarly strong (particularly in Japan and South Korea), though Europe trended down, owing to ongoing disruption brought about by the conflict in Ukraine and generally subdued economic activity. There, the United Kingdom hosts the lion’s share of activity, with 42% of campaigns targeting British companies.

Australia saw a modest rise in activity year on year, with 56 companies targeted, up nominally from the 54 campaigns recorded in 2023. While the volume of campaigns remained steady, the effectiveness of Australian activists improved—activists were assessed as having achieved their objectives in 25% of resolved campaigns, up from 16% in 2023.

Despite this, Australian activists struggled to secure board representation in target companies, with only seven board seats gained in 2024, down significantly from 26 in 2023. This divergence suggests that although activism remains a powerful force for corporate engagement, the dominant institutional investors and influential proxy advisors remain selective and largely hesitant in delivering changes at the board level.

All up, campaign volumes continue to be strong, though success is trickier to measure. Whether the public demands of activists are met is one tangible way of assessing effectiveness, but the overall impact of a campaign can often manifest in less direct ways. For example, the opportunity cost of management in responding to a campaign, the inherent value derived from the ensuing publicity and any derivative or other trading in the target securities—and, of course, the concessions that play out behind closed doors—often contribute to the effectiveness of shareholder activism.

Stories from the front line

These are some of the headline-grabbing campaigns that played out in the last year or so that have set the tone for activist causes.

One of the most closely watched activist campaigns was Glenview Capital’s attempt to gain board representation at CVS Health. Glenview increased its stake in CVS in the third quarter of 2024 by 31%, making its US$635 million holding (equivalent to 1% of the stock) the largest of all three activist hedge funds with an interest in the company. The intervention came following a 27% drop in share price since the beginning of 2024, a market reaction reportedly attributed to higher medical costs in CVS’s insurance segment caused by an influx of medical procedures delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Glenview secured four board seats in November 2024, including Glenview CEO Larry Robbins. It was reported that the board appointments were made amid the prospect of Glenview initiating a public and more aggressive proxy fight. This case highlights the increasing sophistication of activist investors targeting high-profile global companies, and underscores the importance of clear, proactive shareholder engagement strategies—a strategy that Australian boards should observe as activism intensifies.

The activist campaign led by Elliott Investment Management resulted in a change of CEO at Starbucks and a correspondent increase in share value by 24%, equating to US$26 billion in value and marking the company’s most successful day since its initial public offering in 1992.

In July 2024, it was reported that Elliott had become one of the largest investors in Starbucks, and sought to leverage its position by presenting a proposal to the board for an overhaul of domestic and international strategy. The move followed the stock price having declined by 24% since the former CEO, Laxman Narasimhan, was appointed in March 2023. While Elliott approached the board in private and did not publicly advocate for a replacement CEO, there were persistent leaks to the media, which commentators assessed as likely prompting the decision. On 13 August 2024, the board announced the appointment of Brian Niccol, former CEO of restaurant chain Chipotle, who is credited with Chipotle’s modernisation and an increase in its stock price by 770% since 2018.

The campaign illustrates that one response strategy in dealing with activists, particularly high-profile investors, can be to move pre-emptively to instigate change before the issues are forced.

In June 2024, Elliott also disclosed an 11% economic stake in Southwest Airlines worth US$1.9 billion, and converted enough of its derivate holdings in September to amass a 10% common stock holding that enabled Elliott to call a special meeting. Conversely to its approach for Starbucks, it engaged in a more public campaign, by proposing that ‘enhancing the board, upgrading leadership and a comprehensive business review’ were necessary to increase Southwest’s stock price. In October 2024, it was announced that Southwest would appoint five independent directors nominated by Elliott in addition to another board member, and that the former chief executive and then chairman would accelerate his retirement. Following the announcement of the personnel changes, Elliott withdrew its demand for a special shareholder meeting intended to replace 10 members of Southwest’s 15-person board. Elliott’s influence has continued to grow since then, with Southwest disclosing on 19 February 2025 that the company’s agreement with Elliott has been amended to increase the maximum aggregate economic exposure that Elliott may acquire, from 14.9% to 19.9%, but limit it from acquiring more than 12.49% of outstanding common stock until 1 April 2026. When Elliott disclosed its position in June 2024, the Southwest stock price was US$29.70, and as at 14 March 2025, it was US$31.73.

Consistent with the sentiments of the Trump administration’s focus on rolling back diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, a group of Apple shareholders submitted on 25 February 2025 a proposal titled ‘Request to Cease DEI Efforts’. This was rejected at Apple’s shareholder meeting in February 2025, with 97.67% of the vote being against the proposal. The campaign against Apple is one of several anti-DEI proposals that have been levied against prominent companies, including Costco, where the proposal was defeated by 98% of votes, and farm equipment maker John Deere, where the proposal was defeated by 98.7%. These proposals have attracted significant attention, by harnessing viral social media campaigns advocating for customer boycotts, inundating company social media accounts with negative comments, and lobbing the threat of lawsuits alleging that DEI initiatives constitute a breach of fiduciary duty. Despite the spotlight (or perhaps because of it?), shareholders of the world’s most valuable listed company voted overwhelmingly not to abandon its DEI initiatives.

Activist themes

We see two broad themes that motivate activists at the moment. For the reasons set out in the next section, we think the global economic and geopolitical settings provide an opportunity to shape activist behaviours.

First, there is the more traditional activist strategy where professional investors identify companies that they perceive could optimise their performance or enhance their governance structures, and then seek to exert influence to encourage the company to focus on increasing shareholder returns. They do this by pushing for one or a combination of:
- a different approach to M&A activity—such as Bell Rock’s public campaign against Whitehaven in 2023, where the hedge fund contacted shareholders with letters advocating against the company’s acquisition of metallurgical assets from BHP, which it also did via a website. Bell Rock’s public tactics sat alongside its undisclosed 13.041% long position in Whitehaven, prompting intervention from the Takeovers Panel; and
- leadership change—as was achieved by Elliott in the Starbucks and Southwest Airlines campaigns discussed above.
Second, there is the rising influence of public sentiment and political undercurrents playing out in the theatre of public markets, and the volatility that comes with it. Activist campaigns are increasingly becoming a proxy for broader societal dissatisfaction.

In Australia, this dual-track activism—balancing financial imperatives with political and social influences—reinforces the heightened investor expectations for action and accountability for these issues at the board level.

For instance, shareholder dissent on pay has markedly increased in Australia recently, seeing over 40 strikes among ASX 300 companies in 2023 and 2024, compared with 22–26 strikes recorded between 2018 and 2022.² Among those receiving a strike was the Australian Securities Exchange itself, with 26.15% of votes against the adoption of the remuneration report. Commentators assessed that the vote was an expression of shareholder dissatisfaction with the $250 million write-down and anticipated cost of a further $300 million to replace the CHESS technology system. Although 13 companies in the ASX 300 received a second strike in 2024, not a single board spill proposal came close to succeeding, with none receiving more than 20% of votes in favour.³ This demonstrates that while strikes are increasing, this is not being accompanied by momentum to trigger broader change to leadership structures—it would appear that shareholders are looking to use their vote to send a shot across the bow as an appropriate warning, rather than achieve a fundamental governance reset.

Shareholders and special interest groups have also used the proxy forum to express dissatisfaction regarding climate action, reflecting broader societal concerns around environmental sustainability and climate change. Last year, Market Forces led an activist campaign against Woodside Energy, advocating for an overhaul to its climate transition action plan and encouraging other shareholders to push for further board renewal at the 2025 AGM. At the AGM in April 2024, 58.4% of proxies cast were against the transition strategy, following three hours of questions. Earlier this month, another activist shareholder group, the Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility, advised investors to vote against the re-election of all three directors standing at the 2025 AGM and continues to integrate climate concerns into its analysis of shareholder returns.

There is a similar experience in the UK, where Shell shareholders are still asked to vote on resolutions brought by activists to align the company’s medium-term emissions reduction targets with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and to factor ‘Scope 3’ emissions from fuels burnt by consumers into such calculations. Although the resolution received just 18.6% support from shareholders in 2024 (down 1.4% from 2023), the sustained pressure and media exposure may have contributed to the environmental, social and governance (ESG) proposals instead advanced by Shell’s board.

For a more detailed analysis of the specific tactics that activists deploy pursuing these issues and how companies can prepare, see our earlier Insight.

Our expectations for the road ahead

Economic and geopolitical disruption to fuel activity

The global economy is currently experiencing disruption. The focal point is, of course, the US, where the combination of (promised) tax cuts and deregulation will free up capital for investors to pursue short-term opportunities. As the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority Chair, John Lonsdale, remarked in his recent address at the Australian Financial Review Banking Summit, ‘what happens in the world’s biggest economy has implications for the world, and therefore for Australia’. We thus expect the positive conditions for activists will spill across borders, and perhaps the momentum will too—the Australian Securities and Investments Commission recently outlined its first steps towards easing compliance obligations for directors.

The hoped-for spike in M&A activity creates the opportunity for shareholder activism, so we anticipate elevated volumes of activity in the near term. At the same time, the imposition of tariffs and other protectionist policies—and the market volatility and trade war they may set off—will create winners and losers, with companies that struggle in the turbulence becoming targets for activists.

A reckoning on ESG and DEI initiatives

There has been mounting pushback on ESG and, more recently, DEI policies of corporations, with activists querying their necessity and appropriateness. Critics, who may not be shareholders, will be even more emboldened by the priorities and tone of the Trump administration.

We expect that activists will continue to seek out opportunities to make high-profile examples of some companies. However, while proponents of these initiatives have attracted significant attention, we haven’t yet seen this noise translate into strong shareholder support for campaigns, as the recent experience with Apple demonstrates.

The anti-anti-ESG and DEI cause

While some activists are seeking to challenge ESG and DEI initiatives as a corporate priority, we anticipate others that may already be frustrated with perceived slow progress on sustainability, diversity and broader governance issues will look to double down and push for companies to stay the course.

This sentiment will be particularly emboldened if governments consider rolling back regulations or shifting priorities. If it is perceived that lawmakers and regulators aren’t creating the framework to manage these issues, then we expect activists to take matters into their own hands by using shareholder meetings as forums or otherwise turning to the courts.

Scrutiny of board composition and director accountability

We are seeing investors pay closer attention to the fitness for office of individual board members, by using their vote to signal dissatisfaction and impose accountability for governance missteps when directors stand for election or re-election. This can be in relation to a company that has experienced an issue, or could follow individual directors to unrelated companies.

Expect to see closer scrutiny of board composition and more protest votes against director elections. Even if candidates still easily obtain the ordinary majority needed to carry the resolution, this is a far cry from the near 100% backing candidates would typically receive, and, particularly for larger companies, shows at least some institutional investors (whose holding may have previously been seen as more passive) are sending a message.

Leveraging technology and AI in activist strategies

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed a number of different fields, and has a role to play in the shareholder activism space as well, by making campaigns data driven and, as a consequence, more cost effective.

AI can be deployed by activists to monitor and analyse tremendous amounts of data associated with corporate disclosures and financial performance, and to recognise the vulnerabilities and patterns in would-be candidates for a campaign. As these tools grow in sophistication, we expect to see activists be able to penetrate the market more deeply, and move with greater efficiency and precision in identifying opportunities.

Activism has never been a simple strategy. We anticipate a continued evolution of the activist playbook in light of the above.

MIL OSI News –
March 26, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Trump silences Voice of America – end of a propaganda machine or void for China and Russia to fill?

ANALYSIS: By Valerie A. Cooper, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

Of all the contradictions and ironies of Donald Trump’s second presidency so far, perhaps the most surprising has been his shutting down the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) for being “radical propaganda”.

Critics have long accused the agency — and its affiliated outlets such as Voice of America, Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia — of being a propaganda arm of US foreign policy.

But to the current president, the USAGM has become a promoter of “anti-American ideas” and agendas — including allegedly suppressing stories critical of Iran, sympathetically covering the issue of “white privilege” and bowing to pressure from China.

Propaganda is clearly in the eye of the beholder. The Moscow Times reported Russian officials were elated by the demise of the “purely propagandistic” outlets, while China’s Global Times celebrated the closure of a “lie factory”.

Meanwhile, the European Commission hailed USAGM outlets as a “beacon of truth, democracy and hope”. All of which might have left the average person understandably confused: Voice of America? Wasn’t that the US propaganda outlet from World War II?

Well, yes. But the reality of USAGM and similar state-sponsored global media outlets is more complex — as are the implications of the US agency’s demise.

For the better part of a century, Voice of America has broadcast into countries whose governments censored free information. The Trump administration has dismantled VOA’s parent organization, put all of its employees on leave and ended funding for independent media agencies.… pic.twitter.com/TzagYQwNIx

— PBS News (@NewsHour) March 17, 2025

Public service or state propaganda?
The USAGM is one of several international public service media outlets based in Western democracies. Others include Australia’s ABC International, the BBC World Service, CBC/Radio-Canada, France Médias Monde, NHK-World Japan, Deutsche Welle in Germany and SRG SSR in Switzerland.

Part of the Public Media Alliance, they are similar to national public service media, largely funded by taxpayers to uphold democratic ideals of universal access to news and information.

Unlike national public media, however, they might not be consumed — or even known — by domestic audiences. Rather, they typically provide news to countries without reliable independent media due to censorship or state-run media monopolies.

The USAGM, for example, provides news in 63 languages to more than 100 countries. It has been credited with bringing attention to issues such as protests against covid-19 lockdowns in China and women’s struggles for equal rights in Iran.

On the other hand, the independence of USAGM outlets has been questioned often, particularly as they are required to share government-mandated editorials.

Voice of America has been criticised for its focus on perceived ideological adversaries such as Russia and Iran. And my own research has found it perpetuates stereotypes and the neglect of African nations in its news coverage.

Leaving a void
Ultimately, these global media outlets wouldn’t exist if there weren’t benefits for the governments that fund them. Sharing stories and perspectives that support or promote certain values and policies is an effective form of “public diplomacy”.

Yet these international media outlets differ from state-controlled media models because of editorial systems that protect them from government interference.

The Voice of America’s “firewall”, for instance, “prohibits interference by any US government official in the objective, independent reporting of news”. Such protections allow journalists to report on their own governments more objectively.

In contrast, outlets such as China Media Group (CMG), RT from Russia, and PressTV from Iran also reach a global audience in a range of languages. But they do this through direct government involvement.

CMG subsidiary CCTV+, for example, states it is “committed to telling China’s story to the rest of the world”.

Though RT states it is an autonomous media outlet, research has found the Russian government oversees hiring editors, imposing narrative angles, and rejecting stories.

A Voice of America staffer protests outside the Washington DC offices on March 17, 2025, after employees were placed on administrative leave. Image: Getty Images/The Conversation

Other voices get louder
The biggest concern for Western democracies is that these other state-run media outlets will fill the void the USAGM leaves behind — including in the Pacific.

Russia, China and Iran are increasing funding for their state-run news outlets, with China having spent more than US$6.6 billion over 13 years on its global media outlets. China Media Group is already one of the largest media conglomerates in the world, providing news content to more than 130 countries in 44 languages.

And China has already filled media gaps left by Western democracies: after the ABC stopped broadcasting Radio Australia in the Pacific, China Radio International took over its frequencies.

Worryingly, the differences between outlets such as Voice of America and more overtly state-run outlets aren’t immediately clear to audiences, as government ownership isn’t advertised.

An Australian senator even had to apologise recently after speaking with PressTV, saying she didn’t know the news outlet was affiliated with the Iranian government, or that it had been sanctioned in Australia.

Switched off
Trump’s move to dismantle the USAGM doesn’t come as a complete surprise, however. As the authors of Capturing News, Capturing Democracy: Trump and the Voice of America described, the first Trump administration failed in its attempts to remove the firewall and install loyalists.

This perhaps explains why Trump has resorted to more drastic measures this time. And, as with many of the current administration’s legally dubious actions, there has been resistance.

The American Foreign Service Association says it will challenge the dismantling of the USAGM, while the Czech Republic is seeking EU support to keep Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty on the air.

But for many of the agency’s journalists, contractors, broadcasting partners and audiences, it may be too late. Last week, The New York Times reported some Voice of America broadcasts had already been replaced by music.

Dr Valerie A. Cooper is lecturer in media and communication, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 26, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: A $33 billion vote-grabber or real relief? Examining the Albanese government’s big housing pledge

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ehsan Noroozinejad, Senior Researcher, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University

Man As Thep/Shutterstock

The Australian housing market is in crisis: soaring prices, increasing rental stress, declining home ownership rates and a growing number of people experiencing homelessness.

In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a $33 billion housing investment plan as part of his government’s latest budget.

Read more:
At a glance: the 2025 federal budget

This is a central plank of Labor’s re-election pitch, aimed at showing housing commitment by:

Making it easier to buy, better to rent, and building more homes faster.

What are the key features of the plan?

The plan includes two headline measures aimed at boosting housing supply and helping buyers:

1-Expanding ‘Help to Buy’ for first-home buyers:

The Help to Buy program provides shared-equity loans to first-time homebuyers so they can purchase properties with smaller deposits. Under this program, the government buys a portion of the property to lower the required mortgage amount for buyers.

Under the initial terms of the scheme, the Commonwealth offered up to 30% of the price for existing homes and 40% for new constructions, while restricting eligibility to households within specific income and property value ranges.

Now, the Albanese government has raised cap levels to enable more people to become eligible. The income ceiling for single buyers will increase from $90,000 to $100,000, while the maximum income limit for couples and single parents will rise from $120,000 to $160,000.

These higher caps mean more than five million Australian properties would fall under the scheme’s scope, significantly expanding buyers’ choice.

2-Investing in prefabricated and modular homes:

In November 2024, the Albanese government announced a $900 million productivity fund to reward states and territories that boost housing supply by removing barriers to prefab and modular construction.

And now, the Albanese government is budgeting another $54 million for the advanced manufacturing of prefab and modular housing industry. This includes $5 million to create a national certification system to streamline approvals and eliminate red tape.

This aims to speed up home construction through off-site manufacturing technologies, which produce components in factories before assembling them on-site.

Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic claims these homes can be finished in half the time of conventional construction. Even a 20–30% time saving would be significant.

These buildings are also more energy efficient, more resilient and cheaper.

A crane lifts part of a modular home into place.
benik.at/Shutterstock

Can these measures fix the problem?

The big picture problem is, Australia has simply not been building enough homes for its growing population.

According to the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s State of the Land Report 2025, the federal government will fail (by 400,000 dwellings) to meet its target of constructing 1.2 million new homes by 2029.

Prefab building methods make up just 8% of new housing developments in Australia.

Some countries use it much more: Sweden boasts more than 100 years of prefab construction experience, where more than 80% of homes are produced in factories and then assembled at their destinations.

Modular housing can be described as a promising step forward. But while they offer potential improvements in speed and cost efficiency, it cannot solve the massive housing deficit on its own without structural policy reforms in the near future.

What about the Help to Buy scheme?

Shared-equity loans tackle a different side of the problem: affordability for buyers.

Experts describe Help to Buy as a “modest” but useful “piece of the puzzle” in solving the housing crisis.

While its impact on general house prices and universal housing affordability is minimal, policymakers worry that programs like these unintentionally push up prices by boosting demand.

Federal v state roles

Housing policy in Australia is a shared responsibility.

State governments control planning, zoning and most of the levers that determine how quickly homes can be approved and built (such as releasing land for development or approving apartment projects).

The federal government mainly controls funding and high-level programs, so the success of the Albanese government’s plan will depend a lot on cooperation with the states and territories.

However, there’s some inherent tension here: Canberra can set targets and provide incentives (funding), but it can’t directly build houses or force local councils to approve projects faster.

That’s one reason behind the prefab certification idea: it removes one potential regulatory hurdle at a national level.

Political timing

The timing of this housing plan announcement is no coincidence.

Australia will have a federal election by May 2025. Most voters will likely consider housing costs and cost-of-living to be primary issues.

The expansion of Help to Buy enables Labor to target first-home buyers, which may be important in the election.

The new housing plan is ambitious in scope and certainly a welcome effort to turn the tide on housing affordability.

However, renters and prospective buyers are unlikely to experience quick benefits from these housing initiatives, as it will require sustained action and cooperation well beyond the upcoming election cycle.

The Help to Buy program will begin later in 2025, and the positive effects of investing in prefabricated/modular housing will require a period of time before they become apparent.

It is unclear whether these measures will effectively persuade voters and produce substantial improvements.

Dr. Ehsan Noroozinejad has received funding from both national and international organisations to support research addressing housing and climate crises. His most recent funding on integrated housing and climate policy comes from the James Martin Institute for Public Policy.

– ref. A $33 billion vote-grabber or real relief? Examining the Albanese government’s big housing pledge – https://theconversation.com/a-33-billion-vote-grabber-or-real-relief-examining-the-albanese-governments-big-housing-pledge-252915

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaston welcomes DUP statement on Grand Central Station Irish signage

Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

“I welcome tonight’s statement by Deborah Erskine which makes important points about the decision to introduce Irish signage at Grand Central station.

“Given that Ms Erskine has correctly identified the announcement as “undoubtedly controversial” I now expect the attempt to impose the signage to be called in and put to a cross community vote at the Executive. Whether that happens via the petition which I tabled this morning or Unionist Ministers triggering it at the Exective is frankly immaterial. What matters is that it is stopped. Having exposed the issue I trust that – one way or the other – a loyalist part of Belfast, which has already been treated abominably by the whole saga around the station, will not suffer the added indignity of Grand Central being branded with Irish language signage.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Padilla Bill to Safeguard U.S. Research Against Foreign Adversaries Passes House

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) released the following statements after their U.S. Research Protection Act, which would shield American research from malign foreign influence by updating language in the CHIPS and Science Act to include additional restrictions against programs sponsored by countries of concern, passed the U.S. House of Representatives:
“In a world where competition turns into hostility all too often, we must do everything in our power to safeguard American ingenuity against bad actor nations,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will place even more restrictions on academic programs involving countries of concern to ensure American scientific research is protected.”
“The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act included important provisions to bolster our research security, and we must continue to build upon this progress,” said Sen. Padilla. “This legislation will provide much-needed clarity for federal agencies and academic institutions to better safeguard national security while preserving research collaboration and international partnerships crucial to the strength of America’s innovation economy. I am glad to see the House pass our bipartisan bill, and I look forward to working with Senator Cornyn and my colleagues to secure its swift passage in the Senate.”
U.S. Representatives Mike Kennedy (UT-03) and Haley Stevens (MI-11) led the legislation in the House.
Background:
Malign Foreign Talent Programs are sponsored by countries of concern like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea to obtain American scientific research and technology by incentivizing or coercing American researchers to act on their behalf. The CHIPS and Science Act included provisions to prohibit the U.S. government and academic institutions from partnering with such programs.
However, the law’s current definition of a Malign Foreign Talent Program only includes programs that “directly provide” incentives and benefits to researchers to participate, leaving out other methods to provide indirect benefits to researchers to induce their cooperation. This legislation would broaden the definition to include “indirect benefits,” ensuring foreign adversarial nations cannot exploit this loophole to evade U.S. research restrictions.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock Leads Bipartisan Effort to Lower Housing Costs for Servicemembers

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senators Reverend Warnock Leads Bipartisan Effort to Lower Housing Costs for Servicemembers

Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Warnock (D-GA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are introducing a bipartisan bill that will help servicemembers across Georgia, Alaska, and the country obtain sufficient and affordable housing
A stalwart champion for Georgia’s veterans, military families, and servicemembers, Senator Reverend Warnock has actively worked in the Senate to strengthen federal support for Georgia’s military communities
Senator Reverend Warnock: “Our bill will help ensure military families who sacrifice so much to serve our nation can access safe, dignified housing”
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation to lower housing costs for servicemembers in Georgia, Alaska, and across the country. The bipartisan Basic Allowance for Housing Restoration Act will ensure servicemembers and their families receive their full housing allowance. In Fiscal Year 2015, Congress cut servicemembers’ housing allowance, decreasing Base Allowance for Housing (BAH) coverage from 100% of estimated housing costs to 95%. This cost-sharing has hurt military families, many of whom already face issues of food insecurity and other expenses. Companion legislation was also introduced in the House by Reps. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) earlier in the month.
“Georgia is a military state, and with all that we ask from our servicemembers and their families, ensuring they have quality, affordable housing is the least we can do,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I have long been a champion for our servicemembers in Georgia and across the nation, which is why I am proud to partner with Senator Murkowski to champion the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Restoration Act. Our bill will help ensure military families who sacrifice so much to serve our nation can access safe, dignified housing, and I look forward to introducing companion legislation in the Senate.”
“Alaska is home to many critical military installations with serious missions, but our servicemembers and their families face some of the highest costs-of-living in the country – especially when it comes to housing.” said Senator Murkowski. “No member of our military should have to pay exorbitant out-of-pocket costs to have a roof over their head while serving our nation. It’s time for Congress to address this and take care of our servicemembers by raising the Basic Allowance for Housing back to 100 percent.”
“Access to affordable housing is one of the top issues I hear from servicemembers at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Servicemembers are priced out of options to live near their bases, putting strain on our military families,” said Rep. Strickland. “When the Department reduces the housing allowance, it exacerbates economic, food access, and readiness issues. Restoring the BAH to 100% provides servicemembers and their families with stability and shows that meeting their basic needs is a national security priority.”
“Our service members and their families should not have to struggle to find and afford housing. When they volunteer to put their lives on the line for their country, we should be able to guarantee that they will have access to clean and comfortable housing within the allowance they are given,” said Rep. Bacon. “Restoring BAH to 100% will help improve the quality of life for those that are willing to sacrifice so much.”
The legislation is endorsed by the Military Officers Association of America, the Military Housing Association, The American Legion, the Military Family Advisory Network, and the National Military Family Association.
Senator Warnock has long been a leading advocate in the Senate for Georgia’s military families. In 2022, Senator Warnock helped to pass the bipartisan PACT Act, the largest expansion of veterans’ health benefits in decades. He was also successful in securing multiple important wins for military families in the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA, including securing two of his provisions in the NDAA that will make housing more affordable for military families and ease the burden of relocation for military families. In the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA, the Senator helped secure a 14.5% raise for junior troops, who will now earn about $3,000 to $6,000 more per year.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Pushes for Commitment to Keep Georgia Social Security Offices Open After Trump Administration Takes Aim at Seniors

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Pushes for Commitment to Keep Georgia Social Security Offices Open After Trump Administration Takes Aim at Seniors

At Tuesday’s Senate Finance committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Frank Bisignano, President Trump’s nominee to lead the Social Security Administration (SSA)
Senator Reverend Warnock pushed Bisignano to commit to keeping all field offices in the state open for Georgia seniors
This month, SSA announced it was making access to benefits more difficult for seniors, no longer allowing individuals to apply for benefits or request a direct deposit change over the phone; the proposed change could lead to an increase of 7 million visits to field offices per year across the country, and an estimated 200,000 additional visits in Georgia alone
Senator Reverend Warnock: “Retirees in Georgia who rely on Social Security deserve reliable, timely delivery of their full benefits with world class customer service. […] That’s why so many Georgians and I were alarmed looking at what’s happening last month when several news outlets reported that Elon Musk and his DOGE team announced on their own website plans to permanently close five Social Security customer service offices throughout Georgia”

Watch Senator Reverend Warnock at Tuesday’s Senate Finance committee hearing HERE
Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Finance committee hearing on the nomination of Frank Bisignano to lead the Social Security Administration (SSA), U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) pushed the nominee to commit to keeping all field offices in the state open for Georgia seniors and increasing staffing at Georgia field offices. The Senator’s push comes after the SSA announced it was making access to benefits more difficult for seniors, no longer allowing individuals to apply for benefits or request a direct deposit change over the phone. These and other proposed changes at the SSA could lead to an increase of 7 million visits to field offices per year across the country, and an estimated 200,000 additional visits in Georgia alone. Senator Warnock is committed to ensuring Georgians can easily and efficiently access their benefits that they have paid into over their lifetime.
The line of questioning also comes after DOGE announced the closure of five Georgia SSA offices, only to walk back the announcement after the Senator brought attention to the deeply unpopular decision.
“Retirees in Georgia who rely on Social Security deserve reliable, timely delivery of their full benefits with world class customer service. […] That’s why so many Georgians and I were alarmed looking at what’s happening last month when several news outlets reported that Elon Musk and his DOGE team announced on their own website plans to permanently close five Social Security customer service offices throughout Georgia. These closures in Brunswick, Columbus, Gainesville, Thomasville, and Vidalia would give Georgia the highest number of planned Social Security office closures of any state. Those five cities represent five counties with over 136,000 people who rely on Social Security benefits,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.
The SSA, through both retirement benefits and disability insurance, provides support to 68 million Americans. Without Social Security, nearly 40 percent of people over age 65 would be living in poverty. Social Security has reduced elderly poverty to less than 12 percent according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.
“I just need to know, when it comes to office closures, who’s going to be making that decision, you or Elon Musk?” asked Senator Reverend Warnock.
“Me,” Frank Bisignano replied.
“That’s a good answer. The seniors in my state, those are the folks I’m concerned about. Will you commit to keeping all field offices in my state open for Georgia seniors?” Senator Reverend Warnock asked.
In response, Mr. Bisignano said, “You know, I was asked this question more than one time today, and what I will commit to is that there will be no decision made without you knowing about it. I have no intent to close field offices, but I’ve studied nothing on the topic. So it’s a little hard to commit to something without…”
Senator Reverend Warnock interjected, “I think study is a good thing, and what we’ve seen so far is no study, no real knowledge about what’s going on, just an effort to close offices, to be able to announce that you’re addressing waste, fraud and abuse.”
Watch the Senator’s full remarks HERE.
See below a transcript of key exchanges between Senator Warnock and SSA nominee Frank Bisignano (remarks have been lightly edited for clarity):
Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “I want to follow up on some of the issues that we discussed in my office. When we met, I shared with you my strong view that retirees in Georgia who rely on Social Security deserve reliable, timely delivery of their full benefits with world class customer service, and you’ve got a long record of delivering that in the private sphere. That’s why so many Georgians and I were alarmed looking at what’s happening last month when several news outlets reported that Elon Musk and his DOGE team announced on their own website plans to permanently close five Social Security customer service offices throughout Georgia. These closures in Brunswick, Columbus, Gainesville, Thomasville, and Vidalia would give Georgia the highest number of planned Social Security office closures of any state. Those five cities represent five counties with over 136,000 people who rely on Social Security benefits. But since I raised the alarm, since I made some noise about this, DOGE is suddenly out on X, I guess that’s what you call the platform now, denying the closures that it posted on its own website. They posted those closures on their website, and now no one seems to know what’s true or whether or not these announced closures will affect Georgians access to their benefits or other services. So, sir, I know that you aren’t currently at the Social Security Administration, and perhaps you can’t speak to the plans hatched by Elon Musk or DOGE. But if you’re confirmed to lead the agency, Americans deserve to know who will actually be in charge of their benefits. I think we heard an answer from you a moment ago, from my colleague, but I’m going to ask you again for the record, where will the buck stop on this decision, specifically with respect to office closures? As someone who represents the state where they announced five closures–I made noise about it, it was on their website, then they withdrew them and acted like I made it up, they put it on their website–I just need to know, when it comes to office closures, who’s going to be making that decision, you or Elon Musk?”
Frank Bisignano (FB): “Me.”
SRW: “That’s a good answer. The seniors in my state, those are the folks I’m concerned about. Will you commit to keeping all field offices in my state open for Georgia seniors?”
FB: “You know, I was asked this question more than one time today, and what I will commit to is that there will be no decision made without you knowing about it. I have no intent to close field offices, but I’ve studied nothing on the topic. So it’s a little hard to commit to something without…”
SRW: “I think study is a good thing, and what we’ve seen so far is no study, no real knowledge about what’s going on, just an effort to close offices, to be able to announce that you’re addressing waste, fraud, and abuse. And we all know this is true, regardless of whether we’re Democrats or Republicans, because then they have to go back and rehire some of the people they fire. And you’re a businessman, sir, and you said earlier you wouldn’t operate in this way. And the reason I’m asking about these field offices, and these announced changes, is because it could lead to an increase of 7 million visits to field offices per year across the country, especially with the fact that they’re now not allowing you to call on the phone. An estimated 200,000 additional visits in Georgia alone, which is why, frankly, I think that it’s a terrible idea. But if confirmed, will you commit to increased staffing at Georgia field offices to account for this massive, expected increase in appointments, and to help ensure Georgians can easily and efficiently make appointments. Let me be clear about what I’m asking you: if you’re no longer able to call on the phone, which is a decision that’s already been made, and you have to go online or go to the office and actually have an in-person appointment, you’re going to have a backlog. So I want to know what’s the answer to that. How is it that I can assure the seniors in my church that their lines are not going to get longer and longer? I disagree with the Commerce Secretary who said, well, if his mother-in-law missed a check, she wouldn’t worry about it. I guess she wouldn’t. Her son-in-law is a billionaire. That is not the story of the seniors in my church. Will you make sure that they have access to find out what’s going on with the benefits that they have earned?”
FB: “Senator, first of all, thank you very much. I’ve spent my career overseeing financial institutions, and today I serve 3,500 financial institutions in America, and that means we have community banks, rural banks, and I know what it means to have to serve neighborhoods and serve rural communities. My commitment is that it will be a fact based, rule-based organization we run, that we will ensure we have the staffing to get the best level of service for our constituents. So I’m giving you a longer answer, but we will have the talent that we need to get the job done at a service level better than today’s.”
SRW: “I appreciate the answer. I’m just trying to get Georgia residents, senior citizens, the benefits that they have earned. No one is giving them anything, they paid into the system. Thank you.”

MIL OSI USA News –

March 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Votes “No” on Dr. Oz Nomination, Raises Consequences of Medicaid Cuts

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senator Reverend Warnock Votes “No” on Dr. Oz Nomination, Raises Consequences of Medicaid Cuts

Today, during a Senate Finance committee vote, Senator Reverend Warnock voted “NO” on advancing the nomination of Dr. Mehmet Oz for full Senate consideration to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
If confirmed, Dr. Oz expressed no indication he would defend Medicaid from Washington Republicans who are threatening major slashes in funding for health care
In Georgia, Medicaid covers two in five children and one in ten veterans
Senator Reverend Warnock believes access to health care for working or low-income Georgians is too important to gamble with nominees unable to unequivocally defend Medicare and Medicaid from partisan attacks

Watch Senator Reverend Warnock’s remarks HERE
Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Finance Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) announced he was voting “no” to advance the nomination of Dr. Mehmet Oz to become the next Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The Senator cited grave concerns that Dr. Oz would not defend Medicaid, which covers two in five Georgia children and one in ten Georgia veterans, from Washington Republicans looking to make devastating cuts to the program.
“Let me be really clear that I’m voting against Dr. Oz. I think he is knowledgeable, certainly more knowledgeable than Secretary Kennedy about the program that he’s tasked to lead, but we’ve got to take seriously the needs of millions of Americans who will lose their health care. And so, I’m voting no for his nomination, and I urge my colleagues to do the same,”said Senator Reverend Warnock.
In his remarks during the committee hearing, Senator Warnock highlighted how Washington Republicans are proposing to gut almost $900 billion from Medicaid to give millionaires and billionaires an additional tax cut, potentially kicking millions of Americans off of their health care insurance.
“Here’s the deal, Republicans need a whole lot of money to pay for their tax cuts for the wealthiest among us, and they know if you give people enough bureaucratic hoops to jump through, then enough working people will get tripped up by the red tape and lose their health care. And so that’s the plan, less money spent on a working mom’s cancer treatment because she didn’t fill out the right form every month by the right deadline, so you have more money for billionaire tax cuts. We know this because I live in Georgia. Georgia is the only state with work reporting requirements in its Medicaid program, and all this program has to show for itself five years later, is 6,500 people enrolled. We’ve got nearly 600,000 Georgians who are in the Medicaid gap. The governor’s program has enrolled a whopping 6,500 people,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.
Interested media can read a transcript of the senator’s remarks below and watch them HERE.
“Before entering the Senate I was fighting for my state to expand Medicaid, which would give an estimated 600,000 Georgians access to affordable health care. But here we are, 15 years almost to the day of the Affordable Care Act being signed into law, and still Georgia has not expanded Medicaid. Georgia continues to deny its citizens access to this program that’s being supported by the tax paying Georgians. To make matters worse, now, Washington Republicans have proposed to gut almost $900 billion from Medicaid to give millionaires and billionaires an additional tax cut, potentially kicking millions of Americans off of their health care insurance. Medicaid covers almost 40 million children across the country, two in five children in Georgia, one in 10 veterans, 63% of seniors in nursing homes. Medicaid also supports 1/5 of all hospital spending, especially in communities without many hospital options.”
“Washington Republicans and Dr. Oz say they want to make Medicaid more efficient by requiring people who get their health insurance through Medicaid to fill out government paperwork each month to prove that they are working. Here are the facts: nearly all adults enrolled in Medicaid are either working, in school, or caregivers. By and large, if they can work, they do work. I know that may be hard to believe in a country that increasingly maligns poor people for being poor, but by and large, these folks already work, or their caregivers or their students. They are construction workers. They are restaurant service, and mechanics. They are doing exactly what Dr. Oz and Washington Republicans want them to do. But here’s the deal, Republicans need a whole lot of money to pay for their tax cuts for the wealthiest among us, and they know if you give people enough bureaucratic hoops to jump through, then enough working people will get tripped up by the red tape and lose their health care. And so that’s the plan, less money spent on a working mom’s cancer treatment because she didn’t fill out the right form every month by the right deadline, so you have more money for billionaire tax cuts.”
“We know this because I live in Georgia. Georgia is the only state with work reporting requirements and its Medicaid program, and all of this program has to show for itself five years later, is 6,500 people enrolled. We’ve got nearly 600,000 Georgians who are in the Medicaid gap. The governor’s program has enrolled a whopping 6,500 people. Mr. Chair. I know I’m running out of time, but as I close, and nobody believes the Baptist preacher when he says as I close, let me be really clear that I’m voting against Dr. Oz. I think he is knowledgeable, certainly more knowledgeable than Secretary Kennedy about the program that he’s tasked to lead, but we’ve got to take seriously the needs of millions of Americans who will lose their health care. And so, I’m voting no for his nomination, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.”

MIL OSI USA News –

March 26, 2025

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