NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnicians took silver at the Robofinist festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    In October, as part of the international festival Robofinist, the hackathon “StarLine Unmanned” was held, bringing together teams from all over Russia. Polytechnic was represented by two teams from the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU – “Turtleboys” and “Just robotics”.

    The hackathon’s objective was to develop a system for autonomously rescuing a robot from a labyrinth. Participants were provided with two robots: a “rescuer” equipped with a lidar and a depth camera, and a “rescued” robot equipped only with encoder odometry.

    The Turtleboys team consists of first-year Master’s students of the Higher School of Automation and Robotics Egor Pykhalov, Ivan Shevtsov, Georgy Kazantsev and IMMIT 2024 graduate Sergey Zemsky. The team demonstrated impressive results and took second place, just short of the championship.

    There wasn’t enough time to fully debug the solution on real robots, but victory was so close, the guys shared.

    The team would like to thank the Polytech Tower for providing equipment that helped prepare for the hackathon.

    “Just robotics” are first-year master’s students of the Higher School of Architecture and Rural Affairs (HSAR) Vladislav Malykhin, Anton Tyurin and this year’s graduate of the Institute of Metallurgy and Metallurgy (IMMT) Artem Kondratyev. They also demonstrated a high level of preparation and creativity.

    The StarLine Unmanned Hackathon has become an excellent platform for showcasing talent and sharing experiences among young specialists in the field of robotics.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of the State University of Management learned about the work of the Management Center of the Urban Economy Complex

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On October 22, 2024, 1st and 3rd year students of the educational programs “Urban Studies and City Management”, “State and Municipal Administration”, accompanied by associate professors of the Department of State and Municipal Administration Irina Milkina and Bayrta Ubushaeva visited the Management Center of the City Economy Complex (MCC UHS).

    The center was created to promptly respond to problems related to monitoring the operation of housing and communal services facilities in Moscow. Analysts monitor various deviations around the clock, as well as analyze the causes of incidents and make forecast estimates. Today, a single technological platform combines all key sources of information. This facilitates the process of making strategic management decisions online.

    As part of the excursion, the students visited the 112 Service call center, the data processing center, and the situation room of the Central Control Center of the State Emergency Service.

    The students were shown the importance of coordinating the work of all services using specific examples, as well as the use of modern technologies to prevent problems. Often we do not notice the colossal work that is being done to improve the comfort of life of city residents. The participants of the excursion also learned that all the work of the Control Center is strictly regulated in order to promptly and effectively make decisions on the work of city services.

    The employees spoke about the importance of the work of not only the Central Office of the KGH, but also the “112 Service”. The work schedule of this capital service is 24 hours a day, since it is designed to provide emergency assistance and respond to calls at any time, so operators must always be at the workplace. And in order for operators to work effectively and not be overloaded after processing a dozen emotional calls, it is important that the work schedule and rest schedule are strictly observed, so when one employee is resting, another one comes to replace him.

    Students noted that despite the complexity and specificity of the work, the creation of this Center helps to improve the efficiency of urban management thanks to a modern information system.

    Malika Yarmukhamedova, 3rd year student: “I was pleased with the tour! I think that visiting this complex is very useful for development in urban studies. We were clearly shown all the components of the urban economy of the city of Moscow and the efficiency of their use. A puzzle of how city services function and coordinate came together in my head.”

    Ulyana Laryushina, 3rd year student: “Many thanks to the Center’s staff for clearly demonstrating how city services management functions. It was interesting to learn about modern technologies used in this area and to understand how decisions are made in emergency situations.”

    Ilya Dubodelov, 3rd year student: “I was pleased to talk to real specialists in the field of municipal services. I learned a lot of new things in this area, and was also amazed by the technologies used by the Center for Management of the Municipal Services Complex, and the overall coherence of all departments.”

    The State University of Management thanks the Department of Housing and Public Utilities of the City of Moscow, the State Budgetary Institution “MAC” and the State Budgetary Institution “System 112” for the opportunity to visit an important facility for managing the capital’s municipal economy.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/24/2024

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A large-scale national (all-Russian) conference with international participation dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the Department of Geotechnics is being held at SPbGASU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Leading Engineer, Assistant Professor of the Department of Geotechnics, Scientific Secretary of the Conference Philipp Kalach, Anatoly Osokin, Rashid Mangushev, Evgeny Rybnov, Askar Zhusupbekov, Alexander Vikhrov

    On October 23, the National (All-Russian) Scientific and Technical Conference with international participation “Modern Methods of Design, Underground Construction and Reconstruction of Foundations and Bases” opened at SPbGASU.

    Welcoming the participants, Rector of SPbGASU Evgeny Rybnov emphasized that since 2003, holding conferences on geotechnics at our university has become a tradition. During this period, 17 all-Russian and international conferences have been held, which invariably arouse the interest of specialists in the field of mechanics and soils, foundations, foundations and engineering geology.

    “The large number of participants confirms the importance of geotechnics as the most important area of ​​construction science and serves as a tribute to the scientific traditions and achievements of the Department of Geotechnics of St. Petersburg State University of Civil Engineering, founded in 1934. Over the years, famous scientists in our country and abroad, honored scientists of the RSFSR, professors Tsytovich, Vasiliev, Maslov, Dalmatov, Sotnikov, Mangushev, worked on it. In the last two years, the department has been headed by Honored Builder of Russia, laureate of awards from the Government of Russia and St. Petersburg, Candidate of Technical Sciences Anatoly Ivanovich Osokin. Since its formation, the department has been one of the leading departments of our university, which has trained many engineers, candidates and doctors of technical sciences. The department has created and is successfully developing a scientific school for the development of current issues in construction geotechnics. First of all, this is research on improving foundation construction on weak and highly compressible soils, including pile foundations and foundations for high-rise buildings, research on the development of deformations of structures and their prediction, research on frozen and thawing soils and their use as foundations for structures. The department is also conducting research on improving methods for constructing underground structures, consolidating foundation soils and strengthening the foundations of buildings during their reconstruction, and developing numerical methods for calculating the foundations of underground structures. Over the past 15 years, employees of the department have published numerous textbooks and teaching aids, monographs, reference books on geotechnics, which have become reference books for engineers and teachers of universities in Russia, the CIS countries and the Far Abroad,” said Evgeniy Rybnov.

    He specified that the conference will provide an opportunity for geotechnical specialists to exchange the latest scientific achievements, establish new useful contacts, and also get acquainted with historical and recently built unique objects of St. Petersburg.

    As reported by the corresponding member of RAASN, the head of the scientific school, the director of the Scientific and Production-Consulting Center of Geotechnology of SPbGASU, professor Rashid Mangushev, over the past 20 years the university and the department of geotechnics have regularly held such conferences. This year the conference is dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the department. It is attended by specialists from 23 cities and 13 countries, including the Republic of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia. More than 110 reports will be heard.

    The President of the Russian Society for Soil Mechanics, Geotechnics and Foundation Engineering, Vyacheslav Ilyichev, called St. Petersburg a monument to geotechnics.

    “To build such a city now, we would need surveys, soil research methods, and computer programs. That didn’t exist back then, but the city was built: for centuries and beautifully. Geotechnics has been developing for many years, and the leading universities of St. Petersburg, where outstanding scientific schools have been created and highly qualified specialists are trained, play a major role in this. Domestic science has always been the basis of our country’s technological independence. And we continue to serve as this basis,” noted Vyacheslav Ilyichev.

    A member of the Council of the National Association of Surveyors and Designers (NOPRIZ), President of the Association of SRO “Baltic Association of Designers”, a graduate of LISI (now SPbGASU), who previously held the positions of dean, vice-rector of our university, Alexander Vikhrov confirmed that decades ago, young specialists really did not have any tools except a slide rule. But science developed, and before his eyes such tools appeared and improved

    “90 years – is it a lot or a little? For history – a particle. Despite the solid anniversary, the department is only at the beginning of its development, it keeps up with the times and continues to make a great contribution to solving modern problems of the industry, city, country, world,” says Alexander Vikhrov.

    SPbGASU and, in particular, the Department of Geotechnics have been interacting with the Committee for State Control, Use and Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments (KGIOP) of St. Petersburg for many years, the acting chairman of the committee, Alexey Mikhailov, emphasized in his welcoming address. He noted the high level of involvement of students and postgraduates in current urban issues in the field of urban development and adaptation of cultural heritage sites to modern use.

    “Our city is quite young, but it contains almost 10% of all historical and cultural monuments of the country. Along with preserving the cultural heritage and historical environment, we must develop the infrastructure of the metropolis for the comfortable life of citizens and tourists. To successfully solve this problem, we need to be guided by modern scientific research in the field of soil mechanics and geotechnics, exchange experience in the design, construction and reconstruction of complex geotechnical objects in various engineering and geological conditions,” said Alexey Mikhailov.

    The President of the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Association, Honorary Doctor of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, and graduate of the department, Askar Zhusupbekov, confirmed that the Department of Geotechnics has always been famous for its outstanding world-class scientists and talented students.

    “Continuing the traditions, the department is developing. Last year, the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Association held a large-scale international scientific and technical conference, which was attended by 982 people from 88 countries. And I would like to proudly note that the most representative and largest delegation was from your university. SPbGASU demonstrates high scientific achievements and knows how to organize effective scientific and practical platforms within its walls, which include the current conference,” concluded Askar Zhusupbekov.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: Results of the 2024 LSI stress test

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    The profitability of Germany’s small and medium-sized banks and Sparkassen (less significant institutions, or LSIs) improved significantly in 2023. The institutions achieved stronger earnings during the period of higher interest rates; they have further expanded their capital resources and appear to be prepared even for serious adverse scenarios. These were among the findings of the sixth LSI stress test and accompanying survey, which were conducted this year by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) and the Deutsche Bundesbank.
    “The banks are on more solid ground. Most institutions have good capital ratios and are capable of handling the very demanding challenges posed in this year’s stress test,” said Raimund Röseler, BaFin’s Chief Executive Director of Banking Supervision, while presenting the stress test results in Frankfurt. The scenario assumed in this year’s test was far more challenging than in the last exercise two years ago. In total, the shock caused the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio to decrease by 3.7 percentage points to 14.5 percent. The stress effect was mainly driven by credit and market risks.
    Under the scenario presented in the stress test, the number of institutions that experience difficulties lies in the medium double digits. These institutions would not meet the supervisory capital requirements in the case of a major economic downturn. The number of impacted institutions is twice as high as in the 2022 LSI stress test – mainly due to the tougher scenario specifications.
    “Institutions should continue to expand their capital resources and not erode their solid baseline unless absolutely necessary. The economic situation remains uncertain. We will closely monitor the outlier institutions. If necessary, we will take supervisory countermeasures at an early stage,” Röseler declared.
    Results of the survey on the current and future earnings and risk situation show that institutions are anticipating an increase in loss allowances. Banks and Sparkassen are still willing to take on additional risks on their books and increase their lending. However, their plans foresee a greater increase in CET1 capital than in risk-weighted assets, which leads to a moderate rise in the CET1 ratio and takes more than sufficient account of the additional risks they plan to assume.
    “Our analysis shows that the majority of banks and Sparkassen are less optimistic with regard to commercial real estate. Supervisors will continue to closely monitor this segment,” said Michael Theurer, the member of the Executive Board responsible for banking supervision at the Deutsche Bundesbank. The outlook is more positive for residential properties, but lower market values are expected for buildings in need of renovation to meet energy efficiency standards. The banks and Sparkassen consider the greatest challenges to be recruitment, increased competition for deposits and the slowdown in economic activity. “In particular, challenges arising from demographic change will have a longterm impact on the banking sector. Institutions need to begin adapting to this development early and take a forward-looking approach,” Theurer advised.
    1,200 small and medium-sized German credit institutions took part in the stress test conducted by the Deutsche Bundesbank and BaFin. The participating institutions represent approximately 91 percent of all credit institutions in Germany and approximately 40 percent of the aggregate total assets. The results of the stress test are incorporated into the supervisory activities of the Deutsche Bundesbank and BaFin.
    Annex
    Earnings
    BaFin and the Deutsche Bundesbank collected the institutions’ own planned and forecast figures in the survey. The institutions were also asked to simulate their earnings for the period from 2024 to 2028 in five interest rate scenarios predefined by the supervisors. The institutions performed these calculations assuming a static balance sheet, meaning they were not able to adjust their portfolios.

     

    Scenario
    Yield curve
    Balance sheet assumption

    1

    Planned scenario
    Institution-specific assumptions
    dynamic

    2

    Steady interest rate level
    +/-0 bp as at 01.01.2024
    static

    3

    Positive interest rate shock
    + 200 bp as at 01.01.2024
    static

    4

    Negative interest rate shock
    − 100 bp as at 01.01.2024
    static

    5

    Gradual interest rate increase
    + 40 bp annually as at 01.01.
    static

    6

    Inverse turn
    + 200 bp to − 60 bp as at 01.01.2024
    static
    Table 1: Methodological rules and interest rate scenarios in the survey (2024–2028); “bp” stands for “basis points”
    On the basis of their own planned and forecast figures, the surveyed credit institutions reported in the second quarter of 2024 that they expect their return on assets to increase by 45% over the next five years (2022: + 18%). Return on assets is defined as the profit for the year before tax in relation to total assets. However, this highly positive projection is based on the optimistic assumption that interest rates will remain steady or even slightly increase in the medium to long term.
    Resilience
    On average, the institutions surveyed expect to increase their CET1 ratio from a level of 18.2% to 19.4% by 2028. They plan to do so despite the larger increase in risk-weighted assets, which can be traced to an upturn in the volume of business and increased risk-taking.
    Stress test used for determining Pillar 2 guidance
    Stress testing examines the resilience of institutions under adverse economic conditions and estimates the consequences for their capital resources. To this end, the banks and Sparkassen simulated their earnings and resilience for the years 2024 to 2026 according to baseline and stress scenarios predefined by the supervisors. The stress scenario for this year’s test entails a dramatic economic downturn resulting in interest rate risks, credit risks and market risks, among others. Other components of the banks’ profit and loss accounts were extrapolated based on historical data, partially with discounts.
    The supervisory authorities aimed to determine whether the capital resources of the credit institutions were still adequate over a three-year period in a stress scenario. After a capital depletion of 3.7 percentage points (the largest decrease in the CET1 ratio over the three-year scenario horizon), the small and medium-sized institutions in Germany still had a CET1 ratio of 14.5% on aggregate, which represents a sound capital basis.
    The stress test identifies the vulnerabilities of each individual institution. The risks revealed in the stress test also factor into the calculation of Pillar 2 guidance. An institution’s failure to comply with this recommendation acts as an important early warning threshold for supervisors. Institutions that are particularly vulnerable can be subjected to even closer supervision at an early stage. This helps further strengthen the stability of the German banking market.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Civil society from both banks meet donors to discuss partnership, challenges and successes

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Civil society from both banks meet donors to discuss partnership, challenges and successes

    Civil society organizations (CSOs) from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River, donors and development partners engaged in discussions in groups during the OSCE Mission’s Donors’ Forum, 23 October, Chisinau. (OSCE/Ecaterina Leuca) Photo details

    On 23 October, the OSCE Mission’s Donors’ Forum united nearly 90 civil society organizations (CSOs) from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River and over 30 donors and development partners. Civil society shared positive experiences, achievements and challenges. One highlight was that organizations from both banks conducted successful information campaigns on HIV/AIDS prevention and healthcare. As for challenges, civil society members noted their limited capacity and resources, and suggested that donors help with small-scale projects, and not just large ones.
    “The Forum helps us present our ideas and initiatives, and learn about new opportunities for funding and cooperation. We can interact with colleagues from other NGOs, gain experience and build partnerships. Such events are important for building trust between communities on both sides of the river, for peaceful and sustainable development of the society”, – Margarita Cojuhar from the Transdniestrian Media Center said after the Forum.
    The Chair of Legal Center in Causeni, Ion Oboroceanu, shared his impressions: “Cooperation between CSOs on both banks of the Dniester is crucial for the promotion and protection of human rights, thus facilitating access to impartial justice for the vulnerable groups we represent.”
    The Head of the OSCE Mission, Ambassador Kelly Keiderling noted: “Any settlement of the Transdniestrian issue requires that residents of Transdniestria and the members of Transdniestrian civil society groups feel connected to the life of all of Moldovan society. We need you, the people on both banks of the Nistru/Dniester River, to raise awareness about the social, economic, and political challenges you face. We need you to extend protection to the most disadvantaged and vulnerable. We need you to widen the reach of political-civil rights to more citizens.”
    Since 2013, our Mission has held the Donors Forum to assist civil society from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River, donors and development partners meet and exchange information.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Nolan Principles – keeping the public front of mind

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Reflecting on 30 years since the formation of the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

    To mark 30 years of the Committee’s work, Prof. Mark Philp, Chair of CSPL’s Research Advisory Board, blogs on the continuing importance of the Nolan Principles in setting out the understanding between those in public office and the public. This blog is based on a longer academic paper (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/30th-anniversary-of-the-nolan-principles).

    Marking 30 years since the creation of the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

    PDF, 75 KB, 2 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email accessible.formats@cabinetoffice.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Viridien and SLB complete the data acquisition for a multi-client survey in Bonaparte Basin, offshore Australia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, France – October 24, 2024

    Viridien and SLB have recently completed the acquisition of a new multi-client survey in the Bonaparte Basin, off the NW coast of Australia, that has received industry support and prefunding. The resulting ~6,760 sq km ultramodern PSDM seismic data set will provide a thorough evaluation of this highly prospective and underexplored area to improve industry understanding. The data is currently being processed and the final data will be available in Q2 2025.

    The complex geological area has been historically challenging to image due to the presence of carbonates and the shallow water. The new survey will provide modern, high-quality data over an area lacking recent, or any 3D data. The data also partially covers a carbon storage block, recently awarded as permit G-13-AP. The survey deployed Sercel Sentinel MS multi-component streamers and the Sercel QuietSea marine mammal monitoring system.

    Dechun Lin, EVP, Earth Data, Viridien, said: “We are delighted to have partnered with SLB for the first time in Australia to successfully complete this large data acquisition project. The new high-quality data set will give interested players greater insight into the exploration and carbon storage potential of this promising area. We will continue to look for opportunities to invest in the country.”

    About Viridien:

    Viridien (www.viridiengroup.com) is an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. With our ingenuity, drive and deep curiosity we discover new insights, innovations, and solutions that efficiently and responsibly resolve complex natural resource, digital, energy transition and infrastructure challenges. Viridien employs around 3,500 people worldwide and is listed as VIRI on the Euronext Paris SA (ISIN: FR001400PVN6).

    Contacts

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TRAINERS’ HOUSE GROUP INTERIM REPORT 1 JANUARY – 30 SEPTEMBER 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TRAINERS’ HOUSE GROUP, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 24 OCTOBER 2024 at 8:30
              
    January-September 2024 in brief

    • net sales EUR 5.9 million (EUR 6.5 million), change of -9.7 % compared to the corresponding period of the previous year
    • operating result EUR 0.1 million (EUR 0.1 million), 1.1 % of net sales (1.0 %)
    • cash flow from operations EUR 0.1 million (EUR 0.1 million)
    • earnings per share EUR 0.03 (EUR 0.04)

    July-September 2024 in brief

    • net sales EUR 1.6 million (EUR 1.6 million), change of -1.2 % compared to the corresponding period of the previous year
    • operating result EUR -0.1 million (EUR -0.1 million), -9.4 % of net sales (-6.7 %)
    • cash flow from operations EUR -0.3 million (EUR -0.2 million)
    • earnings per share EUR -0.07 (EUR -0.05)

    Key figures at the end of third quarter of 2024

    • cash and cash equivalents EUR 1.1 million (EUR 1.5 million)
    • interest-bearing liabilities of EUR 0.7 million (EUR 0.3 million) and interest-bearing net debt of EUR -0.4 million (EUR -1.3 million).
    • equity ratio 65.2 % (65.3 %)

    OUTLOOK FOR 2024

    The company estimates the operating profit for 2024 to be negative.

    CEO ARTO HEIMONEN

    Despite the challenging market conditions, the company’s year-to-date result is slightly profitable at the end of the third quarter.

    Due to the holiday season, the third quarter of Trainers’ House is actually two months long from the point of view of revenue accumulation.

    Customer activity and customer satisfaction remained at a high level. Acquiring new assignments succeeded moderately. The productivity of encounter marketing business increased.

    Healthy cash flow and profitability are the company’s most important business goals in 2024 as well.

    The purpose of Trainers’ House is to help people forward. This is possible by touching people, electrifying management and producing verifiable results.

    Thanks to customers, employees, and partners.

    More information:
    Arto Heimonen, CEO, +358 404 123 456
    Saku Keskitalo, CFO, +358 404 111 111

    OPERATIONAL REVIEW

    During the review period, the company focused on serving its customers.

    FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

    Net sales for the reporting period were EUR 5.9 million (EUR 6.5 million). Operating result was EUR 0.1 million, 1.1 % of net sales (EUR 0.1 million, 1.0 %). The result for the period was EUR 0.1 million, 1.1 % of net sales (EUR 0.1 million, 1.2 %).

    The breakdown of the Group’s figures (unit thousand euros) is presented in the following table:

    Group’s main figures (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Net sales 5 907 6 541
    Expenses:    
    Expenses arising from employee benefits -3 947 -4 339
    Other expenses -1 635 -1 729
    EBITDA 325 473
    Depreciation and impairment losses -259 -405
    EBIT 66 68
    EBIT, % of net sales 1.1 1.0
    Financial income and expenses -15 8
    Result before taxes 51 76
    Income taxes 14 4
    Result of the period 65 80
    Result, % of net sales 1.1 1.2

    LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES

    The company’s long-term goal is profitable growth.

    FINANCING, INVESTMENTS AND SOLVENCY

    Cash flow and key financing figures (unit million euros) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Cash flow from operations before financial items 0.2 0.1
    Cash flow from operations 0.1 0.1
    Cash flow from investments 0.0 0.1
    Cash flow from financing -0.2 -0.9
    Total cash flow -0.1 -0.7
         
      9/2024 9/2023
    Cash 1.1 1.5
    Interest-bearing debt 0.7 0.3
    Equity ratio % 65.2 65.3

    MAJOR RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

    Trainers’ House’s business is sensitive to economic fluctuations.

    The general economic situation internationally and in Finland contains significant risks. The war in Europe and Middle East, the tense world political situation and the possible expansion of the crisis can cause rapid changes in the operating environment.

    Possible world trade restrictions and changes in the world political situation affect the exports of Finnish companies, which is reflected in the demand of the domestic market. The demand in domestic market will also diminish due to public cost-cuttings and tax increases. The change in domestic market demand directly affects Trainers’ House’s business.

    Compared to the level of the last decade, the high interest rate has a negative effect on economic activity. Inflation can also accelerate due to, for example, escalation of world political crises.

    The constant competition for the best employees affects recruitment and the commitment of key personnel. From the company’s point of view, the labor market situation has eased over the past year.

    The above-mentioned risks, when realized alone or together, have a significant impact on the company’s operations.

    The company divides the risk factors affecting business, earnings, and market capitalization into five main categories: market and business risks, personnel-related risks, technology and information security risks, financial risks, and legal risks.

    Trainers’ House has sought to hedge against the adverse effects of other risks with comprehensive insurance policies. These include statutory insurance, liability and property insurance and legal expenses insurance. Insurance coverage, insurance values and deductibles are reviewed annually together with the insurance company.

    The Management Team reports to the Board on a monthly basis on key business-related risks and, where necessary, risk management measures.

    The Group has the reporting systems required for effective business monitoring. Internal control is linked to the company’s vision, strategic goals and the business goals set on the basis of them.

    The realization of business objectives and the Group’s financial development are monitored on a monthly basis through the Group’s corporate governance system. As an essential part of the control system, actual data and up-to-date forecasts are reviewed monthly by the Group Management Team. The control system includes, among other things, sales reporting, an income statement, a rolling revenue and profit forecast, and key figures that are important to operations.

    Trainers’ House is an expert organization. The magnitude of market and business risks is difficult to determine. Typical risks in this area are related to, for example, general economic development, customer distribution, technology choices, the development of competition and the management of personnel costs.

    Risks are managed through the planning and regular monitoring of sales, human resources, and operating expenses, which enables rapid action when circumstances change. The risks of trade receivables have been taken into account by the recognition of expenses based on the age of the receivables and individual risk analyzes.

    The goal of Trainers’ House’s financial risk management is to secure the availability of equity and debt financing on competitive terms and to reduce the impact of adverse market movements on the company’s operations.

    Financial risks are divided into four categories, which are liquidity, interest rate risks, currency risks and credit risks. Each risk is monitored separately. Liquidity and interest rate risks are reduced with sufficient cash resources and efficient collection of receivables. Currency risks are low as Trainers’ House operates primarily in the euro market. In financial risk management, the focus is on liquidity.

    The success of Trainers’ House as an expert organization depends on its ability to attract and retain skilled staff. In addition to a competitive salary, personnel risks are managed through incentive schemes and investments in personnel training, career opportunities and general well-being.

    Technology is a key part of Trainers’ House’s business. Technology risks include, but are not limited to, supplier risk, risks related to internal systems, challenges posed by technological change, and security risks. Risks are protected against long-term cooperation with technology suppliers, appropriate security systems, staff training and regular security audits.

    Trainers’ House’s legal risks are mainly focused on the contractual relationship between the company and customers or service providers. At their most typical, they relate to delivery responsibility and the management of intellectual property rights. In order to manage the risks related to contracts and intellectual property rights, the company has internal guidelines for contractual procedures. In the company’s view, the contractual risks are not unusual.

    At the end of the review period, goodwill and other intangible assets recognized in the balance sheet have been tested in the normal way. The test did not reveal any need for impairment.

    The consolidated balance sheet of Trainers’ House has goodwill of EUR 2.1 million. The balance sheet value of other intangible assets is EUR 1.0 million. If the Group’s profitability does not develop as forecasted or other external factors independent of the Group’s operations, such as interest rates, change significantly, it is possible that goodwill and other intangible assets will have to be written off. Recognition of an impairment loss would have no effect on the Group’s cash flow.

    Due to the project nature of the operations, the order backlog is short, and predictability is therefore challenging.

    The description of potential risks is not comprehensive. Trainers’ House conducts continuous risk assessment in connection with its operations and strives to hedge against identified risks.

    Investors have also been informed about the risks in the company’s annual review and on the website at www.trainershouse.fi.

    PERSONNEL

    At the end of the review period, the Group had 107 (111) employees. As before, the company reports the number of employees converted to full-time employees.

    DECISIONS REACHED AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    The annual general meeting of Trainers’ House Plc was held on 27 March 2024 in Helsinki.

    The annual general meeting confirmed the financial statements and discharged CEO and the members of the Board of Directors from liability for the fiscal year 1 January – 31 December 2023. The annual general meeting also decided to adopt the remuneration policy of the governing bodies.

    The annual general meeting decided, in accordance with the board’s proposal, that the company does not distribute a dividend from 2023.

    Aarne Aktan, Jari Sarasvuo, Jarmo Hyökyvaara, Elma Palsila and Emilia Tauriainen were re-elected as members of the Board of Directors. In the board meeting held after the annual general meeting, the Board of Directors elected Jari Sarasvuo as the chairperson of the board.

    The annual general meeting decided that the board member’s remuneration shall be EUR 1,500 per month and the chairperson’s remuneration will be EUR 3,500 per month.

    Grant Thornton Oy was elected as the company’s auditor. The remuneration to the auditor is paid according to the auditor’s reasonable invoice.

    SHARES AND SHARE CAPITAL

    The company’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd under the name Trainers’ House Plc (TRH1V).

    At the end of the reporting period, Trainers’ House Plc had 2,147,826 shares and a registered share capital of EUR 880,743.59. The company does not hold any of its own shares. There have been no changes in the share capital during the period.

    Share performance and trading

      1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Traded shares, pcs 203 608 213 827
    Average number of all company shares, % 9.5 10.0
    Traded shares, EUR 576 890 1 013 869
    Highest share quotation 4.88 6.12
    Lowest share quotation 2.07 3.38
    Closing price 2.27 3.73
    Weighted average price 2.83 4.74
    Market capitalization 4.9 mil. 8.0 mil.

    SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES

    The report has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 standard. The report has been prepared in accordance with IFRS standards and interpretations that have been approved for application in the EU and are in force on 1 January 2024.

    In this interim report Trainers’ House has followed the same accounting policies and calculation methods as in the 2023 annual financial statements.

    The figures given in the interim report are unaudited.

    INCOME STATEMENT IFRS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    NET SALES 5 907 6 541 8 437
    Expenses:      
    Materials and services -286 -308 -391
    Personnel-related expenses -3 947 -4 339 -5 691
    Depreciation and impairment losses -259 -405 -531
    Other operating expenses -1 348 -1 420 -1 925
    Total expenses -5 841 -6 473 -8 538
    Operating result 66 68 -101
    Financial income and expenses -15 8 6
    Result before taxes 51 76 -95
    Income taxes 14 4 4
    RESULT OF THE PERIOD 65 80 -91
    Result attributable to owners of the parent company 65 80 -91
    Earnings per share, EUR 0.03 0.04 -0.04
    Earnings per share attributable to owners of the parent company, EUR 0.03 0.04 -0.04
    BALANCE SHEET IFRS (kEUR) 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    ASSETS      
    Non-current assets      
    Tangible assets 704 430 961
    Goodwill 2 129 2 129 2 129
    Other intangible assets 1 013 1 025 1 013
    Long-term receivables      
    Other receivables, long-term 105 138 138
    Deferred tax receivables 218 204 202
    Total long-term receivables 324 342 341
    Total non-current assets 4 170 3 926 4 443
           
    Current assets      
    Account receivables and other receivables 1 002 942 783
    Cash and cash equivalents 1 120 1 533 1 175
    Total current assets 2 122 2 475 1 958
    TOTAL ASSETS 6 292 6 400 6 401
           
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Equity attributable to the owners of the parent company      
    Share capital 881 881 881
    Distributable non-restricted equity fund 37 37 37
    Retained earnings 3 021 3 111 3 111
    Result of the period 65 80 -91
    Total shareholders’ equity 4 004 4 109 3 939
    Long-term liabilities      
    Deferred tax liabilities 203 205 203
    Long-term financial liabilities 420 58 631
    Total long-term liabilities 622 263 833
    Short-term liabilities      
    Short-term financial liabilities 280 216 197
    Accounts payable and other liabilities 1 386 1 812 1 432
    Total short-term liabilities 1 666 2 028 1 629
    Total liabilities 2 288 2 291 2 462
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 6 292 6 400 6 401
    CASH FLOW STATEMENT IFRS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS      
    Result of the period 65 80 -91
    Adjustments 263 435 570
    Changes in working capital -169 -398 -257
    Cash flow from operations before financial items and taxes 158 117 222
    Financial items and taxes paid -22 -13 -16
    CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS 137 104 206
    CASH FLOW FROM INVESTMENTS      
    Investments in tangible and intangible assets -3 -12 -12
    Repayment of loan receivables 17 42 42
    Interests received 5 21 21
    CASH FLOW FROM INVESTMENTS 18 51 51
    CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING      
    Repayment of lease liabilities -128 -272 -363
    Dividends paid -82 -597 -966
    CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING -210 -869 -1 329
    TOTAL CASH FLOW -55 -714 -1 072
    CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS      
    Opening balance of cash and cash equivalents 1 175 2 247 2 247
    Closing balance of cash and cash equivalents 1 120 1 533 1 175
    CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS -55 -714 -1 072

    CHANGE IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (kEUR)
    Equity attributable to owners of the parent company

    CHANGE IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (kEUR) Share capital Distributable non-restricted equity fund Retained earnings Total
    Equity 1 January 2023 881 37 4 121 5 039
    Other comprehensive income     80 80
    Dividends     -1 009 -1 009
    Equity 30 September 2023 881 37 3 191 4 109
             
    Equity 1 January 2024 881 37 3 021 3 939
    Other comprehensive income     65 65
    Dividends     0 0
    Equity 30 September 2024 881 37 3 086 4 004

    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

    During the period under review, Trainers’ House had transactions with Causa Prima Ltd, a company controlled by Jari Sarasvuo, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and Pro Vividus Ltd and Anorin Liekki Ltd, which are related to the company.

    The following transactions took place with related parties:

    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    Purchases during the period 272 131 168
    Liabilities at the end of the period 95 31 39
    PERSONNEL 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    Average number of personnel 108 115 113
    Personnel at the end of the period 107 111 96
    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Collaterals and contingent liabilities given for own commitments(kEUR) 120 120 120
    OTHER KEY FIGURES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Equity ratio (%) 65.2 65.3 63.5
    Shareholders’ equity/share (EUR) 1.86 1.91 1.83

    Calculation formulas for key figures

    Earnings per share        = Result of the period attributable to owners of the parent company
                                          Average number of shares adjusted for share issue in financial period

    Interest-bearing net debt = Interest-bearing liabilities – cash and cash equivalents

    Equity ratio (%)          = Equity x 100
                                        Balance sheet total – advances received

    Equity / share            = Equity                                              
                                        Number of shares adjusted for share issue at the
                                        end of financial period

    Items affecting the calculation of key figures 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Advances received (kEUR) 154 107 198
    Interest-bearing liabilities (kEUR) 700 274 828
    Average number of shares adjusted for share issue in financial period (unit thousand shares) 2 148 2 148 2 148
    Number of shares adjusted for share issue at the end of the financial period (unit thousand shares) 2 148 2 148 2 148

    In Helsinki 24 October 2024

    TRAINERS’ HOUSE PLC

    BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Information:
    Arto Heimonen, CEO, +358 404 123 456
    Saku Keskitalo, CFO, +358 404 111 111

    DISTRIBUTION
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Main media
    www.trainershouse.fi – For investors

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning Inspectorate Performance update – October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Performance and other updates following the publication of our latest official monthly statistics.

    On a regular basis, we publish the latest official statistics on appeals performance), which represent the greatest volume (in terms of number of cases) of the work of the Planning Inspectorate. 

    We also update the appeals handling times data to give customers the latest information on the average time it takes to receive a decision and provide an update on our other main casework areas. 

    Appeals 

    Our appeal cases are dealt with in one of three ways: written representations, hearings, or inquiries. Ministerial performance measures include an expectation to reduce average decision times over time and make our decision speeds more consistent. All our decision times are measured from the day we receive a valid appeal through to the day we issue a decision. This is the same approach as Local Planning Authorities. 

    We have made 18,176 appeal decisions in the last 12 months, an average of 1,515 per month. We now have 13,214 open cases. 

    We remain committed to removing our casework backlog so that all our casework is decided in consistent timeframes, whilst maintaining high standards in our decisions. We are currently focusing on reducing the number of older planning appeals by written representations appeals and enforcement appeals by hearing. 

    Following a consultation the frequency of the publication of these statistics will move from monthly to quarterly. We believe quarterly publications provide a better indicator of performance, less affected by temporary fluctuations than monthly releases. The next quarterly update will be on January 23, 2025. 

    Median decision times 

    The median decision time for cases decided in September was 27 weeks. The average over the past 12 months was 28 weeks. 

    Median decision times vary a little month to month, but decisions after hearings and inquiries continue to be made quicker, on average, compared to a year ago. This is most noticeable in relation to enforcement appeals by inquiry, where decisions are taking less than half the time, on average.

    12 months to September 2024 median decision time September 2024 median decision time
    Planning appeals by written representations 27 weeks 26 weeks
    Planning appeals by hearing 24 weeks 22 weeks
    Planning appeals by inquiry 30 weeks 33 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by written representations 51 weeks 40 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by hearing 63 weeks 102 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by inquiry 54 weeks 22 weeks
    All appeals 28 weeks 27 weeks

    National Infrastructure 

    We have a high number of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)  at various stages, but we continue to meet all statutory deadlines: 

    •  62 where we are providing advice before submission. 
    •  18 submitted and at acceptance, pre-examination, or examination. 
    •  4 where we are preparing our recommendation. 
    •  9 where the relevant Secretary of State is considering our recommendation. 

    Earlier this month development consent was granted by the Secretary of State for Transport for the Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal. 

    Local Plans 

    There are currently 45 live Local Plan examinations in progress. 

    We encourage Local Planning Authorities (LPA) to use our advisory visits to help them get their plans in good shape and deal with challenges well before submission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos reports third quarter 2024 revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Third quarter 2024 revenue in line with September 2ndBusiness Plan

    Cash position in line with September 2ndbusiness plan & FY2024 outlook

    Q3 2024 revenue of €2,305m, down -4.4% organically, consistent with September 2ndbusiness plan communicated on September 2nd, 2024

    • Eviden down -6.4% organically due to continued market softness in the Americas and Central Europe and previously-established contract scope reductions
    • Tech Foundations down -2.6% organically, reflecting lower scope of work and previously-established contract completions and terminations
    • Q4 and FY2024 outlook in line with September 2nd business plan1

    Q3 order entry of €1.5bn, with stronger commercial activity and improved order entry expected in Q4

    • Eviden book-to-bill at 73%, compared with 80% in prior year. Solid commercial activity in BDS with several High-Performance Computing contracts signed. Eviden Q4 book-to-bill expected to be close to Q4 20232
    • Tech Foundations book-to-bill at 60%, consistent with previous years3. Q4 book-to-bill expected to be close to historical average4 thanks to anticipated return of multi-year contracts with existing customers
    • Group Q3 book-to-bill at 66% (84% in prior year), in line with Q3 2023 book-to-bill excluding large exceptional deals5. Group Q4 2024 book-to-bill expected in line with prior year6

    Cash position of €1.1bn as at September 30, 2024

    • Net debt position of €4.6bn, including a €1.6bn reduction of working capital optimization compared with December 2023
    • Q3 cash consumption of €-3m excluding change in working capital optimization for €232m
    • Full year free cash flow before normalization of working capital optimization expected in line with September 2nd business plan

    Atos focused on its industrial turnaround and growth:

    • Decision from the Court on pre-arranged financial restructuring plan expected today
    • Financial restructuring plan expected to close in December 2024 or early January 2025
    • New governance in place with Philippe Salle named chairman and becoming CEO on February 1st.

    Paris, France – October 24, 2024 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, high-performance computing and information technology infrastructure, today announces its revenue for the third quarter of 2024.

    Jean Pierre Mustier, Atos Chief Executive Officer, declared:

    “With our financial restructuring plan and our new governance in place, Atos can confidently focus on its industrial turnaround and growth under the leadership of Philippe Salle. He is the best person to lead our transformation journey and restore confidence in Atos.

    I have seen a positive change of perception with our clients, who have taken note of our restructuring, and are looking to resume a normalized interaction with us. I expect stronger commercial activity in the coming months, with the anticipated return of multi-year strategic contracts with existing customers.

    I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our employees for their ongoing commitment, and our customers and partners for their continued support.”

    Revenue by Businesses

    In € million Q3 2024
    Revenue    		 Q3 2023
    revenue    		 Q3 2023
    revenue*    		 Organic variation*
    Eviden 1,093 1,202 1,167 -6.4%
    Tech Foundations 1,212 1,373 1,244 -2.6%
    Total 2,305 2,575 2,412 -4.4%
    *at constant scope and average exchange rates    

    Group revenue was €2,305 million in Q3 2024, down -4.4% organically compared with Q3 2023 as expected. Overall, Group revenue in the third quarter reflects softer market conditions and is consistent with the business plan communicated on Sept 2nd.

    Eviden revenue was €1,093 million, down -6.4% organically.

    • Digital activities decreased high single-digit. The business was impacted by the general market slowdown in Americas and Central Europe and previously-established contract scope reductions.
    • Big Data & Security (BDS) revenue was roughly stable organically. In Advanced Computing, stronger activity in Denmark and France was offset by a high comparison basis in the prior year. Revenue in Digital Security slightly decreased, despite the growth of Mission Critical Systems, notably in Central Europe.

    Tech Foundations revenue was €1,212 million, down -2.6% organically.

    • Core revenue (excluding BPO and value-added resale (“VAR”)) decreased low single-digit. Stronger contributions related to the Paris Olympic & Paralympic games were offset by contract terminations in Americas and previously-established contract scope and volume reduction in Northern Europe & APAC.
    • Non-core revenue declined high single-digit during the quarter as expected, reflecting contract completion in BPO activities in the UK.

    Revenue by Regional Business Unit

    In € million Q3 2024
    Revenue    		 Q3 2023
    revenue    		 Q3 2023
    revenue*    		 Organic variation*
    Americas 500 606 558 -10.5%
    Northern Europe & APAC 707 769 757 -6.6%
    Central Europe 544 627 546 -0.4%
    Southern Europe 477 501 480 -0.7%
    Others & Global Structures 76 73 69 +10.1%
    Total 2,305 2,575 2,412 -4.4%
    *at constant scope and average exchange rates    

    Americas revenue decreased by -10.5% on an organic basis, reflecting the current general slowdown in market conditions and previously-established contract terminations and completions.

    • Eviden was down double-digit, impacted by contract terminations and volume decline in Healthcare, Finance, and Transport & Logistics. BDS declined high single-digit due to volume reductions.
    • Tech Foundations revenue declined mid single-digit due to contract completions and terminations as well as scope reductions with select customers.

    Northern Europe & Asia-Pacific revenue decreased by -6.6% on an organic basis.

    • Eviden revenue declined mid-single-digit. A revenue increase at BDS due to new business in Advanced Computing with an innovation center in Denmark was offset by the decline of Digital revenue, reflecting a lower demand from Public Sector customers in the UK.
    • Revenue in Tech Foundations was down high single-digit, with contract completions and volume decline in Public Sector BPO.

    Central Europe revenue was nearly stable at -0.4% on an organic basis.

    • Eviden revenue declined low single-digit, impacted by volume reductions in Digital from Manufacturing and Public Sector customers.
    • Tech Foundations revenue grew mid-single-digit, with strong demand for hardware products.

    Southern Europe revenue was down -0.7% organically.

    • Eviden revenue was roughly flat. Growth in Digital, which benefitting from a contract win with a major European utility company, was offset by lower revenue in BDS compared to Q3 2023, when a supercomputer project was delivered in Spain.
    • Tech Foundations revenue declined low single-digit due to volume reductions with select customers.

    Revenue in Others and Global Structures, which encompass Middle East, Africa, Major Events as well as the Group’s global delivery centers and global structures, grew double-digit reflecting stronger contributions from the Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games and the positive performance of Africa.

    Commercial activity

    Order entry for the Group was €1,526 million. Eviden order entry was €794 million and Tech Foundations order entry was €733 million.

    Book-to-bill ratio for the Group was 66% in Q3 2024, down from 84% in Q3 2023, reflecting softer market conditions and delays in contract awards as clients await the final resolution of the Group’s refinancing plan. This ratio is in line with the book-to-bill ratio for Q3 2023, excluding exceptionally large contract7.

    Book-to-bill ratio at Eviden was 73%. Main contracts signatures during the third quarter included the supply of an HPC to a leading player in the Aerospace sector, another HPC contract signed with a major French utility provider, together with control room utility solutions.

    Book-to-bill ratio at Tech Foundations was 60%, consistent with the seasonality observed in previous years, in particular in Q3 2021 (54%) and in Q3 2022 (58%). Main contracts signatures in the third quarter included several renewals to provide Hybrid Cloud & Infrastructure services in Financial Services, Public Sector, and Manufacturing industries.

    Stronger commercial activity is expected in the coming months in both Eviden and Tech Foundation, which would lead to a significant improvement of the Group book-to-bill ratio in the fourth quarter, as confidence in the Group’s financial sustainability has been restored.

    At the end of September 2024, the full backlog was €14.7 billion representing 1.4 years of revenue. The full qualified pipeline amounted to €5.7 billion at the end of September 2024.

    Human resources

    The total headcount was 82,211 at the end of September 2024, decreasing by -10.3% since the end of June 2024. Following contract completions in Americas and the UK, the Group transferred circa 4,900 employees to the new providers. Excluding these transfers, headcount has decreased by circa -5%.

    During the third quarter, the Group hired 1,839 staff (of which 91% were Direct employees), while attrition rate increased compared with Q2. The attrition rate over the past 9 months is in line with normal historical levels.

    Q3 cash position

    As of September 30, 2024, cash & cash equivalents was €1.1 billion, down €1.2 billion compared with December 31, 2023 primarily reflecting €1.6 billion lower working capital actions compared with the end of fiscal 2023 and €1.1 billion of new borrowings.

    As of September 30, 2024, net debt was €4.6 billion compared with €2.2 billion at the end of last year, reflecting primarily the reduction of working capital optimization down to €265 million.

    Cash consumption was €-3 million in the third quarter, excluding change in working capital optimization of €232 million.

    Full year 2024 outlook

    The Group expects for the full year 2024:

    • Mid-single-digit organic revenue decrease, corresponding to revenue of circa €9.7 billion
    • Operating margin of circa €238 million excluding additional provisions to be booked for some underperforming contracts8
    • Change in cash before debt repayment of circa €-783 million excluding the full unwind of the working capital optimization of circa €1.8 billion as of December 31, 2023.

    Financial restructuring process

    Atos expected to receive today the decision from the Court on its pre-arranged financial restructuring plan.

    Assuming the plan is accepted by the court, the next steps of the financial restructuring process would be as follows:

    November 12 – 22:
    • €233 million rights issue with preferred subscription rights
    Mid to end December:
    • Execution of concomitant reserved capital increases
    End of December 2024 or early 2025
    • Receipt of €1.5bn to €1.7bn of new money debt
    • Closing of the restructuring process

    Asset disposal processes

    The discussions with Alten regarding the sale of the Worldgrid business are progressing well and are on track.

    Following the communication issued on October 7, discussions related to the potential acquisition by the French state of the Advanced Computing, Mission-Critical Systems and Cybersecurity Products businesses of BDS are continuing based on a new proposal compatible with the financial restructuring plan of the Company.

    Governance

    As communicated on October 15, 2024, Philippe Salle has been appointed as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company with immediate effect and as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with effect from February 1, 2025.

    Conference call

    Atos’ Management invites you to a conference call on the Group revenue for the third quarter of 2024, on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 08:00 am (CET – Paris).

    You can join the webcast of the conference:

    • via the following link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/bkriazto
    • by telephone by dial-in, 10 minutes prior the starting time. Please note that if you want to join the webcast by telephone, you must register in advance of the conference using the following link:

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BI8dc47a058ab84cb88b1ba638c295b440

    Upon registration, you will be provided with Participant Dial In Numbers, a Direct Event Passcode and a unique Registrant ID. Call reminders will also be sent via email the day prior to the event.
    During the 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the call, you will need to use the conference access information provided in the email received upon registration.

    After the conference, a replay of the webcast will be available on atos.net, in the Investors section.

    APPENDIX

    9-month organic revenue evolution by RBUs and business lines

    In € million 9-month 2024
    Revenue    		 9 month 2023
    revenue*    		   Organic variation*
    Americas 1,608 1,748   -8.0%
    Northern Europe & APAC 2,249 2,320   -3.0%
    Central Europe 1,621 1,673   -3.1%
    Southern Europe 1,561 1,564   -0.2%
    Others & Global Structures 230 211   +9.1%
    Total 7,268 7,516   -3.3%
    *at constant scope and average exchange rates        
             
             
             
       
    In € million 9-month 2024
    Revenue    		 9-month2023
    revenue*    		   Organic variation*
    Eviden 3,478 3,658   -4.9%
    Tech Foundations 3,790 3,858   -1.8%
    Total 7,268 7,516   -3.3%
    *at constant scope and average exchange rates        

    Q3 2023 Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue is compared with Q3 2023 revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates. Reconciliation between the Q3 2023 reported revenue and the Q3 2023 revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates is presented below.

    In 2023, the Group reviewed the accounting treatment of certain third-party standard software resale transactions following the decision published by ESMA in October 2023 that illustrated the IFRS IC decision and enacted a restrictive position on the assessment of Principal vs. Agent under IFRS 15 for such transactions. The Q3 2023 revenue is therefore restated by €-15 million. The restatement impacted Eviden in the Americas RBU without impacting the operating margin.

    Q3 2023 revenue
    In € million    		 Q3 2023 published Restatement Q3 2023 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q3 2023*
    Eviden 1,217 -15 1,202 -3 -31 -1 1,167
    Tech Foundations 1,373 0 1,373 3 -122 -9 1,244
    Total 2,590 -15 2,575 0 -154 -10 2,412
                   
                   
    Q3 2023 revenue
    In € million    		 Q3 2023 published Restatement Q3 2023 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q3 2023*
    Americas 621 -15 606 0 -34 -13 558
    Norther Europe & APAC 769 0 769 0 -18 7 757
    Central Europe 627 0 627 0 -81 0 546
    Southern Europe 501 0 501 0 -21 0 480
    Others & Global structures 73 0 73 0 0 -3 69
    Total 2,590 -15 2,575 0 -154 -10 2,412

    *: At constant scope and foreign exchange rates

    Scope effects on revenue amounted to €-154 million. They mainly related to the divesture of UCC across all regions, EcoAct in Americas, Southern Europe and Northern Europe & Asia-Pacific, State Street JV in Americas and Elexo in Southern Europe.

    Currency effects negatively contributed to revenue for €-10 million. They mostly came from the depreciation of the American dollar, Argentinian peso, Brazilian real, and Turkish lira, not offset by the appreciation of the British pound.

    ***

    Disclaimer

    This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group’s expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitors’ behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos’s beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos’s plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on May 24, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429 and the half-year report filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on August 6, 2024. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.
    This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos’s shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos’s shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction. This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders’ approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws .

    About Atos

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

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

    Contacts

    Investor relations:
    David Pierre-Kahn | investors@atos.net | +33 6 28 51 45 96
    Sofiane El Amri      | investors@atos.net | +33 6 29 34 85 67

    Individual shareholders: 0805 65 00 75

    Press contact: globalprteam@atos.net

    1 Eviden Q4 organic revenue evolution expected slightly negative and Tech Foundations Q4 revenue expected to decrease double digit on previously established contract completions and terminations
    2 Q4 2023 Eviden book-to-bill of 100%
    3 2021 (54%), 2022 (58%) and 2023 (84% including one large exceptional deal)
    4 Q4 2021-2023 book-to-bill average of 98%
    5 Q3 2023 book-to-bill of 65% excluding one large exceptional deal in Eviden and another one in Tech Foundations
    6 108%
    7 Book-to-bill ratio of 65% in Q3 2023, excluding an exceptionally large contract at Eviden and another at Tech Foundations.
    8 Negotiations are in progress with customers, which could lead to a low double digit % reduction of the operating margin

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisive new step in the completion of the financial restructuring: Atos’ accelerated safeguard plan approved by the specialized Commercial Court of Nanterre

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, France – October 24, 2024 – Atos SE (“Atos” or the “Company”) announces today that, by judgment dated October 24, 2024, the specialized Commercial Court of Nanterre (the “Court”), after having acknowledged, pursuant to the provisions of article L. 626-31 of the French Code de commerce, that all legal conditions had been satisfied, has approved the accelerated safeguard plan of Atos (the “Plan”), presented at the hearing of October 15, 2024.

    Philippe Salle, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Atos, said: “The approval of Atos’ accelerated safeguard plan by the Nanterre Specialized Commercial Court is a decisive step in our financial restructuring process and I would like to thank the entire management team for the remarkable work they have accomplished over the last few months. This important step guarantees the continuity of Atos’ activities in the best interests of our employees and customers, and allows us to project the Group confidently towards a new page in its history.”

    Jean Pierre Mustier, Chief Executive Officer of Atos, said: “Our Group has reached a decisive step, providing sufficient financial resources to successfully complete a new period of industrial development under the leadership of Philippe Salle, with a strong focus of all our teams to provide the best possible service to our customers through innovation and quality of service.”

    The Court has appointed, as practitioner in charge of supervising the implementation of the Plan (commissaire à l’exécution du plan), SELARL AJRS, represented by Maître Thibaut Martinat, for the duration of the Plan.

    In the absence of a suspensory appeal against the judgment approving the Plan, it is envisaged that all the financial restructuring transactions provided for in the Plan will be executed between November 2024 and December 2024/January 20251, subject in particular to the approval by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) of the prospectuses relating to the various securities issues provided for in the Plan.

    As a reminder, the transactions provided under the Plan should lead to, in particular:

    • the equitization of €2.9 billion of financial debt; and
    • the provision to Atos of €1.5 to €1.675 billion of new money debt and the new money equity resulting from the rights issue (up to €233 million) already backstopped in cash by participating bondholders for €75 million and by the creditors participating in the new financings by set off against a portion of their debts for €100 million, as previously communicated and, as the case may be, from the potential voluntary additional subscription in cash by the participating creditors of up to €75 million as part of the Potential Capital Increase as provided in the Plan.

    The main characteristics of the share capital transactions to be implemented as part of the Plan are described in the document entitled “Main terms and conditions of the share capital transactions carried out as part of the Company’s financial restructuring plan” (Principales modalités des opérations sur le capital mises en œuvre dans le cadre du plan de restructuration financière de la Société) published on the Company’s website (section “Financial Restructuring”) on September 6, 2024 and updated on September 16, 2024. These share capital transactions will be covered by prospectuses submitted to the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) for approval.

    The Company will continue to inform the market in due course of the next steps of its financial restructuring.

    ***

    Disclaimer

    This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group’s expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitors’ behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos’s beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos’s plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on May 24, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429 and the half-year report filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on August 6, 2024. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.
    This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos’s shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos’s shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction. This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders’ approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws .

    About Atos

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

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

    Contacts

    Investor relations:
    David Pierre-Kahn | investors@atos.net | +33 6 28 51 45 96
    Sofiane El Amri      | investors@atos.net | +33 6 29 34 85 67

    Individual shareholders: 0805 65 00 75

    Press contact: globalprteam@atos.net

    1 Subject to the required regulatory approvals.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Co-op teams up with Quadient to deliver parcel locker convenience in communities in the UK

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Quadient (Euronext: QDT), a global automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, has partnered with Co-op in the United Kingdom to deliver further parcel locker growth and added convenience to its communities, it has revealed today.

    The partnership to supply Parcel Pending by Quadient lockers to Co-op’s stores, aims to align Co-op’s footprint in the heart of local communities with the continued growth in consumer demand for safe, secure and accessible parcel lockers.

    Parcel Pending by Quadient is a growing network of intelligent lockers used for deliveries and returns from significant carriers, including Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, and UPS, as well as for new services across the UK like convenient key drop-offs with Keynest.

    More than 30 units will initially be installed at Co-op stores, with the potential for this partnership to grow. The first lockers will be seen this month at Co-op stores in Bedford, Bradford, Guildford, Keighley, Liverpool, Stockport, Swinton, and Telford.

    The multicarrier open locker network form part of Co-op’s strategy to develop added services and enhanced convenience – creating a compelling customer offer to ensure its stores are a convenient destination not only for groceries but for a range of services that meet the needs of local communities.

    George Hayworth, Head of Q-Comm Development, Co-op, said: “We are delighted to partner with Quadient. Safe, secure and convenient parcel lockers are one of the ways in which we make things easier and deliver enhanced convenience for our member-owners and customers. With our stores conveniently located in high streets and transport hubs, university campuses and residential developments, parcel lockers can help local residents and time-pressed consumers pick up or return parcels at a time that is convenient to them, quickly, easily and conveniently.”

    Katia Bourgeais-Crémel, Director of Lockers Automation Europe at Quadient said: “We are proud to collaborate with the Co-op to introduce our open lockers in their stores. This partnership enables us to offer Co-op customers a secure and efficient solution for managing parcel deliveries and returns. Our open locker network is accessed by multiple carriers, including Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, and UPS, providing even greater convenience than others in the market. Shoppers can easily collect or return parcels, whether during a grocery run or as part of their daily routine, making the process both simple and seamless.”

    Learn more at parcelpending.com/en-gb. 

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

    Contacts

    Sandy Armstrong, Sterling Kilgore Joe Scolaro, Quadient         
    Director of Media & Communications Global Press Relations Manager
    +1-630-699-8979 +1 203-301-3673
    sarmstrong@sterlingkilgore.com j.scolaro@quadient.com

    About Co-op
    Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates almost 2,400 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 6,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited. Employing 56,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognized leader for its social goals and community-led programs. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in. For more information about the Co-op, visit www.co-op.co.uk

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. Announces Q3-24 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q3-24 Revenue of € 156.6 Million and Net Income of € 46.8 Million Up 27.0% and 33.7%, Respectively, vs. Q3-23
    Orders of € 151.8 Million Up 19.2% vs. Q3-23. Hybrid Bonding Adoption Continues

    YTD-24 Revenue of € 454.1 Million and Net Income of € 122.7 Million
    Orders of € 464.8 Million Up 21.7% vs. YTD-23

    DUIVEN, the Netherlands, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. (the “Company” or “Besi”) (Euronext Amsterdam: BESI; OTC markets: BESIY), a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry, today announced its results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

    Key Highlights Q3-24

    • Revenue of € 156.6 million up 3.6% vs. Q2-24 and 27.0% vs. Q3-23 due to increased demand by computing end user markets for hybrid bonding, photonics and other AI applications partially offset by ongoing weakness in automotive and Chinese end user markets
    • Orders of € 151.8 million up 19.2% vs. Q3-23 due to increased hybrid bonding orders. Down 18.0% vs. Q2-24 due primarily to fluctuations in hybrid bonding order patterns by customers
    • Gross margin of 64.7% decreased by 0.3 points vs. Q2-24 but was up 0.1 point vs. Q3-23. Gross margin development in the comparable periods was adversely affected by net forex influences
    • Net income of € 46.8 million increased 11.7% vs. Q2-24 and 33.7% vs. Q3-23 primarily due to higher revenue levels and cost control efforts which limited baseline operating expense growth. Q3-24 net margin rose to 29.9% vs. 27.7% in Q2-24 and 28.4% reported in Q3-23
    • Net cash of € 110.7 million at quarter-end increased by € 36.3 million (48.8%) vs. Q2-24 and € 20.5 million (22.7%) vs. Q3-23

    Key Highlights YTD-24

    • Revenue of € 454.1 million increased 8.3% vs. YTD-23 principally due to higher demand by computing end user markets, particularly for hybrid bonding and photonics applications and by Taiwanese and Korean subcontractors partially offset by weakness in mobile and automotive markets
    • Orders of € 464.8 million increased 21.7% vs. YTD-23 due to increased demand for hybrid bonding and photonics applications partially offset by lower bookings for automotive and, to a lesser extent, mobile applications and ongoing weakness in Chinese end user markets
    • Gross margin of 65.6% increased by 0.8 points vs. YTD-23 due to more favorable AI advanced packaging product mix
    • Net income of € 122.7 million was approximately equal to YTD-23 as higher revenue and gross margins were offset by higher R&D spending and share-based compensation expense. Besi’s net margin decreased to 27.0% vs. 29.1% in YTD-23

    Q4-24 Outlook

    • Revenue expected to be flat plus or minus 10% vs. the € 156.6 million reported in Q3-24 partially due to shipment delays by a customer for certain hybrid bonding systems scheduled for delivery in Q4-24
    • Gross margin expected to range between 63-65% vs. the 64.7% realized in Q3-24
    • Operating expenses expected to be flat to up 5% vs. the € 46.2 million reported in Q3-24
    (€ millions, except EPS) Q3-
    2024    		 Q2-
    2024    		 Δ Q3-
    2023    		 Δ YTD-
    2024    		 YTD-
    2023    		 Δ
    Revenue 156.6 151.2 +3.6% 123.3 +27.0% 454.1 419.2 +8.3%
    Orders 151.8 185.2 -18.0% 127.3 +19.2% 464.8 381.9 +21.7%
    Gross Margin 64.7% 65.0% -0.3 64.6% +0.1 65.6% 64.8% +0.8
    Operating Income 55.1 49.3 +11.8% 42.7 +29.0% 145.0 147.3 -1.6%
    EBITDA 62.4 56.2 +11.0% 48.9 +27.6% 166.2 166.4 -0.1%
    Net Income* 46.8 41.9 +11.7% 35.0 +33.7% 122.7 122.2 +0.4%
    Net Margin* 29.9% 27.7% +2.2 28.4% +1.5 27.0% 29.1% -2.1
    EPS (basic) 0.59 0.53 +11.3% 0.45 +31.1% 1.56 1.57 -0.6%
    EPS (diluted) 0.59 0.53 +11.3% 0.45 +31.1% 1.55 1.54 +0.6%
    Net Cash and Deposits 110.7 74.4 +48.8% 90.2 +22.7% 110.7 90.2 +22.7%

    * Excluding share-based compensation expense, net income (net margin) would have been € 50.2 million (32.1%), € 48.5 million (32.1%) and € 36.6 million (29.7%) in Q3-24, Q2-24 and Q3-23, respectively and € 148.8 million (32.8%) in YTD-24 vs. € 137.6 million (32.8%) in YTD-23

    Richard W. Blickman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Besi, commented:

    “Besi reported significant growth in revenue, orders and net income in Q3-24 versus the comparable quarter of last year as we continue to benefit from strength in our advanced packaging product portfolio for AI applications despite continued headwinds in mainstream and Chinese assembly equipment markets. For the quarter, revenue of € 156.6 million and orders of € 151.8 million grew by 27.0% and 19.2%, respectively, versus Q3-23 due primarily to strong growth by computing end user markets including hybrid bonding, photonics and other AI applications. Such growth was partially offset by weakness in automotive and Chinese end user markets continuing trends we have experienced this year. Net income of € 46.8 million grew by € 11.8 million, or 33.7%, reflecting a number of favorable trends including increased advanced packaging system revenue, increased gross margins related thereto and better than forecast operating expense levels despite continued growth in R&D spending for next generation hybrid bonding and TCB systems.

    For the first nine months of 2024, revenue of € 454.1 million and orders of € 464.8 million increased by 8.3% and 21.7%, respectively. Growth was due to significantly higher demand by computing end user markets, particularly for AI-related hybrid bonding and photonics applications and from Taiwanese and Korean subcontractors. Net income of € 122.7 million was approximately equal to YTD-23 as higher revenue and gross margins this year were offset by higher R&D spending in support of wafer level assembly development and share-based compensation expense.

    Our financial position improved as well in Q3-24 with net cash increasing to € 110.7 million at quarter-end, an improvement of € 36.3 million (+48.8%) versus Q2-24 and € 20.5 million (+22.7%) versus Q3-23 despite increased share buy-back activity. Total cash and deposits at quarter end grew to € 637.4 million including net proceeds from our Senior Note offering in July 2024 which positions us favorably for anticipated growth in the next market upcycle.

    During Q3-24, Besi continued to receive substantial orders for hybrid bonding systems from existing and new customers. At quarter-end, total revenue producing hybrid bonding orders since 2021 exceeded 100 systems highlighting the importance of this new technology for 3-D AI-related assembly applications. We anticipate additional orders in Q4-24 from a variety of customers as adoption continues to expand globally. We have also received increased interest for Besi’s TCB Next system from leading logic and memory customers which positions us favorably for anticipated growth in next generation 2.5D and HBM applications.

    As such, we have taken steps recently to expand our advanced packaging production capacity in anticipation of future growth. In 2025, we intend to approximately double the cleanroom capacity of our Malaysian production facilities and increase R&D and process development for our hybrid bonding and thermo compression bonding capabilities and customer support at our Singapore facility.

    Looking forward to Q4-24, we expect expanded adoption for hybrid bonding applications to be mitigated by ongoing weakness in mainstream assembly markets. For Q4-24, we forecast that revenue will be flat plus or minus 10% versus Q3-24 partially due to shipment delays by a customer for certain hybrid bonding systems scheduled for delivery in Q4-24. In addition, gross margins are anticipated to range between 63-65% based on our projected product mix. Aggregate operating expenses are forecast to be flat to up 5% versus Q3-24.”

    Share Repurchase Activity

    During the quarter, Besi repurchased approximately 230,000 of its ordinary shares at an average price of € 120.45 per share or a total of € 27.8 million. In August 2024, Besi completed its prior € 60 million share repurchase program and initiated a new € 100 million share repurchase program with an anticipated completion date of October 2025. Cumulatively, as of September 30, 2024, a total of € 7.0 million has been purchased under the new share repurchase program at an average price of € 110.55 per share. As of September 30, 2024, Besi held approximately 1.6 million shares in treasury equal to 2.0% of its shares outstanding.

    Investor and media conference call
    A conference call and webcast for investors and media will be held today at 4:00 pm CET (10:00 am EDT). To register for the conference call and/or to access the audio webcast and webinar slides, please visit www.besi.com.
       
    Important Dates  
    •  Publication Q4/Full year 2024 results February 20, 2025
    •  Publication Q1-2025 results April 23, 2025
    •  Besi’s 2025 AGM April 23, 2025
       

    Basis of Presentation

    The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as adopted by the European Union. Reference is made to the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as included in our 2023 Annual Report, which is available on www.besi.com.

    Contacts:

    Richard W. Blickman, President & CEO
    Andrea Kopp-Battaglia, Senior Vice President Finance        
    Claudia Vissers, Executive Secretary/IR coordinator
    Edmond Franco, VP Corporate Development/US IR coordinator

    Tel. (31) 26 319 4500                
    investor.relations@besi.com   

    About Besi

    Besi is a leading supplier of semiconductor assembly equipment for the global semiconductor and electronics industries offering high levels of accuracy, productivity and reliability at a low cost of ownership. The Company develops leading edge assembly processes and equipment for leadframe, substrate and wafer level packaging applications in a wide range of end-user markets including electronics, mobile internet, cloud server, computing, automotive, industrial, LED and solar energy. Customers are primarily leading semiconductor manufacturers, assembly subcontractors and electronics and industrial companies. Besi’s ordinary shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (symbol: BESI). Its Level 1 ADRs are listed on the OTC markets (symbol: BESIY) and its headquarters are located in Duiven, the Netherlands. For more information, please visit our website at www.besi.com.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements about management’s future expectations, plans and prospects of our business that constitute forward-looking statements, which are found in various places throughout the press release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to expectations of orders, net sales, product shipments, expenses, timing of purchases of assembly equipment by customers, gross margins, operating results and capital expenditures. The use of words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “can”, “intend”, “believes”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “project”, “forecast”, “will”, “would”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The financial guidance set forth under the heading “Outlook” contains such forward-looking statements. While these forward-looking statements represent our judgments and expectations concerning the development of our business, a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors could cause actual developments and results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, including any inability to maintain continued demand for our products; failure of anticipated orders to materialize or postponement or cancellation of orders, generally without charges; the volatility in the demand for semiconductors and our products and services; the extent and duration of the COVID-19 and other global pandemics and the associated adverse impacts on the global economy, financial markets, global supply chains and our operations as well as those of our customers and suppliers; failure to develop new and enhanced products and introduce them at competitive price levels; failure to adequately decrease costs and expenses as revenues decline; loss of significant customers, including through industry consolidation or the emergence of industry alliances; lengthening of the sales cycle; acts of terrorism and violence; disruption or failure of our information technology systems; consolidation activity and industry alliances in the semiconductor industry that may result in further increased customer concentration, inability to forecast demand and inventory levels for our products; the integrity of product pricing and protection of our intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions; risks, such as changes in trade regulations, conflict minerals regulations, currency fluctuations, political instability and war, associated with substantial foreign customers, suppliers and foreign manufacturing operations, particularly to the extent occurring in the Asia Pacific region where we have a substantial portion of our production facilities; potential instability in foreign capital markets; the risk of failure to successfully manage our diverse operations; any inability to attract and retain skilled personnel, including as a result of restrictions on immigration, travel or the availability of visas for skilled technology workers; those additional risk factors set forth in Besi’s annual report for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other key factors that could adversely affect our businesses and financial performance contained in our filings and reports, including our statutory consolidated statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    (€ thousands, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)    		 Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)
      2024 2023 2024 2023
             
    Revenue 156,570 123,320 454,060 419,227
    Cost of sales 55,325 43,709 156,276 147,374
             
    Gross profit 101,245 79,611 297,784 271,853
             
    Selling, general and administrative expenses 27,318 23,310 97,473 81,679
    Research and development expenses 18,874 13,614 55,296 42,907
             
    Total operating expenses 46,192 36,924 152,769 124,586
             
    Operating income 55,053 42,687 145,015 147,267
             
    Financial expense, net 1,560 1,758 3,194 4,974
             
    Income before taxes 53,493 40,929 141,821 142,293
             
    Income tax expense 6,719 5,889 19,123 20,104
             
    Net income 46,774 35,040 122,698 122,189
             
    Net income per share – basic 0.59 0.45 1.56 1.57
    Net income per share – diluted 0.59 0.45 1.55 1.54
             
    Number of shares used in computing per share amounts:        
    – basic 79,630,787 77,374,933 78,701,287 77,656,542
    – diluted1 81,876,505 82,444,358 81,978,112 83,038,212

    ______________________
    1) The calculation of diluted income per share assumes the exercise of equity settled share based payments and the conversion of all Convertible Notes outstanding

    Consolidated Balance Sheets

    (€ thousands) September
    30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 June
    30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 March
    31, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 December
    31, 2023
    (audited)
    ASSETS        
             
    Cash and cash equivalents 307,448 127,234 232,053 188,477
    Deposits 330,000 130,000 215,000 225,000
    Trade receivables 169,266 174,601 150,192 143,218
    Inventories 104,103 99,291 99,384 92,505
    Other current assets 44,731 36,346 34,756 39,092
             
    Total current assets 955,548 567,472 731,385 688,292
             
    Property, plant and equipment 44,220 43,571 41,328 37,516
    Right of use assets 16,419 16,821 16,901 18,242
    Goodwill 45,278 45,710 45,613 45,402
    Other intangible assets 94,855 92,627 90,241 93,668
    Deferred tax assets 8,610 9,517 11,444 12,217
    Other non-current assets 1,316 1,239 1,252 1,216
             
    Total non-current assets 210,698 209,485 206,779 208,261
             
    Total assets 1,166,246 776,957 938,164 896,553
             
             
    Current portion of long-term debt 2,241 3,033 984 3,144
    Trade payables 49,211 51,620 52,382 46,889
    Other current liabilities 87,739 73,023 100,606 87,200
             
    Total current liabilities 139,191 127,676 153,972 137,233
             
    Long-term debt 524,527 179,801 265,142 297,353
    Lease liabilities 13,033 13,448 13,625 14,924
    Deferred tax liabilities 11,619 10,396 12,136 12,959
    Other non-current liabilities 12,449 11,352 12,914 12,671
             
    Total non-current liabilities 561,628 214,997 303,817 337,907
             
    Total equity 465,427 434,284 480,375 421,413
             
    Total liabilities and equity 1,166,246 776,957 938,164 896,553

     

    Consolidated Cash Flow Statements

    (€ thousands) Three Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)    		 Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)
      2024 2023 2024 2023
             
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Income before income tax 53,493 40,929 141,821 142,293
             
    Depreciation and amortization 7,388 6,248 21,181 19,155
    Share based payment expense 3,400 1,575 27,216 16,300
    Financial expense, net 1,560 1,758 3,194 4,974
             
    Changes in working capital 6,031 15,697 (43,914) (2,581)
    Interest (paid) received (1,996) (2,649) (19,513) (27,948)
    Income tax paid 2,156 1,582 7,218 3,075
             
    Net cash provided by operating activities 72,032 65,140 137,203 155,268
             
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Capital expenditures (2,099) (1,990) (10,965) (5,448)
    Capitalized development expenses (4,415) (4,700) (13,990) (15,341)
    Repayments of (investments in) deposits (200,000) – (105,000) (5,268)
             
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (206,514) (6,690) (129,955) (26,057)
             
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from notes 350,000 – 350,000 –
    Transaction costs related to notes (6,395) – (6,395) –
    Payments of lease liabilities (1,080) (995) (3,186) (3,207)
    Purchase of treasury shares (27,829) (45,537) (57,418) (190,264)
    Dividends paid to shareholders – – (171,534) (222,109)
             
    Net cash used in financing activities 314,696 (46,532) 111,467 (415,580)
             
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 180,214 11,918 118,715 (286,369)
    Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and
    cash equivalents    		 – 130 256 (292)
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the
    period    		 127,234 192,977 188,477 491,686
             
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 307,448 205,025 307,448 205,025

      

    Supplemental Information (unaudited)
    (€ millions, unless stated otherwise)

    REVENUE Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Per geography:                            
    China 45.5 29% 57.5 38% 58.5 40% 62.0 39% 40.8 33% 64.9 40% 37.6 28%
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 51.6 33% 54.1 36% 43.6 30% 57.9 36% 42.3 34% 59.2 36% 58.2 44%
    EU / USA / Other 59.5 38% 39.6 26% 44.2 30% 39.7 25% 40.2 33% 38.4 24% 37.6 28%
                                 
    Total 156.6 100% 151.2 100% 146.3 100% 159.6 100% 123.3 100% 162.5 100% 133.4 100%
                                 
    ORDERS Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Per geography:                            
    China 45.4 30% 43.3 23% 51.1 40% 71.1 43% 46.0 36% 51.4 46% 35.5 25%
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 69.3 46% 72.0 39% 45.0 35% 36.6 22% 40.9 32% 33.2 29% 71.3 50%
    EU / USA / Other 37.1 24% 69.9 38% 31.6 25% 58.7 35% 40.4 32% 28.0 25% 35.2 25%
                                 
    Total 151.8 100% 185.2 100% 127.7 100% 166.4 100% 127.3 100% 112.6 100% 142.0 100%
                                 
    Per customer type:                            
    IDM 84.5 56% 122.4 66% 53.5 42% 82.7 50% 70.5 55% 60.5 54% 74.0 52%
    Subcontractors 67.3 44% 62.8 34% 74.2 58% 83.7 50% 56.8 45% 52.1 46% 68.0 48%
                                 
    Total 151.8 100% 185.2 100% 127.7 100% 166.4 100% 127.3 100% 112.6 100% 142.0 100%
                                 
    HEADCOUNT Sep 30, 2024 Jun 30, 2024 Mar 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Sep 30, 2023 Jun 30, 2023 Mar 31, 2023
                                 
    Fixed staff (FTE) 1,807 87% 1,783 86% 1,760 88% 1,736 93% 1,725 87% 1,689 86% 1,682 84%
    Temporary staff (FTE) 271 13% 279 14% 236 12% 134 7% 248 13% 279 14% 312 16%
                                 
    Total 2,078 100% 2,062 100% 1,996 100% 1,870 100% 1,973 100% 1,968 100% 1,994 100%
                                 
    OTHER FINANCIAL DATA Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Gross profit 101.2 64.7% 98.3 65.0% 98.3 67.2% 103.9 65.1% 79.6 64.6% 106.6 65.6% 85.7 64.2%
                                 
                                 
    Selling, general and admin expenses:                            
    As reported 27.3 17.4% 30.5 20.2% 39.6 27.1% 24.3 15.2% 23.3 18.9% 29.4 18.1% 29.0 21.7%
    Share-based compensation expense (3.4) -2.1% (6.9) -4.6% (16.9) -11.6% (2.8) -1.7% (1.6) -1.3% (5.5) -3.4% (9.3) -7.0%
                                 
    SG&A expenses as adjusted 23.9 15.3% 23.6 15.6% 22.7 15.5% 21.5 13.5% 21.7 17.6% 23.9 14.7% 19.7 14.8%
                                 
                                 
    Research and development expenses:                            
    As reported 18.9 12.1% 18.5 12.2% 17.9 12.2% 13.5 8.5% 13.6 11.0% 14.3 8.8% 15.0 11.2%
    Capitalization of R&D charges 4.4 2.8% 4.9 3.2% 4.7 3.2% 5.7 3.6% 4.7 3.8% 5.3 3.3% 5.4 4.0%
    Amortization of intangibles (3.9) -2.5% (3.6) -2.3% (3.6) -2.4% (3.3) -2.1% (3.3) -2.6% (3.5) -2.2% (3.5) -2.6%
                                 
    R&D expenses as adjusted 19.4 12.4% 19.8 13.1% 19.0 13.0% 15.9 10.0% 15.0 12.2% 16.1 9.9% 16.9 12.7%
                                 
                                 
    Financial expense (income), net:                            
    Interest income (5.2)   (3.0)   (4.0)   (3.6)   (2.9)   (3.1)   (2.6)  
    Interest expense 5.7   2.1   2.8   3.0   2.8   2.9   2.9  
    Net cost of hedging 1.9   1.4   1.6   1.7   1.7   2.0   1.6  
    Foreign exchange effects, net (0.8)   0.5   0.2   (0.4)   0.2   (0.1)   (0.4)  
                                 
    Total 1.6   1.0   0.6   0.7   1.8   1.7   1.5  
                                 
    Gross cash 637.4   257.2   447.1   413.5   391.2   378.3   644.9  
                                 
                                 
    Operating income (as % of net sales) 55.1 35.2% 49.3 32.6% 40.7 27.8% 66.1 41.4% 42.7 34.6% 62.9 38.7% 41.7 31.3%
                                 
    EBITDA (as % of net sales) 62.4 39.8% 56.2 37.2% 47.5 32.5% 72.7 45.6% 48.9 39.7% 69.3 42.6% 48.2 36.1%
                                 
    Net income (as % of net sales) 46.8 29.9% 41.9 27.7% 34.0 23.2% 54.9 34.4% 35.0 28.4% 52.6 32.4% 34.5 25.9%
                                 
    Effective tax rate 12.6%   13.0%   15.3%   16.1%   14.4%   14.0%   14.0%  
                                 
                                 
    Income per share                            
    Basic 0.59   0.53   0.44   0.71   0.45   0.68   0.44  
    Diluted 0.59   0.53   0.44   0.68   0.45   0.66   0.44  
                                 
    Average shares outstanding (basic) 79,630,787 79,281,533 77,181,326 77,070,082 77,374,933 77,634,197 77,946,873
                                 
    Shares repurchased                            
    Amount 27.8   14.8   14.8   23.1   45.5   66.9   77.7  
    Number of shares 230,807 105,042 101,049 226,572 447,829 761,937 1,120,327
                                 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the internship of Russian specialists in Belarus have been summed up

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The final part of the internship of Russian specialists in the Republic of Belarus took place in Minsk and facilities close to the country’s capital.

    On October 21, members of the Russian delegation took part in a contact exchange with companies representing businesses and potential B2B partners from Belarus. The event was opened by the Director of the Federal Resource Center, Alexey Bunkin. The head of the Rossotrudnichestvo representative office in the Republic of Belarus, Yury Makushin, also addressed the Russian and Belarusian participants with an opening speech.

    During the event, the current state of foreign trade relations between Russia and Belarus, promising export and import directions, the peculiarities of local buyers’ perception of Russian products, issues of certification, logistics and mutual settlements were discussed, and numerous personal meetings, conversations and exchange of contacts took place.

    Then a visit to the office of the Free Economic Zone “Minsk” took place. The deputy head of the FEZ administration spoke in detail about its functioning, features in comparison with other zones, answered questions from members of the Russian delegation.

    Next, the internship participants visited the production facilities of ZAPAGROMASH LLC, the CIS leader in the production of agricultural machinery, including for feeding and keeping cattle, and Minsk Tractor Plant OJSC, the oldest enterprise in the republic and the largest manufacturer of agricultural machinery.

    During the visits, the delegation members learned about the history of the companies, examined samples of manufactured equipment and a number of production shops, including assembly shops, and discussed issues of interest to them with the management of the enterprises, with special attention paid to the topic of ensuring social security for workers.

    In the evening of the same day, Alexey Bunkin held a briefing with the internship participants, during which the results of the work were summed up, the achieved results were presented, and the prospects for the development of subsequent similar projects were discussed.

    On the final day of the internship, October 22, the delegation visited the Great Stone Industrial Park. They were given a thorough introduction to the history of the park’s creation and its present day, had a dialogue with the deputy head of the administration with answers to numerous questions, and toured the territory.

    The Russian delegation then moved to the building of the Belarusian State University of Economics and took part in a session on business education as part of the Second Forum of the Scientific and Educational Consortium “Eurasian Network University”, held by the State University of Management. Leading specialists from a number of consulting companies in the Republic of Belarus spoke to the internship participants.

    Also in the BGEU building, the vice-rector of the State University of Management Dmitry Bryukhanov and Alexey Bunkin presented certificates of advanced training in the program “Economic cooperation in the agro-industrial complex” to the participants of the Presidential program for training management personnel.

    The business program of the internship of Russian specialists in Minsk ended in the same place where it began – in the building of the Trade Mission of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Belarus. The meeting was attended by the representative of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Belarus Ilya Fedorov, the head of the department for promoting direct foreign investment and import substitution of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic of Belarus Anastasia Dedyulya, the head of the production and marketing department of the KUP “Myasomolprom” of the Minsk Regional Executive Committee Tatyana Volozgina, a number of heads of commercial and manufacturing enterprises from the agro-industrial complex.

    The Russian and Belarusian participants once again considered possible areas and prospects for cooperation, and exchanged contacts for further interaction. Moreover, the discussion was based on information and experience gained during their stay in Belarus.

    The results of the intensive practice-oriented internship of Russian specialists in Belarus were familiarization with successful examples of entrepreneurship, establishment of contacts with both representatives of local businesses and Russian representative bodies that ensure the state interests of Russia in the sphere of foreign economic activity in Belarus.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/24/2024

    Internships for Russian specialists in the Republic of Belarus took place in Minsk and facilities close to the country’s capital.

    On October 21, members of the Russian delegation took part in a contact exchange with companies representing businesses and potential B2B partners from Belarus….

    ” data-yashareImage=”https://guu.ru/wp-content/uploads/Беларусь-2024-1.jpg” data-yashareLink=”https://guu.ru/%d0%bf%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b2%d0%b5%d0%b4%d0%b5%d0%bd%d1%8b-%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%be%d0%b3%d0%b8-%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b0%d0%b6%d0%b8%d1%80%d0%be%d0%b2%d0%ba%d0%b8-%d1%80%d0%be%d1%81%d1%81%d0%b8%d0%b9%d1%81%d0%ba/”>

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI: eQ Community Properties Fund renewed loans in excess of EUR 400 million – Deutsche Bank as a new lender

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    24 October 2024 10:30 am

    eQ Community Properties Fund (AIF) has entered into a EUR 154 million senior secured loan arrangement with Deutsche Bank AG. The collateral portfolio consists of community and healthcare assets in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area and Tampere.

    In June, the fund also extended a EUR 253 million senior secured loan facility with its current lenders Nordea Bank, Danske Bank, Swedbank and Aktia.

    Through the recent successful arrangements, the Fund has broadened and strengthened its lender base, secured a long-term financing as well as extended its loan maturities and fixed interest periods.

    Head of Real Estate Investments at eQ, Tero Estovirta says: “We are very pleased to have an international and prominent financier, Deutsche Bank, as a new lender in eQ Community Properties Fund. We have worked for a long time and systematically to obtain international debt financing and Deutsche Bank has been one of the most interesting ones already for a while. It is great to have now initiated our cooperation. Generally, financiers have shown strong interest and trust towards Finnish real estate and open-ended funds. Access to debt has clearly improved as interest rate levels decrease. It is possible to reach cost-effective and sustainable financing solutions. All the lenders of eQ Community Properties Fund are leading players in the market and together with our latest addition, Deutsche Bank, they facilitate a strong financing platform for the future. We thank all our lenders for pragmatic and solution-orientated processes.”

    eQ Community Properties Fund (AIF) was established in 2012. The market value of the fund’s property portfolio is EUR 1.75 billion as per September 2024. The fund is the largest community properties investor and developer in Finland. The assets are located in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area and selected growth centres in Finland.

    Helsinki 24 October 2024

    eQ Asset Management Ltd

    Further information:
    Tero Estovirta, Head of Real Estate Investments, eQ Asset Management Ltd
    +358 50 593 6194 / tero.estovirta@eQ.fi

    eQ Group is a group of companies that concentrates on asset management and corporate finance business. eQ Asset Management offers a wide range of asset management services (including private equity funds and real estate asset management) for institutions and private individuals. The assets managed by the Group total approximately EUR 13.3 billion. Advium Corporate Finance, which is part of the Group, offers services related to mergers and acquisitions, real estate transactions and equity capital markets.

    More information about the Group is available on our website www.eQ.fi.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Get Ready to Trade & Treat: BTCC Exchange Kicks Off Hauntingly Good Halloween Futures Trading Campaign

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the Halloween season approaches, BTCC Exchange is excited to announce its Halloween Futures Trading Campaign, inviting users to enter a thrilling crypto haunted dungeon where they can unlock treats worth up to 1,830,000 USDT. This campaign, running until November 1, 2024, promises a hauntingly good time for both seasoned traders and newcomers alike.

    This year, BTCC is offering three enticing treats for participants. The first treat allows users to trade futures and share in a 1,000,000 USDT prize pool. For every 10,000 USDT in futures trading volume, traders will earn 1 USDT in trading funds. There’s no limit to how much can be collected, but users must act quickly as the prize pool rewards will be given out on a first-come first-served basis.

    New traders will find their own special treat with a 3,000 USDT prize pool specifically designed for those who haven’t yet ventured into futures trading on BTCC. The first 1,000 participants to complete a futures trade exceeding 1,000 USDT will receive a 3 USDT coupon.

    Additionally, BTCC is offering free position vouchers of up to 700,000 USDT for users who complete consecutive daily trades. The first 1,000 users to meet the requirements will unlock these rewards.

    “Market sentiment has been buzzing with anticipation for a bull run since we entered ‘Uptober’,” said Alex, Head of Operations at BTCC. “With the upcoming U.S. election potentially adding fuel to crypto prices, this campaign arrives just in time for users to take advantage of the uptrend and profit from it.”

    Alongside the Halloween trading campaign, BTCC recently reduced its futures trading fees from just 0.01% for a limited period. Coupled with the potential to trade futures with up to 500x leverage, users can maximize their strategies while minimizing costs. This not only empowers both traders to capitalize on market movements but also elevates their chances of profiting during this Halloween season.

    About BTCC

    BTCC is a leading exchange that provides traders with a safe and secure platform to trade cryptocurrencies. With a commitment to user satisfaction, BTCC continues to explore new ways to enhance the trading experience for users around the globe.

    Website: https://www.btcc.com    

    X: https://x.com/BTCCexchange

    Contact: press@btcc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government opens applications for £100,000 interim payment to the estates of victims of Infected Blood Scandal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Estates of people who died as a result of the Infected Blood Scandal can now apply to receive an interim payment of £100,000, in advance of a comprehensive compensation scheme.

    Infected Blood Compensation Scheme: UK Government Update – 24 October 2024

    The estates of people who died as a result of the Infected Blood Scandal can now apply to receive an interim payment of £100,000 from today. This is the first time this group has ever received compensation. 

    Personal representatives of a deceased person’s estate, including partners, parents, siblings and children, are urged to apply by completing a form on gov.uk. 

    Applications will be processed by the Infected Blood Support Schemes, which will administer the payments.

    This interim payment comes in advance of a comprehensive, government-funded compensation scheme for infected and affected victims of infected blood.

    The compensation scheme is UK-wide and will be delivered by the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA), an independent arm’s length body led by Sir Robert Francis KC. The scheme was established in law in August and expects to make payments by the end of this year.

    Today’s announcement marks the first time that this group of the infected blood community has ever received compensation.

    It also fulfils the commitment placed on government by the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 and helps deliver on Recommendation 12 of the Infected Blood Inquiry’s Second Interim Report, which recommended that “an interim payment of £100,000 should be paid to recognise the deaths of people who, to date, hadn’t been recognised.” 

    Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office, the Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, said:

    “I hope that today is seen as another important milestone for victims and campaigners who have waited far too long for justice.

    “We are committed to acting on the recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry and these payments are an important step forward in providing substantial compensation to the families of victims of infected blood.

    “No amount of compensation can fully address the suffering as a result of this scandal, but we are doing everything possible to deliver life-changing sums to people infected and affected.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ocean Maid report and flyer published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Grounding and subsequent loss of a stern trawler on Cairnbulg Point, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

    Image courtesy of Alex Young and www.marinetraffic.com

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the grounding of the stern trawler Ocean Maid (BA 55) on Cairnbulg Point near the port of Fraserburgh, Scotland on 24 October 2022. The vessel later broke up and sank.

    The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations.

    A safety flyer to the fishing industry has also been produced with this report.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

    Media enquiries during office hours 01932 440015

    Media enquiries out of hours 0300 7777878

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Polio Day: MHRA trains worldwide laboratories in early detection of polio using breakthrough advanced technology

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is highlighting our work training multiple World Health Organisation (WHO) polio laboratories around the world.

    Today, World Polio Day, 24 October 2024, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is highlighting our work training multiple World Health Organisation (WHO) polio laboratories around the world using an advanced molecular direct detection method that can halve detection times – supporting the global effort to eradicate polio and helping save lives.

    In collaboration with Imperial College London, the University of Edinburgh, Biosurv International and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, we have trained 25 countries in just over one year on the use of a technique called Direct Detection by Nanopore Sequencing (DDNS). This method can speed up the detection of polio outbreaks, saving public health authorities crucial time and money. This includes training laboratories in Pakistan, one of the last two countries where polio remains endemic, with the number of cases increasing this year.

    It is vitally important to detect polio early, as the infection moves rapidly within a population. By the time the first signs of polio appear in a country, many hundreds of people are typically already infected and can unknowingly pass on the virus to others who may not be fully vaccinated and protected. The virus – most commonly transmitted through contact with infected faeces via contaminated food and water – multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and cause paralysis.

    Training worldwide in-country laboratories in rapid detection – using the DDNS method –enables samples to be tested in the country where the outbreak originated, rather than being sent to specialist laboratories abroad. This means the costs and delays of transport and testing can be reduced from an average of 42 days to an average of 19 days – a time saving that saves lives.

    A study published in Nature Microbiology last year, showed that our research, jointly conducted with partners, using the DDNS method to detect polio outbreaks can halve the detection time. This research indicated that DDNS tests done locally, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, over a six-month period were an average of 23 days faster than the standard method, with over 99% accuracy.

    Training laboratories in the DDNS method takes one to two weeks and is carried out by scientists from the MHRA, as well as colleagues from Imperial College London. It involves a combination of theoretical and practical sessions covering all aspects of the DDNS method from sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing, analysis and interpretation of results.

    The training also encompasses methodological troubleshooting and utility of the detailed quality assurance programme associated with the method. The University of Edinburgh provides the bioinformatics expertise and have created purpose-designed analytical software to process the sequencing data produced by the method. Biosurv International support supply chains and participate in training and quality control review of data. 

    Javier Martin, Principal Scientist in Virology at the MHRA said:

    This worldwide training in the DDNS method for rapid detection of polio is a key strand in the global fight to eradicate polio, alongside vaccination programmes.

    Carrying out this work with our partners, which is the result of years of research, plays an essential part in managing outbreaks that threaten the global eradication effort and will help make polio a disease of the past.

    We are already initiating collaboration with laboratories in Africa training them to monitor different virus threats, such as Hepatitis E. The potential use of this faster detection technique has almost limitless possibilities for the protection of global health.

    Dr Alex Shaw, Research Fellow in the School of Public Health at Imperial College London talked about the potential that this DDNS method has for use with other diseases:

    The WHO has identified delays in detection as one of the major challenges facing their Polio eradication strategy 2022–2026. Training 25 countries in the past year to detect polio faster allows us to identify where outbreaks are and which polio strain is present much more quickly, allowing us to act at the earliest opportunity.

    This advanced sequencing technology is not only being used to strengthen poliovirus surveillance but is also easily adapted for the detection of other organisms. The worldwide training programme will, therefore, provide a foundation of skills and experience that can be redirected to the genomic surveillance of other pathogens, as needed.

    The most recent laboratory training programme was conducted in Angola and Tanzania and included scientists from Angola, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eritrea, Malawi and Rwanda. We conducted training at the MHRA South Mimms site for European laboratories in June 2024 (Germany, France, Finland, Netherlands, Italy and Ukraine).

    Scientists at the MHRA and their partners will continue to support the testing and validation of DDNS as a polio detection technique and to train WHO laboratories around the world in how to use it. We will travel to Thailand in mid-November 2024 to train scientists from Thailand, India and Indonesia. Additional training activities and implementation visits are planned for 2025 onwards.

    Notes to editors 

    1. The ‘Sensitive poliovirus detection using nested PCR and nanopore sequencing: a prospective validation study’ was published in August 2023 in Nature Microbiology. The research was jointly conducted by researchers at the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale in Kinshasa who implemented DDNS in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the detection of polio outbreaks in collaboration with the MHRA, Imperial College London, the University of Edinburgh and various laboratories of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Polio Laboratory Network (GPLN), with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
    2. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
    3. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 

    For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AAIB Report: Boeing 737-8K5, G-TAWD, 20 October 2023

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Lateral runway excursion, Leeds Bradford Airport, 20 October 2023

    Aircraft final position

    After touching down at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in stormy weather, the aircraft began to yaw left of the runway centreline. When the pilot flying increased the right rudder input to correct the deviation, both pilots reported feeling a significant judder from the nose gear. This prompted the pilot flying to reduce the right rudder input and, although there were repeated brief right pedal inputs, the aircraft continued to deviate from the centreline and left the runway. The aircraft sustained minor damage and there were no injuries.

    The investigation found that one of the aircraft’s nosewheel bearings had suffered a catastrophic failure, likely during the rollout at LBA. The resultant juddering was unexpected, and the crew were uncertain as to its impact. However, the investigation found that there was in fact no mechanical impediment to the use of additional rudder and braking to prevent the runway excursion.

    Read the report.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Agricultural Census Statistics, June 2024

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication

    The June Agricultural Census 2024 shows a drop in the numbers of livestock in Scotland with the long-term trend in declining cattle numbers continuing.

    In 2024, there were 1.67 million cattle, a decrease of 2.4% when compared with the five year average (2019-2023) and a decrease of 0.9% when compared with 2023. Other livestock results show that the total number of sheep decreased by 3.8% to 6.47 million and the total number of pigs decreased by 6.5% to 315,500 pigs.

    The area of land used for growing cereals (wheat, barley, oats and other cereals) decreased by 0.8% compared with the five year average following a mixed year in 2024. The area used to grow winter crops (wheat, winter barley and winter oats) decreased. Spring planted crops (spring barley and spring oats) increased when compared with the five year average due to an increase in the area used to grow spring barley.

    The agricultural census also showed that the total workforce on agricultural holdings in Scotland increased by 0.5% to 67,400 people in 2024 when compared with the five year average.

    Background

    The June Agricultural Census provides an annual update on trends in agricultural activity across the country. It covers all main types of farming and the number of people working on agricultural holdings in Scotland. The agricultural census in 2024 also included questions on slurry destination and agricultural machinery.

    The full statistical publication is available on the Scottish Government website. 

    Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi urges China, India to facilitate each other’s pursuit of development aspirations

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged China and India to strengthen communication and cooperation, enhance strategic mutual trust, and facilitate each other’s pursuit of development aspirations.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit.

    Xi pointed out that as time-honored civilizations, large developing countries and important members of the Global South, China and India both stand at a crucial phase of their respective modernization endeavors.

    It is in the fundamental interest of the two countries and two peoples to keep to the trend of history and the right direction of bilateral relations, he said, urging the two sides to shoulder their international responsibility, set an example in boosting the strength and unity of developing countries, and contribute to promoting a multipolar world and greater democracy in international relations.

    Xi stressed that China-India relations are essentially a question of how the two large developing countries and neighbors, each with a 1.4-billion-strong population, treat each other.

    Development is now the biggest shared goal of China and India, he said, noting that the two sides should continue to uphold their important understandings, including that China and India are each other’s development opportunity rather than threat, and cooperation partner rather than competitor.

    He also urged the two countries to maintain a sound strategic perception of each other, and work together to find the right and bright path for big, neighboring countries to live in harmony and develop side by side.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Modi, for his part, noted that maintaining the steady growth of India-China relations is critical to the two countries and peoples. It not only concerns the well-being and future of 2.8 billion people, but also carries great significance for peace and stability of the region and even the world at large, he added.

    Against a complex international landscape, cooperation between India and China, two ancient civilizations and engines of economic growth, can help drive economic recovery and promote multipolarity in the world, Modi said.

    He said that India is willing to strengthen strategic communication, enhance strategic mutual trust, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation with China.

    India will give every support for China’s Shanghai Cooperation Organization presidency and strengthen communication and cooperation with China in BRICS and other multilateral frameworks, he added.

    The two leaders commended the important progress the two sides had recently made through intensive communication on resolving the relevant issues in the border areas. Modi made suggestions on improving and developing the relationship, which Xi agreed to in principle.

    The two sides agreed to make good use of the Special Representatives mechanism on the China-India boundary question, ensure peace and tranquility in the border areas, and find a fair and reasonable settlement.

    The two sides agreed on holding talks between their foreign ministers and officials at various levels to bring the relationship back to sound and steady development at an early date.

    The two sides agreed to strengthen communication and cooperation in multilateral fora to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

    The two sides were of the view that this meeting is constructive and carries great significance. They agreed to view and handle China-India relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, prevent specific disagreements from affecting the overall relationship, and contribute to maintaining regional and global peace and prosperity and to advancing multipolarity in the world.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: BRICS leaders adopt joint declaration

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Leaders of BRICS countries pose for a group photo during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024. The summit was hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, and attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (via video conference), Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BRICS leaders have issued a joint declaration covering a wide range of issues from the reform of the United Nations (UN) to ongoing global conflicts, following the association’s summit that took place on Wednesday in Kazan.

    The declaration included 134 provisions in total, one of which addressed the reform of the UN.

    “We reaffirm our support for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, with a view to making it more democratic, representative, effective and efficient,” the document read. This involves expanding the representation of developing countries to better respond to global challenges.

    In addition, leaders reiterated their absolute condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and called for the prompt adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN.

    Alongside essential reforms, BRICS members called for the UN to play an important role in the global governance of artificial intelligence.

    The declaration also focused on global conflicts including those in the Middle East and Ukraine.

    “We remain concerned about at the rise of violence and continuing armed conflicts in different parts of the world,” the declaration read. BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to resolving dispute peacefully through diplomacy.

    Leaders expressed deep concern about the ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip and called for an immediate ceasefire and a cessation of all hostilities.

    The leaders noted the importance of the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine within the internationally recognized borders of June 1967, and expressed support for Palestine’s full membership in the UN.

    Member states also recalled national positions on the Ukrainian crisis, and “noted with appreciation relevant proposals” aimed at a peaceful settlement of the conflict through diplomacy.

    The BRICS leaders further expressed grave concern over the harmful impact of illegal unilateral sanctions on the global economy, noting that they negatively affect economic growth, energy, food security, and exacerbate poverty.

    BRICS members stressed the need to prevent an arms race in space and called for the creation of a document ensuring space security.

    The provisions included various economic initiatives designed to strengthen the role of developing countries in the global economy and promote equitable conditions for all.

    BRICS members called for the reform of the Bretton Woods institutions to increase the contribution of the developing countries to the global economy.

    They welcomed the establishment of a new BRICS investment platform, which will use the existing institutional infrastructure of the New Development Bank to boost investment flows into BRICS countries and countries of the Global South.

    They called for the reform of the current international financial architecture so it can “meet the global financial challenges” and become more inclusive and just.

    Member countries also supported Russia’s proposal on the creation of a BRICS grain exchange, adding that the trading platform could later be expanded to include other agricultural sectors.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: House of Lords debates the contribution of special needs schools to education sector

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Baroness Monckton of Dallington Forest, chair of Team Domenica, a charity supporting disabled people into work, will put forward the debate.

    Watch live here on YouTube.

    Find out more and see the list of members speaking https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2024/october/contribution-special-needs-schools-to-the-education-sector-focus-of-lords-debate/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #StateOpening

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LplCpkxtexQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa delivers the Country’s statement during the 24th BRICS summit open session

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa delivers the Country’s statement during the 24th BRICS summit open session in Kazan in the Russian Federation.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnEXD66rh2g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 23 October 2024 Regions with the best exhibitions at the Far East Street announced At the meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council held under the leadership of Yury Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD), the Far Eastern regions that presented the best expositions at the Far East Street exhibition in September this year were announced.

    Source: Eastern Economic Forum

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British High Commission celebrates King’s birthday, 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The British High Commission will today (23 October) host the King’s Birthday Party, its annual celebration to mark the British Monarch’s birthday.

    British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron with P Kumaran, Secretary of Economic Relations and Development Partnership Administration, Ministry of External Affairs

    The gala event pays tribute to His Majesty King Charles III as the UK’s Head of State.

    In addition to his official and ceremonial duties in the UK and overseas, His Majesty has championed a wide range of causes relating to the environment and sustainable development, the arts, healthcare and education for decades.

    A wide range of dignitaries from the Government of India, representatives from Commonwealth nations, business leaders, and eminent personalities from the fields of diplomacy, arts, education, research, business, and sports are expected to attend. The celebration will also highlight the vibrant business links that exist between our countries.

    The event reflects the modern partnership between the UK and India with a specially designed food menu of British Indian cuisine from Ambassador for the GREAT Britain & Northern Ireland campaign Chef Vineet Bhatia MBE, music by DJ Lush Lata, and interactive displays from some of the UK’s leading businesses operating in India.

    Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said:

    His Majesty The King has an enduring interest in promoting a modern partnership with India and its people. It is such a privilege to celebrate His Majesty’s birthday with friends in India who have been so generous to me since I arrived. I can think of no more interesting country to live in, no better time to be here.

    I also extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone joining the celebration in Delhi; it is the people that make the UK-India partnership come to life, and the deep economic connections through companies like HSBC India that make it thrive.”   

    This year’s King’s Birthday Party celebrations in Delhi were made possible by the gracious support of HSBC India, Reliance Industries Ltd, OMA living – A Hero Motors Company, The Body Shop, bp, Airbus, BAE Systems, Shell India, British Airways, UK India Business Council, Aston Martin New Delhi, Truefitt & Hill, Diageo India, William Grant and Sons, Beam Suntory, Colliers Cheese and Fortune Gourmet Specialities, Nimkish Enterprises.

    Further information

    • free-to-use high resolution images from the event will be uploaded to Flickr
    • the King’s Birthday Party is celebrated by British Embassies and High Commissions around the world
    • the King’s Birthday falls on 14 November, but his official Birthday in 2024 was marked on 15 June, when The King’s Birthday Parade (also known as Trooping the Colour) was held in London
    • His Majesty has undertaken 10 official visits to India, most recently in November 2019 when he visited New Delhi and Mumbai to celebrate British-India connections with a focus on sustainable markets, climate change and social finance
    • His Majesty King Charles III was born in 1948 and became heir apparent on the accession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952

    Media

    For media queries, contact:

    David Russell, Head of Communications
    Press and Communications, British High Commission,
    Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021. Tel: 24192100

    Media queries: BHCMediaDelhi@fcdo.gov.uk

    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Youtube and LinkedIn

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations mark official opening of new Winchester 3G pitch

    Source: City of Winchester

    The installation of a new community 3G pitch in Winchester has been celebrated at an official opening event.   

    The high-quality pitch, which has replaced the current grass pitch at Hillier Way football ground, is a surface which can be used all year round.

    The Hillier Way ground is the home venue of Winchester City FC, a committee-run members club which has a history dating back to 1884. The club’s first game on the new surface was an FA Cup qualifying game against Weymouth.

    The facility is also used by Winchester City Flyers girls’ and ladies’ teams, and Winchester Youth FC.

    The official opening on 23 October 2024 

    The new pitch has been funded by: a grant from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation of £1,132,214; Winchester City Council Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding of £300,000; and £16,000 from Winchester City FC.

    It is also available for wider local community activity sessions and private hire, including use by schools, colleges and other clubs.

    Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of The Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country. 

    “Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities. 

    “We’re delighted that the local community in Winchester will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new 3G pitch at The Hillier Way Football Ground.”

    Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement Cllr Kathleen Becker said: “We’re very pleased to celebrate the official opening of this fantastic new surface which cements existing opportunities for community sport. It opens up exciting new ones too, including increased opportunities for female coaches and players in the district.

    “Already being well used by the local community, we also look forward to seeing this pitch benefit schools and other clubs for sessions, holiday activity and private hire.”

    Winchester City FC Chairman Ken Raisbeck said: “The completion of the stadium development represents a significant moment in the history of the football club but also an opportunity for the community of Winchester.

    “Football is a great vehicle to bring people together as well as encourage health and wellbeing. This facility creates a home for the club and from five-year-olds through to the first team, we now have an asset that can be used by everyone.

    “I am delighted that the council supported the vision and through the football club we were able to bring investment to the city to provide this fantastic facility; it’s an exciting moment in the development of the club and our community partners.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement from Constable Simon Crowcroft, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure24 October 2024 Following productive discussions with Deputy David Warr, we have reached an agreement regarding the situation at the Lido. We can confirm that the current occupier will be able to remain on-site until… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 October 2024

    Following productive discussions with Deputy David Warr, we have reached an agreement regarding the situation at the Lido. We can confirm that the current occupier will be able to remain on-site until the end of 2025. 

    As part of this arrangement, the occupier will be required to sign a formal contract and cover rent and a portion of utility bills from the end of October. A tender process for the future operation of the Lido will proceed as planned.

    We have always recognised the significant community value of the Lido and we are committed to its future rejuvenation. The Government will continue with its planned maintenance works, which include vital improvements to the pool and surrounding facilities.​

    We want to extend our gratitude to the public for their constructive engagement throughout this process. Together, we are finding a positive way forward for this cherished public landmark, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for generations to come.

    ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cook up a Witches Brew Stew just in time for Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Cook up a Witches Brew Stew just in time for Halloween

    24 October 2024

    Strabane Health Improvement Project (SHIP) in the Ballycolman Estate is cooking up a Halloween experience that is sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

    Running on Tuesday, 29th October from 10am-12pm SHIP is hosting the Witches Stew Brew, this is an afternoon cookery session which aims to show locals how to make a tasty meal using vegetables which can be grown locally.

    Jarlath McNulty, SHIP project manager explained: “We were approached by Acorn Farm and Council to look at delivering a project based around cooking from local produce. When we had a think about it, we thought the Witches Brew Stew would be a great way to do it in the run up to Halloween.

    “The event is due to run for about two hours and is all about encouraging people to think about eating healthier and using items they could ultimately grow themselves. Harvest is the perfect time of year to hold an event like this and we are really looking forward to it.”

    Encouraging people to take part in the Witches Brew Stew, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “The event hosted by Strabane Health Improvement Project is the perfect opportunity to learn how to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a fun and practical way. If you’re able to attend please do so, I’m sure you will pick up lots of useful cookery tips and of course come away with the recipe for a perfect Witches Brew Stew.”

    Anyone interested should turn up at 10am on Tuesday, 29 October at Strabane Health Improvement Project in the Ballycolman Estate. Contact: 02871 383557 if you need further information.

    For more information about any of the events taking place in the Strabane District this Halloween, go to www.strabanehalloween.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –