Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Demining Capability Coalition Meets in Reykjavík

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Representatives of the countries that make up the Demining Capability Coalition met in Reykjavík last week.

    Iceland and Lithuania are leading the work of the group, which supports training and the purchase of a variety of equipment for mine action in Ukraine. A total of 22 countries are part of the group, as well as twelve partners. Representatives of the Ukrainian government also attended the meeting.

    “We are very proud to lead this extremely important project together with our Lithuanian friends, but in Ukraine, landmines cover a vast area and endanger the lives of innocent civilians, including children,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir. “This situation, of course, affects Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s illegal and bloody war of aggression, so this support from us and the allies is of great importance to the Ukrainian people.”

    At the meeting, the Ukrainians reviewed the situation in their country and informed about where help is urgently needed. Plans for contributions from the member states were reviewed, both in terms of equipment they intend to provide as well as plans for training and contributions to a fund that both handles joint purchases of necessary equipment for bomb detection and disposal and finances training projects. The fund has been useful in purchasing important equipment. Donations to the fund have been successful this year, but it is hoped that more countries will contribute funds to it in order to achieve the goals that the group has set for itself this year.

    The meeting also reported on a field visit that representatives of the group, including Iceland, undertook to Ukraine in the first week of June.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Pricing, competition and consumer protection – Business and Trade Committee

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The Business and Trade Committee continues its investigation on the impact of dynamic pricing and price variability.
    In this session, the Committee looks at how this affects vulnerable consumers, the role of dynamic pricing in the airline
    industry, and the relationship between market concentration and pricing in the live entertainment industry.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7_aCaHTEsA

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK MHRA leads safe use of AI in healthcare as first country in new global network

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK MHRA leads safe use of AI in healthcare as first country in new global network

    The MHRA will help shape international rules for AI in healthcare – speeding up access to safe, effective technologies into the NHS and worldwide.

    From left to right: Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance, Health AI CEO Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite and MHRA CEO Lawrence Tallon.

    The UK has today (24 June) become the first country in the world to join a new global network of health regulators focused on the safe, effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

    The move puts the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) at the centre of global efforts to get trusted AI tools safely into clinics faster – supporting earlier diagnosis, cutting NHS waiting times, and backing growth in the UK’s health tech sector.

    By joining the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network as a founding ‘pioneer’ country, the MHRA will work with regulators around the world to share early warnings on safety, monitor how AI tools perform in practice, and shape international standards together – helping make AI in healthcare safer and more effective for patients around the world. Other countries are expected to join in the coming months.

    The MHRA will draw on its leading work at home to help shape the network from the ground up. That includes AI Airlock, a global leading example of a regulatory sandbox for AI medical devices – which lets companies test new tools with the regulator before wider NHS roll-out. Early examples include AI models to help GPs spot lung conditions sooner and AI to support more personalised cancer care.

    The MHRA has updated guidance and begun reforming medical device safety regulations, and continues to adapt them for fast-developing areas such as adaptive and generative AI. The MHRA is also working with researchers, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the NHS to strengthen real-world evidence on how these tools perform in practice.

    A signing ceremony to mark the UK’s membership took place today at Westminster with Science Minister Lord Vallance, MHRA Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon and Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    “I’m delighted that the UK has been invited to become a Pioneer Country in HealthAI’s Global Regulatory Network.

    “This recognition underscores our commitment to being at the forefront of responsible AI innovation in healthcare. As we implement our 10 Year Health Plan, cutting-edge technology will be crucial to transforming patient care and NHS efficiency.

    “Working with international partners through this network will ensure we harness AI’s incredible potential, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and ethics.”

    Science and Tech Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    “The UK is leading the way in making sure AI delivers real-world benefits – from better care for patients to new opportunities for growth.”

    “By shaping global standards and breaking down unnecessary regulatory barriers at home, we’re helping innovators to get trusted tools into the NHS faster, improving treatments for patients while growing our economy in support of our Plan for Change.”

    MHRA Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon said:

    “AI has huge promise to speed up diagnoses, cut NHS waiting times and save lives – but only if people can trust that it works and is safe. That’s why we’re proud to be leading the way, shaping how this powerful technology is used safely in healthcare here and around the world. From our AI Airlock testbed to new guidance on fast-moving tech like generative AI, we’re backing smart innovation that works for patients – and makes the UK the best place in the world to develop it.”

    Dr Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO of HealthAI, – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, said:

    “We are proud of this landmark collaboration with the UK Government and the MHRA. The UK has long been a trailblazer at the intersection of artificial intelligence and health, and we are honoured to welcome it as the first of ten pioneer countries in the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network, fostering global collaboration and shared learning in the regulation and scaling of AI for health. We believe the UK will both strengthen its leadership in this critical field and offer invaluable expertise to its peers, accelerating global progress toward equitable, AI-powered health systems that ultimately contribute to improving quality of life and well-being for all.”

    Notes to editors 

    1. The HealthAI Global Regulatory Network is a new international platform bringing together health regulators to strengthen oversight of AI in healthcare. It aims to build trust, improve safety, and accelerate responsible innovation through shared learning, joint standards, and early warnings of emerging risks. Members will also have access to a global directory of registered AI health tools to support transparency and collaboration.
      Ten ‘Pioneer Countries’ from diverse regions are being invited to shape the Global Regulatory Network from the outset. Each will work with HealthAI to develop stronger regulatory frameworks, support local innovation, and ensure AI technologies meet high standards of safety, effectiveness and equity.
      To learn more about HealthAI, visit their website at www.healthai.agency  
    2. AI Airlock is the world’s first regulatory sandbox for AI medical devices, led by the MHRA. Applications for the second round of the programme are now open from 23 June – 14 July 2025. The pilot phase supported four breakthrough technologies to test how they perform in real-world settings under regulatory oversight. More information can be found at AI Airlock: the regulatory sandbox for AIaMD – GOV.UK.
    3. Software and artificial intelligence (AI) as a medical device – GOV.UK
    4. MHRA Real-World Evidence Scientific Dialogue Programme – GOV.UK
    5. 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. 
    6. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 
    7. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Prevention of Genocide

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 59: UK statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Prevention of Genocide

    UK statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President.

    We thank the Special Adviser for their ongoing contribution to driving an atrocity-prevention approach across the UN system and raising atrocity risks to the Secretary-General and UN Member States.

    Effective early warning systems that escalate concerns before they arise are critical for early action in preventing atrocities. We continue to support the “early warning systems for all” principle laid out in the Pact for the Future.

    However, we also need to act on early warning signs. Atrocities continue to be committed across the world.

    In Sudan, particularly Darfur, the reports of violence are deeply troubling.

    In Myanmar, the military continues to escalate violence, including airstrikes on civilian infrastructure. All parties must protect civilians.

    In Afghanistan, the Taliban continue to enforce their inhuman restrictions on human rights, especially for women and girls.

    On the eve of the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Responsibility to Protect, we urge renewed global efforts to protect civilians and strengthen human rights in environments at risk. UN offices should continue to play a role in enabling the wider UN system in these endeavours.

    What are the challenges to enabling the wider UN system to act on atrocity risks and how can Member States help?

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on Trafficking in persons

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on Trafficking in persons

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in persons, especially women and children. Delivered at the 59th HRC in Geneva.

    Thank you, Mr. Vice President. 

    We thank the Special Rapporteur for bringing the important issue of trafficking faced by migrant domestic workers to the Council’s attention. 

    Migrant domestic workers are particularly vulnerable to labour exploitation and abuse in destination countries. We must recognise the gendered risks of exploitation for migrant domestic workers and ensure these are considered in our prevention, assistance and protection efforts.

    In the UK, protections are in place for Overseas Domestic Workers to help minimise the risk of exploitation. However, we remain concerned about the links between visa arrangements for private domestic staff and instances of modern slavery. We are reviewing how the Overseas Domestic Worker route operates, and can share more information in due course. 

    Internationally, the UK’s Work in Freedom programme has played a crucial role in preventing the trafficking of women and girls along migration routes in South Asia and the Gulf. The programme has supported over 770,000 individuals in local communities. It has worked with governments to shape more than 27 laws and policies aimed at protecting vulnerable migrant workers.

    Special Rapporteur, 

    What more can be done to strengthen reintegration for migrant domestic workers who are victims of trafficking?

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: UPDATE – Tuesday, June 24, 2025

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Note: All times local

    Brussels, Belgium

    8:20 a.m. The Prime Minister will depart for The Hague, the Netherlands.

    The Hague, the Netherlands

    10:15 a.m. The Prime Minister will arrive in The Hague, the Netherlands.

    1:45 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson.

    Note for media:

    2:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs.

    Note for media:

    3:15 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Dick Schoof.

    Note for media:

    4:00 p.m. The Prime Minister will have an audience with Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

    Note for media:

    5:15 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with leaders of Nordic countries.

    Note for media:

    7:25 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend the official welcome by Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

    Note for media:

    • Host broadcaster

    7:45 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a reception given by Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

    Closed to media

    8:25 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a family photo with NATO Allies.

    Note for media:

    8:45 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a dinner given by Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

    Note for media:

    • Host broadcaster

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: WISe.ART Launches Mayte Spínola’s “Galactic Christ” into Space Aboard SpaceX Mission Pioneering Space-Based Art NFTs and Digital Expression

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISe.ART Launches Mayte Spínola’s “Galactic Christ” into Space Aboard SpaceX Mission Pioneering Space-Based Art NFTs and Digital Expression
      

    Geneva, Switzerland, June 24, 2025 –WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, today announces that WISe.ART, its secure NFT marketplace subsidiary has successfully launched Spanish artist Mayte Spínola’s digital artwork El Cristo Cósmico (“The Galactic Christ”) into low Earth orbit (LEO) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking another milestone in the company’s strategy to expand the frontier of digital expression through space technology.

    The launch occurred at 23:11 CET on June 23, 2025, placing a WISeSat satellite carrying Spínola’s artwork into orbit. Tokenized as an NFT on the WISe.ART platform, the artwork is securely stored on the satellite using embedded hardware security modules and blockchain-based authentication protocols.

    This mission is part of WISe.ART’s broader initiative to pioneer the use of space as a platform for artistic and personal expression. By combining secure satellite technology, blockchain infrastructure, and NFTs, WISe.ART is enabling artists, creators, and public figures to engage with audiences globally and now, extraterrestrially.

    “Space is not only the next frontier for technology, it is a new medium for human expression,” said Carlos Moreira, Founder of WISeKey and WISe.ART. “Through WISeSat and WISe.ART, we are giving artists and celebrities a secure and visionary way to project their work and messages from orbit.”

    This is not WISe.ART’s first milestone in space. In 2022, during a special ceremony at the NASDAQ headquarters in New York, WISe.ART minted and transmitted a space-based NFT featuring actress Brooke Shields, demonstrating the platform’s early commitment to combining celebrity expression, secure blockchain, and satellite communications.

    Mayte Spínola, one of Spain’s most celebrated contemporary artists and founder of the Grupo Pro Arte y Cultura, shared her thoughts on the occasion: “Seeing my work orbiting Earth is deeply symbolic. It represents the union of art, science, and faith, transcending borders and reminding us that peace is a universal message.”

    Technical details of the mission:

    • Rocket: SpaceX Falcon 9 (Transporter Mission)
    • Orbit: Sun-synchronous low Earth orbit (~500–600 km)
    • Payload: WISeSat satellite with secure NFT storage and communication capabilities
    • Security: Blockchain certification anchored to WISeKey’s Root of Trust, with post-quantum secure elements
    • Access: Two-way data connectivity for metadata validation and message exchange

    With this launch, El Cristo Cósmico becomes a space-hosted digital artifact, merging art, spirituality, and space technology. It showcases how WISe.ART is redefining the role of NFTs, offering creators new dimensions for secure global, and now orbital engagement.

    About WISe.ART

    WISe.ART is a full-service NFT platform designed for artists, collectors, and brands. It leverages WISeKey’s trusted cybersecurity technologies to ensure secure creation, trading, and verification of digital assets, with integrations into IoT, satellite systems, and post-quantum infrastructures.

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com 

    Media Contact:
    press@wise.art
    www.wise.art

    WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@theequitygroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council set to purchase Beethoven Centre in boost to community services in Queen’s Park | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council’s Cabinet has approved the purchase of Beethoven Centre in Queen’s Park to protect and improve local community services in the area.  

    The centre will offer affordable space for local groups, charities, and services such as health advice, housing support, and community events. It will also help smaller organisations find a permanent base in the area.  

    The purchase will support the Council’s Fairer Westminster goals, making sure residents have access to the services and spaces they need — especially in Queen’s Park, one of the most deprived parts of Westminster.  

    Cllr David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, said:  

     “The purchase of Beethoven Centre will mark a significant step in our commitment to building a Fairer Westminster. 

    “By securing this vital community asset, we are safeguarding affordable space for local groups and ensuring that the people of Queen’s Park have a vibrant, inclusive hub at the heart of their community.”  

    The Beethoven Centre includes a large community hall, multiple office and meeting rooms, and existing space for service providers including Age UK, Carers Network, and Creative Futures.   

    Once operational under Council management, the centre is expected to operate on a self-sustaining financial model, with income from hires and rentals covering its running costs from the first year.  

    The Beethoven Centre will also undergo a full carbon assessment as part of the Council’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.  

    The purchase of the centre supports the North Paddington Programme which aims to improve outcomes and opportunities for local people by addressing social, economic, health and environmental inequalities which exist within the city.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Solicitor sentenced in pothole fraud crackdown

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 24th June 2025

    The case was part of the council’s ongoing work to tackle fraud and protect vital public funds.

    A solicitor has been sentenced following a council investigation into fraudulent pothole claim damage.

    Alykhaan Nourani, of Manchester, was found guilty of four counts of fraud relating to false vehicle damage claims. He has been given an eight-month suspended sentence and ordered to carry out 300 hours of unpaid work.
     

    The case was part of the council’s ongoing work to tackle fraud and protect vital public funds.

    It comes as the council has repaired more than 14,000 road defects in 12 months and is continuing its investment into improving the city’s roads, backed by a record £22 million government funding.

    Nourani’s submitted fraudulent pothole damage claims in November 2019 and April 2021. The claims were linked to vehicle damage but were later found to be false following a full investigation by the council’s Corporate Fraud team.

    The fraud was first identified by an internal Insurance Officer who noticed anomalies with an invoice Nourani provided in April 2021 from a local main dealership. A similar pattern was found with an earlier invoice from November 2019.

    Nourani was found guilty by unanimous verdict at at Hanley Crown Court in February and was sentenced last week, Thursday 19 June to:

    • eight months, suspended for two years
    • 300 hours of unpaid work
    • A six-month curfew between 7pm and 7am
    • £30,000 in costs as well as the original £874 for the fraudulent invoice

    The judge highlighted Nourani’s high level of culpability, stating that his role as a solicitor – regularly dealing with Personal Injury claims – was an aggravating factor. The probation officer also confirmed that Nourani showed no remorse for his actions.

    Nourani has been referred to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

    Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Let this be a clear warning – we will not tolerate fraud in this city. We have robust checks in place to protect taxpayers’ money and we will pursue fraudsters through the courts whenever necessary

    “Fraudulent clams take money away from essential public services like improving our road network. We’ve worked tirelessly to repair more than 14,000 defects in the last 12 months and with £22 million of government investment, we are committed to doing even more.

    “I’d like to thank the individuals and businesses who have assisted this investigation and provided vital evidence in court. Fraud will not be ignored in Stoke-on-Trent – we will always take strong action to protect the public purse.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Summer festival and singing mark school’s official opening

    Source: City of Leicester

    AN OUTSTANDING school in Leicester has celebrated its new building with an official opening event.

    Catherine Infant School, in Belgrave, has been completely rebuilt, with new solar panels, larger play areas, a sports pitch and an outdoor classroom, as well as 15 new classrooms, a new library and a sports hall.

    There are also new rooms for the school’s on-site unit for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), plus rooms for work in small groups to help give pupils extra support when they need it.

    Catherine Infant School was one of 50 schools in the country to be rebuilt under a previous Government scheme to bring outdated buildings up to standard. Work began in May 2023 and pupils and staff moved into the new buildings in January 2025.

    Demolition of the old building was completed in March this year and the area where the old building stood has now been landscaped.

    Headteacher Mitesh Madhaw said: “We are absolutely delighted with our new building and grounds. We now have the space and facilities we need to support and inspire learning – and we’re already seeing the benefits, because our recent Ofsted inspection saw us retain our outstanding quality of education.

    “I’m immensely proud that we have been able to achieve this while managing a major building programme. We all put the children first and this has paid off.

    “Also, because the new building is two-storey and occupies a smaller footprint than the previous school, significantly more space has been given over to outdoor areas for learning and play, which is a fantastic improvement.”

    To mark the official opening of the new building, the whole school celebrated in style with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, a live band, whole-school singing and a summer festival in the playground.

    Assistant city mayor for education, Cllr Elaine Pantling, who attended the official opening, said: “We are very proud to support Catherine Infant School. It’s so important for both pupils and staff that they have the right learning environment and now, thanks to this rebuilding, they have got fantastic facilities for the future.

    “It’s also great to see such good provision at Catherine Infants for those pupils who need a little extra help and support with their learning, so that they can be an integral part of the school community.”

    The school has space for up to 430 pupils, including 10 specialist provision places and a 60-place nursery. More than 80 members of staff work on the premises.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Applied Systems and Certificial Announce New Integration to Digitally Transform Certificate of Insurance Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and RALEIGH, N.C., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Certificial, the pioneer of the Smart COI Network™ and the industry’s leading all-in-one Certificate of Insurance (COI) platform, and Applied Systems®, the leading global provider of cloud-based software for the insurance industry, today announced an exclusive integration to digitally connect Applied’s insurance agencies and brokers to Certificial’s vendor compliance network.

    This strategic integration will enable Applied customers to seamlessly manage vendor management system COI requests directly within Applied Epic, enabling agencies to efficiently confirm coverages and issue the certificates for their clients. By eliminating manual back-and-forth and redundant uploads to third-party portals, agencies will benefit from increased operational efficiency and improved service delivery.

    “The certificate issuance process between vendors and agencies has long been an inefficient challenge,” said Brian Giometti, SVP of Corporate Development, Applied Systems. “Integrating with Certificial allows us to bring efficiencies to our users while delivering transformative value to large-scale certificate holders.”

    With this integration, Certificial’s Smart COI Network™ users gain greater visibility into their vendors’ insurance status, while Applied’s users benefit from centralized, automated workflows throughout the end-to-end policy lifecycle. This mutual advantage helps all parties reduce risk and build trust faster. Additionally, opting into the integration not only streamlines the COI intake process for Applied users but also enhances vendor credibility.

    “Our integration marks a major step toward redefining how commercial insurance verification is handled as Applied continues to lead the way in enabling modern agency workflows, and we’re proud to work together to set a new standard for proof of insurance,” said Peter Teresi, co-founder and CEO of Certificial. “Many Smart COI Network™ members are increasingly focused on verifying vendor legitimacy in real time, and knowing that a vendor’s policies are active and validated dramatically reduces risk, and makes them far more attractive to do business with.”

    Agencies using Applied Epic will be able to opt into the integration beginning in early July. Additional information on the opt-in process will be provided in the coming weeks on certificial.com/applied-enable-integration.

    About Applied Systems:
    Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

    About Certificial:
    Certificial is the leading, all-in-one Certificate of Insurance (COI) platform transforming the insurance verification process by using real-time data to ensure businesses have continuous, compliant coverage. With their patented end-to-end COI platform, Certificial combines certificate issuance and compliance management into one simple platform, eliminating risk, ensuring compliance, and reducing costs for every stakeholder in the COI process. Cofounded by the former Chief Technology Officer of ACORD and backed by top investors, Certificial is driving the future of digital insurance verification with the Smart COI Network™. For more information, please visit certificial.com.

    Media Contact:

    Certificial
    Maddie Hirsch
    Caliber Corporate Advisers
    certificial@calibercorporate.com
    773-899-6281

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco and Fraunhofer ISIT Collaborate to Advance Next-Generation GaN Device Technology using Silvaco’s DTCO Flow

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO) (“Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable innovative semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and automation, today announced a strategic R&D collaboration with Fraunhofer Institute for Silicon Technology (ISIT). The partnership aims to accelerate development of next-generation Gallium Nitride (GaN) devices using Silvaco’s industry-leading Power Devices Solution to perform Design Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO). This collaboration aligns with Fraunhofer ISIT’s role in the EU Chips Act initiative through its participation in the APECS pilot line (www.apecs.eu).

    Fraunhofer ISIT’s Power Electronics division is at the forefront of developing and manufacturing cutting-edge device prototypes for high-performance power electronic and sensor systems. Fraunhofer ISIT will leverage Silvaco’s industry-leading design tools—including the Victory TCAD™ platform, Utmost IV™, and SmartSpice™—to perform Design Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO) for power and sensor device development. Silvaco DTCO platform will enable accelerated prototyping in Fraunhofer ISIT’s post-CMOS process environment, which is set up to explore emerging processes for both GaN and MEMS technologies on 8-inch wafers. In addition, Silvaco’s Victory Design of Experiments™ (DOE) solution will streamline development workflows and support rapid innovation during the evaluation of novel process modules and emerging device concepts.

    “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in strengthening Europe’s semiconductor capabilities and driving the global evolution of GaN devices,” said Eric Guichard, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and General Manager of Silvaco’s TCAD Division. “Institutes like Fraunhofer ISIT are instrumental in pushing the boundaries of innovation in device and process technology. By collaborating with Fraunhofer ISIT, we not only accelerate their development efforts but also enhance our own TCAD tools to meet the demands of future device design.”

    “We are excited to expand our GaN design capabilities with Silvaco’s Victory products,” said Michael Mensing, Ph.D., Head of the Advanced Devices Group at Fraunhofer ISIT. “By using Silvaco’s advanced TCAD solutions, our teams can explore, understand, and optimize the performance of GaN devices with greater depth and efficiency. Especially during our current development of high voltage lateral and vertical GaN devices based on engineering substrates, like Qromis® Substrate Technology, we see many physical effects that require accurately calibrated process and device models.”

    In addition to the active utilization of Silvaco’s tools in R&D and industry customer projects, Fraunhofer ISIT will train students at local universities in the utilization of Silvaco’s Victory TCAD™ platform to prepare the next generation of semiconductor device engineers.

    About Silvaco Group, Inc.
    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan. Learn more at silvaco.com.

    About Fraunhofer ISIT 
    Fraunhofer ISIT develops and manufactures customer-specific components for power electronics and microsystems technology. Local and external industrial partners offer the potential for commercialization. Within the Research Fab Microelectronics Germany (FMD), Fraunhofer ISIT is the main location for 8-inch post-CMOS technologies, non-CMOS-compatible MEMS and GaN-on-X processing. The latter is specialized in the development of GaN sensor chiplets and advanced membrane transistors as well as the processing of emerging ceramic substrates.

    Contacts
    Media Relations:
    Tiffany Behany, press@silvaco.com

    Investor Relations:
    Greg McNiff, investors@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Technologies Announces Appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global pioneer in innovative public safety technologies and services, today announced the appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan, seasoned finance executive, as the Company’s new Chief Financial Officer.

    Mr. Ratigan brings over 20 years of experience leading financial strategy across public companies, capital markets, investment banking and performance-focused advisory roles. Mr. Ratigan’s background includes extensive work in both international and domestic publicly traded environments, where Mr. Ratigan has consistently driven financial modernization and organizational agility.

    Mr. Ratigan has demonstrated exceptional ability in scaling finance operations, transforming reporting ecosystems and guiding companies through pivotal milestones—including M&A transactions and enterprise-wide digital transformations.

    Mr. Ratigan’s diverse career spans Big Four public accounting, Fortune 500 audit leadership, and C-suite roles in high-growth sectors such as gaming, fintech, travel and entertainment. Most recently, Mr. Ratigan served as the Senior Vice President of Accounting and Controls—and later as Acting Chief Financial Officer—at The Gearbox Entertainment Company. In this role, Mr. Ratigan led financial operations through a critical phase that culminated in a successful acquisition by Take-Two Interactive.

    Mr. Ratigan’s leadership encompassed building the finance function from the ground up, post-merger integration, ERP implementation, ESG reporting and consolidating multi-entity operations across geographies and currencies.

    Prior to Gearbox, Mr. Ratigan served as Senior Director of Accounting and Financial Reporting at Entertainment Benefits Group (a Creative Artists Agency company), where Mr. Ratigan managed global accounting and audit operations. Mr. Ratigan also held Chief Accounting Officer and Chief Audit Executive roles at MoneyOnMobile, Inc. (MOMT), where Mr. Ratigan led public filings, investor communications and SEC compliance—supporting uplisting efforts and complex carve-outs related to divestitures.

    Earlier in Mr. Ratigan’s career, Mr. Ratigan served as Director of SEC Financial Reporting at Prestige Cruise Holdings (acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line), overseeing public filings, XBRL tagging and IPO readiness. At Cooper Industries (later acquired by Eaton), Mr. Ratigan led internal audit efforts, implementing global audit strategies and streamlining post-acquisition integration.

    Mr. Ratigan began his career at KPMG and Grant Thornton, quickly distinguishing with international assignments and national training roles. Mr. Ratigan’s global experience spans work in the U.S., Mexico, China, the U.K., India, Germany, Australia, Bahrain, Thailand and Sweden.

    An advocate for ethics, compliance, and professional development, Mr. Ratigan currently serves on the Global Board of Directors for the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), contributes to COSO’s new corporate governance framework, and sits on the Global Advisory Board of The CFO Alliance, offering insight on capital markets and economic trends.

    Mr. Ratigan holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from the University of Miami and an MBA in Data Analytics from Louisiana State University–Shreveport. Mr. Ratigan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Texas, a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and holds credentials in Strategy and Competitive Analysis (CSCA) and Production and Inventory Management (CPIM).

    “Across every role, Jerry has brought a distinctive blend of technical excellence, operational leadership and strategic vision. His work has consistently aligned financial operations with long-term value creation, enabled agility in complex environments, and driven measurable outcomes that build stockholder confidence and enterprise growth. We believe Jerry’s operational experience in capital markets and public accounting make him the right choice to align Wrap’s financial operations with its long-term strategy,” said Scot Cohen, Chief Executive Officer of Wrap.

    “This appointment emphasizes Wrap’s readiness for accelerating adoption and growing market interest. We believe Jerry’s leadership will help drive product scale, ensure accountability, and position Wrap to maximize the commercial opportunities of its expanding portfolio,” said Jared Novick, President and Chief Operating Officer of Wrap.

    “I am both honored and inspired to join Wrap at this defining moment,” said Mr. Ratigan. “The Company is delivering powerful solutions at the intersection of technology, public safety and compassion. I look forward to contributing to our mission while advancing a disciplined financial strategy that strengthens our foundation and creates sustainable stockholder value.”

    Louis Springer Elevated to Vice President of Finance to Support Financial Operational Scale

    Louis Springer’s promotion from Corporate Development to Vice President of Finance reflects both Wrap’s deep bench of internal talent and its disciplined focus on scaling operations with continuity and precision. Over the past 18 months, Mr. Springer played a central role in enacting the operational elements of Wrap’s cost-cutting initiatives and supporting broader organizational change. We believe his background in financial services, investment banking, and public company capital markets further strengthens Wrap’s ability to align day-to-day financial operations with long-term stockholder value creation.

    “Louis Springer has proven himself over the years with Wrap,” said Chief Executive Officer of Wrap, Mr. Cohen. “He’s earned his spot as Vice President of Finance and will continue to anchor our fiscal strategy under Mr. Ratigan’s leadership—bringing both stability and forward momentum that we believe benefits all stakeholders.”

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, delivering cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® 150 solution leads the world in pre-escalation and beyond, providing law enforcement with a safer choice for nearly every phase of a critical incident.

    This innovative, patented device deploys a multi-sensory, cognitive disruption that leverages sight, sound and sensation to expand the pre-escalation period and give officers the advantage and critical time to manage non-compliant subjects before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap® 150 is a not pain-based- compliance. It does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers strategically operate pre-escalation on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality® VR is a fully immersive training simulator to enhance decision-making under pressure.

    As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality® equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    WrapVision is an all-new body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency.

    Designed for efficiency, security, and transparency to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, WrapVision captures, stores and helps manage digital evidence, with operational security, regulatory compliance and superior video picture quality and field of view.

    The WrapVision camera, powered by IONODES boasts cloud integration and adheres to Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance requirements and GSA schedule contracts requirements. Crucially, unlike many competitor devices manufactured overseas in foreign, non-compliant, and possibly hostile regions, WrapVision is built in North America, promoting unparalleled data integrity and reducing critical concerns over unauthorized access or foreign surveillance risks.

    Trademark Information

    Trademark Information Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality® and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad. All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the Company’s expectations related to the appointment of the new Chief Financial Officer, the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    (800) 583-2652
     ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Care leavers show they are up for the cup in national finals

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Organised by the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Reach Leaving Care Team in collaboration with Wolves Foundation, the inspiring six-a-side football tournament offered care experienced young people aged 16-24 the opportunity to compete, connect, and showcase their skills on Molineux’s hallowed turf.

    Following a series of knock out matches involving 20 teams from as far afield as Yorkshire and Milton Keynes, Warwickshire County beat Redcar and Cleveland in the final to claim the coveted 2025 Championship Cup – but, in reality, all of the participants were winners.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We were delighted to support this annual event which once again proved the old adage that football can be more than just a game.

    “For some, it can be an escape and a breath of fresh air, and the day enabled these young people – who have already faced so many challenges in their lives – to not only showcase their talents on the pitch of one of England’s most prestigious sporting venues, but also to demonstrate their resilience and spirit off it.”

    Tournament organiser Sam Neath, a Young Person Advisor with the council’s Children’s Services, said: “Some participants woke up at 4am, others couldn’t sleep because they were that excited. A young person that hadn’t engaged with me for six months found out about the tournament and came training; that’s the power of football.

    “The National Championship Cup is getting bigger and better each year, and I want to take it to Wembley next year and for hundreds more young people to be able take part. I want Sky Sports and BBC to be there – I want these young people to be celebrated and championed.”

    Young people explained how the tournament had helped them. Ubi, from Wolverhampton Warriors, said: “If you play in a team, it gives you life experience and it helps you to build confidence. Some of us aren’t that confident; playing sports gets me out of my comfort zone and gets me interacting with people that I wouldn’t usually talk to.”

    Shahla, who travelled from Chesterfield to represent the Derbyshire team, added: “It definitely helps my mental health. Being a care leaver, you are quite singled out in life, so this helps us get out and feel less isolated.”

    Warinder Juss, MP for Wolverhampton West, was on hand to help with the presentation of the cup and later celebrated the success of the tournament with his fellow MPs in Parliament, congratulating the young people, EFL in the Community, the council, Wolves Foundation and social impact company Spectra for supporting the event, and adding that “recognising and celebrating the potential of our young people in this way can empower them to thrive for themselves and for our communities.”

    Robert Macpherson from the Department of Education said: “Congratulations on hosting such a great event – it must have taken so much time and effort to organise.”

    A Redcar and Cleveland representative described it as a “day they will remember for a long time”, while a representative from the Stoke-on-Trent side added: “It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved, and we’re genuinely grateful to have been included.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Last chance for SNP to stop funding Israel’s arms dealers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    Scottish Greens call for an apology for the Scottish Government’s role in the Tinker Experiment.

    The Scottish Government must apologise for its role in the Tinker Experiment if it wants to tackle the ongoing prejudice faced by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

    Scottish Green MSPs Maggie Chapman and Mark Ruskell have both been campaigning for a public apology from the Scottish Government for its role in the Tinker Experiment. This programme – run by the UK Government and Scottish local authorities – forcibly removed Gypsy Traveller children from their families, and moved communities from their homes into unsafe and substandard accommodation.

    The Scottish Greens asked the Scottish Government for an apology in mid-May, but the Minister for Equalities failed to confirm if the Scottish Government would be making an apology. However, a statement from the Scottish Government on this issue is now expected in Parliament later this week.

    This Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month, Maggie has called on the Scottish Government to finally commit to a public apology.

    Commenting further, Maggie said:

    “Gypsy Traveller communities were irreparably damaged by the Tinker Experiment, a cruel practice which was allowed to go on for far too long. This should be a great shame of Scotland’s past, yet it is a hidden moment in our history, one that has been covered up and too often forgotten by those in power.

    “Prejudice against Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities is still very alive and normalised across Scotland. We see discrimination against these communities in our schools and in our social services, with many people I’ve spoken to being refused services because their way of living is deemed unsuitable, and is misunderstood.

    “If we’re serious about addressing the prejudices faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities across Scotland, the Scottish Government needs to apologise for the Tinker Experiment – something which caused such harm to so many children and families. People have been waiting far too long.

    “I hope by this time next year, we don’t have to ask for an apology for previous harms, and instead can use this month to celebrate Gypsy, Roma and Traveller culture and highlight all the exciting activity in these communities, from the North East to Govanhill and Perthshire.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent under the spotlight at Centenary Heritage Festival

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 24th June 2025

    A ceramic symposium, a Northern Soul exhibition and new heritage events will feature in a jam-packed festival which will shine a spotlight on Stoke-on-Trent’s past, present and future.

    The Stoke-on-Trent 100: Heritage Festival for the Centenary, which is being jointly organised by the city council and key partners, is launching in 2025 – as the city celebrates 100 years since receiving official city status.

    It follows a successful bid for £186,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    Between now and March 2026, 17 heritage projects will be taking place which will highlight Stoke-on-Trent’s World Craft City status, showcase the work which has been delivered through the Living Heritage City initiative, and outline the city’s ambitions for heritage in the future.

    Councillor Lyn Sharpe, Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s heritage champion, said: “Anyone who knows me knows I love Stoke-on-Trent – so it’s great to be able to celebrate our heritage during our Centenary year and beyond.

    “There’s loads of different events taking place across the city throughout 2025 and there’s something for everyone.

    “So, keep your eyes peeled for more information about the events in the coming months.”

    Projects include:

    • A two-day Ceramic Symposium curated by Professor Neil Brownsword and Dr Alasdair Brooks of Re-Form Heritage at Jubilee Hall
    • A photographic exhibition showcasing the city and its people over the last century with a series of historical walking tours at Stoke Minster
    • An audio documentary exhibition at Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station highlighting the city’s role in the Northern Soul movement
    • The creation of new heritage based performance pieces and
    • The development of new family-friendly workshops at Ford Green Hall

    Lynne Ball, Chair of the Heritage Network for Stoke-on-Trent, said: “The Heritage Network for Stoke-on-Trent brings together heritage groups and the owners of heritage sites across the city to work together and learn from each other.

    “The Heritage Open Days festival in September provides a unique opportunity to highlight the heritage of The Potteries and provide free access to historic sites and special events.

    “Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for this support, which will build significantly upon our local success, involving more organisations, hosting more events and attracting more visitors to help celebrate our city’s centenary year.”

    For more information about the city’s Centenary celebrations, visit www.sot100.org.

    The full list of events which are taking place as part of the Stoke-on-Trent 100: A Heritage Festival for the Centenary are:

    • A two-day Ceramic Symposium curated by Professor Neil Brownsword and Dr Alasdair Brooks at Jubilee Hall. This will be linked to a co-curated exhibition on ceramic collections from Jingdezhen (China) and Spode Museum.
    • A recollecting of canal heritage through the creation of an original piece of promenade theatre, devised and researched together with community groups, and performed in a heritage venue.
    • A reshowing of Sam Ivin’s ‘Settling Project’, which navigates the topic of human migration to Stoke-on-Trent
    • An event at the Victoria Hall showcasing the musical work of schools celebrating the heritage of their communities
    • A commemoration of the Abolition of the Slave Trade and impact for inland populations with Kwanzaa Collective
    • A photographic exhibition showcasing the city and its people over the last century, aligned with a series of historical walking tours around Stoke Minster and the surrounding area.
    • An exhibition at Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station, relating to the city’s role in the Northern Soul movement
    • The creation of new performance pieces animating the route of the new Living Heritage City Pilot Route by FRONTLINE Dance
    • The development of a series of podcasts celebrating Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary by All the Small Things CIC
    • The development of new family history workshops at Ford Green Hall – documenting the Hall’s historical connections to the surrounding nature reserves
    • An event at Etruria Industrial Museum, exploring the changes in energy use across the last century
    • A new space for exhibitions within The Dudson Museum/Centre for the Arnold Bennett Society.
    • Events, open days and workshops devised by Re-Form Heritage, showcasing the current Heritage Development programme across the city and the part Middleport Pottery has played in Stoke-on-Trent’s history. Including open days at Bethesda Methodist Chapel.
    • Operational support for the Heritage Open Days programme
    • Walks and paddling events devised by Canal and River Trust at Harecastle Tunnel, celebrating the role of canals in Stoke-on-Trent, encouraging community use and raising environmental awareness
    • Celebratory events at Gladstone Pottery Museum

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consultation Process Approved to Tackle Standards in the Private Rented Sector in Preston

    Source: City of Preston

    In a bid to tackle unscrupulous landlords in Preston and improve the quality of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) homes in the city, an external consultant will be employed to work on behalf of the council to carry out a consultation that will consider the introduction of Selective Licensing in three pilot wards in Preston.

    The three wards where this consultation will take place are St Matthews, City Centre and Plungington.

    Selective Licensing in the PRS is a scheme where local authorities designate areas that will benefit from tighter regulation, requiring landlords in those areas to obtain a licence for their privately rented properties.

    Under Selective Licensing, Preston Council can ensure landlords or their property managers are subject to criminal record checks and their rental properties are checked to meet certain standards and conditions like having up-to-date fire and gas safety checks, damp proofing, tenant welfare, good management practices etc; this helps to address issues such as poor property conditions, anti-social behaviour and low demand.

    If landlords fail to comply with the licensing conditions, local authorities can take enforcement action which could include fines and penalties.

    Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Preston City Council said:

    “Around a quarter of all housing in Preston is privately rented and due to many factors such as the cost of living crisis and the ongoing recovery from the Covid pandemic, a lack of investment in privately owned, rented housing stock has seen living standards decline, with many of our residents experiencing poor living conditions, which is unacceptable.

    The introduction of Selective Licensing to help better regulate the Private Rented Sector and tackle the most deprived areas of the city, is a priority in our emerging Corporate Plan, and this consultation around the three pilot wards, where deprivation is prevalent, is the first crucial step in rolling out a more robust way to tackle poor quality housing and raise the housing standards for our residents.”

    Main image credit – Tony Worrall

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Packed programme of summer holiday fun returns to Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Children who receive benefits-related free school meals can enjoy a wide range of free activities this summer as the popular Fit and Fed programme returns to Plymouth.

    Fit and Fed offers eligible children access to free holiday clubs, where they are encouraged to get active and receive a nutritious lunch each day.

    The summer activity programme for 2025 is now available to view, with holiday club bookings opening from Monday 30 June.

    There’s a huge range of holiday clubs on offer for eligible children aged between four and 16-years-old. Activities include circus skills, football, dance, karate, water sports and more creative pursuits too, including filmmaking, photography and arts and crafts. There are also SEND specific holiday clubs to support children with more complex needs.

    Young people taking part in Fit & Fed activities in 2024

    Young people between 12 and 16-years-old can also sign up for Teen Taster activities, giving them the opportunity to try new activities such as go karting, adventure golf and trampolining.

    There’s also a range of family activity sessions on offer, so children can enjoy a day out with their parents or carers. These sessions include bowling, tennis, bike rides and golf.

    New for this year, Plymouth Active Leisure are offering a huge range of free activities to eligible children too, with the chance to swim at one of the indoor pools or Tinside Lido. Other activities include bouldering, junior gym sessions, pickle ball and bowls.

    Every year, Fit and Fed also goes on tour. While the bookable activities are only available to children who receive benefits-related free school meals, the ‘on tour’ sessions are held in parks and green spaces across Plymouth and everyone is welcome to attend. The fun days feature a huge range of free activities, and children are provided with a healthy lunch. This year, the programme will visit:

    • Victoria Park on Tuesday 5 August
    • Ernesettle Green on Tuesday 12 August
    • Tothill Park on Tuesday 19 August
    • Central Park on Tuesday 26 August.
    Fit and Fed on tour 2024

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Sport and Leisure, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Fit and Fed programme will be returning this year with even more activities for children, young people and their families to enjoy.

    “It’s such an important programme, which not only helps children by encouraging them to get active, try new things and make amazing memories with new friends, but also supports families by helping to alleviate some of the financial pressures of the school holidays by giving children access to healthy lunches and activities that may otherwise be unaffordable.”

    Fit and Fed is funded by the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. The aim is to provide children with healthy and nutritious meals during the school holidays, while also encouraging physical activity and giving children and young people the opportunity to have fun and meet new friends.

    In summer 2024, more than 2,400 children and young people took part in holiday clubs while thousands more attended the Fit and Fed on Tour events where 1,900 packed lunches were handed out.  

    For more information about this year’s Fit and Fed programme, please see: www.plymouth.gov.uk/fit-and-fed.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work starts on wide range of improvements at Bushbury park

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    City of Wolverhampton Council and developers JP Landscapes & Construction Ltd have begun the transformation work at Northwood Park in Bushbury.

    The work is taking place after the council consulted with residents and children’s groups. Improvements include the replacement of existing play equipment as well as the creation of a new multi-use games area (Muga).

    The play area will include inclusive equipment designed to be used by children with restricted mobility, including swings, a seesaw and roundabout. There will also be seated springer rides, climbing equipment with slides and a springy surfboard.

    The new Muga will be built next to the park’s existing skate park and basketball pitch, providing a high-quality, all-weather area for football, cricket and other ball games.

    Other improvements include a fitness area towards the centre of the park, new fencing, new seats and litter bins, creation of a wildflower meadow and planting of 40 trees. A new paved path on the north-eastern corner of the park will also improve access and cater for activities such as dog walking.

    The work is being funded under a Section 106 Planning Agreement which relates to the new Hampton Park development on land at the former Northicote School, near to the park. The development includes 178 new homes and is named after the school’s former head teacher, Sir Geoff Hampton.

    Work will take place over the coming weeks and residents are advised that some areas of the park will not be accessible on a temporary basis while the improvements are being made.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, City of Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet member for resident services, said: “How exciting to see that work has started at Northwood Park.

    “We’ve got a wide range of improvements planned with exciting new play equipment and a new multi-use games area. We’re also spreading out the revamp with a fitness area and a real spruce up of the rest of the park.

    “We’ve made sure that the views that were put forward in the consultation have been taken into account, and we’d like to thank people for sharing their thoughts. We’re really looking forward to delivering this great range of new attractions and refurbishments for local people to enjoy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government hosts Portuguese Ambassador to the UK24 June 2025 Education, culture, and community collaboration were celebrated and explored by His Excellency Nuno Brito, Portuguese Ambassador to the UK, during his first official visit to Jersey last week. The… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 June 2025

    Education, culture, and community collaboration were celebrated and explored by His Excellency Nuno Brito, Portuguese Ambassador to the UK, during his first official visit to Jersey last week.

    The Ambassador’s visit recognised Jersey’s deep-rooted Portuguese heritage and reaffirmed cross-border engagement that seeks to improve the lives of Islanders.

    Alongside cultural visits to Jersey Archives, Jersey War Tunnels and Mont Orgueil Castle, Mr Brito joined Assistant Chief Minister Deputy Carina Alves at a community lunch at the Town Hall, bringing together members of Jersey’s Portuguese community to celebrate their contribution to the Island’s social and economic success. 

    Learning and language were also central to the two-day tour, with Mr Brito signing a new Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, on behalf of the Instituto Camões – one that extends the provision of Portuguese lessons in Island schools for another five years. 

    On a visit to Le Rocquier School with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, Deputy Rob Ward, Mr Brito spoke to pupils about the benefits of developing their home language and how the MoU would be implemented on a day-to-day basis. Year 11 students Tomas and Victoria also described their recent visit to the Portuguese Youth Parliament in Lisbon. 

    The Ambassador spent time with Ministers at the Government’s Union Street office, including Deputy Ian Gorst, Deputy Elaine Miller and the Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham, who signed the MoU for the Government of Jersey. 

    Deputy Ward said: “This renewed agreement with Instituto Camões adds strength to our support for Portuguese language education in Jersey. The scheme provides an opportunity for our youth to connect further with Portuguese heritage and culture, and I thank the Instituto Camões for their continued role in facilitating it.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Downfield Primary School wins Three Prestigious Digital Awards

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Downfield Primary School has been awarded three digital school awards. 

    The school were awarded the Digitals Schools Award Scotland, Digital Well-being Award and Equitable Creative Coding Award. 

    The school was praised for its commitment to preparing young people for the future in a technological world. The young people have developed coding skills and gained an understanding of how to use artificial intelligence. 

    This digital journey began during covid and has grown steadily over the years since. The school has a digital leader and digital pupil leaders to drive this digital journey. 

    The school were recognised for the wide range of digital opportunities for young people, especially for young people with additional support needs.  

    Young people across all year groups have shown their enthusiasm for making use of digital technology to enhance their own learning. 

    Parents are also regularly updated and given advice on how to support and monitor the children’s use devices at home. 

    The next step for Downfield Primary will be working towards achieving the Digital Schools Europe award which would complete the school’s full suite of Digital Awards. 

    Convener of Children, Families and Communities Stewart Hunter said: “These three accolades highlight the true commitment and dedication off everyone ad Downfield towards digital development.  

    “It really is a remarkable feat to receive all three awards. It’s great to see the school and young people working together to embrace technology and the role in education. It’s also encouraging to see the school engaging with parents to offer support and advice on using technology at home and monitor devices, which we know this can be a daunting task. 

     
    “I would like to thank everyone involved and wish the school the best as they set their sights on achieving the Digital Schools Europe Award.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    The Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services.

    • UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will drive forward 2035 ambition for UK professional and business services to be most dynamic and innovative in world
    • Plan includes five new centres of excellence across country to help services firms grow and adopt new technology
    • New international marketing campaign will also be deployed for UK services through GREAT

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services (PBS) sectors such as legal, management consulting and accountancy soar.

    The latest step in the Government’s Plan for Change, the funding comes as part of a wider package of commitments in the Industrial Strategy sector plan for the PBS sector, published this week.

    With professional business services worth £300 billion a year and supporting one in every seven jobs, the sector has been put at the heart of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, recognising its critical role in unlocking growth and creating jobs across all UK regions and sectors – and the UK’s place as the second largest exporter of services in the world, behind only the US.

    Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson CBE will visit the University of Edinburgh on Tuesday where she will meet with the Law Society of Scotland to hear more about AI adoption and how Scotland is a hub for world class PBS firms. 

    Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade said:

    The Professional and Business Services sector is the jewel in the crown of the UK economy, worth over £300bn a year and making up one in every seven jobs.

    Our Industrial Strategy and Plan for Change will help the sector soar further through the adoption of new technologies such as AI and increased promotion overseas as we strive to make the industry the most dynamic and innovative in the world by.

    The plan sets out the sector’s ambition for the UK to be the most trusted adviser to global industry, with the most dynamic and productive PBS sector by 2035, whilst remaining the world’s second largest exporter of professional business services after the US.

    The five programmes will be focused on building on the already high levels of AI adoption in the sector, with major spends on launching a new PBS adapted Made Smarter digital adoption programme and enhancing Innovate UK’s Next Generation Professional Services programme which advises firms to adopt new technologies and support research.

    From Birmingham to Glasgow, this will be accompanied by new PBS centres of excellence in five city regions to offer firms advice, with a new national AI skills hub to offer wider support, alongside a new research programme to tackle barriers to innovation – starting with real estate.

    By placing innovation at the heart of the plan, it aims to increase business investment in the PBS sector and ensure the UK will not just be an AI taker, but an AI maker in delivering modern Professional and Business Services.  

    Other measures to boost the UK’s PBS sector in the plan include:

    • A new marketing campaign for PBS through GREAT + and more opportunities for PBS firms to join government trade missions.
    • Expanded support for regulators to negotiate mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements, especially with the EU, US, and other key markets.
    • A Trade Digitalisation Task Force to advise PBS firms and clients on the productivity and growth benefits of digital trade documents and processes and to break down barriers to adoption. 
    • UK Export Finance to provide guarantees to PBS firms securing early-stage overseas project contracts for the first time, strengthening the UK’s position as the world’s second largest PBS exporter.  
    • A new PBS AI Champion by summer 2025 to identify growth opportunities, address adoption barriers, and deliver sector-wide AI Adoption.  

    Iain Wright, Chief Policy & Communications Officer, ICAEW, PBSC Business Co-Chair, said: 

    The launch of the Industrial Strategy marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between business and government to enable the UK economy to grow and we were pleased to work with the government to develop the ambitious sector plan to make the UK the most trusted economy for PBS by 2035.

    With targeted support, the plan sets the stage for a more innovative, competitive and growing sector which underscores our position at the heart of the economy. I strongly welcome this renewed partnership, and we see today’s launch as the start of a long-term collaboration with government to turn this vision into reality.

    Kirsty Newman, Deloitte UK Market Chair, said:

    The PBS sector plan represents an important moment for our sector and sets out a bold and exciting vision for the future. It recognises our impact as a major employer and economic contributor in our own right, but also how we drive growth, innovation and resilience across the economy.

    The sector plan will help to ensure PBS is underpinned by the right skills and regulatory framework, is at the forefront of technological innovation and grows its presence internationally and in all regions and nations of the UK.

    The commitments from government and long-term engagement with the sector can solidify the UK’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for PBS.

    Tamzen Isacsson, Chief Executive of the Management Consultancies Association (MCA), said:   

    Consulting is one of the UK’s great economic success stories, with firms helping clients to grow, innovate, and tackle complex challenges. The Industrial Strategy and PBS sector plan is a blueprint to go further – accelerating tech adoption, opening procurement to SMEs, upskilling our workforce, and cementing the UK’s global leadership in services.

    As a sector with over 300 offices across the UK, we look forward to supporting the regional agenda of the Government as well as partnering with it to promote the skills and expertise of UK consulting globally.

    Richard Atkinson, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, said:

    The government’s new Industrial Strategy can be a game-changer for the UK economy and the legal sector. Putting legal services at the heart of the country’s economic engine will fuel sustained growth.

    Our legal industry is the second largest in the world, the biggest in Europe and brings all other sectors together. By opening global markets for UK lawyers, investing in our courts’ infrastructure, supporting technology in legal services and upholding the rule of law, we ensure the UK remains a global jurisdiction of choice. The Law Society looks forward to working with the government to deliver its long-term vision for growth in our sector.

    Notes to editors

    • The link to the PBS sector plan is here.
    • After the US, the UK is firmly established as the second largest exporter of PBS services in the world.
    • PBS is positioned to grow by £322bn in GVA by 2035 (113%), based on current trends.  
    • The PBS sector accounts for almost one job in every seven in the UK economy, with the sector paying 21.4% above the national mean annual wage.
    • Employment in PBS has grown by half a million since 2015, and we could see another half a million new jobs in PBS by 2035. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Sono Group N.V. to Present at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference June 26th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MUNICH, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The solar technology company Sono Group N.V. (OTCQB: SEVCF) (hereafter referred to as “Sono Group” or “Sono”, parent company to Sono Motors GmbH or “Sono Motors”) today announced that George O’Leary, Managing Director and CEO, will present live at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on June 26th, 2025

    DATE: June 26th
    TIME: 2:30 – 3:00 pm ET
    LINK: REGISTER HERE
    Available for 1×1 meetings: June 26th

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Recent Company Highlights

    • First national type certification in Germany for solar bus kits — streamlining fleet adoption across Europe
    • Strategic partnership: collaboration with Merlin Solar Technologies for mutual distribution — expanding reach in North and South America and partnering with them in the EU
    • Financial turnaround: €65M profit in FY 2024 (from reconsolidation), and €8.8M profit in Q1 2025 (Fair value of Existing Debt)
    • Lean operations continue, with ongoing installations now generating revenue
    • Actively progressing toward uplisting to a national exchange (NASDAQ or NYSE American) to improve liquidity and visibility
    • Expansion of commercial partnerships and product offerings. Upon Uplisting, exploring M&A to drive scale and shareholder value.

    About Sono Group N.V.
    Sono Group N.V. (OTCQB: SEVCF) and its wholly owned subsidiary Sono Motors GmbH are on a pioneering mission to accelerate the revolution of mobility by making every commercial vehicle solar. Our disruptive solar technology has been developed to enable seamless integration into all types of commercial vehicles to reduce the impact of CO2 emissions and pave the way for climate-friendly mobility. For more information about Sono Group N.V., Sono Motors, and their solar solutions, visit sonogroupnv.com and sonomotors.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, BlueSky, Truth Social, and X.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:
    Sono Group N.V.
    Press:
    press@sonomotors.com | ir.sonomotors.com/news-events
    Investors:
    ir@sonomotors.com | ir.sonomotors.com
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/sonogroupnv

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    This press release may contain forward-looking statements. The words “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “plan”, “estimate”, “aim”, “forecast”, “project”, “target”, “will” and similar expressions (or their negative) identify certain of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are statements regarding the intentions, beliefs, or current expectations of the Company and its subsidiary Sono Motors GmbH (together, the “companies”). Forward-looking statements involve inherent known and unknown risks, uncertainties and contingencies because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future and could cause the companies’ actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, risks, uncertainties and assumptions with respect to: the Company’s ability to uplist to the Nasdaq Capital Market, including meeting the initial listing requirements; the Company’s ability to satisfy the conditions precedent set forth in its recent securities purchase agreement (“Securities Purchase Agreement”) and exchange agreement (“Exchange Agreement”) entered into with YA II PN, Ltd. (“Yorkville”); the timing of closing the transactions contemplated by the Securities Purchase Agreement and the Exchange Agreement; the impact of the transactions contemplated by the Exchange Agreement and Securities Purchase Agreement on the Company’s operating results; our ability to maintain relationships with creditors, suppliers, service providers, customers, employees and other third parties in light of the performance and credit risks associated with our constrained liquidity position and capital structure; our ability to comply with OTCQB continuing standards; our ability to achieve our stated goals; our strategies, plan, objectives and goals, including, among others, the successful implementation and management of the pivot of our business to exclusively retrofitting and integrating our solar technology onto third party vehicles; our ability to raise the additional funding required beyond the investment from Yorkville to further develop and commercialize our solar technology and business as well as to continue as a going concern. For additional information concerning some of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could affect our forward-looking statements, please refer to our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on our website at ir.sonomotors.com. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond our ability to control or estimate precisely, such as the actions of courts, regulatory authorities and other factors. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: “Girl Education Today for Women Empowerment Tomorrow”: Emphasizes Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej on International Women’s Day 2025

    Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa who are also their Ambassadors, Ministries of Health, Education, Communication & Gender, mark ‘International Women’s Day 2025’, through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls. 

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African Women for Six Consecutive Years (2019 – 2024) expressed, “Happy International Women’s Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world!  

    Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives and programs at Merck Foundation. I recognize the immense potential of women to thrive, succeed and excel in any domain they choose, yet they often lack the conducive environment to fully realize their capabilities, especially in underserved communities.  

    Therefore, together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, we mark International Women’s Day every day since the last 13 years through our development programs and initiatives such as ‘More Than a Mother’, ‘Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement’, ‘Educating Linda’, and ‘STEM Program’.” 

    “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education and change of mindset.  

    “I am thrilled to share that out of the 2,282 scholarships awarded across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, 1063 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been granted to female medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders. 

    I am especially proud that we have awarded over 716 scholarships to young doctors, dedicated to advancing women’s health by strengthening reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care capacity.” 

    Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment.  

    “I am happy to share that through our “Educating Linda” Program, together with my dear sisters, our Ambassadors, we are supporting the education by providing over 950 scholarships for high performance and underprivileged African schoolgirls, empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential and also providing essential school items for thousands of schoolgirls in many African countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cabo Verde and more. 

    Moreover, we have benefitted thousands of girls through our awareness campaign through many initiates like the release of inspiring songs, children’s storybooks, animation films, TV Program and awards for best media, song, film & fashion designs, all aimed at promoting girl education today for women’s empowerment tomorrow”, emphasized Senator Rasha Kelej. 

    Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.  

    “Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,” emphasized Dr. Kelej.  

    Watch the Episodes of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program on Supporting Girl Education:  

    Episode 2: https://apo-opa.co/3TJnIlf

    Episode 11: https://apo-opa.co/3T5CQcE

    Episode 14: https://apo-opa.co/4kUtgFA

    Listen to Merck Foundation song about Supporting Girl Education here:  

    1. Watch, share & subscribe to the “Girl Can” song here, sung by two famous singers, Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/407Ntj9

    2. Watch, share & subscribe the “Like Them” song here, sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda: https://apo-opa.co/4kV21e5

    3. Watch, share & subscribe “Take me to School” song here, sung by Wezi, Afro-soul singer from Zambia, to support girls’ education: https://apo-opa.co/3ZGPClx

    4. Watch share & subscribe “Tu Podes Sim” Portuguese song, which means “Yes, You Can” in English by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane, singers from Mozambique in English here: https://apo-opa.co/4lhKJaL 

    5. Watch, share & subscribe “Brighter day” song by Sean K and Cwesi Oteng from Namibia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/3HWDu9W

    Watch the Merck Foundation Animation Films to Support Girl Education : 

    Ride into to Future: https://apo-opa.co/4lhKTin

    Jackeline’s Rescue: https://apo-opa.co/3ZKEFzv

    Read the Merck Foundation storybook addressing the importance of Girl Education: 

    1. To read Educating Linda Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/44lkNEv

    2. To read Jackline’s Rescue Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4nhP6Ve

    3. To read Ride into the Future Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4k3zAJO

    4. To read Not Who You Are Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4k3zFNC

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

    Contact:
    Mehak Handa
    Community Awareness Program Manager
    +91 9310087613
    +91 9319606669
    mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

    Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/40mEwlR
    X: https://apo-opa.co/4ngMjLO
    YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4lkw0Mb
    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3HVBxui
    Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4k8LPF5
    Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3FU9QSe
    Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com

    About Merck Foundation:  
    The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/40mEwlR), X (https://apo-opa.co/4ngMjLO), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3HVBxui), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4lkw0Mb), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4k8LPF5) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3FU9QSe). 

    The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors. 

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Threatened whale species found in areas targeted by The Metals Company for deep sea mining, scientists warn

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Exeter, UK – A scientific survey of two areas targeted for deep sea mining in the Pacific Ocean by The Metals Company has confirmed the presence of whales and dolphins, including sperm whales which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The news comes as world governments are meeting in a few weeks at the International Seabed Authority (ISA), where the call for a moratorium on deep sea mining keeps growing.[1]

    The survey, published today in the scientific journal Frontiers in Marine Science, was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter and Greenpeace Research Laboratories from Greenpeace International’s ship, Arctic Sunrise. Researchers studied two exploration blocks held by The Metals Company in the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone, known as NORI-d and TOML-e.[2][3]

    Dr Kirsten Young, Lead Study Author, University of Exeter said: “We already knew that the Clarion-Clipperton Zone is home to at least 20 species of cetaceans, but we’ve now demonstrated their presence in two areas specifically earmarked for deep sea mining by The Metals Company.”

    Following President Trump’s approval of a deep sea mining Executive Order in April 2025, The Metals Company applied to the US government to give TMC unilateral permission to commercially mine the international seabed in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. According to reports, this application covers the NORI-d area.[4] This move bypasses and undermines the International Seabed Authority, the UN regulator for deep sea mining, and has been met with strong criticism from governments around the world. Scientists have previously warned of “long lasting, irreversible” impacts of deep sea mining on the region.[5]

    Cetaceans are known to be impacted by noise pollution caused by humans, and could be impacted by the significant noise created by deep sea mining operations. These operations would also generate sediment plumes, which could further impact cetacean populations by disrupting deep ocean food systems.

    Dr Kirsten Young continued: “While more research is needed to build a complete picture of the impact of the noise and sediment plumes on cetaceans, it’s clear that deep sea mining operations will negatively impact ocean ecosystems in areas far out to sea where monitoring is particularly challenging.”

    The survey provides a 13-day snapshot of cetacean activity in these two deep sea mining exploration areas. Using hydrophones, the research team confirmed 74 acoustic detections of cetaceans. This included a sperm whale, Risso’s dolphins and common dolphins.

    Louisa Casson, Greenpeace International senior campaigner, said: “The confirmed presence of cetaceans, including threatened sperm whales, in areas that The Metals Company is targeting for deep sea mining is yet another clear warning that this dangerous industry must never be allowed to begin commercial operations. The only sensible course of action for governments at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting is to prioritise agreeing on a global moratorium.”

    Calls for a moratorium on deep sea mining grew at the recent UN Ocean Conference, with four new countries joining the group supporting a moratorium, bringing the total to 37.[6] The UN Secretary General also issued a strong call to stop this dangerous industry. Momentum against deep sea mining will now be carried forward at the July ISA meetings. 

    ENDS 

    Photos and video are available in the Greenpeace Media Library

    Notes:

    [1 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 

    [2] Threatened cetaceans in a potential deep seabed mining region, Clarion Clipperton Zone, Eastern Pacific 

    [3] This study in the Pacific is mirrored by another recent piece of research in the Arctic by Greenpeace Nordic and Greenpeace Germany. Researchers found cetaceans, including deep-diving and noise-sensitive sperm whales and northern bottlenose whales, in an area earmarked for future mining. If the Norwegian government proceeds with deep sea mining in the area, noise and pollution risk severe consequences. Greenpeace Nordic researchers are in the Arctic right now further documenting the presence of cetaceans in the area to expose the risks of deep sea mining and to champion the protection of the Arctic’s vulnerable marine life.

    [4] The Metals Company applies to mine seabed after Trump executive order 

    [5] Whale warning as clock ticks towards deep sea mining 

    [6] https://deep-sea-conservation.org/solutions/no-deep-sea-mining/

    Contact:

    Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator for the Stop Deep Sea Mining campaign, Greenpeace International: [email protected], +34 64686 3330

    Greenpeace International Press Desk: [email protected], +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hungary to oppose Ukraine’s integration into NATO and EU at key summits – V. Orban

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BUDAPEST, June 24 (Xinhua) — Hungary will try to block Ukraine’s integration into NATO and the EU at key summits of the two Western blocs this week, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on social media on Monday.

    He said Hungary was seeking to prevent the establishment of institutional links between Ukraine and the two associations that could lead to conflict and financial instability in the region.

    Orban described Ukraine’s potential membership in NATO as an “immediate and direct threat” due to the alliance’s collective defense commitments. Ukraine’s accession to the EU, he added, would pose a “constant and indirect threat” that could intensify at any time.

    According to the Prime Minister, Ukraine’s membership in the European Union could have a negative impact on Hungary’s economy, harming the interests of farmers, leading to a decrease in wages, depriving Hungarian citizens of jobs and diverting funds from Hungary to Ukrainian needs.

    Hungary will confidently overcome “stormy waters” with the help of experience and strength, V. Orban commented on the upcoming NATO and EU summits, which will be held this week in The Hague and Brussels, respectively. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Allies step up multinational capability delivery cooperation

    Source: NATO

    Increasing transatlantic defence industry production capacity is imperative to meet higher defence investment demand signals and support NATO’s enhanced deterrence and defence effectively.

    Multinational capability delivery initiatives are a cost-effective way of acquiring capabilities at speed and scale, which some Allies would not be able to do alone. 

    This proven and valuable approach is gaining new momentum as Allies work to meet NATO’s newly agreed capability targets.

    At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in The Hague on Tuesday (24 June 2025), Allies signed a number of new multinational projects and expanding existing ones.  Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye and the United Kingdom committed to the joint acquisition, storage, transportation and management of stockpiles of defence critical raw materials, including through recycling existing products. 

    This High Visibility Project will help facilitate access to a sufficient supply of defence critical raw materials such as lithium, titanium and rare earth materials, which the Allied defence industry requires to deliver the capabilities needed to keep people safe. It will also help make NATO less vulnerable to supply shocks and reduce reliance on external providers. The project supports the implementation of NATO’s Defence Critical Supply Chain Security Roadmap, agreed by NATO Defence Ministers in June 2024.

    The Multinational Multi Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) programme also reached a new milestone, with Denmark and Sweden joining this initiative. In addition, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the acquisition of two additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, raising the current fleet to 12 aircraft. Launched in 2012, the MMF programme is an example of effective NATO-EU collaboration, supported initially by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and currently managed by NSPA. The fleet provides participating nations with critical capabilities in air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and aeromedical evacuation.
     
    Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands and Sweden also broke new ground in supporting the further integration of new technologies in military operations, announcing the establishment of the first NATO Innovation Ranges. These are a key pillar of NATO’s Rapid Adoption Action Plan, which Allied Leaders are expected to endorse at the NATO Summit, and which aims to expedite innovation adoption, leverage new technologies at speed to deliver on capability targets, and increase production capacity through the inclusion of non-traditional suppliers in the defence industrial base. These ranges will enable Allies and NATO to test, refine, and validate new technological products in operationally realistic environments. 
     
    The NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO), NSPA’s governing body, also signed a partnership agreement with Australia. The agreement will allow Australia’s participation in the full range of NSPA activities and services, including, but not limited to, the fields of acquisition, logistics, operational and systems support and services. This is an important milestone in NATO’s cooperation with partners around the globe.

    At the signing ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska also praised the conclusion of several new framework contracts by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) since January 2025, worth 4.7 billion euros, for critical munitions sourced from across the Alliance.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Allies step up multinational capability delivery cooperation

    Source: NATO

    Increasing transatlantic defence industry production capacity is imperative to meet higher defence investment demand signals and support NATO’s enhanced deterrence and defence effectively.

    Multinational capability delivery initiatives are a cost-effective way of acquiring capabilities at speed and scale, which some Allies would not be able to do alone. 

    This proven and valuable approach is gaining new momentum as Allies work to meet NATO’s newly agreed capability targets.

    At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in The Hague on Tuesday (24 June 2025), Allies signed a number of new multinational projects and expanding existing ones.  Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye and the United Kingdom committed to the joint acquisition, storage, transportation and management of stockpiles of defence critical raw materials, including through recycling existing products. 

    This High Visibility Project will help facilitate access to a sufficient supply of defence critical raw materials such as lithium, titanium and rare earth materials, which the Allied defence industry requires to deliver the capabilities needed to keep people safe. It will also help make NATO less vulnerable to supply shocks and reduce reliance on external providers. The project supports the implementation of NATO’s Defence Critical Supply Chain Security Roadmap, agreed by NATO Defence Ministers in June 2024.

    The Multinational Multi Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) programme also reached a new milestone, with Denmark and Sweden joining this initiative. In addition, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the acquisition of two additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, raising the current fleet to 12 aircraft. Launched in 2012, the MMF programme is an example of effective NATO-EU collaboration, supported initially by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and currently managed by NSPA. The fleet provides participating nations with critical capabilities in air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and aeromedical evacuation.
     
    Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands and Sweden also broke new ground in supporting the further integration of new technologies in military operations, announcing the establishment of the first NATO Innovation Ranges. These are a key pillar of NATO’s Rapid Adoption Action Plan, which Allied Leaders are expected to endorse at the NATO Summit, and which aims to expedite innovation adoption, leverage new technologies at speed to deliver on capability targets, and increase production capacity through the inclusion of non-traditional suppliers in the defence industrial base. These ranges will enable Allies and NATO to test, refine, and validate new technological products in operationally realistic environments. 
     
    The NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO), NSPA’s governing body, also signed a partnership agreement with Australia. The agreement will allow Australia’s participation in the full range of NSPA activities and services, including, but not limited to, the fields of acquisition, logistics, operational and systems support and services. This is an important milestone in NATO’s cooperation with partners around the globe.

    At the signing ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska also praised the conclusion of several new framework contracts by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) since January 2025, worth 4.7 billion euros, for critical munitions sourced from across the Alliance.

    MIL Security OSI

  • Union Minister pays tribute to Kanishka bombing victims in Ireland on 40th anniversary

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, paid homage to the victims of the Air India Flight 182 tragedy at the Ahakista Memorial in Cork, Ireland, on Monday. The commemoration marked the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the Air India Kanishka flight, which claimed 329 lives on June 23, 1985.

    Minister Puri signed the Visitors Book at the memorial and led a high-level delegation comprising senior legislators from Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Delhi. The delegation represented the Government of India at the solemn commemoration event hosted by the Mayor of County Cork, Councillor Joe Carroll.

    The event was attended by the Prime Minister of Ireland, Micheál Martin, and Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree. Families of the victims also joined the ceremony, held in the coastal village of Ahakista, where debris from the ill-fated flight had been found.

    Speaking at the event, Minister Hardeep Singh Puri laid a wreath at the memorial and paid tributes to the victims. “The bombing of Air India AI 182, an act of terrorism, was a stain on humanity,” he said. He also acknowledged the support extended by the people of Ireland during the aftermath of the tragedy. “We pay tribute to the community of Ahakista and the people of Ireland for the spirit with which they rose to the occasion in solidarity with the families of the victims,” the Minister noted.

    Canadian Minister Gary Anandasangaree said, “The bombing of Air India Flight 182, 40 years ago, remains the single worst act of terrorism and mass murder in Canadian history.” Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin described the incident as “cruel and horrific,” stating that “the passing of time does not dim the scale of loss and that atrocity.”

    As part of the visit, the Indian delegation also participated in a solemn ceremony organised at the Embassy of India in Dublin. The Minister addressed the gathering of victims’ families and members of the Indian diaspora, reiterating India’s unwavering support for the bereaved families.

    Minister Puri emphasized the need for global unity in fighting terrorism. “India remains firm in its commitment to combating terrorism and calls for strong international cooperation and understanding on this global threat,” he said.

    The Air India Flight 182, operating on the Montreal–London–Delhi route, was bombed mid-air by Canada-based Khalistani terrorist group Babbar Khalsa on June 23, 1985. The attack killed all 329 people on board, making it one of the deadliest aviation terror attacks in history.

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 31 May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    May 2025 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, June 24, 2025

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for May 2025. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear Investors,

    In May, Volta Finance’s net performance reached +3.3% bringing the performance from August 2024 to date to +10.7%. Our investments in CLO Debt and CLO Equity recovered some of their post-liberation day volatility due to improved market sentiment.

    May saw a more positive macroeconomic environment, helping markets recover most of the losses from the previous month. The 90-day tariff rollback from Washington towards China signaled a pause in the U.S. Both European and US Equity markets rose sharply, while credit indices showed a V-shaped recovery. U.S. 30-year Treasury yields rose above 5% for the first time since October 2023 after Moody’s downgraded the U.S. credit rating. Although yields fell back later in the month, this jump reminded investors of ongoing worries about fiscal health.

    In terms of macroeconomic data, US inflation was encouraging as CPIs cooled to 2.3 % year-on-year while the euro-area inflation held at 2.2 %. Impacted by tariffs, the U.S. Q1 GDP contracted by an annualized 0.3 % due to pre-tariff stockpiling, while the Eurozone experienced growth of +0.3% quarter-on-quarter, supported by resilient demand in the Services industry. Labor markets also showed positive figures on both sides of the Atlantic, with the euro-area unemployment rate reaching a record-low of 6.2 % notably.

    Credit markets performed strongly in May. The European High Yield index (Xover) was around 50bps tighter and closed 300bps. On the Loan side, Euro Loans closed almost 1pt up at 97.80px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index) while US Loans closed c. 1 pt up at 96.70px. The primary CLO markets were active again, with levels tightening across the capital structure, notably with BBs in the Mid +500bps. In terms of performance, US BBs total returned +3% on the month. For comparison, US High Yield returned +1.7% in the same period while Euro High Yield was down +1.3% and Global Loans up +1.5%.

    In terms of loan fundamentals, default rates remained steady at 4.4% in the US (including Liability Management Exercises) but we noticed an uptick in downgrades with 12% of B- exposures downgraded down to CCC category by S&P in the US loan market.

    Due to ongoing uncertainties, we consciously decided not to fully reinvest our 16% cash position at the end of April. We ended May with c.10% of Volta’s NAV in cash, with capital deployment into €10.7m of CLO debt tranches as well as into our 2 warehouses. Our European CLO warehouse was converted into an effective CLO Equity at the end of the month. In addition, Volta Finance’s cashflow generation remained stable at €28.1m equivalent in interests and coupons over the last six months, representing close to 21% of May’s NAV on an annualized basis.

    Over the month, Volta’s CLO Equity tranches returned +5.9%** while CLO Debt tranches returned +2.8% performance**. The dollar slipped to a six-week low against the Euro at $1.15 per Euro with very limited impact of our long dollar exposure in terms of performance (-0.02%). In this uncertain macroeconomic environment, we have kept our net long USD exposure at c.13% to limit the potential for margin calls.

    As of end of May 2025, Volta’s NAV was €271.8m, i.e. €7.43 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 0.24% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 0.17% as at 30 April 2025, 0.07% as at 31 March 2025.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com        
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30        

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,800 professionals and €859 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2024.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    Attachment

    The MIL Network