Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Innovative projects given go ahead by MMO

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Innovative projects given go ahead by MMO

    The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) Marine Licensing team grants marine licences to protect and enhance England’s marine environment.

    New Habitat Structure in Teesside

    The Tees Rivers Charitable Trust applied to MMO to install up to 18 dock wall fittings (vertipools) and up to three modular floating islands within Middlehaven Dock, near Middlesbrough, to increase biodiversity and available habitat for wildlife.

    Each vertipool can store up to 1.5 litres of intertidal seawater, which increases the habitat for invertebrates. Up to three modular floating habitat islands will be installed consisting of up to 20 modules, made with a coconut fibre matting. They will be planted with up to 30 different freshwater and up to 13 different halophyte species, all of which are native to the UK.

    The roots of the plants form valuable habitats and refuge for aquatic organisms such as juvenile fish, while also filtering the water. The platforms also provide roosting and feeding areas for birds.

    As part of the application process, the marine licensing team carried out a Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) and consulted with relevant organisations.

    Once completed, the project should increase local biodiversity and bring public amenity benefits by inspiring young ecologists and reconnecting the public with nature.

    Floating Offshore Wind Demonstration Project

    Wave Hub Limited applied to vary their existing marine licence in relation to the Twin Hub Floating Offshore Wind Demonstration Project. The variation would change their marine licence to allow 40mw of power rather than 32mw, and extend it for five years to January 2037 to allow adequate time for works to be completed following additional funding contracts.

    The requested variation will also extend the operational period, because while floating offshore wind technology is relatively new, the design life of fixed bottom offshore wind farms often exceeds 30 years, the aim for floating wind technology is to achieve a similar, if not greater longevity.

    The marine licensing team worked closely with both the applicant and advisors during and after the consultation, answering any follow up questions to ensure the application was processed as quickly as possible.

    The changes to the marine licence will allow the project greater flexibility and improve the longevity of the floating wind farm.

    Woodside Ferry Terminal Upgrade

    Mersey Travel Limited applied for a marine licence to replace the Woodside ferry terminal in Merseyside.

    The ferry service at Woodside, on the edge of The Wirral, dates back to the 13th century and a new ferry terminal was built during the 19th century. The aim of the development is to allow the Woodside ferry landing to operate for the next 25 years.

    The works involve removing the linking bridge and installing new foundations called monopiles, which will support a replacement landing area.

    The marine licensing team liaised closely with the applicant and consultees throughout the application process. The team also undertook a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) and included conditions on the marine licence to minimise impacts to the environment, including a working in cold weather ban to reduce impacts to birds during sensitive times.

    Once complete, the new ferry terminal should vastly improve access for residents and tourists in the area.

    Greatham Marsh Restoration

    The Greatham Marsh Restoration project is centred on the restoration of intertidal habitat on low-lying land near Greatham Village in Teesside. The objective of the project is to restore Greatham Marsh and to enable the natural migration of intertidal habitats as sea levels rise. BAM Nuttall contractors made a marine licence application to remove the tidal barrier, which is maintained by the Environment Agency, in order to connect the watercourse to the floodplain.

    The work is part of a wider programme called Tees Tidelands, which will open the tributaries to tidal influence, enable fish passage and re-establish parts of the natural estuary.

    The licence associated with the existing flood defence structure commenced in 1980 and will expire in 2029. One of the conditions of the original licence stipulates that when the licence expires, the works shall be removed, and the riverbanks and foreshore reinstated.

    The removal of this structure would allow tidal flow to propagate upstream to flood the agricultural land and would allow the formation of both lower and upper intertidal marsh.

    The marine licensing team provided ongoing support to the applicant, allowing them time to provide further information and respond to application updates.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edition 40: News from the Adjudicator

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Edition 40: News from the Adjudicator

    Read the latest newsletter from the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA).

    I am pleased to be updating you about recent news from the GCA, including the commencement of a statutory investigation, the publication of the 2025 survey results and the launch of registration for my 2025 annual conference.

    Amazon investigation

    On 20 June 2025, I launched a targeted investigation into whether Amazon has delayed payments to suppliers, in breach of Paragraph 5 of the Groceries Code. I decided to launch the investigation based on the range of evidence I had seen from multiple sources.

    Delays in payment can significantly harm suppliers, potentially exposing suppliers to excessive risk and unexpected costs and affecting suppliers’ ability to invest and innovate.

    The investigation will cover the extent to which paragraph 5 of the Code may have been breached; any impact of Amazon’s conduct on suppliers; and the root causes of any issues.

    The call for evidence closes on 8 August 2025, so there’s still plenty of time for direct suppliers and other stakeholders to confidentially respond and provide information about your experiences with Amazon. Thank you to those who have already provided evidence.

    For further information, including on how to respond and the confidentiality that applies to all responses, please view the Notice of Investigation.

    Survey results

    I also published my 2025 survey results last month.

    The survey is an important tool for understanding perceptions of Code compliance across the 14 large designated retailers and tackling the most prevalent issues. Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the survey at the beginning of the year.

    I am pleased that the results show improved Code compliance across the sector. The number of suppliers suffering Code issues fell from 33% in 2024 to 30% in 2025. The average perceived Code compliance across the retailers rose from 91% to 93% with improvements at the five retailers with the perceived lowest Code compliance in 2024. For the first time at least 90% of suppliers perceived that 13 retailers were Code compliant all or most of the time.  

    There was also a fall in the number of suppliers experiencing several issues. Some of the standout improvements include:

    • delays in payments (11% of suppliers from 14% in 2024)
    • inadequate processes and procedures to enable invoice discrepancies to be promptly resolved (17% of suppliers from 21% in 2024)
    • undisputed invoices not paid according to agreed terms (9% of suppliers from 12% in 2024).

    You can find further detail in the information pack published on the GCA website.

    I have recently begun my regular round of meetings with each of the Code Compliance Officers. I have asked each of them to explain at the meetings how they will respond to their individual survey results. I will hold the large retailers to account to ensure that they deliver changes that resolve issues and improve Code compliance.

    YouGov carried out the survey and is now conducting a series of deep dive interviews with suppliers to provide further detail about their experiences. YouGov will present their findings at my conference, details below.

    Conference

    Registration is now open for the GCA Annual Conference 2025 which will take place on Tuesday 30 September.

    The conference will bring together the 14 large retailers, suppliers and industry experts to reflect on changes to the groceries sector, ongoing challenges, support available for suppliers and future priorities. To register, please visit the GCA website.

    I look forward to meeting many of you and hearing your views and questions in September.

    Annual Report and Accounts

    I published my Annual Report and Accounts on Friday 18 July. The report covers the GCA’s work during 2024/25 to ensure that the designated retailers treat their suppliers fairly and lawfully.

    Find out more on the GCA website.

    Statutory review

    The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has launched a consultation as part of its fourth statutory review of the GCA. DBT seeks evidence, including about how the GCA has performed its statutory obligations from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2025.

    The consultation closes on 5 August 2025. Find out more and respond to the consultation.

    Further information 

    Getting in touch 

    If you would like to get in touch with me and the GCA team confidentially, please email enquiries@groceriescode.gov.uk or report issues anonymously 24/7 via telltheGCA.co.uk.

    Mark White

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Economic and Social Council Concludes High-level Political Forum

    Source: United Nations 4

    2025 Session,

    36th & 13th Mtgs (AM & PM)

    ECOSOC/7216

    The Economic and Social Council concludes its High-level Political Forum under the theme “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for leaving no one behind”.

    The Forum, which began 21 July is part of the Council’s high-level segment, which will run through 24 July.

    Member States will make statements this morning under the theme “UN@80:  Catalyzing Change for Sustainable Development” and in the afternoon conclude the Forum with the adoption of a ministerial declaration. 

    Also today, the Council will continue its voluntary national reviews, on Bhutan, Ghana, Iraq, Qatar, Nigeria, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, India and Lesotho. 

    Council President Bob Rae and Vice President Lok Bahadur Thapa will chair the reviews. 

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI: Get $50 Welcome Bonus, 100x Leverage & No KYC on BexBack – Crypto Futures Trading Simplified

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin trades near $120,000 and the crypto market enters a new bull market, holding spot positions may struggle to deliver short-term profits. With the market showing strong upward momentum, investors looking to maximize their returns can turn to BexBack Exchange for a powerful solution. BexBack offers 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, providing traders the tools to seize profitable opportunities. Plus, with no KYC requirements, BexBack ensures a seamless and efficient trading experience.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users , you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a16aa38f-cdae-425e-996c-2648e82d5ef0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ad5a331-aa57-4f0b-ab21-b87061191568

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12f8df3a-75b9-480f-affd-fd9829799b27

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84422ec5-b03f-4214-bcd7-94d2ec100652

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Get $50 Welcome Bonus, 100x Leverage & No KYC on BexBack – Crypto Futures Trading Simplified

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin trades near $120,000 and the crypto market enters a new bull market, holding spot positions may struggle to deliver short-term profits. With the market showing strong upward momentum, investors looking to maximize their returns can turn to BexBack Exchange for a powerful solution. BexBack offers 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, providing traders the tools to seize profitable opportunities. Plus, with no KYC requirements, BexBack ensures a seamless and efficient trading experience.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users , you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a16aa38f-cdae-425e-996c-2648e82d5ef0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ad5a331-aa57-4f0b-ab21-b87061191568

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12f8df3a-75b9-480f-affd-fd9829799b27

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84422ec5-b03f-4214-bcd7-94d2ec100652

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BTCC Exchange Honored with Triple Recognitions from FXEmpire in Comprehensive 2025 Industry Analysis

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, the world’s longest-serving cryptocurrency exchange, is proud to announce that it has received three distinguished awards from FXEmpire following their comprehensive evaluation of over 50 centralized crypto exchanges in 2025.

    BTCC has been honored with the “Lowest Fee Crypto Exchange,” “Best Fiat-to-Crypto Trading Platform,” and “Best Crypto Exchange in the USA” awards, cementing its position as an industry leader.

    The “Lowest Fee Crypto Exchange” and “Best Fiat-to-Crypto Trading Platform” recognitions underscore the platform’s commitment to providing users worldwide with low fiat deposit fees across major currencies, including USD, CAD, EUR, and many others. Backed by multi-region licences, BTCC supports high transaction limits that ensure smooth and compliant fiat onboarding for traders globally.

    The “Best Crypto Exchange in the USA” award recognizes BTCC’s FinCEN licence in the U.S. and its commitment to transparency, as demonstrated by monthly Proof of Reserves reports that consistently maintain reserve ratios above 100%.

    “We’re truly honored and excited to receive these awards from FXEmpire,” said Aaryn Ling, Head of Branding at BTCC. “These recognitions validate our commitment to providing traders with the most efficient, secure, and cost-effective cryptocurrency trading services, and reinforce our mission to uplift the industry’s standard for quality trading.”

    With 14 years of proven security and reliability since 2011, BTCC continues to strengthen its position in the global cryptocurrency market. As an industry pioneer, BTCC remains committed to delivering reliable and accessible trading services to users worldwide.

    Learn more about the rewards on BTCC’s website.

    About FXEmpire

    Established in 2011, FXEmpire is a globally recognized financial news platform. It offers up-to-date market news, detailed analysis, real-time quotes and charts, and expert reviews of brokers and crypto exchanges.

    About BTCC Exchange

    Founded in 2011, BTCC is a leading global cryptocurrency exchange with the vision to make crypto trading reliable and accessible to everyone. With a strong presence in over 100 countries and regions and a user base of over 9.1 million, BTCC continues to deliver innovation, security, and an unmatched user experience in the cryptocurrency world.

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

    X: https://x.com/BTCCexchange

    Contact: press@btcc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portadown People’s Park to host free Family Fun Day

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Portadown People’s Park are excited to welcome families for a fantastic day of fun and celebration. Join us for a free family fun day packed with activities for children and families to enjoy, taking place on Saturday 9th August 2025. Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with local support organisations in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

    The event is all about bringing people together to interact, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. It’s a great chance to build new friendships and enjoy a fun and welcoming environment that encourages families to spend time together and take part in community activities.

    Looking forward to the event, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Alderman Stephen Moutray commented:

    “I am delighted to welcome you all to our upcoming family fun day, a fantastic day to enjoy a vibrant programme of free activities. It’s a great way for everyone to come together and celebrate the community spirit that makes our borough so special.”

    Event Details:

    Location: Portadown People’s Park

    Date: Saturday 9th August 2025

    Time: 12:00pm – 4:00pm

    Free admission

    This initiative is supported through The Executive Office District Council Good Relations Programme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester Day this weekend – everything you need to know!

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester’s favourite day of the year is back this weekend with a fantastic day of free music-themed family fun on Saturday (26 July) to help celebrate the city’s homegrown musical talent and this year’s big summer of live music in the city.

    Inspired by what is proving to be a sensational summer of music in Manchester, expect pop-up performances, astounding acrobatics and banging beats throughout the city’s streets and squares as the whole city comes together for Manchester Day 2025.

    The council has worked with outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank on a programme for the day this year that is full of surprises and promises lots of free fun all with a musical twist.

    The day kicks off with a mini parade at 12 noon from St Peter’s Square, that will make its way along Deansgate and on to the Cathedral.  Led by two fantastical creatures, and with over 400 participants, including live bands, dancing birds, plenty of drummers and some of Manchester’s many community groups dancing and performing their way along the route in a riot of colour and sound, it’s definitely one not to miss.

    From English National Opera and Walk the Plank teaming up with football fans and community choirs, West End show tunes, juggling drummers, a hip-hop wrestling ring, plus two musical cats and a larger-than-life canary all in a giant birdcage, the day will see non-stop surprises throughout. 

    Expect sparks to fly as the world’s largest dhol drum rolls into town, opening up to reveal dancers and drummers, whilst award-winning dance company Levantes will be dressed to impress at their ‘High Tea with a Twist’, in New Cathedral Street. 

    Throw some shapes and bust some moves over on the Deansgate dancefloor where Moroccan trance music and Bhangra dance will be the order of the day, whilst French street theatre company Stoptoï will be combining dance, drumming and juggling in a brand-new, high-energy show on St Mary’s Gate.

    Enjoy music and performance from some of Manchester’s finest groups including the Bridgewater Hall Singers, or kick back and relax with a drink at the Capri Beach bar, before having a wander around one of the city-wide music trails, exploring Manchester’s musical heritage and hotspots. 

    Don’t miss the Perfect Pitch Three O’clock Kick-off, or the show-stopping grand finale in Cathedral Gardens combining opera singing and football chants at 4:30 pm in Cathedral Gardens, where a main stage will feature a fantastic programme of music throughout the day, The Urban Playground Team will perform Zoo Humans, a parkour performance piece that blends movement and storytelling.

    The day will also see a whole host of free have-a-go activities for youngsters of all ages to join in with from circus skills, drumming workshops, and ukulele introduction sessions, to music-themed craft activities and the ever-popular sport pop-ups.

    Manchester Day visitors are also invited this year to join Manchester Opera House for an exclusive free behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic venue, with the chance also to take part in special performance-themed workshops, or to try their hand at crafting band posters from recycled show posters.

    And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled throughout the day for a majestic lion, a cheeky gorilla, giant seagulls and a host of marvellous bees and butterflies – just a few of the weird and wonderful walkabout acts waiting to surprise people on the day.

    Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said: “We’ve got a fantastic Manchester Day lined up for everyone this year which is going all out to celebrate the music our city and our fabulous communities make.  We’ve got an absolute ton of stuff going on for families and people of all ages on Manchester’s favourite day of the year. So shake your maracas, slip on your dancing shoes, prepare to make some noise, and come on down and join us!”

    Manchester Day has been created in collaboration with outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank who have also worked with community groups across the city to put together what is set be a vibrant and lively mini parade.

    Liz Pugh, Creative Producer, Walk the Plank, said: “The mini parade celebrates the wonderful creativity and diverse traditions of our modern city and highlights the contribution of some of our newest communities.  We’re bringing the talents of some of Manchester’s finest carnival artists, and will be welcoming back groups like Keep Manchester Tidy and the School of Samba, as well as some exciting newcomers.”

    Manchester Day 2025 is sponsored by Manchester Airport Group, with activations across the city on the day by Red Bull, Capri Beach Club, Shaken Udder, Just My Look, Manchester Originals, and The Cut & Craft.  The event is also backed by Redgate and Department, and partners Great Northern Warehouse and The Opera House, as well as through long-standing partnerships with Biffa and Manchester Evening News.

    Activities run throughout the day on Saturday 26 July from 12 noon to 5 pm.

    Here’s the full lowdown on what’s happening and where throughout the day:

    MINI PARADE
    Fantastical winged creatures, a Phoenix, and beautiful birds of paradise will feature in this year’s mini parade which involves over 20 community groups and bands and more than 400 participants.

    Two playful inflatable Griffins will lead the parade whilst the Queen Bee sits atop her Gondola made from recycled cutlery, repurposed into a beautiful vessel that sails through the streets, and Walk the Plank’s giant Dhol Drum beats out Punjabi rhythms as it makes its way along Deansgate.

    Dancers from the Filipino Anglo Club of Greater Manchester and Colibri Dance bring the traditions of the Philipines and Mexico to Manchester, whilst the Hong Kong Cultural community takes part for the first time with a Phoenix kite-bird and Lo Ting a character who is half-human, half-fish and according to legend is the ancestor of Hong Kong’s people.

    Manchester’s Lithuanian Association will be bringing a Lithuanian legend to life with their Queen of Serpents who changed her children into trees, and the Guangxi Cultural Association will be performing traditional Chinese dance in full costumes.

    Parade highlights also include Manchester Airport Group with their planes, traffic controllers, and dancing chandeliers, and more dance from Ad Hoc Dance, one of the longest running community dance groups, as well as hip hop from young street dancers from FreshSkillz.

    With the Irish pipes of Fiana Phadraig Pipe Band from Wythenshawe, drummers from the Manchester Dhol Players, the Brazilian-inspired brass of Jubacana, two samba bands, and singers from the Perfect Pitch collaboration with English National Opera, it promises to be a loud and lively start to the day. 

    The mini parade leaves St Peter’s Square at 12 noon, travelling along Peter Street to Deansgate, then along the length of Deansgate before ending at the Cathedral at approximately 1 pm.

    CATHEDRAL GARDENS
    Enjoy main stage performances from Baked a la Ska, who will be serving up original tunes along with playful ska-infused covers of your favourite hits, alongside synth pop star Michael Aldag and world music from Manchester International Roots Orchestra.Be transported to the sunny shores of the Caribbean by steel band, Arthur’s Class Act.

    The Urban Playground Team will perform Zoo Humans, a parkour performance piece that blends movement and storytelling. Keep your eyes peeled for a surprise performance later on it the afternoon.

    Plus listen out for chart-topping hits played on ukuleles and a stunning PERFECT PITCH mass choir finale from 4:25 pm featuring football fans, community choirs, internationally acclaimed soprano Camilla Kerslake and some extra surprises. 

    Look out also for pop-up performances from Cocky Robins, beautiful Butterflies, Giant Seagulls, and a pair of post-match footballers who aren’t afraid of getting down in the dirt and a Three o’clock kick-off penalty shoot-out like no other.

    ST ANN’S SQUARE
    Join us in our wrestling ring stage – hosted by Trans Creative’s Kate O’Donnell – for West End showtunes from Sam Buttery, mind boggling magic from Fay Presto, music from rapper OneDa, an acoustic performance from viral sensation Michael Aldag, and opera with a twist from Flat Pack Music, plus hula hooper extraordinaire Danielle de la Wonk, and wrestling demos from Future Shock Pro Wrestling, 

    Marvel at the larger-than-life Birdcage Stage where a giant canary and two musical cats will defy the laws of gravity to try and outwit each other in cartoon capers full of slapstick silliness. Who will end up inside the cage at the end?
    And look out for a lion on the loose and a mischievous stowaway from Borneo.

    DEANSGATE
    Watch the mini parade snake its way along Deansgate between 12 noon and 1 pm, led by two giant fantastical griffins, followed by live bands, dancing birds, drummers and some of Manchester’s many community groups in a riot of colour and sound.

    Marvel as sparks fly when the world’s largest dhol drum rolls into town, opening up to reveal the Nachda Sansaar dancers and drummers.

    Get on down to live acts on the Deansgate dancefloor, including Moroccan trance music, Bhangra dance, Kemoy and the KYSO Collective, and the Soul Beats dance troupe.

    Seasoned cyclists or complete beginners are all invited to join the Manchester Day Pedal Party. Hop onto a balance bike, try out an e-cargo bike, or test a top of the range road bike. There’ll also be accessible, adapted bikes that can be ridden.

    NEW CATHEDRAL STREET
    New Cathedral Street will be alive with the sound of music, as the Bridgewater Hall Singers serenade crowds with songs from across the decades, and ukulele orchestras play chart-topping hits.

    Enjoy High Tea with a Twist with Levantes Dance, who will be dressed to impress and performing daring dance and acrobatics above a tastefully laid tea table, plus hilarious street theatre heroes delivering a sizzling mix of slapstick comedy, and the world’s only mobile football stadium.

    MARKET STREET
    Visit Circus House to learn a whole new set of circus skills.

    Discover the finest regional produce at the Manchester Day Craft Market by Manchester Markets, selling everything from home-made bakes and locally sourced honey, to hand dipped candles and artisan doughnuts.

    ST MARY’S GATE
    Don’t miss French street theatre company Stoptoï combine dance, drumming and juggling in a high-energy show full of rhythm and imagination.

    Get your blood pumping at the 60m, pop up athletic track supplied by GLL, or dive into the fast and furious world of The Hundred, a turbo charged version of traditional test cricket.

    Try batting, bowling, and catching in a special area, meet players from Manchester Originals, and be in with the chance of winning prizes.

    Enjoy astounding acrobatic performances and master a new skill with the folks from Circus House.  

    OPERA HOUSE 
    Take a free, guided, behind-the-scenes tour of this iconic Manchester venue on Quay Street, craft a band poster from recycled show posters, or take part in a performance themed workshop.

    KING STREET
    King Street turns into Guitar Street as the Music for the Senses art trail takes over the city centre, with amazing artworks and interactive installations that celebrate Manchester’s legendary music scene. In association with Wild in Art.

    EXCHANGE STREET
    Make some noise with Manchester Libraries and craft a harmonica or tambourine to take home.  

    MCR LIVE ’25 HUB
    Roll with it at the city’s newest destination on Piccadilly Gardens to help celebrate the mammoth summer of live music in Manchester.

    Grab a drink at the bar, sample some of the North West’s best street food or catch a free DJ or live music act on the outdoor stage. 

    Locations and activities may be subject to change. Find out the most up-to-date information 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Drumgeith Community Campus Delivering Community Benefits 

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    The new £100 million Drumgeith Community Campus is delivering significant community benefits by providing jobs, training and projects to improve the lives of local people. 

    Community benefits are additional requirements added to major contracts designed to help to boost local employment and skills development, support community initiatives and deliver economic benefits to support local business and supply chains. 

    Dundee City Council and Robertson Construction are working in partnership to deliver these benefits. To date, over £57 million has been retained within the local economy through using local subcontractors and suppliers, representing 76% of the total subcontract project spend. The project has created 40 employment opportunities, 11 new apprenticeship opportunities, and supported 38 existing apprenticeships through this building programme. 

    In addition, 40 work experience opportunities have been created, including 13 for school based young people and a further 27 placements through employability programmes run by Dundee and Angus College and other employability providers. 

    Over 70% of the work force on this site has come from the local area, defined as being within a 40-mile radius of the site. 

    Set to open in August 2025, the campus will serve as a modern and vibrant central hub for the north and east of the city for both pupils and the community to use. It will provide specialist pupil support provision, citywide music and performing arts, as well as community, library, leisure, and sports facilities for use by the wider community. 

    Fair work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Convener Steven Rome said: “The economic and social benefits of our flagship £100 million community campus are being felt across the city. 

    “Over £57 million has been invested directly into the local economy. This investment has generated 40 employment opportunities, including 23 new start-up opportunities for previously unemployed or redundant individuals. 

    “We have partnered with Roberston Construction Tayside to deliver a comprehensive Community Benefits programme which has had wide ranging benefits. These include initiatives to inspire girls to consider a career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) as well as providing training opportunities for women attending Tayside Council on Alcohol (TCA) to help them build their confidence and resilience. 

    “I would like to express my gratitude to council officers and Roberston for their efforts in maximising these community benefits.” 

    Robertson Group Chief Executive, Elliot Robertson commented: “We have been working closely with Dundee City Council for a number of years and continue to be a trusted delivery partner of choice. However, our working relationship goes beyond just delivering high-quality projects, it’s also about the lasting legacy that we leave in the local community. 

    Drumgeith Community Campus is an outstanding facility which is set to benefit the wider community when it opens later this year, but the benefits of the project are already being felt. From creating jobs and apprenticeships to supporting young people into training and working with local suppliers, community wealth building is an intrinsic part of what we do, and we are committed to supporting the people and places where we operate.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Counting the climate costs of abandoned shopping trolleys

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Neill Raath, Assistant Professor of Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing, University of Warwick

    Richard Johnson/Shutterstock

    Despite the steady growth of online shopping, a majority of the UK public still prefers to buy groceries at the supermarket.

    Shopping trolleys can help us lug our purchases back to the car, but some shoppers are evidently taking them further afield. In 2017, 520,000 trolleys were reported as abandoned in the UK. Sunderland in north-east England alone reported 30,000 abandoned trolleys between 2020 and 2022. Likewise, 550 trolleys were collected in a single day in western Sydney, Australia.

    Supermarkets employ a range of methods to stop trolleys leaving their premises, including coin slots, vertical bars (to stop trolleys leaving the shop floor), wheel-locking mechanisms and car park wardens. Despite these efforts, abandoned trolleys still blight the landscape and need to be collected.

    Many supermarkets use commercial collection services, such as Wanzl TrolleyWise or TMS Collex. These companies typically use diesel vans to survey suburban areas, collect trolleys and return them to supermarkets. They also offer to refurbish weathered or damaged trolleys, sometimes by applying a zinc-based coating to protect against corrosion – a process known as regalvanisation.

    We are researchers at the University of Warwick who wanted to understand the environmental impact of trolley abandonment. So, we set out to investigate it.

    Collecting versus manufacturing

    How does the environmental impact of using vans to rescue abandoned trolleys compare with losing these trolleys to excessive damage or corrosion and having to make new ones?

    Our study used a standardised methodology known as life-cycle assessment to analyse the potential environmental impact of collecting and handling abandoned shopping trolleys within an area of Coventry, a city in the English West Midlands, which includes our university campus.

    We spoke to trolley suppliers, who told us trolleys used at the supermarket in Coventry were most likely made in Spain. This was incorporated into our model.

    A trolley discovered by the author, abandoned in a bush near a car park.
    Neill Raath

    Through conversations with our university’s estates department and commercial collection services, we established that approximately 30 trolleys were collected a week on average in the area surrounding the Tesco supermarket in the Cannon Park shopping centre.

    Our model assumed that a bulk transport of 50 trolleys is sent twice each year to be refurbished, in a round trip of 220km between Coventry and a refurbishment facility based in the UK that was noted on stickers placed on refurbished trolleys.

    Vans collecting 520,000 abandoned trolleys in a year could emit the equivalent of 343 tonnes of CO₂ (the annual equivalent of driving 80 petrol cars). If we imagine that 10% of these 520,000 trolleys have been left outside too long and need to be regalvanised then the total global warming impact increases by 90% to the equivalent of 652 tonnes CO₂ (roughly the same as 152 petrol cars being driven for one year).

    This is quite a surprising increase for such a small number of trolleys. It suggests that the real problem lies with the environmental impact of manufacturing.

    Most of the emissions can be avoided

    We found that one trolley would have to be collected 93 times by a diesel van to have the same environmental impact as manufacturing a new one.

    Our results showed that the emissions incurred during the diesel van collection phase were only 1% of the manufacturing impact, and the regalvanisation stage was only 8%. We might wonder whether switching to electrically powered collection vans might help. While the emissions would be reduced, the impact of using diesel vans is still minuscule compared to that of making new trolleys.

    We found that the highest environmental impact stemmed from manufacturing, which was mainly attributed to making and replacing the steel frame of the trolley.

    These results reinforce the benefits of following the circular-economy principle of keeping trolleys in use for as long as possible, and avoiding manufacturing to replace abandoned ones.

    Would anything change if we switched to plastic trolleys? Other researchers have investigated the effect of changing trolley materials and have found that trolleys made of polymers have many benefits compared with steel: they use less material, are less dense (a benefit for collection vans that emit less by driving around lighter products) and do not require protective coatings, which themselves have an environmental impact.

    Blast furnaces at conventional steelworks are very carbon-intensive.
    Pedal to the Stock/Shutterstock

    However, if these polymer trolleys were to be sent to landfill (or left to deteriorate in the environment), they could release carcinogenic chemicals, as well as microplastics, as they break down. This leads us back to the importance of keeping products in use.

    Abandoning trolleys is bad for the environment, with a potential global warming impact equivalent to 0.69 kg CO₂ for collecting one trolley and returning it to a supermarket. If we multiply this by the potential 520,000 abandoned trolleys a year, this figure becomes quite big.

    Preventing trolley abandonment should be a priority not just for supermarkets, but for the general public as well. However, once a trolley is abandoned, it is far better to collect and refurbish it than to let it fall out of use and manufacture a new one, as 92–99% of the environmental impact can be avoided.

    While it is unlikely that we can ever stop trolleys being abandoned, we hope that next time people see a trolley in an alley or park bush, the potential environmental impact of losing this trolley to service would be apparent.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.


    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Counting the climate costs of abandoned shopping trolleys – https://theconversation.com/counting-the-climate-costs-of-abandoned-shopping-trolleys-258500

    MIL OSI Analysis

  • MIL-OSI Russia: How RUDN University ecologists conducted an expedition to Baskunchak

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Institute of Ecology has had a student popular science travel club for 5 years, opened by NSO GreenLab. With the support of teachers, students organize independent expeditions – scientific research trips with the implementation of a set scientific task, as well as popular science and educational trips.

    “GreenLab does not go on hikes just like that. Each of our outdoor events has a scientific or educational purpose. We see a request from students to participate in such scientific expeditions. Most are not interested in just walking or driving a route to see something beautiful and take a photo for the sake of it – they need something to take with them, in addition to vivid impressions. New knowledge, skills necessary for a future career, understanding of the structure of various ecosystems and natural processes. We select those who are in solidarity with our values and are ready not only to travel, but also to study. So not only students from other RUDN departments go with us, but also from other universities,” – Daniil Mironov, GreenLab outdoor manager, student of the Institute of Ecology (Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, 1st year).

    During the existence of the NSO, students have been on expeditions not only within Russia, but also abroad. The young researchers have worked in Kamchatka Krai, Murmansk Oblast, the Republic of Dagestan, Kalmykia, Karelia, Primorsky Krai, as well as in the regions of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Italy and the Czech Republic.

    One of the latest expeditions took place in the Astrakhan region. A group of students went to the vicinity of Lake Baskunchak. This is not only a famous salt lake, but also karst caves and chalk quarries with various minerals and ancient fossils.

    “The goal of the expedition is to study steppe ecosystems, as well as the geological features of Lake Baskunchak and Mount Bogdo. Bogdo is only 150 meters high, but it is the highest point of the Caspian lowland. Few people know, but this mountain is a real salt dome covered with sedimentary rocks. The salt layers below gradually squeeze it out, causing it to grow by several millimeters per year, promising to erupt in millions of years as real salt lava,” Daniil Mironov, GreenLab outdoor manager, student at the Institute of Ecology (“Applied Mathematics and Computer Science”, 1st year).

    “We got acquainted with the local flora and fauna – we saw menacing solpugs, anxious snakes and numerous dung beetles. We experienced the changeability of the weather in the steppes – we conducted radial walks under the scorching sun, and in the evenings we cooked dinner and listened to lectures in the rain. We managed to walk along the surface of Baskunchak and in its brine (salt solution of lake water), the bottom of which is covered with the mineral halite – the same table salt that we use and which is mined here on an industrial scale,” – Lada Yaseneva, a student of the Institute of Ecology (Ecology and Nature Management, 2nd year).

    Lake Baskunchak itself is fed by 19 springs, of which only 2 are fresh. Underground water passes through layers of salt, becoming saturated and then flowing into Baskunchak itself. The concentration of salt in the lake is about 250 ml/l, which makes it one of the saltiest in Russia and in the world. Salt is not the only mineral that can be found in the vicinity of Baskunchak. There are chalk quarries around – active and exhausted, in which you can find minerals and ancient fossils, such as vertebrae of fish that lived more than 200 million years ago. Participants were able to take away samples of gypsum and feldspars.

    “In a few days, we managed to visit the most interesting places: we climbed Mount Bogdo with its incredible views, visited a gypsum quarry where the land resembled alien landscapes, and, of course, we reached Lake Baskunchak. We had to walk 10 km to the lake, but it was worth it! Walking on salt was painful – my legs cut like broken glass – but the feeling of standing in the middle of an endless white desert was unforgettable. And as souvenirs, we brought home salt crystals and gypsum,” – Daria Dobrova, a student at the Institute of Ecology (“Energy and Resource-Saving Processes in Chemical Engineering, Petrochemistry and Biotechnology”, 1st year).

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Group of men convicted of murdering two people in Archway

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A group of five men, who killed two people they mistook for rival gang members in Archway have been convicted of murder.

    Lorik Lupqi, 21 (22.09.2003) of St John’s Way, N19, Abel Chunda, 29 (03.01.1996) of Caldy Walk, N1, Jason Furtado, 28 (18.12.1996) of Halton Road, N1, Eden Clark, 29 (28.01.94), of Huddleston Road N7 and Xavier Poponne, 21 (06.11.2002) of Halton Road, Islington, N1 appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 23 July.

    Following a 15-week trial, all men were all convicted of murdering 15-year-old Leonardo Reid and 23-year-old Klevi Shekaj and attempting to murder another man.

    Detective Inspector Jim Barry of Specialist Crime North said “These violent men went into this estate with the intention of killing anyone they could, under the false impression that those there were rival gang members. This was a senseless, violent act which has shattered the lives of so many, especially Leonardo and Klevi’s loved ones.”

    On Thursday, 29 June 2023, there had been a large gathering on the Elthorne estate to film a music video.

    Lorik Lupqi, a gang member from Islington saw this gathering at around 8:30pm and took it as an opportunity to hurt who he thought were gang opponents. He messaged his girlfriend stating that “opps were outside.” She advised him to remain inside, but Lupqi decided to contact his close friend and gang associate Jason Furtado.

    They formed a plan and recruited three gang members to travel to the Elthorne estate. By the time they arrived two hours later, the filming had concluded, and most people had left, but some local children and teenagers remained in the area.

    The group then fatally stabbed 15-year-old Leonardo Reid, who sadly died at the scene and 23-year-old Klevi Shekaj who died in hospital. They also stabbed another man, who was taken to hospital.

    A double murder and attempted murder investigation was launched with extensive enquiries taking place.

    The enquiries carried out by Met Police’s Specialist Crime Command included reviewing CCTV, forensic examinations and analysis of phone data. This data showed that there were 50 short phone calls between this group in the two hours before the murders. After the attack, the four went to Abel Chunda’s house and called organiser Furtado.

    They were identified as key suspects and work began to bring them into custody.

    Chuna and Furtado were arrested on 3 July with Clarke travelling to the Suffolk coast and changing his appearance in an attempt to evade arrest. Met Officers quickly located him and arrested him on 12 July.

    One suspect, Lupqi illegally travelled to Kosovo days after the murders. He had sent messages to his girlfriend, telling her not to wait for him. Met officers worked closely with the Kosovan authorities, the National Crime Agency and the Crown Prosecution Service to extradite him back to the UK and arrest him at Luton Airport on 12 November 2024.

    Following Poponne’s arrest in November 2023, damning lyrics were found in a drill song written the day after the murders. These lyrics glorified the murders and made references to elements of the attack which could only be known to those involved. In these lyrics, he also referenced how Leonardo and Klevi were not involved in gang criminality. Shortly after the murders, he also changed his social media name to ‘X3’ referencing the number of people he had stabbed.

    During the trial, the group refused to admit responsibility with some stating that they were in the area to deal drugs but not involved in the murders.

    They all appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 23 July where they were all convicted of two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. They will appear at the same court on Thursday, 25 September and Friday, 26 September for sentencing.

    Detective Inspector Jim Barry added: “Our team have remained focused on getting justice for those affected by this violent and unnecessary attack.

    “This dangerous group of men will now spend a long time behind bars but the effect of what they did will be felt by the victim’s shattered families for longer.

    “I thank the members of the public who tried to help and save the lives of those injured and have assisted our team with enquiries.

    “We will continue to tackle violent offenders and ensure that justice is bought for the safety of our communities.”

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will be in Sweden on July 27-30 for trade talks with US

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

    Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will be in Sweden from July 27 to 30 for economic and trade talks with the United States upon mutual agreement, the commerce ministry announced Wednesday.

    Following the important consensus reached during the phone talks between the two heads of state on June 5, the two sides will leverage the role of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism, and continue to engage in consultations on economic and trade issues of mutual concern based on the principle of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, said a spokesperson with the ministry.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Erdoğan of Türkiye: 22 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with President Erdoğan of Türkiye: 22 July 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan yesterday evening.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan yesterday evening.

    The two leaders looked ahead to today’s International Defence Industry Fair in Istanbul, where their Defence Ministers have taken the next step towards signing a multi-billion-pound export deal of UK-built Typhoon jets to Türkiye. 

    The Prime Minister added that once fully finalised, this enhanced military co-operation will strengthen NATO’s collective defences and keep us safer during uncertain times, as well as sustaining 20,000 UK jobs and driving growth. 

    Turning to the Middle East, they discussed the intolerable situation in Gaza and underlined the urgent need for more aid and an urgent ceasefire, in order to pave the way for a two-state solution and a secure future for Palestinians and Israelis.

    They reiterated their concern about the recent violence in Syria, and agreed that the ceasefire must hold.

    The Prime Minister thanked the President for Türkiye’s convening role in the upcoming talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul today, as well as the discussions due to take place on Iran’s nuclear programme later this week.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Byers Gill Solar development consent decision announced

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Byers Gill Solar development consent decision announced

    The Byers Gill Solar application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

    Byers Gill Solar

    The application will consist of a proposed solar farm with over 50MW capacity, Solar PV modules and associated mounting structures, inverters, transformers, switch gear and control equipment, a substation, energy storage equipment and underground on and off-site cabling. 

    The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by RWE Renewables UK Solar and Storage Limited on 9 February 2024 and accepted for examination on 8 March 2024.  

    Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 23 April 2025.   

    This is the 96th energy application out of 160 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.   

    Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.   

    The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.  

    The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.  

    This decision was made by Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh on behalf of the Energy Secretary’s legal authority. 

    Journalists wanting further information should contact the Planning Inspectorate Press Office, on 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005 or email:   

    Press.office@planninginspectorate.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Secures HDS Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Health Data Protection in France

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Certification affirms that Varonis’ cloud-native Data Security Platform meets stringent legal requirements for safeguarding personal medical information

    MIAMI, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, announced it achieved Hébergeur de Données de Santé (Health Data Hosting) certification. This certification is a prerequisite for any organization wishing to host health data in France and provides a framework for the security and protection of personal health data.

    The certification demonstrates Varonis’ ability to meet the requirements as defined in the HDS Referential version 2.0.

    “Varonis is dedicated to upholding the highest international standards for data security,” said Gilad Raz, CIO and VP of Technical Services at Varonis. “Achieving the HDS certification reinforces our commitment to protecting our customers’ health data and complying with local regulations.”

    The HDS accreditation enables Varonis to serve French healthcare customers who are legally required to use HDS-certified providers, meet stringent regulatory requirements, expand its footprint in EU healthcare markets, and reinforce trust by ensuring data handling adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

    To explore the full list of Varonis certifications, visit www.varonis.com/trust.

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Secures HDS Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Health Data Protection in France

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Certification affirms that Varonis’ cloud-native Data Security Platform meets stringent legal requirements for safeguarding personal medical information

    MIAMI, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, announced it achieved Hébergeur de Données de Santé (Health Data Hosting) certification. This certification is a prerequisite for any organization wishing to host health data in France and provides a framework for the security and protection of personal health data.

    The certification demonstrates Varonis’ ability to meet the requirements as defined in the HDS Referential version 2.0.

    “Varonis is dedicated to upholding the highest international standards for data security,” said Gilad Raz, CIO and VP of Technical Services at Varonis. “Achieving the HDS certification reinforces our commitment to protecting our customers’ health data and complying with local regulations.”

    The HDS accreditation enables Varonis to serve French healthcare customers who are legally required to use HDS-certified providers, meet stringent regulatory requirements, expand its footprint in EU healthcare markets, and reinforce trust by ensuring data handling adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

    To explore the full list of Varonis certifications, visit www.varonis.com/trust.

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Pacvue Partners with Unlimitail, a Leading European Grocery Media Network, to Expand Retail Media Access Across Europe, Starting with Carrefour

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacvue today announced a strategic partnership with Unlimitail, the retail media network serving over 35 leading retailers across Europe and Latin America.

    This collaboration will expand Pacvue clients’ self-service capabilities by enabling brands and agencies to activate campaigns across Unlimitail’s network via Pacvue’s commerce operating system. It also unlocks incremental demand by opening access to global and regional budgets through Pacvue’s platform. The partnership will begin with Carrefour, the number one grocery player in Europe, with campaigns launchable starting this summer in France.

    This integration reflects the increasing maturity of Europe’s retail media landscape and aligns with the best practices established in the most advanced markets. It also showcases Unlimitail’s and Pacvue’s continued investments in creating a more unified, standardized, and accessible ecosystem through streamlined platforms and partner integrations.

    Through this integration, Pacvue now offers streamlined access to Carrefour France’s onsite media inventory, allowing brands and agencies to seamlessly plan, launch, and optimize retail media campaigns with greater precision, efficiency, and control. The partnership will progressively expand to other countries and other retailers in Europe.

    Strategic Impact for brands and agencies

    This partnership, enabled by Unlimitail’s exclusive retail media offering and ad tech infrastructure, positions Pacvue clients to capitalize on the growth of the European retail media market with more personalized campaigns, real-time optimization, and access to one of the region’s most influential grocery retail media channels.

    This partnership will bring key benefits to brands:

    • Access to exclusive retail media inventory: Activate campaigns across Unlimitail onsite media inventories, starting with Carrefour in France. Reach shoppers in high-impact placements throughout the whole purchase journey.
    • Performance measurement powered by transactional data: Use Pacvue’s platform to monitor and optimize campaigns in real time, with performance insights enriched by retailer’s transactional data.
    • Streamlined access to a top-tier retail media networks: Leverage Pacvue’s platform to easily activate and manage campaigns across one of Europe’s most influential retail media networks and advanced retailers, with centralized visibility and control. This global connectivity for brands and agencies will bring Europe closer to the most mature markets in retail media.

    “At Unlimitail, our mission is to make omnichannel retail media simpler, smarter, and more impactful for brands. Partnering with Pacvue, the worldwide leading Commerce platform, does exactly that, by allowing us to expand the accessibility of our retailer’s inventories to more global agencies and advertisers. This global connectivity, powered by Pacvue tools, is a significant step in steering the European markets towards the most mature countries in retail media. More than ever, we are committed to lead the way in helping brands put retail media at the core of their Marketing & Commerce strategies,” declares Thibault Hennion, COO of Unlimitail.

    Victor De La Fuente, the Head of Global eCommerce at Nestle, shared, “We’re thrilled about the opportunities this partnership between Unlimitail and Pacvue brings. Accessing and managing Carrefour’s data through the Pacvue solution marks a significant advancement in our retail digital media initiatives across Europe, enhancing operational efficiency and driving performance.”

    Unlocking Carrefour’s Retail Media Ecosystem

    This partnership will start by providing access to Carrefour inventories in France. Carrefour.fr welcomes close to 17 million unique monthly visitors, with nearly 2 million new visitors added in the past year (source: Médiamétrie net ratings, February 2025). In France, 1 in 4 people now visit the retailer regularly, with 97% of shoppers still shopping through the website at least 2 years after their first purchase (source: Kantar).

    With such a loyal and high-traffic environment, Unlimitail and Carrefour offer a strong foundation for performance. According to Unlimitail’s latest benchmark study, Retail Media Decoded, Sponsored Product campaigns in Europe on grocery reach an average click-through rate around 1,0%, with 1-1 ROAS above 3x and Halo ROAS around 6x, demonstrating the power of well-executed activations and their impact not only on products, but brands as a whole.

    Pacvue’s Investment in European Expansion

    This announcement comes as Pacvue deepens its investment in Europe with the appointment of Mark James as VP, Head of EMEA. With over 15 years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, James will support the company’s continued growth and localized value for brands across the region.

    The partnership with Unlimitail underscores Pacvue’s commitment to expanding its European footprint. Backed by Mark James’ 15+ years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities and foster them for clients in the EMEA region.

    Pacvue CRO Ross McNab commented: “Mark is the ideal leader to drive Pacvue’s growth across the EMEA region. He has deep expertise in retail media and a proven track record. Coupled with our partnership with Unlimitail, this is a big leap forward in our mission to give brands a competitive advantage through cutting-edge retail media capabilities.”

    Romain Schneider, eRetail Media Director at WPP, underscored what this move signals for the brands and advertisers: “We’re always looking for innovative, scalable ways to drive meaningful outcomes for our clients at WPP. The partnership between Pacvue and Carrefour represents a significant advancement for retail media in Europe. Access to Carrefour’s high-traffic, data-rich ecosystem via Pacvue’s platform gives our brands unprecedented precision, speed, and control in campaign execution.”

    About Unlimitail, The Retail Media Powerhouse

    Unlimitail is a global retail media platform enabling brands and retailers to deploy simplified, unified, and optimized retail media strategies. Through deep consumer insights, omnichannel campaign activation, and end-to-end measurement, Unlimitail helps drive visibility and generate sales.

    The company stands out for its advanced advertising technologies through Epsilon Retail Media, offering unified onsite and offsite solutions, as well as its global reach and premium data assets. Unlimitail aggregates over 2 billion monthly page views and connects more than 220 million addressable customers worldwide through 35 retail partners.

    For more information, visit www.unlimitail.com

    Unlimitail Communications Department: communication@unlimitail.com

    About Pacvue

    Pacvue is the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement. The company’s first-to-market platform drives incrementality, profitability and market share for brands, while turning insights into actionable recommendations. Backed by a global team of experts, Pacvue works with over 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers worldwide including Amazon, Walmart, Target and Instacart. With the incorporation of Pacvue’s enterprise solution with Helium 10 for SMBs, Pacvue is now the most comprehensive commerce and retail media platform available in the market. Founded in 2018, their global presence includes locations in Chicago, Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Shanghai and Tokyo.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: What Canada can learn from Australia on adequately protecting citizens at live events

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sean Spence, Security Risk Management Pracitioner & Researcher, Royal Military College of Canada

    In April 2025, a man drove an SUV through a crowd of people attending a Filipino cultural festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more. In response, the British Columbia government immediately commissioned an inquiry to examine the systemic causes of the incident and whether any lessons could be learned from the tragedy.




    Read more:
    Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election


    The commission came up with six recommendations based on gaps in the current municipal application and approval system for public events across the province.

    One key recommendation was that all public events should be required to complete a risk assessment. This isn’t currently happening across the province. The absence of such analysis poses a risk for public safety.

    Another recommendation was the creation of local knowledge capacity to support event organizers, particularly for small and rural events, where the expertise to conduct a basic security risk assessment is lacking.

    Forseeable tragedy?

    As I argued in August 2022, the live events industry lacks the same level of professionalism as other occupations. Many of these small event organizers are amateurs who lack the resources to properly deal with the security risks involved in holding their events.




    Read more:
    Canada could have its own Fyre Festival fiasco if it doesn’t amp up event regulations


    These factors, combined with emerging security risks, meant that the tragedy at the Lapu Lapu festival could be considered a foreseeable event given the risk realities associated with modern mass gatherings.

    The inquiry report highlighted how B.C. is lagging behind other international jurisdictions in terms of legislative pro-activeness in securing public events. This policy deficiency is actually a Canada-wide problem; the country is woefully behind other western nations when it comes to securing public events.

    My doctoral thesis examined this very issue when I compared the regulation and application process to host public events in Canada and Australia’s largest cities.

    Australia vs. Canada

    Firstly, it’s important to note that Canada is a less safe country in terms of security than Australia, all things considered equal. Canada’s porous border with the United States means more illegal firearms are entering the country, resulting in more gun violence than in Australia, where there are more restrictive gun ownership laws.

    The Lapu Lapu attack was not investigated as an act of terrorism, but in a related concern, Canada’s intelligence-gathering and national security laws place it at a counter-terrorism disadvantage compared to Australia.

    Relatively speaking, research suggests Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms hinders its security services from being able to detect and investigate terrorism-related offences given the greater importance placed on individual rights compared to Australia, where there is no such Charter equivalent.

    Australia also has pro-active foreign intelligence collection capabilities to aid in its counter-terrorism efforts, while Canada’s CSIS agency only has domestic capabilities. That essentially requires it to import intelligence from its allies.

    Given these facts, it would seem plausible that Canada would be at greater risk for security threats at public events — including terrorist attacks, active shooters, etc. — than Australia.

    When I compared the data between both countries in my research, it suggested Australia has more public event regulation than Canada.

    It was quantitatively shown that Australian officials require risk assessments and other proactive measures from event organizers, including for risk mitigation, while Canadian officials are mostly concerned with reactive security response plans — in other words, determining how organizers would respond to attacks after they occurred.

    An analysis of event application documents in both countries reveal that Australian municipalities disproportionately emphasize “risk management” in approving events compared to Canadian municipalities.

    Three ways the B.C. report falls short

    The B.C. report missed out on examining several important elements.

    Firstly, it did not take a holistic, deep dive into just how vulnerable public events are to myriad security threats — like active shooters, crowd crushing and terrorist attacks — but instead focused solely on the hostile vehicle threat.

    It also failed to consider the urgency of governments to adopt policy changes in the face of emerging threats on public spaces, like drone attacks.

    Secondly, the report made no mention of the need for law enforcement to develop stronger ties to share intelligence with event organizers as a proactive measure to protect mass gathering events from violence. The Hamas attacks at a music festival in Israel in October 2023 highlight the worst outcome of such failures.




    Read more:
    How Israel underestimated Hamas’s intelligence capabilities – an expert reviews the evidence


    Lastly, there was no call for action or recommendation for the federal government to play a greater role in providing guidance to the industry and lower levels of government.

    National security is a federal issue as well as the regulation of airspace for drones. In countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States, the national government provides guidance on protecting public spaces. There is no such policy leadership in Canada.

    The B.C. findings show Canadian authorities have a lot of work to do to make public events safer for Canadians. With the FIFA World Cup coming to Canada next year, Canadian governments still have time to implement corrective actions to ensure soccer fans stay safe.

    Sean Spence provides security consulting services within the hospitality industry.

    ref. What Canada can learn from Australia on adequately protecting citizens at live events – https://theconversation.com/what-canada-can-learn-from-australia-on-adequately-protecting-citizens-at-live-events-261161

    MIL OSI Analysis

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government unveils updates to Private Fund Regime and Sound Business Practice Policy23 July 2025 The first two initiatives which will help to protect and grow Jersey’s financial services sector have been announced. The Jersey Private Fund, JPF, regime has been modernised to be better aligned with… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 July 2025

    The first two initiatives which will help to protect and grow Jersey’s financial services sector have been announced. 

    The Jersey Private Fund, JPF, regime has been modernised to be better aligned with the needs of international professional investors. 

    Proposals to simplify the Sound Business Practice Policy, SBPP, have been published which, once approved, will streamline its application whilst a more comprehensive review of this framework is undertaken. 

    Both initiatives are part of the Competitiveness Programme and were unveiled at its launch event. 

    Jersey Private Fund 

    The Minister with responsibility for Financial Services, Deputy Ian Gorst, has signed a Ministerial Order to update the JPF. 

    Effective from 6 August 2025, the revised JPF Guide and a new statutory instrument, the Collective Investment Funds (Jersey Private Funds) Order, will come into force. 

    These changes will: 

    • remove the 50-offer / investor cap; 
    • expand the definition of professional investor; 
    • permit the listing of interests in JPFs with the Jersey Financial Services Commission’s consent; and 
    • introduce a 24-hour authorisation process for JPF applications submitted by registered Designated Service Providers.

    Jill Britton, Director General of the JFSC, said: “The updated JPF regime is a significant step, keeping Jersey’s fund offering evolving with the needs of industry. JPFs continue to be a regulated product that investors can have confidence in – these changes streamline the regime and, together with our commitment to faster authorisation, we are underscoring our commitment to excellent service.” 

    Joe Moynihan, CEO, Jersey Finance, said: “Since its launch in 2017, the JPF has become Jersey’s fastest-growing fund category, particularly well-suited to private equity, venture capital and real asset strategies. As private capital continues to evolve globally, these updates will further increase Jersey’s appeal to managers and professional investors seeking flexible and well-regulated fund solutions.” 

    Deputy Gorst said: “These revisions follow industry engagement and reflect a broader global movement toward bespoke, efficient private fund vehicles for professional investors. They provide certainty for fund promoters and reinforce Jersey’s appeal as a jurisdiction of choice for private capital.” 

    Sound Business Practice Policy 

    The SBPP, jointly developed by Government of Jersey and the JFSC, identifies ‘sensitive activities’ which require additional information or scrutiny before the JFSC consents to them. The Codes of Practice for investment business, funds service business, certified funds and trust and company businesses all require registered persons to have due regard to the SBPP. 

    The SBPP has served Jersey well in understanding and managing risk, but updates are required to ensure it remains fit for modern-day business. 

    The proposed amendments simplify its scope of application, reducing potential business frictions and delays. The “Repeal of the Control of Borrowing Framework”, recently published by the Government of Jersey, includes a review of the SBBP framework with a view to establish a more flexible risk-based approach in the medium-term. 

    Jill Britton said: “This is about modernising regulation while taking a progressive stance against financial crime. Refining the SBPP removes unnecessary complexity and enables firms to focus on what matters, identifying and managing real risk. It’s a shift toward more intelligent regulation, where the emphasis is on outcomes and accountability, not just process”. 

    Joe Moynihan added: “We welcome the simplification of the SBPP, which should have a material impact on Jersey’s competitiveness as an IFC that is very much open for high quality business. These changes, which are in response to industry feedback, are another good example of our agility as an IFC and the positive collaborative relationship there is between industry, the Government of Jersey and the JFSC.” 

    Deputy Gorst said: “This change will enable businesses to do what they already do well: determine the risk of their activity and to act accordingly. Jersey has a mature and sophisticated financial services sector, and this change acknowledges that. The simplification of the SBPP does not reduce Jersey’s commitment to combatting financial crime but rather acknowledges that the industry understand risk and allows them to take greater responsibility for managing it.” 

    Competitiveness Programme 

    The Competitiveness Progamme has brought together government, the regulator and industry with the goal of protecting Jersey’s current economic strength, while unlocking new pathways for growth over the next ten years. 

    The programme is organised around four strategic workstreams, with each designed to address a key dimension of Jersey’s competitiveness: 

    • International Tax Strategy – focusing on creating a tax framework that keeps Jersey competitive and compliant in a fast-changing global landscape. 
    • Business and Regulatory Environment – delivering practical, quick-impact improvements to ease of doing business and regulatory efficiency, while also shaping longer-term reforms. 
    • External Growth Strategy – comparing Jersey’s strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats, against global trends and competing jurisdictions, this stream will offer data-driven insights and targeted investment opportunities to fuel long-term, realisable international growth. 
    • Future Competitiveness and Regulation – bringing together a high-level panel of global experts to synthesise and prioritise the findings from across the workstreams, producing an independent report for Ministers. 

    At the end of this process of research and reflection, the Government will publish a final report and action plan in 2026 that will shape Jersey’s strategy into the next decade.

    These efforts align closely with other major initiatives such as Jersey Finance’s Vision2050 and the JFSC’s registry and strategic reviews, which ensures that workstreams are not happening in silos, but as part of a broader, coordinated vision. 

    For more on the Financial Services Competitiveness Programme, please see: Financial services competitiveness programme​​.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New fence installed at Silksworth wheeled sports park to boost safety and community use

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A brand-new fence has been installed around the wheeled sports park at Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope, providing a significant boost to safety and enjoyment for local families and young people.

    The improvements come as part of a project costing £15,690 funded by Sunderland City Council’s West Area Committee. The fencing works were completed over a four-week period, and a new gate has also been installed to fully complete the improvements.

    The wheeled sports park has long been a popular hub of activity and enjoyment for the Silksworth community, attracting hundreds of users each week. However, the removal of the original fence around five years ago, due to damage and safety concerns, left the area exposed. In the years since, rising levels of motorcycle disorder and general antisocial behaviour had made the park feel unsafe, particularly for younger users and their families.

    The installation of the new fence marks a major step forward in reclaiming the space for safer community use. These improvements should provide peace of mind for parents and encouraging more children and young people to enjoy the wheeled sports park as a safe, inclusive place to play, exercise, and socialise.

    Councillor Joanne Laverick, chair of the West Area Committee at Sunderland City Council said: “We listened to the concerns of residents, and this fence is a direct response to those calls for action. By improving safety and deterring antisocial behaviour, we’re making sure the park remains a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

    “Hopefully the installation of the new fence will not only attract former users of the wheeled sports park to come back and enjoy it again but attract new users too.”

    The West Area Committee is one of the five area committees across Sunderland. Made up of local councillors, these provide residents with a greater say by working closely with their communities and drawing on local knowledge to identify priorities for their area. They also create Area Plans to support the City Plan, focusing on local needs. These plans help fund and deliver projects in partnership with local voluntary and community sector organisations.

    The new gate will further support the long-term management of the site, helping to ensure the park continues to serve as a vibrant and valued community facility.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council said: “The wheeled sports park is a valuable community asset that brings together young people and encourages healthy, active lifestyles.

    “By making this a safer place for everyone to enjoy once again, I’d like to welcome residents to get the most out of this wheeled sports park.”

    The installation of the new fence has been welcomed by riders who regularly use the sports park. Jonathan Dobson, a Sunderland resident and BMX rider for 16 years said: “The new fence has made a huge difference to the sports park. Before it was installed, you’d often find rubbish and smashed glass around the park making it unusable. But now its cleaner and I know my bag will be safe while I’m riding as there’s only one entrance.”

    Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope is one of Sunderland’s most distinctive recreational destinations, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and leisure facilities managed by Everyone Active. Home to one of the UK’s few dry ski slopes, the park also features a large lake, walking trails, sports pitches, a children’s play area, and wide green spaces.

    Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope is popular with families and fitness enthusiasts alike and is a key community asset in the west of the city. The park plays an important role in promoting outdoor activity, wellbeing, and social connection throughout the year.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reading and much more at Leicester Libraries this summer!

    Source: City of Leicester

    FREE games, crafts, workshops and performances are on offer at all of Leicester’s libraries over the summer holidays.

    It’s all part of Story Garden, the summer reading challenge which rewards children for regular reading. Across the city, every Leicester library will host a free family fun session, which will include a range of accessible games and crafts, predominantly aimed at primary age children, but where all are welcome.

    A full rundown of where and when the fun days take place can be found at www.leicester.gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge – or you can ask at your local library.

    As well as the fun days, children can book a place on a free workshop at some libraries, with themes including Lego coding, space (in conjunction with the National Space Centre) and the environment.

    And there are free and low-cost shows at local libraries too, including:

    Check out the What’s On listings for a full rundown of what’s on where, or ask at your local library.

    Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for libraries and community centres, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to offer lots of free or very low cost activities across the city and throughout the summer, suitable for children and young people of all ages.

    “Our summer reading challenge is always very popular, with thousands of local children getting involved – more than 6,000 children took part in the challenge last year.

    “Ebooks and audio books are included in the challenge too, so however you like to borrow books, you can take part.”

    Find out more at leicester.gov.uk/libraries.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: How the nature of environmental law is changing in defense of the planet and the climate

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Dana Zartner, Professor of International Studies, University of San Francisco

    A 2017 New Zealand law recognizes inherent rights of the Whanganui River. Jason Pratt, CC BY-SA

    While the dangerous effects of climate change continue to worsen, legal efforts to address a range of environmental issues are also on the rise.

    Headlines across the globe tout many of these legal actions: South Korea’s Climate Law Violates Rights of Future Generations; Ukraine is Ground Zero in Battle for Ecocide Law; Paris Wants to Grant the River Seine Legal Personhood; and Montana Court Rules Children Have the Right to a Healthy Environment, to name a few recent examples.

    As an environmental lawyer, I see that most of these suits use one of five legal strategies that have been developed over the past couple of decades. These approaches vary in terms of who is filing the lawsuit, against whom, and whether the underlying legal perspective is based on protecting human rights or the rights of the environment itself. But they all share an innovative approach to protect all life on this planet.

    1. Right to a healthy environment

    In 2022, the United Nations declared that humans have “the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment … essential to protecting human life, well-being and dignity.” More than 150 countries have similar declarations in their constitutions or laws, often alongside protections for other human rights, such as those to education and medical care.

    These rights are held by humans, so people can sue for alleged violations. Typically they sue one or more government agencies, whose responsibility it is to protect human rights.

    One recent case using this approach was Held v. Montana, in which a group of young people in 2024 won a lawsuit against the state of Montana for violating the state constitution’s right to a “clean and healthful environment.” The state Supreme Court agreed with the plaintiffs and struck down a law barring the consideration of climate effects when evaluating proposals for fossil fuel extraction. Similar cases have been heard in the U.S. and other countries around the world.

    Rikki Held, the lead plaintiff in the Montana case, center seated, confers with the Our Children’s Trust legal team before the start of the trial on June 12, 2023.
    William Campbell/Getty Images

    2. The rights of future generations

    A legal concept called “intergenerational equity” is the idea that present generations must “responsibly use and conserve natural resources for the benefit of future generations.” First codified in international law in the 1972 Stockholm Declaration, the principle has been gaining popularity in recent decades. International organizations and national governments have enshrined this principle in law.

    Focused on humans’ rights, these laws allow people and groups to bring claims, usually against governments, for allowing activities that are altering the environment in ways that will harm future generations. One well-known case that relied on this legal principle is Future Generations v. Ministry of the Environment and Others, in which a Colombian court in 2018 agreed with young people who had sued, finding that the Colombian government’s allowance of “rampant deforestation in the Amazon” violated the pact of intergenerational equity.

    3. Government responsibility

    Another human-centered approach is the public trust doctrine, which establishes “that certain natural and cultural resources are preserved for public use” and that governments have a responsibility to protect them for everyone’s benefit.

    While the concept of “public trust” has long existed in the law, recently it has been used to bring suit against governments for their failure to address climate change and other environmental degradation. In Urgenda Foundation v. the State of the Netherlands, a Dutch court held in 2019 that the government has a responsibility to mitigate the effects of climate change due to the “severity of the consequences of climate change and the great risk of climate change occurring.” Since the decision, the Dutch government has sought to reduce emissions by phasing out the use of coal, increasing reliance on renewable energy and aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

    Government responsibility for the public trust was also a basis of the Juliana v. U.S. case, where a group of young people sued the U.S. government for breaching the public trust by not doing enough to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately declined to hear an appeal of a lower court’s ruling, but the lack of a specific ruling by the nation’s highest court has given continued hope to new cases, which continue to be filed based on the same principle.

    A documentary examining the movement to protect the rights of nature.

    4. Rights of nature

    The rights of nature is one of the fastest-growing environmental legal strategies of the past decade. Since Ecuador recognized the rights of Pachamama, the Quechua name for Mother Earth, in its Constitution in 2008, more than 500 laws on the rights of nature have been enacted around the world.

    The principle recognizes the legal rights of natural entities, such as rivers, mountains, ecosystems or even something as specific as wild rice. The laws that grant these rights don’t focus on humans but rather nature itself, often including language that the natural entity has the right to “exist and persist.”

    The laws then provide a mechanism for the natural entity – whether through a specific group assigned legal guardianship or other community efforts – to protect itself by filing lawsuits in court. In the 2018 Colombian case, the court found that the Amazon ecosystem has rights, which must be respected and protected.

    Similarly, in Bangladesh in 2019 the courts recognized the rights of all the country’s rivers, requiring, among other things, a halt on damaging development along the rivers that block their natural flow. The court also created a commission to serve as legal guardians of the country’s rivers.

    The destruction of a dam in Ukraine, which emptied this former reservoir, is being investigated as a possible crime of ecocide.
    Tarasov/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

    5. Defining a new crime: Ecocide

    In 2024, the governments of Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa formally proposed that the international community recognize a new crime under international law. Called “ecocide,” the principle takes a nature-focused approach and includes any unlawful act committed with “the knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment.”

    Put another way, what genocide is to humans, ecocide is to nature. It is being proposed as an addition to the 2002 Rome Statute, which created the International Criminal Court to prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity.

    While the idea is relatively new, in addition to the international efforts, several countries have incorporated ecocide into their laws – including Vietnam, France, Chile and Ukraine. A Ukrainian prosecutor is currently investigating the June 2023 destruction of a dam in a Russian-occupied area of the country as a potential crime of ecocide, because of the widespread flooding and habitat destruction that resulted.

    The European Union has also incorporated ecocide into its Environmental Crime Directive, which applies to all EU member countries, providing them with a mechanism to hear ecocide claims in their national courts.

    Using these ideas

    Each of these legal concepts has the potential to increase protection for the environment – and the people who live in it. But determining which strategy has the greatest chance of success depends on the details of the existing law and legal system in each community.

    All of these legal strategies have a role in the fight to protect and preserve the environment as an integral, interdependent living thing that is vitally important to us as humans but also in its own right.

    Dana Zartner is a volunteer with the Earth Law Center assisting with the editing of toolkits and guides, but has not worked on any of its lawsuits.

    ref. How the nature of environmental law is changing in defense of the planet and the climate – https://theconversation.com/how-the-nature-of-environmental-law-is-changing-in-defense-of-the-planet-and-the-climate-258982

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Analysis Function resources

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Analysis Function resources

    Resources to learn more about and promote the Strategy for analysis in government 2025 to 2028

    On this page you will find:

    • A campaign in a box to containing resources to help you promote the Strategy for analysis in government 2025 to 2028
    • Slide templates for use in presentations about the Strategy for analysis in government 2025 to 2028

    Campaign in a Box – Strategy for analysis in government 2025 to 2028

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

    Presentation – Strategy for analysis in government 2025 to 2028

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh Crown Estate Devolution Bill a step closer to becoming law

    Source: Party of Wales

    Plaid Cymru urge UK Government to reconsider its stance ahead of the Bill’s third reading in the Lords

    A Bill that would transfer responsibility for the Crown Estate in Wales to the Welsh Government has passed the report stage in the House of Lords without opposition and is now set for its third reading.

    The Crown Estate (Devolution to Wales) Bill, introduced by Plaid Cymru peer Dafydd Wigley, seeks to ensure that Welsh natural resources – including seabed rights and offshore wind developments – are managed from Wales and for the benefit of the people of Wales.

    The Bill draws on precedent set by the UK Government in devolving the Crown Estate to Scotland via the Scotland Act 2016. In 2023–24, Scotland benefited by £113 million in revenue from its devolved Crown Estate. In contrast, the Crown Estate in Wales remains reserved to Westminster, and Senedd Cymru receives no such direct benefit.

    During the debate on the Bill’s Committee stage, Lord Wigley highlighted the overwhelming political and civic support for the move, noting that all of Wales’s 22 local authorities – across a range of political parties – have passed resolutions calling for the devolution of the Crown Estate.

    Plaid Cymru urged the UK Government now to support Dafydd Wigley’s Bill when it returns to the House of Lords for its third reading after the summer recess, which would then allow it to be transferred to the House of Commons.

    The party’s energy spokesperson, Llinos Medi MP, said it gave “new momentum” to Plaid Cymru’s campaign to devolve the Crown Estate.

    The UK Labour government rejected Plaid Cymru’s calls for control over the Crown Estate to be given to ministers in Wales in February, with Labour MPs – including those from Wales, voting against an amendment by Llinos Medi MP to the government’s Crown Estate Bill. 

    Plaid Cymru Peer, Dafydd Wigley said:

    “Wales has a history of exploitation of our natural resources, whether it is coal or other minerals, or our water resources, on which Birmingham and London now increasingly depend. We likewise see the exploitation of our energy potential – wave, sea currents, estuarial waters and wind on shore and in the seas around our coast.

    “My Plaid Cymru colleagues and I want to see the maximum possible benefit from such projects coming into the Welsh economy; we want to see that happen in a planned manner that recognises the financial benefit that should rightly come to those who invest in such projects, but also to the communities in which they are based.

    “Given this Bill has passed its Report Stage unopposed in the Lords, given the unanimous support of all Welsh councils towards the principle of the Bill, as well as the support of the Welsh Government, the UK Government should reflect on this issue and support my Bill when it returns for its Third Reading after the summer recess, and subsequently when it comes to the Commons, to make time available for MPs to discuss it further.”

    Plaid Cymru Energy spokesperson, Llinos Medi MP, added:

    “The passing of this Bill’s Report Stage in the House of Lords gives new momentum to the campaign to devolve the Crown Estate. Combined with the unanimous support across all Welsh councils, it’s clear that the UK Government must now reconsider its stance.

    “The UK Government can no longer justify keeping these powers in Westminster. If Scotland can control its own natural resources, then Wales deserves nothing less. This is about fairness, accountability, and empowering Welsh communities to shape their own future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens propose holiday homes tax to protect Gaelic language

    Source: Scottish Greens

    Holiday homes are increasing house prices out and hollowing out communities

    The Scottish Greens have unveiled new plans to protect Gaelic-speaking communities by increasing taxes on holiday homes and Airbnb-style short term lets. The move is designed to tackle the acute housing crisis in Gaelic communities and to support young people who want to stay in the areas they have grown up in.

    The party’s finance spokesperson, Ross Greer MSP, intends to force a vote on the proposals when Holyrood considers amendments to the Housing Bill in the autumn. His amendments would allow ministers to levy a special surcharge on those buying holiday homes or other additional properties in areas with high numbers of Gaelic speakers, such as Skye and the Outer Hebrides.

    Average house prices in Skye are £60,000 higher than the national average and one local councillor recently estimated that almost 60% of local properties were either holiday homes or short term lets. This is forcing many young people off the island and putting Gaelic’s survival as a community language at risk. Lack of available housing is commonly cited as a key reason why Gaelic is now on the edge of extinction in its historic communities.

    Greer’s proposals follow the Scottish Parliament recently passing the Scottish Languages Act, which allows for communities where Gaelic is widely spoken to be designated as “Areas of Linguistic Significance”. The additional charge on holiday homes purchases the Scottish Green MSP has put forward would apply in the areas with this designation.

    Ross Greer said:

    “Gaelic is an essential part of Scottish culture and national identity, but it is on the verge of extinction as a living language. We need to take bold action immediately, or the decline will be impossible to reverse. The Languages Act is a good starting point, but we know that one of the biggest threats to the language is the housing crisis in areas like Skye.

    “Young Gaelic speakers are being forced out of the last communities where it is still the spoken language because holiday homes and Airbnb-style short term lets have driven up house prices to levels they cannot hope to compete with. As a result, they are forced to move to areas where they cannot use Gaelic in their everyday interactions. This is one of the biggest threats to Gaelic’s continued existence. 

    “My proposals would make it harder for wealthier people to buy up second homes and short-term lets in Gaelic-speaking communities and in turn make it easier for locals, especially first-time buyers, to secure their own home.

    “Changes to Council Tax already delivered by Scottish Green MSPs reduced the number of second and holiday homes across Scotland by 2,500 last year, freeing up more properties for people who need a home to live in. We can build on this success with further targeted actions and ensure that our Gaelic-speaking communities can thrive rather than be treated purely as holiday parks for tourists and the super-rich.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Global Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Ministerial opens: Small businesses key constituency in global trade, say South African SME minister, International Trade Centre (ITC) head

    Source: APO


    .

    The inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting opened today, marking a milestone in recognizing small and medium-sized enterprises as a key constituency in global trade. 

    The high-level event is co-hosted by the South African Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and the International Trade Centre (ITC), with main events taking place on 23-24 July. The Ministerial was preceded by the Trade Promotion Organizations Leadership Dialogue on 22 July, in which heads of national trade promotion organizations developed strategies to better engage with SME ministers to bring the voice of small business into policymaking.

    Watch the livestream of the Ministerial high-level opening.

    More than 700 delegates from more than 60 countries are participating in the Ministerial, including ministers, heads of delegation, heads of national trade promotion organizations, business leaders and entrepreneurs. Ministerial-level delegates convened from across the world, from Bangladesh to Brazil, from Cameroon to Costa Rica, from Senegal to Switzerland, from the United Arab Emirates to the United Kingdom.  

    In her welcome remarks, South African Minister of Small Business Development Stella Tembisa Ndabeni said: ‘Let this Ministerial Meeting mark the beginning of a bold new global compact for MSME development; one that expands access to markets, unlocks affordable finance, accelerates digital inclusion, and ensures that women, youth and underserved communities are not spectators, but architects of economic transformation.’

    She added: ‘Let us commit to practical, measurable actions that position MSMEs as central pillars of resilience, innovation and sustainability. Let us work towards a global enabling ecosystem, where no entrepreneur is left behind because of where they live, how much they earn, or who they are.’

    In her welcome remarks, ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton said: ‘Now, this Ministerial is no talk shop. This is no place for posturing or politics. This is a space for us to marshal our collective knowledge and our energy and find solutions across the three areas that will bring the benefits of trade within reach of more SMEs: access to finance, digital transformation and green competitiveness.’

    Addressing ministerial-level delegates, she said: ‘When you go back to your capitals, your ministries, your cabinet meetings and your meetings with heads of state and government, you’ll be taking back with you concrete solutions, with the evidence to back them up.’

    Expected outcomes include the endorsement of a call-to-action in which countries align on the three main areas that will harness the development of SMEs—access to finance, digital transformation and green competitiveness —and develop a roadmap for future Ministerial Meetings to take place every two years, to ensure discussions produce outcomes for countries. 

    See the latest information on the Ministerial on the Global SME Ministerial Meeting landing page.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inspection report published: An inspection of the Home Office’s use of age assessments (July 2024 – February 2025)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Inspection report published: An inspection of the Home Office’s use of age assessments (July 2024 – February 2025)

    The Independent Chief Inspector, David Bolt CBE, comments on the inspection report on the Home Office’s use of age assessments, and the Home Office’s response, following its publication yesterday.

    My report on the Home Office use of age assessments was published yesterday (22 July 2025). The report was sent to the Home Secretary on 20 May 2025, so publication fell just outside the agreed 8-week target timescale. I made eight recommendations designed to improve training, guidance, assurance, resources and communication and I am pleased that all were accepted.  

    When a young person claims asylum in the UK, the Home Office must determine whether they will be treated as an adult or as a child while their claim is being processed. The focus is on chronological age, reflecting the fact that immigration and other relevant legislation is framed around 18 years as the bright line between childhood and adulthood. However, the binary nature of the determination and the absence of a foolproof ‘test’ of chronological age mean that the Home Office will sometimes get it wrong. This is clearly a cause for concern, especially where a child is denied the rights and protections to which they are entitled.

    This inspection examined initial age decisions based on appearance and demeanour made by the Home Office when first encountering young people who claim asylum, in particular those arriving by small boat. It also examined subsequent age assessments, including those conducted by the National Age Assessment Board (NAAB), which sits within the Home Office and since 2023 has been assisting local authorities by conducting Merton-compliant age assessments on their behalf.

    Inspectors set out to understand how far the Home Office went to ensure that its assessments were sufficiently mindful of the difficulty of getting it right and of the consequences of getting it wrong. Inspectors looked for evidence that processes were methodical, fairly and consistently applied, and child-sensitive; that decisions were balanced and reasonable; and that those involved were open to learning from others and from their mistakes.

    Inspectors found that many of the long-standing concerns about policy and practice, especially in respect of initial age decisions, remain unanswered, and for small boat arrivals some of these concerns had increased. Yet there was a surprising lack of curiosity about decisions that were subsequently disputed and overturned, and a prevailing view that there was no learning to take from these later assessments as the processes were too dissimilar.

    For those disputing their initial age decision, the greater reliance on qualified social workers, whether employed by local authorities or by the NAAB, the recognised Merton ‘standard’, and the fact that there is more time to probe and reflect, made for a more careful and thorough process, though still not guaranteed to get it right. Here there was a need to improve information sharing (with local authorities regarding age disputed individuals dispersed to their area) and capacity (especially of the NAAB to meet the demand it had generated for its services), along with record-keeping, data and quality assurance. 

    Previous inspections have raised concerns about the Home Office’s ability to identify vulnerable adults and respond effectively. In focusing on determining chronological age the Home Office needs to take care that it is not deflected from making a more holistic assessment of individual needs, since a young person who is assessed correctly to be over 18 may nonetheless be vulnerable and at risk if placed with other adults. 

    Underlying my eight recommendations the overall message is that the Home Office should look to work more closely and collaboratively with external stakeholders, including local authorities in England and Wales and their equivalents in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Strategic Migration Partnerships, Non-Governmental Organisations, and should involve others (interpreters, social workers, experts and practitioners in supporting and providing services for children and young people) as much as possible in designing and delivering its processes.

    Home Office policies and practice in relation to age assessments will always be hotly contested, not least because of what is at stake. But a more open and inclusive approach will make it easier for the Home Office and its critics to maintain a constructive dialogue about how to ensure that the best interests of children are served. Committing to better communication, engagement and collaboration would be a start.

    Yesterday, the government also issued a written ministerial statement regarding the use of scientific methods to help determine age. As no scientific methods are currently in use, this was out of scope for this inspection. However, the ICIBI will no doubt wish to return to age assessments at some point to follow up on its recommendations, and this will also be an opportunity to inspect any new methods that are in use at that time.

    David Bolt CBE, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration

    23 July 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press conference following Council of Ministers meeting no. 135

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    22 Luglio 2025

    Council of Ministers meeting no. 135 was held at Palazzo Chigi today. Following the meeting, Minister for Public Administration Paolo Zangrillo, Minister of Justice Carlo Nordio, Undersecretary of State to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers Alberto Barachini, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Maurizio Leo, Special government commissioner for prison facilities Marco Doglio and Director General of the National Cybersecurity Agency Pref. Bruno Frattasi held a press conference to illustrate the measures approved.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Fidelity D & D Bancorp, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUNMORE, Pa., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fidelity D & D Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: FDBC) and its banking subsidiary, The Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank, announced its unaudited, consolidated financial results for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2025.

    Unaudited Financial Information

    Net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was $6.9 million, or $1.20 diluted earnings per share, compared to $4.9 million, or $0.86 diluted earnings per share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.  The $2.0 million, or 40%, increase in net income resulted primarily from a $2.8 million increase in net interest income coupled with a $0.8 million increase in non-interest income. This was partially offset by a $1.1 million increase in non-interest expense and a $0.6 million increase in the provision for income tax.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, net income was $12.9 million, or $2.23 diluted earnings per share, compared to $10.0 million, or $1.73 diluted earnings per share, for the six months ended June 30, 2024.  The $2.9 million, or 29%, increase in net income stemmed from the $4.9 million increase in net interest income and $1.1 million increase in non-interest income. This was partially offset by a $2.0 million increase in non-interest expense and a $1.0 million increase in the provision for income tax.

    “I am pleased to share that we delivered another strong quarter, underscoring the continued momentum of our strategy and the dedication of our entire team,” stated Daniel J. Santaniello, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Second quarter 2025 net income increased 40% over last year’s second quarter to $6.9 million, with diluted earnings per share rising to $1.20. This performance was driven by a 19% increase in net interest income—reflecting our disciplined loan portfolio expansion and enhanced yields as well as a 16% rise in non-interest income.

    Year-to-date, net income has grown 29% to $12.9 million, a clear testament to the strength of our relationship-based deposit strategy and prudent expense management. Our asset quality remains solid, and we further strengthened our capital position, with shareholders’ equity up 7% providing a strong foundation for continued growth in the second half of 2025.

    These results reflect more than financial performance—they speak to the strength of our culture, our commitment to our clients, and our deep roots in the communities we serve. I want to sincerely thank our talented and dedicated team of bankers, whose expertise and focus on service excellence drive our success every day. Together, we continue to build a stronger, more resilient financial institution—one that delivers meaningful value to our bankers, clients, shareholders, and communities.”

    Consolidated Second Quarter Operating Results Overview

    Net interest income was $17.9 million for the second quarter of 2025, a 19% increase over the $15.1 million earned for the second quarter of 2024.  The $2.8 million increase in net interest income resulted from the increase of $3.7 million in interest income primarily due to a $213.6 million increase in the average balance of interest-earning assets and a 19 basis point increase in fully-taxable equivalent (“FTE”) (non-GAAP measurement) yield. The loan portfolio had the most significant impact, producing a $2.8 million increase in FTE interest income from $124.6 million in higher quarterly average balances and an increase of 24 basis points in FTE loan yield. Additionally, the Company experienced an increase of $1.1 million in interest earned from interest-bearing deposits with other financial institutions from $102.0 million in higher average balances. Slightly offsetting the higher interest income, there was a $0.9 million increase in interest expense due to a $178.8 million quarter-over-quarter increase in average interest-bearing liability balances. The increase was due to growth of $208.3 million in average interest-bearing deposit balances. However, this deposit growth was partially offset by a $28.5 million decrease in average short-term borrowings.

    The FTE yield on interest-earning assets was 4.77% for the second quarter of 2025, an increase of 19 basis points from the 4.58% for the second quarter of 2024. The overall cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 2.52% for the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of 6 basis points from the 2.58% for the second quarter of 2024.  The cost of funds decreased 1 basis point from 1.96% to 1.95% for the second quarters of 2024 and 2025, respectively. The Company’s FTE net interest spread was 2.25% for the second quarter of 2025, an increase of 25 basis points from 2.00% recorded for the second quarter of 2024.  FTE net interest margin increased to 2.92% for the three months ended June 30, 2025 from 2.71% for the same period of 2024 primarily due to the growth in higher yielding taxable commercial loans.

    For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the provision for credit losses on loans was $300 thousand and the provision for unfunded commitments was $20 thousand compared to a $275 thousand provision for credit losses on loans and a $140 thousand provision for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments for the three months ended June 30, 2024. For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the increase in the provision for credit losses on loans compared to the prior year period was due to $155 thousand in higher net charge-offs and a higher average total loan balance compared to the same period in 2024. For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the decrease in the provision for unfunded commitments was due to lower levels of unfunded commitments during the quarter due to increased utilization, specifically commercial construction commitments, compared to the year earlier period.

    Total non-interest income increased $0.8 million, or 16%, to $5.4 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $4.6 million for the second quarter of 2024. The increase in non-interest income was primarily attributed to increases of $0.2 million in trust fees, a $0.2 million BOLI death benefit, $0.2 million in loan service charges, and $0.1 million in interchange fees. 

    Non-interest expenses increased $1.1 million, or 8%, for the second quarter of 2025 to $14.7 million from $13.6 million for the same quarter of 2024. The increase in non-interest expenses was primarily due to the increases in salaries and benefits expense of $0.8 million, premises and equipment expense of $0.2 million, and advertising expense of $0.2 million. These increases were partially offset by a $0.2 million decrease in professional services for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period of 2024.

    The provision for income taxes increased $0.6 million during the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 primarily due to a $2.6 million increase in income before taxes.

    Consolidated Year-To-Date Operating Results Overview

    Net interest income was $35.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $30.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024.  The $4.9 million increase in net interest income resulted from the increase of $6.4 million in interest income primarily due to a $181.0 million increase in the average balance of interest-earning assets and a 20 basis point increase in FTE yield.  On the asset side, the loan portfolio interest income growth resulted from producing $5.3 million more in interest income from an increase of 25 basis points in FTE loan yields on $120.5 million in higher average balances. Additionally, the Company experienced an increase of $1.5 million in interest earned from interest-bearing deposits with other financial institutions from $71.6 million in higher average balances. The increase in interest income was partially offset by a decrease of $0.3 million in interest earned on the investment portfolio due to decreases of 6 basis points in yield and $11.3 million in average balances. On the funding side, total interest expense increased by $1.5 million primarily due to an increase in interest expense paid on deposits of $2.5 million from a 2 basis points higher rates paid on a $194.0 million larger average balance of interest-bearing deposits, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense on borrowings of $1.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

    The overall cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 2.51% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 2.54% for the six months ended June 30, 2024.  The cost of funds decreased 1 basis point to 1.94% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 from 1.95% from the same period of 2024. The FTE yield on earning assets was 4.75% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of 20 basis points from the 4.55% year-to-date June 30, 2024.  The Company’s FTE net interest spread was 2.24% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of 23 basis points from the 2.01% recorded for the same period of 2024.  FTE net interest margin increased by 21 basis points to 2.91% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 from 2.70% for the same 2024 period primarily due to the increase in yields earned on loans and leases outpacing the rates paid on interest-bearing deposits.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the provision for credit losses on loans was $755 thousand and the provision for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments was a net benefit of $65 thousand compared to a $400 thousand provision for credit losses on loans and a $90 thousand provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments for the six months ended June 30, 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the increase in the provision for credit losses on loans compared to the prior year period was due to $215 thousand in higher net charge-offs and a higher average total loan balance compared to the same period in 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the decrease in the provision for unfunded commitments was due to lower growth in unfunded commitments during the period due to increased utilization, specifically commercial construction commitments, compared to the year earlier period.

    Total non-interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $10.3 million, an increase of $1.1 million, or 12%, from $9.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024.  The increase was primarily due to $0.3 million higher fees from trust fiduciary activities. The Company also had $0.2 million more non-interest income resulting from an increase in interchange fees, a $0.2 million BOLI death benefit, and an increase of $0.2 million in service charges on commercial loans. During the first half of 2025, gains of $0.5 million on the sale of a commercial loan and $0.3 million from the sale of a property were offset by $0.8 million in losses recognized on the sale of securities.

    Non-interest expenses increased to $29.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of $2.0 million, or 7%, from $27.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Salaries and benefits expense increased $1.3 million due to an increase in bankers, group insurance costs, and banker incentives in the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. Additionally, the Company saw an increase of $0.5 million in advertising and marketing expenses primarily due to a $0.3 million increase in Neighborhood Assistance Program donations from which the Company recognized $0.2 million in additional tax credits causing a corresponding decrease in PA shares tax expense. There was also an increase of $0.5 million in premises and equipment expense primarily due to higher costs for software licenses, subscriptions, and maintenance. The increases were partially offset by $0.3 million less in professional services expense.

    The provision for income taxes increased $1.0 million during the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 primarily due to a $3.9 million increase in income before taxes and $0.2 million less in tax credits. 

    Consolidated Balance Sheet & Asset Quality Overview

    The Company’s total assets had a balance of $2.7 billion as of June 30, 2025, an increase of $114.0 million from December 31, 2024. The increase resulted from $82.1 million in growth in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024. The loans and leases portfolio increased $37.9 million over the same period. Asset growth was offset by a decrease of $11.4 million in the investment portfolio primarily due to the sale of $17.5 million in available-for-sale securities and $11.3 million in paydowns partially offset by $14.7 million in purchases of securities.

    During the same time period, total liabilities increased $100.0 million, or 4%. Deposit growth of $94.5 million was utilized to fund loan growth and increase interest-bearing cash balances. For interest-bearing deposit accounts, the Company experienced increases of $37.2 million in money market deposits, $17.2 million in interest-bearing checking accounts, $14.4 million in time deposits, and $1.6 million in savings and clubs. The deposit growth is primarily driven by growth in existing account balances from the relationship building strategy along with targeted direct marketing campaigns driving new client acquisitions and active management of promotional and retention rates. Additionally, the Company experienced an increase of $24.1 million in non-interest-bearing checking accounts. As of June 30, 2025, the ratio of insured and collateralized deposits to total deposits was approximately 75%.

    Shareholders’ equity increased $13.9 million, or 7%, to $217.9 million at June 30, 2025 from $204.0 million at December 31, 2024. The increase was caused by $8.3 million higher retained earnings from net income of $12.9 million plus a $4.9 million, after tax, improvement in accumulated other comprehensive income from lower net unrealized losses recorded on available-for-sale securities, partially offset by $4.7 million in cash dividends paid to shareholders. An additional $0.9 million was recorded from the issuance of common stock under the Company’s stock plans and stock-based compensation expense. At June 30, 2025, there were no credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities.  Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is excluded from regulatory capital ratios. The Company remains well capitalized with Tier 1 capital at 9.16% of total average assets as of June 30, 2025.  Total risk-based capital was 14.72% of risk-weighted assets and Tier 1 risk-based capital was 13.57% of risk-weighted assets as of June 30, 2025. Tangible book value per share was $34.25 at June 30, 2025 compared to $31.98 at December 31, 2024.  Tangible common equity was 7.38% of total assets at June 30, 2025 compared to 7.16% at December 31, 2024.

    Asset Quality

    Total non-performing assets were $3.5 million, or 0.13% of total assets, at June 30, 2025, compared to $7.8 million, or 0.30% of total assets, at December 31, 2024. Past due and non-accrual loans to total loans were 0.41% at June 30, 2025 compared to 0.71% at December 31, 2024. Net charge-offs to average total loans were 0.05% at June 30, 2025 compared to 0.03% at December 31, 2024.

    About Fidelity D & D Bancorp, Inc. and The Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank

    Fidelity D & D Bancorp, Inc. has built a strong history as trusted financial advisor to the clients served by The Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank (“Fidelity Bank”).  Fidelity Bank continues its mission of exceeding client expectations through a unique banking experience. It operates 21 full-service offices throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lehigh and Northampton Counties and a Fidelity Bank Wealth Management Office in Schuylkill County. Fidelity Bank provides a digital banking experience online at www.bankatfidelity.com, through the Fidelity Mobile Banking app, and in the Client Care Center at 1-800-388-4380. Additionally, the Bank offers full-service Wealth Management & Brokerage Services, a Mortgage Center, and a full suite of personal and commercial banking products and services. Part of the Company’s vision is to serve as the best bank for the community, which was accomplished by having provided over 5,960 hours of volunteer time and over $1.3 million in donations to non-profit organizations directly within the markets served throughout 2024. Fidelity Bank’s deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to the full extent permitted by law.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    The Company uses non-GAAP financial measures to provide information useful to the reader in understanding its operating performance and trends, and to facilitate comparisons with the performance of other financial institutions. Management uses these measures internally to assess and better understand our underlying business performance and trends related to core business activities.  The Company’s non-GAAP financial measures and key performance indicators may differ from the non-GAAP financial measures and key performance indicators other financial institutions use to measure their performance and trends. Non-GAAP financial measures should be supplemental to GAAP used to prepare the Company’s operating results and should not be read in isolation or relied upon as a substitute for GAAP measures.  Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP are presented in the tables below.

    Interest income was adjusted to recognize the income from tax exempt interest-earning assets as if the interest was taxable, fully-taxable equivalent (“FTE”), in order to calculate certain ratios within this document.  This treatment allows a uniform comparison among yields on interest-earning assets.  Interest income was FTE adjusted, using the corporate federal tax rate of 21% for 2025 and 2024.

    Forward-looking statements

    Certain of the matters discussed in this press release constitute forward-looking statements for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as such may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  The words “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

    The Company’s actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation:

      local, regional and national economic conditions and changes thereto;
      the short-term and long-term effects of inflation, and rising costs to the Company, its customers and on the economy;
      the risks of changes and volatility of interest rates on the level and composition of deposits, loan demand, and the values of loan collateral, securities and interest rate protection agreements, as well as interest rate risks;
      securities markets and monetary fluctuations and volatility;
      ■  disruption of credit and equity markets;
      impacts of the capital and liquidity requirements of the Basel III standards and other regulatory pronouncements, regulations and rules;
      governmental monetary and fiscal policies, as well as legislative and regulatory changes;
      effects of short- and long-term federal budget and tax negotiations and their effect on economic and business conditions;
      the costs and effects of litigation and of unexpected or adverse outcomes in such litigation;
      the impact of new or changes in existing laws and regulations, including laws and regulations concerning taxes, banking, securities and insurance and their application with which the Company and its subsidiaries must comply;
      the effect of changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the regulatory agencies, as well as the Financial Accounting Standards Board and other accounting standard setters;
      the effects of competition from other commercial banks, thrifts, mortgage banking firms, consumer finance companies, credit unions, securities brokerage firms, insurance companies, money market and other mutual funds and other financial institutions operating in our market area and elsewhere, including institutions operating locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, together with such competitors offering banking products and services by mail, telephone, computer and the internet;
      the effects of economic conditions of any other pandemic, epidemic or other health-related crisis such as COVID-19 and responses thereto on current customers and the operations of the Company, specifically the effect of the economy on loan customers’ ability to repay loans;  
      the effects of bank failures, banking system instability, deposit fluctuations, loan and securities value changes;  
      technological changes;  
      the interruption or breach in security of our information systems, continually evolving cybersecurity and other technological risks and attacks resulting in failures or disruptions in customer account management, general ledger processing and loan or deposit updates and potential impacts resulting therefrom including additional costs, reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and financial losses;  
      acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses;  
      the failure of assumptions underlying the establishment of reserves for loan losses and estimations of values of collateral and various financial assets and liabilities;  
      acts of war or terrorism; and  
      the risk that our analyses of these risks and forces could be incorrect and/or that the strategies developed to address them could be unsuccessful.

    The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect analyses only as of the date of this release.  The Company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

    For more information please visit our investor relations web site located through www.bankatfidelity.com.

    FIDELITY D & D BANCORP, INC.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (dollars in thousands)
     
    At Period End:   June 30, 2025     December 31, 2024  
    Assets                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 165,495     $ 83,353  
    Investment securities     545,821       557,221  
    Restricted investments in bank stock     4,240       3,961  
    Loans and leases     1,837,477       1,800,856  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (19,976 )     (19,666 )
    Premises and equipment, net     40,097       35,914  
    Life insurance cash surrender value     58,849       58,069  
    Goodwill and core deposit intangible     20,364       20,504  
    Other assets     46,208       44,404  
                     
    Total assets   $ 2,698,575     $ 2,584,616  
                     
    Liabilities                
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   $ 558,074     $ 533,935  
    Interest-bearing deposits     1,877,254       1,806,885  
    Total deposits     2,435,328       2,340,820  
    Short-term borrowings     10        
    Secured borrowings     6,134       6,266  
    Other liabilities     39,191       33,561  
    Total liabilities     2,480,663       2,380,647  
                     
    Shareholders’ equity     217,912       203,969  
                     
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 2,698,575     $ 2,584,616  
    Average Year-To-Date Balances:   June 30, 2025     December 31, 2024  
    Assets                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 129,527     $ 55,773  
    Investment securities     551,906       557,537  
    Restricted investments in bank stock     4,066       3,960  
    Loans and leases     1,822,654       1,741,349  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (20,189 )     (19,391 )
    Premises and equipment, net     35,839       35,580  
    Life insurance cash surrender value     58,503       56,455  
    Goodwill and core deposit intangible     20,423       20,641  
    Other assets     42,950       41,755  
                     
    Total assets   $ 2,645,679     $ 2,493,659  
                     
    Liabilities                
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   $ 540,320     $ 527,825  
    Interest-bearing deposits     1,852,895       1,697,529  
    Total deposits     2,393,215       2,225,354  
    Short-term borrowings     16       32,446  
    Secured borrowings     6,194       6,830  
    Other liabilities     35,497       32,471  
    Total liabilities     2,434,922       2,297,101  
                     
    Shareholders’ equity     210,757       196,558  
                     
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 2,645,679     $ 2,493,659  
    FIDELITY D & D BANCORP, INC.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (dollars in thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        Jun. 30, 2025     Jun. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2025     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Interest income                                
    Loans and leases   $ 25,328     $ 22,516     $ 49,924     $ 44,649  
    Securities and other     4,437       3,523       8,149       7,016  
                                     
    Total interest income     29,765       26,039       58,073       51,665  
                                     
    Interest expense                                
    Deposits     (11,738 )     (10,459 )     (22,925 )     (20,400 )
    Borrowings and debt     (98 )     (463 )     (186 )     (1,204 )
                                     
    Total interest expense     (11,836 )     (10,922 )     (23,111 )     (21,604 )
                                     
    Net interest income     17,929       15,117       34,962       30,061  
                                     
    Provision for credit losses on loans     (300 )     (275 )     (755 )     (400 )
    Net (provision) benefit for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments     (20 )     (140 )     65       (90 )
    Non-interest income     5,359       4,615       10,332       9,188  
    Non-interest expense     (14,710 )     (13,616 )     (29,264 )     (27,306 )
                                     
    Income before income taxes     8,258       5,701       15,340       11,453  
                                     
    Provision for income taxes     (1,337 )     (766 )     (2,428 )     (1,460 )
    Net income   $ 6,921     $ 4,935     $ 12,912     $ 9,993  
        Three Months Ended  
        Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Interest income                                        
    Loans and leases   $ 25,328     $ 24,596     $ 24,584     $ 24,036     $ 22,516  
    Securities and other     4,437       3,712       3,475       3,263       3,523  
                                             
    Total interest income     29,765       28,308       28,059       27,299       26,039  
                                             
    Interest expense                                        
    Deposits     (11,738 )     (11,187 )     (11,468 )     (11,297 )     (10,459 )
    Borrowings and debt     (98 )     (88 )     (217 )     (571 )     (463 )
                                             
    Total interest expense     (11,836 )     (11,275 )     (11,685 )     (11,868 )     (10,922 )
                                             
    Net interest income     17,929       17,033       16,374       15,431       15,117  
                                             
    Provision for credit losses on loans     (300 )     (455 )     (250 )     (675 )     (275 )
    Net benefit (provision) for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments     (20 )     85       85       (135 )     (140 )
    Non-interest income     5,359       4,973       4,847       4,979       4,615  
    Non-interest expense     (14,710 )     (14,554 )     (14,395 )     (13,840 )     (13,616 )
                                             
    Income before income taxes     8,258       7,082       6,661       5,760       5,701  
                                             
    Provision for income taxes     (1,337 )     (1,091 )     (826 )     (793 )     (766 )
    Net income   $ 6,921     $ 5,991     $ 5,835     $ 4,967     $ 4,935  
    FIDELITY D & D BANCORP, INC.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (dollars in thousands)
     
    At Period End:   Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Assets                                        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 165,495     $ 211,195     $ 83,353     $ 120,169     $ 78,085  
    Investment securities     545,821       540,960       557,221       559,819       552,495  
    Restricted investments in bank stock     4,240       4,021       3,961       3,944       3,968  
    Loans and leases     1,837,477       1,817,509       1,800,856       1,795,548       1,728,509  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (19,976 )     (20,017 )     (19,666 )     (19,630 )     (18,975 )
    Premises and equipment, net     40,097       34,995       35,914       36,057       35,808  
    Life insurance cash surrender value     58,849       58,458       58,069       57,672       57,278  
    Goodwill and core deposit intangible     20,364       20,431       20,504       20,576       20,649  
    Other assets     46,208       43,758       44,404       41,778       42,828  
                                             
    Total assets   $ 2,698,575     $ 2,711,310     $ 2,584,616     $ 2,615,933     $ 2,500,645  
                                             
    Liabilities                                        
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   $ 558,074     $ 555,684     $ 533,935     $ 549,710     $ 527,572  
    Interest-bearing deposits     1,877,254       1,901,775       1,806,885       1,792,796       1,641,558  
    Total deposits     2,435,328       2,457,459       2,340,820       2,342,506       2,169,130  
    Short-term borrowings     10       10             25,000       98,120  
    Secured borrowings     6,134       6,190       6,266       6,323       7,237  
    Other liabilities     39,191       35,977       33,561       34,843       30,466  
    Total liabilities     2,480,663       2,499,636       2,380,647       2,408,672       2,304,953  
                                             
    Shareholders’ equity     217,912       211,674       203,969       207,261       195,692  
                                             
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 2,698,575     $ 2,711,310     $ 2,584,616     $ 2,615,933     $ 2,500,645  
    Average Quarterly Balances:   Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Assets                                        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 161,316     $ 97,384     $ 67,882     $ 41,991     $ 58,351  
    Investment securities     546,149       557,726       560,453       554,578       551,445  
    Restricted investments in bank stock     4,158       3,973       3,957       3,965       3,983  
    Loans and leases     1,832,162       1,813,040       1,797,023       1,763,254       1,707,598  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (20,357 )     (20,019 )     (20,050 )     (19,323 )     (19,171 )
    Premises and equipment, net     35,954       35,722       36,065       36,219       35,433  
    Life insurance cash surrender value     58,697       58,307       57,919       57,525       55,552  
    Goodwill and core deposit intangible     20,386       20,459       20,529       20,602       20,677  
    Other assets     42,729       43,177       41,454       41,734       42,960  
                                             
    Total assets   $ 2,681,194     $ 2,609,769     $ 2,565,232     $ 2,500,545     $ 2,456,828  
                                             
    Liabilities                                        
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   $ 547,278     $ 533,286     $ 538,506     $ 522,827     $ 530,048  
    Interest-bearing deposits     1,878,548       1,826,957       1,769,265       1,702,187       1,670,211  
    Total deposits     2,425,826       2,360,243       2,307,771       2,225,014       2,200,259  
    Short-term borrowings     10       22       10,326       37,220       28,477  
    Secured borrowings     6,162       6,226       6,297       6,429       7,269  
    Other liabilities     36,050       34,937       34,695       31,999       30,734  
    Total liabilities     2,468,048       2,401,428       2,359,089       2,300,662       2,266,739  
                                             
    Shareholders’ equity     213,146       208,341       206,143       199,883       190,089  
                                             
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 2,681,194     $ 2,609,769     $ 2,565,232     $ 2,500,545     $ 2,456,828  
    FIDELITY D & D BANCORP, INC.
    Selected Financial Ratios and Other Financial Data

        Three Months Ended  
        Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Selected returns and financial ratios                                        
    Basic earnings per share   $ 1.20     $ 1.04     $ 1.02     $ 0.87     $ 0.86  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 1.20     $ 1.03     $ 1.01     $ 0.86     $ 0.86  
    Dividends per share   $ 0.40     $ 0.40     $ 0.40     $ 0.38     $ 0.38  
    Yield on interest-earning assets (FTE)*     4.77 %     4.73 %     4.68 %     4.68 %     4.58 %
    Cost of interest-bearing liabilities     2.52 %     2.49 %     2.60 %     2.70 %     2.58 %
    Cost of funds     1.95 %     1.93 %     2.00 %     2.08 %     1.96 %
    Net interest spread (FTE)*     2.25 %     2.24 %     2.08 %     1.98 %     2.00 %
    Net interest margin (FTE)*     2.92 %     2.89 %     2.78 %     2.70 %     2.71 %
    Return on average assets     1.04 %     0.93 %     0.90 %     0.79 %     0.81 %
    Pre-provision net revenue to average assets*     1.28 %     1.16 %     1.06 %     1.05 %     1.00 %
    Return on average equity     13.02 %     11.66 %     11.26 %     9.89 %     10.44 %
    Return on average tangible equity*     14.40 %     12.93 %     12.50 %     11.02 %     11.72 %
    Efficiency ratio (FTE)*     61.17 %     61.67 %     65.48 %     65.33 %     66.47 %
    Expense ratio     1.40 %     1.37 %     1.48 %     1.41 %     1.47 %
        Six months ended  
        Jun. 30, 2025     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Basic earnings per share   $ 2.24     $ 1.74  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 2.23     $ 1.73  
    Dividends per share   $ 0.80     $ 0.76  
    Yield on interest-earning assets (FTE)*     4.75 %     4.55 %
    Cost of interest-bearing liabilities     2.51 %     2.54 %
    Cost of funds     1.94 %     1.95 %
    Net interest spread (FTE)*     2.24 %     2.01 %
    Net interest margin (FTE)*     2.91 %     2.70 %
    Return on average assets     0.98 %     0.82 %
    Pre-provision net revenue to average assets*     1.22 %     0.98 %
    Return on average equity     12.35 %     10.57 %
    Return on average tangible equity*     13.68 %     11.87 %
    Efficiency ratio (FTE)*     61.42 %     67.01 %
    Expense ratio     1.38 %     1.49 %
    Other financial data   At period end:  
    (dollars in thousands except per share data)   Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    Assets under management   $ 1,030,268     $ 955,647     $ 921,994     $ 942,190     $ 906,861  
    Book value per share   $ 37.78     $ 36.70     $ 35.56     $ 36.13     $ 34.12  
    Tangible book value per share*   $ 34.25     $ 33.16     $ 31.98     $ 32.55     $ 30.52  
    Equity to assets     8.08 %     7.81 %     7.89 %     7.92 %     7.83 %
    Tangible common equity ratio*     7.38 %     7.11 %     7.16 %     7.19 %     7.06 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to:                                        
    Total loans     1.09 %     1.10 %     1.09 %     1.09 %     1.10 %
    Non-accrual loans   6.50x     3.36x     2.68x     2.77x     2.75x  
    Non-accrual loans to total loans     0.17 %     0.33 %     0.41 %     0.39 %     0.40 %
    Non-performing assets to total assets     0.13 %     0.23 %     0.30 %     0.29 %     0.28 %
    Net charge-offs to average total loans     0.05 %     0.02 %     0.03 %     0.02 %     0.03 %
                                             
    Capital Adequacy Ratios                                        
    Total risk-based capital ratio     14.72 %     14.74 %     14.78 %     14.56 %     14.69 %
    Common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio     13.57 %     13.57 %     13.60 %     13.38 %     13.52 %
    Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio     13.57 %     13.57 %     13.60 %     13.38 %     13.52 %
    Leverage ratio     9.16 %     9.22 %     9.22 %     9.30 %     9.30 %

    * Non-GAAP Financial Measures – see reconciliations below

    FIDELITY D & D BANCORP, INC.
    Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to GAAP
    Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Measures to GAAP   Three Months Ended  
    (dollars in thousands)   Jun. 30, 2025     Mar. 31, 2025     Dec. 31, 2024     Sep. 30, 2024     Jun. 30, 2024  
    FTE net interest income (non-GAAP)                                        
    Interest income (GAAP)   $ 29,765     $ 28,308     $ 28,059     $ 27,299     $ 26,039  
    Adjustment to FTE     760       771       764       775       751  
    Interest income adjusted to FTE (non-GAAP)     30,525       29,079       28,823       28,074       26,790  
    Interest expense (GAAP)     11,836       11,275       11,685       11,868       10,922  
    Net interest income adjusted to FTE (non-GAAP)   $ 18,689     $ 17,804     $ 17,138     $ 16,206     $ 15,868  
                                             
    Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP)                                        
    Non-interest expenses (GAAP)   $ 14,710     $ 14,554     $ 14,395     $ 13,840     $ 13,616  
                                             
    Net interest income (GAAP)     17,929       17,033       16,374       15,431       15,117  
    Plus: taxable equivalent adjustment     760       771       764       775       751  
    Non-interest income (GAAP)     5,359       4,973       4,847       4,979       4,615  
    Plus: Loss on sales of securities           822                    
    Net interest income (FTE) plus adjusted non-interest income (non-GAAP)   $ 24,048     $ 23,599     $ 21,985     $ 21,185     $ 20,483  
    Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) (1)     61.17 %     61.67 %     65.47 %     65.33 %     66.48 %
    (1) The reported efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure calculated by dividing non-interest expense by the sum of net interest income, on an FTE basis, and adjusted non-interest income.                                        
                                             
    Tangible Book Value per Share/Tangible Common Equity Ratio (non-GAAP)                                        
    Total assets (GAAP)   $ 2,698,575     $ 2,711,310     $ 2,584,616     $ 2,615,933     $ 2,500,645  
    Less: Intangible assets     (20,364 )     (20,431 )     (20,504 )     (20,576 )     (20,649 )
    Tangible assets     2,678,211       2,690,879       2,564,112       2,595,357       2,479,996  
    Total shareholders’ equity (GAAP)     217,912       211,674       203,969       207,261       195,692  
    Less: Intangible assets     (20,364 )     (20,431 )     (20,504 )     (20,576 )     (20,649 )
    Tangible common equity     197,548       191,243       183,465       186,685       175,043  
                                             
    Common shares outstanding, end of period     5,767,490       5,767,500       5,736,252       5,736,025       5,735,728  
    Tangible Common Book Value per Share   $ 34.25     $ 33.16     $ 31.98     $ 32.55     $ 30.52  
    Tangible Common Equity Ratio     7.38 %     7.11 %     7.16 %     7.19 %     7.06 %
                                             
    Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets                                        
    Income before taxes (GAAP)   $ 8,258     $ 7,082     $ 6,661     $ 5,760     $ 5,701  
    Plus: Provision for credit losses     320       370       165       810       415  
    Total pre-provision net revenue (non-GAAP)     8,578       7,452       6,826       6,570       6,116  
    Total (annualized) (non-GAAP)   $ 34,404     $ 30,220     $ 27,157     $ 26,423     $ 24,600  
                                             
    Average assets   $ 2,681,194     $ 2,609,769     $ 2,565,232     $ 2,500,545     $ 2,456,828  
    Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets (non-GAAP)     1.28 %     1.16 %     1.06 %     1.05 %     1.00 %
    Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Measures to GAAP   Six months ended  
    (dollars in thousands)   Jun. 30, 2025     Jun. 30, 2024  
    FTE net interest income (non-GAAP)                
    Interest income (GAAP)   $ 58,073     $ 51,665  
    Adjustment to FTE     1,531       1,497  
    Interest income adjusted to FTE (non-GAAP)     59,604       53,162  
    Interest expense (GAAP)     23,111       21,604  
    Net interest income adjusted to FTE (non-GAAP)   $ 36,493       31,558  
                     
    Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP)                
    Non-interest expenses (GAAP)   $ 29,264     $ 27,306  
                     
    Net interest income (GAAP)     34,962       30,061  
    Plus: taxable equivalent adjustment     1,531       1,497  
    Non-interest income (GAAP)     10,332       9,188  
    Plus: Loss on sales of securities     822        
    Net interest income (FTE) plus non-interest income (non-GAAP)   $ 47,647     $ 40,746  
    Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) (1)     61.42 %     67.01 %
    (1) The reported efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure calculated by dividing non-interest expense by the sum of net interest income, on an FTE basis, and adjusted non-interest (loss) income.                
                     
    Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets                
    Income before taxes (GAAP)   $ 15,340     $ 11,453  
    Plus: Provision for credit losses     690       490  
    Total pre-provision net revenue (non-GAAP)   $ 16,030     $ 11,943  
    Total (annualized) (non-GAAP)   $ 32,326     $ 23,951  
                     
    Average assets   $ 2,645,679     $ 2,453,998  
    Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets (non-GAAP)     1.22 %     0.98 %
       
    Contacts:  
    Daniel J. Santaniello Salvatore R. DeFrancesco, Jr.
    President and Chief Executive Officer Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
    570-504-8035 570-504-8000

    The MIL Network