NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be aware of Giant hogweed and avoid contact

    Source: Northern Ireland Government

    Date published:

    Be aware of Giant hogweed and avoid contact with it. The plant can cause blistering and swelling on the skin.

    Giant hogweed

    Giant hogweed grows up to between three and five metres high, which is what helps identify it as it looks similar to hogweed and cow parsley.

    It is usually found growing in areas of damp soils, including:

    • river banks
    • woodland
    • bogs
    • grasslands

    You should report any sightings of the plant.

    Giant hogweed contains a sap which irritates skin when it is exposed to sunlight.

    Symptoms are usually noticeable within 24 hours and include blistering and swelling on the skin, which may be made worse by over-exposure to the sun.

    What to do

    If you come into contact with Giant hogweed:

    • cover the affected skin immediately to avoid exposure to the sun
    • wash the skin with cold water

    If there is blistering or the contact was with the eyes, you should seek medical advice.

    More useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New mayor takes the oath of office Councillor Margaret Pattison has officially been sworn in as the new Mayor of Lancaster, proudly donning the mayoral robes in a centuries-old civic tradition.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Councillor Margaret Pattison has officially been sworn in as the new Mayor of Lancaster, proudly donning the mayoral robes in a centuries-old civic tradition.

    New mayor Councillor Margaret Pattison with her deputy, Councillor John Hanson

    Born in Morecambe, her journey into public service began during her early career as a hairdressing apprentice where she found inspiration from her employer, a local councillor and school governor.

    This sparked an interest in community involvement that would later define her career. Her first direct step into politics came when her son Ian volunteered in the office of former MP Geraldine Smith.

    After he left for university, Margaret was invited to take over the role – an experience that cemented her commitment to public service. She soon stood for election driven by a strong desire to support local residents with casework and community issues.

    Over the years, she has served as a “triple hat” councillor on Morecambe Town Council, Lancaster City Council, and Lancashire County Council. She has championed grassroots initiatives including the local Alley Champions group, and continued to support local education as a school governor.

    Now, as she takes up the ceremonial role of Mayor of Lancaster, Councillor Pattison is keen to continue her hands-on approach to community leadership.

    As her mayoral charities she has chosen St John’s Hospice in memory of her twin sister’s partner, Paul Bolton, who sadly passed away from cancer last November, and ‘Making Space’, which supports those with mental health conditions or a learning disability.

    Councillor John Hanson will act as deputy mayor, with daughter Charlotte performing the role of mayor’s consort.

    Speaking on her appointment, Councillor Pattison said: “I am honoured to serve as Mayor of Lancaster. “I’m deeply committed to our community and will carry out this role with the same dedication and compassion I’ve shown throughout my years of service.

    “Supporting St John’s Hospice is particularly close to my heart and I look forward to raising awareness and vital funds for the incredible work they do.”

    Last updated: 09 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Sharc Energy Featured in Ottawa’s LeBreton Flats Redevelopment District Energy Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SHARC International Systems Inc. (CSE: SHRC) (FSE: IWIA) (OTCQB: INTWF) (“SHARC Energy” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that two SHARC 880 Wastewater Energy Transfer (“WET”) systems will be used to power a district energy system (also referred to as thermal energy network), in the Canadian capital of Ottawa, Ontario, serving the LeBreton Flats redevelopment.

    A new era of sustainable energy is dawning in Ottawa with the formation of the LeBreton Community Utility Partnership, a joint venture between Envari Holding Inc. (a subsidiary of Hydro Ottawa Holding Inc.) and Theia Partners. Together with the City of Ottawa, the partners have formalized a landmark agreement to implement an advanced WET system.

    “The formation of the LeBreton Community Utility partnership marks a significant step in realizing a truly sustainable energy model for urban development. Our WET technology, powered by SHARC Energy’s Canadian innovation, will provide reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible thermal energy to the LeBreton community, starting with DREAM’s Odenak development,“ stated Scott Demark, Partner at Theia Partners.

    “This is more than just a project; it’s a testament to Ottawa’s dedication to leading the way in sustainable energy solutions. Hydro Ottawa is proud to be at the forefront of this innovation, demonstrating the power of collaboration and forward-thinking technology, including the highly efficient and Canadian-made SHARC Energy WET System, in building a sustainable future for the community we serve. We are especially pleased that this project supports vital affordable housing and aligns with our commitment to ensuring all customers can participate in a smart and equitable energy future,” says Bryce Conrad, President and CEO of Hydro Ottawa Holding Inc.

    This groundbreaking energy project will harness the untapped thermal potential of wastewater to provide 9 Megawatts (MW) of sustainable and efficient building heating and cooling to the LeBreton Flats redevelopment including DREAM’s Odenak development at 665 Albert Street, the inaugural customer for LeBreton Community Utility’s WET system. Odenak is a 600-unit, two-tower project adjacent to the Pimisi light rail transit (LRT) station. It features a mix of market-rate and affordable residential units as well as retail spaces. The WET system utilizes highly efficient heat pumps and operates entirely without fossil fuel, marking a significant step towards a cleaner energy future for the city.

    “HTS is incredibly proud to be involved in this monumental project, which sets a new standard in sustainability. We are honored to contribute to such an innovative solution that not only pushes the boundaries of technology but also fosters a more sustainable future. This project reflects our commitment to advancing environmentally responsible practices and delivering the most advanced HVAC solutions,” said Wael Khalaf, P.Eng. HTS, SHARC Energy’s Ontario representative.

    By utilizing SHARC Energy’s WET system, the LeBreton Community Utility estimates a reduction of approximately 5,066 tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions annually compared to traditional buildings relying on boilers and chillers. To visualize 5,066 tonnes, it is the equivalent of the electricity used by 3,387 homes for a full year (as calculated by the Natural Resources Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator).

    “Almost 95 per cent of Ottawa’s greenhouse gases emissions are not within the City’s direct control. Instead, they require community action and commitment to achieve our reduction targets. In partnering on this innovative sewage energy project at LeBreton Flats, the City is supporting other local businesses and organizations to help us achieve a clean energy future for all of Ottawa,” said Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, City of Ottawa

    Construction to connect to the City’s sewer infrastructure is slated to begin later this year, following a collaborative design phase between the City of Ottawa and the LeBreton Community Utility partners. SHARC Energy anticipates commencing submittals for the SHARC WET systems in 2025 with equipment build and delivery expected during 2026.

    The LeBreton Community Utility Partnership is also engaged in discussions with the National Capital Commission (NCC) to explore the potential for the WET network to serve additional land parcels at the LeBreton Flats redevelopment, to take advantage of economies of scale. This forward-thinking approach positions the site as a model for sustainable community energy infrastructure in Canada. Moreover, this presents additional opportunities for the implementation of SHARC WET equipment.

    About SHARC Energy

    SHARC International Systems Inc. is a world leader in energy transfer with the wastewater we send down the drain every day. SHARC Energy’s systems exchange thermal energy with wastewater, generating one of the most energy-efficient and economical systems for heating, cooling & hot water production for commercial, residential and industrial buildings along with thermal energy networks, commonly referred to as “District Energy”.

    SHARC Energy is publicly traded in Canada (CSE: SHRC), the United States (OTCQB: INTWF) and Germany (Frankfurt: IWIA) and you can find out more on our SEDAR profile.

    Learn more about SHARC Energy: Website | Investor Page | LinkedIn | YouTube | PIRANHA | SHARC

    About HTS

    HTS is North America’s largest independent distributor of built-to-order, full-service commercial and industrial HVAC solutions. HTS is dedicated to driving shared success by collaborating with all those involved in the design, selection, installation, and maintenance of the ideal HVAC solution for each project.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

    Freid Andriano
    Chairman

    The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified using words such as “anticipate”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “intend”, “should”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. SHARC Energy’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of regulatory decisions, competitive factors in the industries in which the Company operates, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. SHARC Energy believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the Company’s expectations as of the date hereof and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation. 

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a8dbc469-7d83-4929-8402-906d4e192f12

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to the debate on hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken, following the announcement of a UK-US trade deal.

    Beef

    Prof Chris Elliott, Chair of Food Safety, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), said:

    “There are a number of hormones, mainly anabolic steroids that are classified as growth promoters. They were banned in the EU back in the 1980’s on the grounds they were a food safety risk. This has been hotly disputed by the US and other countries that use the hormones in livestock production.

    “The bulk of the scientific evidence suggests they are safe if used correctly. However incorrect use (as can happen accidently or deliberately) could pose health issues.  

    “The big issue is that use of such hormones is not ‘natural’ – but again this is widely disputed as livestock have many things added to their diets to enhance growth rates.

    “Testing for the presence of the hormones can be done but it’s extremely difficult and requires very expensive equipment and the cost per test would runs into many hundreds of pounds. There has previously been evidence that meat claimed as ‘hormone free’ was in fact treated with anabolic steroids.”

     

    Chicken

    Prof Paul Wigley, Professor in Animal Microbial Ecosystems, University of Bristol, said:

    “The use of high-concentration chlorine washes applied in the USA and other countries is adopted as a relatively simple and low-cost method to reduce foodborne bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella from chicken carcasses. Its efficacy is questionable. Rates of human Salmonella infection in the USA are around double the European average and around five times greater than in the UK.

    “The UK approach is to control on the farm with the use of vaccines, good biosecurity and hygiene together with regular testing for Salmonella, accompanied by far greater levels of animal welfare that were set down by EU legislation and still adopted in the UK.  Salmonella is in effect eradicated in UK Lion Mark eggs and is uncommon in UK-produced poultry meat.

    “An analogy is going out for a walk as seeing a pile of dog muck. The UK/EU approach is to avoid getting it on your shoes. The American approach is wiping it off when you get home but we all know that some will remain trapped in the tread.

    “The ban on US produced chicken on public health grounds is justified when simply looking at the figures of public health impact. Human Salmonella infection often leads to hospitalisation and most recent figures indicate there were 33 deaths resulting from Salmonella in the UK in 2013. We cannot ban on welfare grounds but there is a clear public health reason to do so.”

     

    Beef and chicken

    Prof Guy Poppy, PVC Research and Innovation, University of Bristol, said:

    On chlorine-washed chicken:

    “The use of chlorine washes to ensure chickens are safe to eat is a difference between how the USA and the EU/UK regulate food.  The USA uses product-based approach while the EU and UK use a process-based one – i.e. consideration of the process we use to ensure safety rather than the end outcome. If done correctly the end product, chicken, is equally safe, but the system we currently use involves several steps in how chickens are produced throughout the rearing and preparation of the chicken for sale – as opposed to the USA system which uses chlorine to ‘disinfect’ the chicken prior to retail.  Both systems are used to reduce/eliminate the number of microorganisms in the chicken which can make us ill.

    “Many of the biosecurity processes used in the UK can also enhance welfare, such as practices to reduce the levels of pathogens in chickens – as opposed to being reliant on a system of using chlorine to reduce the pathogens after slaughter.”

     

    On hormone-treated beef:

    “There are significant disagreements between the EU and the US on the health issues of hormone treated beef. Whilst the EU claim that one of the regularly used hormones is carcinogenic,  the US and Canada claim to the WTO that the EU risk assessment is flawed. And several of the hormones used do not have any health claims against them. However, the rearing practice which is involved in accelerating growth can be seen as an animal welfare issue as weight gain and the feedlots and other practices to reduce feed requirements and accelerate growth result in much lower animal welfare than rearing systems not involving hormones or feedlots.

    “Both of these types of animal food production illustrate different rearing systems and methods to control risk. If done correctly and with checks in place, they both result in a safe product but there are differences in the animal welfare outcomes of the production systems used in the US compared to the UK/EU. The US style production systems can lead to reduced costs and increased profits and thus I can see why UK farmers are concerned about the effects this may have on the current UK meat system. It is clear that the current UK food system needs transforming to improve human and environmental health, but I am not sure this is a direction of travel which will help that.”

     

     

     

    Declared interests

    Paul Wigley: I have and continue to receive funding from UKRI around this area but no current or recent work with industry in these areas

    Chris Elliott: No interests to declare

    Guy Poppy: CSA at the FSA 2014-2020, Exec Chair at BBSRC 2023-2024

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU illustrators discuss the art of the picture book

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Kate Winter in her studio

    A group of prize-winning illustrators from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) will be sharing their expertise during a special event in Cambridge on Monday, 19 May.

    The event is being held to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the prestigious Klaus Flugge Prize, which is awarded annually to the most promising and exciting newcomer to children’s book illustration.

    The panel will feature three recent winners of this national award – Flavia Drago, Mariajo Ilustrajo and Kate Winter – all alumni of ARU’s world-leading Children’s Book Illustration MA course in Cambridge.

    Taking place at Waterstones bookshop on Sidney Street, the event is aimed at anyone interested in illustration and the art of visual storytelling. The talented trio will discuss the elements of a successful picture book and provide valuable tips for aspiring illustrators.

    Flavia Drago, originally from Mexico City, won the Klaus Flugge Prize in 2021 for her book Gustavo the Shy Ghost, which also topped The New York Times’ best sellers list. Flavia is currently studying a PhD at ARU, focusing on horror in children’s picture books.

    Originally from Madrid, Mariajo Ilustrajo is now based in the UK and won the award in 2023 for Flooded, which she started on the MA course at ARU. The story, which features animals teaming up to tackle the impacts of climate change, also earned her the Best New Talent prize at the World Illustration Awards.

    Kate Winter received the award last year for The Fossil Hunter, marking the first time a non-fiction book has won the £5,000 prize. After completing her MA in Children’s Book Illustration, Kate now lectures on ARU’s BA (Hons) Illustration course, balancing her teaching with her work as a professional illustrator and writer.

    “I feel very fortunate to be able to bring ideas and stories alive for children through the universal language of illustration. I am really looking forward to talking to Mariajo and Flavia about our different approaches to making picture books, how we develop ideas and what role the images play in our storytelling.”

    Kate Winter

    The event will be chaired by Dr Elys Dolan, a Senior Lecturer in Children’s Books Illustration at ARU. Elys, an award-winning author and illustrator of books such as Weasels and Steven Seagull Action Hero, also studied on the MA Children’s Book Illustration course at ARU’s Cambridge School of Art.

    The event on Monday, 19 May at Waterstones in Cambridge runs from 6pm-7.30pm and tickets are priced at £8. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit Celebrating the Klaus Flugge Prize with Kate Winter, Mariajo Ilustrajo and Flavia Drago | Events at Waterstones Bookshops

    Meanwhile Polly Noakes, who graduated from the MA in Children’s Book Illustration at ARU in 2015, has just been announced as the winner of the 2025 Oscar’s Book Prize. Polly received the £10,000 award for her picture book Just The Two Of Us.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Another boost for British car industry as £1 billion secured for new Sunderland gigafactory

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Another boost for British car industry as £1 billion secured for new Sunderland gigafactory

    New state-of-the-art gigafactory ignites growth in industrial heartlands, supporting 1,000 jobs and powering up 100,000 electric vehicles a year

    • Chancellor visited Sunderland today following landmark economic deal with the US that saved thousands of auto jobs and slashed tariffs on car exports
    • Latest action in the Government’s Plan for Change to strengthen our industrial heartlands, make Britain a clean energy superpower and put more money in people’s pockets through good jobs

    Working people will benefit from 1,000 jobs at a new state-of-the-art gigafactory in Sunderland in a £1 billion auto deal to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and boost growth.

    This investment is another boost for the British car industry after yesterday’s landmark economic deal with the United States saved thousands of jobs by slashing tariffs on British exports.

    The new AESC gigafactory will manufacture batteries for electric vehicles, powering up to 100,000 EVs each year – a six-fold increase on the country’s current capacity – making the UK globally competitive selling more British EVs at home and abroad and helping to achieve our net zero target.

    In the landmark transaction, the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance will provide financial guarantees which unlock £680 million in financing from banks including Standard Chartered, HSBC, SMBC Group, Societe Generale and BBVA. This will cover construction and operation of the new plant. The remaining £320 million has been secured through private financing in addition to new equity provided by AESC.

    In addition to this £1 billion investment, the Government’s Automotive Transformation Fund is also investing £150 million in grant funding.

    This is the Government’s Plan for Change in action, making us more competitive on the world stage, helping Britain on its way to becoming a clean energy superpower through innovation in the automotive sector, and delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets through high skilled jobs.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We are going further and faster to boost our industries’ resilience and encourage their growth as part of our Plan for Change, and this investment follows hot on the heels of yesterday’s landmark economic deal with the US which will save thousands of jobs in the industry.

    This investment in Sunderland will not only further innovation and accelerate our move to more sustainable transport, but it will also deliver much-needed high quality, well-paid jobs to the North East, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said:

    We’re backing our world-class car industry, and this investment is yet another vote of confidence in the North East’s thriving auto manufacturing hub which will secure a thousand well-paid jobs and boost prosperity across the region.

    Our modern Industrial Strategy will drive this growth even further, powering our high-potential sectors like advanced manufacturing so we can deliver jobs and investment in every corner of the UK and make our Plan for Change a reality.

    The Chancellor visited AESC in Sunderland today (Friday 9 May) where she met staff and local leaders to discuss how the investment will bring jobs and prosperity to the North East, and how the landmark economic deal secured with the US will secure the industry for years to come.

    The deal slashes car export tariffs from 27.5% to 10% and will apply to a quota of 100,000 UK cars – almost the total exported last year.

    This will save some car companies hundreds of millions of pounds, making high skilled jobs in industrial heartlands like Sunderland more secure.

    Shoichi Matsumoto, CEO of Japanese headquartered AESC, said:

    This investment marks a key milestone in AESC’s ongoing efforts to support the UK’s path towards decarbonisation and the expansion of its EV market.

    Through close collaboration with strategic partners, we strive to accelerate this transition while creating high-quality local jobs and building resilient, sustainable supply chain.

    We are honoured to contribute to the development of low-carbon economy with our advanced battery technologies.

    John Flint, National Wealth Fund CEO, said:

    AESC’s gigafactory will not only help to retool our car industry for net zero it will also support jobs, growth, and prosperity in the Northeast.

    This investment further demonstrates the significant role NWF is playing to crowd private capital into the industries and regions where its most needed, boosting government’s growth and clean energy missions.

    UKEF CEO, Tim Reid, said:

    This hugely exciting project is a prime example of how export financing is a powerful tool for unlocking growth opportunities for British exporters and strengthening local economies.

    We’re proud to join forces with partners to back this pioneering gigafactory that will help cement the UK’s prowess as an EV battery-making force for years to come.

    More information

    • The government continues to unlock private investment in UK automotive design, development, and manufacturing as the sector transitions to zero emission technology.
    • To date, the Automotive Transformation Fund and Advanced Propulsion Centre funding programmes have leveraged over £6 billion of investment from the private sector.
    • Last year’s Autumn Budget also confirmed over £2 billion for capital and research and development funding over five years for zero emission vehicle manufacturing and their supply chains – a vote of confidence in the UK’s automotive industry, supporting investment and productivity growth.

    Additional quotes

    Ian Stuart, UK CEO for HSBC who were joint ECA Coordinator & Structuring Bank (alongside SCB) as well as Underwriting Bank and Mandated Lead Arranger, said:

    We’re extremely proud to have played a leading role in this complex and significant deal, including as underwriter, structuring bank and joint ECA co-ordinator.

    Once operational, the gigafactory will unlock a huge increase in the UK’s EV battery production, supporting the electrification of vehicles and the wider green transition. The inward investment involved in the project will also deliver highly-skilled jobs and economic growth to North East England.

    Hideo Kawafune, CEO, Head of EMEA, SMBC Banking International plc said:

    SMBC Group is delighted to participate in the successful financing of this landmark Gigafactory project. As a lending partner we’re proud to work alongside partners such as National Wealth Fund, UK Export Finance and Sinosure, as well as existing client AESC, in order to support projects which power the energy transition.” 

    Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head, Client Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered said:

    We are proud to support this transformative UK project. The development of AESC’s new gigafactory will deliver significant economic benefits locally while supporting the development of zero-emission technology. This is more than an investment in infrastructure, it’s a commitment to innovation, UK economic growth and sustainability. Supporting the transition to net zero is deeply embedded in how we operate as a Bank, and this project reflects how we bring that to life by supporting clients on their own sustainability journeys.

    Lenaig Trenaux, Societe Generale’s Global Head of Batteries, Mining and Industries, said:

    We are proud to have worked with AESC to deliver the first gigafactory project financing in the UK, which has benefitted from strong support from the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance.

    Societe Generale’s deep understanding of the EV value chain, coupled with our experience working with AESC, were instrumental in delivering the project financing.

    This is another demonstration of SG’s commitment to the green mobility and another step towards the energy transition.

    Beatriz Roa, Global Sectoral Head of Industrials at BBVA, states:

    BBVA is proudly supporting AESC in this landmark project in the UK. This gigafactory will help foster the transition to electric vehicles while supporting the buildup of an entire ecosystem around battery manufacturing in Sunderland. These are key objectives in BBVA’s efforts to support the transition to a more sustainable economy and to the auto and energy industries in particular.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three men charged following non-fatal firearm incident

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A third person has been charged in relation to a shooting at an address in Newham.

    Mohammed Akbar Khan, 42 (11.04.1983) of Castle Road, Milton Keynes was charged with violent disorder and two counts of grievous bodily harm on Sunday, 5 May.

    He appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 6 May, and will next appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Tuesday, 3 June.

    The charges relate to an incident in Dunbar Road in Forest Gate, Newham at 14:42hrs on Tuesday, 29 April. Police were called to an altercation and arrived to discover a 33-year-old-man suffering from a gunshot wound and two further victims with facial injuries.

    All received treatment at the scene from the London Ambulance Service and were later taken to hospital where their injuries were deemed to be non-life-changing or life-threatening.

    Two other men have already been charged.

    Mohammed Abdullah Khan, 22, (02.07.2002) of Upton Lane, E7 was charged with attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession of a prohibited firearm Saturday, 3 May.

    He is set to appear at the Old Bailey on Friday, 30 May.

    Mohammed Qasam Khan, 37, (08.06.1987) of Sprowston Road, E7 was charged with grievous bodily harm and violent disorder on Friday, 2 May.

    He next appears at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Tuesday, 3 June.

    All three defendants are remanded in custody.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free Speech and Scrutiny Vindicated: Gaston Welcomes Standards Commissioner Ruling

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “I welcome the decision of the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Commissioner for Standards to dismiss the complaint lodged against me in relation to questions I asked during a committee session last October.

    “The complaint, submitted by Dr Paschal McKeown of Age NI, concerned my questioning of her colleague, Dr Kelly Turtle. I asked whether Age NI would regard it as transphobic if an elderly person in a care home requested to be assisted by someone of the same biological sex. This is a legitimate and relevant concern, especially in the context of public policy and safeguarding.

    “Rather than receiving an answer, I was subjected to a formal investigation — simply for raising the question and referring to Dr Turtle’s publicly available statements on social media. That investigation has now concluded, and the findings are clear.

    “The Commissioner found that:

    • My questions were consistent with the TUV manifesto, which clearly sets out our stance on transgenderism (Paragraph 42);

    • Restricting MLAs from raising such questions in committee would constitute “an obvious interference with political expression” (Paragraph 45);

    • There was no improper interference with the work of the Assembly (Paragraph 29) and

    • It was not unreasonable for me to have read and referenced Dr Turtle’s public posts (Paragraph 40).

    “This ruling is a welcome affirmation of the essential role that MLAs play in scrutinising public policy—particularly on sensitive and contested matters. As the Commissioner noted:

    “It is Mr Gaston’s role, as a member of that committee, to ask questions of witnesses that appear before it.” (Paragraph 29)

    “That is a basic democratic principle, and I trust the Chair of the Committee, Paula Bradshaw, will reflect carefully on the report’s findings.

    “It is also important to note that the transcript of Ms Bradshaw’s interview with the Commissioner raises troubling suggestions:

    • She claims that witnesses “weren’t there for scrutiny” (page 43) —a fundamental misunderstanding of committee proceedings as illustrated by the Commissioner’s findings;

    • She attempts, without evidence, to suggest that I have acted in a sectarian manner (page 43) – something she couldn’t defend when challenged (see here );

    • She complains that I come “prepared” each week with a list of questions and argues that this goes “against the convention of committees” where, by her own admission in the same interview, MLAs sometimes appear without having even read the papers or even understanding the role of the department (page 45);

    • She even accuses me of “persistent foul play,” citing my appearances on the Nolan Show or articles published in the News Letter (page 46).

    “Scrutiny is not only permitted in the Assembly —it is essential. Attempting to silence MLAs for raising legitimate concerns undermines the integrity of our democracy. All who value freedom of speech and proper scrutiny should welcome this report.

    “I will continue to represent the people who elected me with honesty, conviction, and a determination to speak plainly on issues that matter – including transgender madness.

    “I welcome the fact that since the meeting took place in October the Supreme Court has ruled that single sex spaces should be respected and that elderly people in care homes have a legal right to demand that they receive intimate care from those of the same biological sex. I trust that all charities – including Age NI – have taken note of this and will not have difficulty answering such simple questions going forward.”

    You can read the full report vindicating Mr Gaston and clearing him of all alleged wrongdoing here .

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £7m beach management scheme reduces flood risk in Lincolnshire

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £7m beach management scheme reduces flood risk in Lincolnshire

    Sand will be topped up on beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point to reduce the risk of flooding for Lincolnshire’s coastal communities.

    Beach renourishment work being carried out in Lincolnshire. Image: Van Oord

    • Over the next 4 to 5 weeks, around 200,000 to 500,000 cubic metres of sand will be topped up on beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point.
    • This reduces the risk of flooding for 20,000 homes and businesses, 24,500 static caravans and 35,000 hectares of land.
    • The Environment Agency has been restoring sand levels on the Lincolnshire coast every year since 1994.

    The work will begin on May 11 and is the second phase of works under the strategy for the coastline. The strategy aims to better protect the environment and support the prosperity of the coast for years to come.

    The Environment Agency’s annual beach management involves dredging sand from licensed seabed areas and pumping it onto beaches, replacing the sand naturally lost to the sea throughout the year.  This reduces the risk of flooding for 20,000 homes and businesses, 24,500 static caravans and 35,000 hectares of land.

    Replenishing the sand means that the beaches, instead of hard defences like sea walls, take the brunt of the waves’ force and energy. This reduces the amount of damage and erosion to those hard defences and lessens the risk of water overtopping them.

    The Environment Agency has been restoring sand levels on the Lincolnshire coast every year since 1994. In addition to reducing flood risk, the work brings supplementary social and economic benefits by retaining the sandy beaches for a vibrant tourism industry.

    Deborah Higton, Flood Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Our current coastal management approach of re-nourishing the beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point is vital to managing tidal flood risk for Lincolnshire. As well as maintaining the county’s sandy beaches for us all to enjoy.

    But despite our best efforts, much of Lincolnshire is at, or below, sea level meaning flooding can still happen. That’s why we urge people to prepare and plan for the worst by signing up to receive our free flood warnings.

    The £7 million beach management work is funded as part of the Environment Agency’s capital programme. The Environment Agency is committed to delivering Government’s £2.65 billion investment over the next 2 years to protect thousands of homes and business from the dangers of flooding. Plus prevent billions of pounds worth of damages.

    The Environment Agency urges people to plan ahead for flooding. They can find out if their property is in an at-risk area by signing up for free flood warnings. Further information on all these steps and more is available at GOV.UK/Flood and by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New lights to shine on Foulston Park athletics track

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Athletes of all ages and levels of fitness will be able to use the track at Devonport’s Foulston Park on dark evenings, thanks to a move to replace the floodlights as part of the transformative project.

    The lights at the former Brickfields site failed this winter and the project now includes an upgrade to modern LED units to ensure the athletics track remains fit for purpose.

    Foulston Park is a landmark initiative that the Council has jointly embarked on to transform an underused sports facility into some of the finest sports and wellbeing facilities in the South West.

    The park’s new state-of-the-art sports, wellbeing and community hub recently opened its doors as part of the project’s ambition to transform health, fitness, youth and community facilities for Devonport and the wider city.

    In 2023 the Council approved a funding commitment of £2.752 million, against a total project cost of around £21 million. Since then, the project has moved at pace, with work well under way across the site and the first phase of all-weather pitches the next in line for completion.

    There has been significant capital funding from Plymouth Argyle FC and Plymouth Argyle Community Trust, as well as external grants but, as the project has progressed, there have been several unforeseen challenges leading to a re-evaluation of funding requirements.

    Other new costs include upgrades to the hub to ensure it is fire compliant, an electrical supply upgrade to accommodate the requirements of a commercial kitchen, re-laying an existing artificial rugby pitch and more groundwork and drainage work than anticipated at several locations on the site.  

    Plymouth Argyle Community Trust and Plymouth Argyle FC, who are responsible for project delivery, have asked for an extra £900k capital support from the Council in the form of a grant.

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for with responsibility for sport and leisure, said: “No one wants to spend over a set budget but, as with many construction projects, there are unexpected challenges that need to be resolved as they crop up.

    “We need to think about the huge gains this health and wellbeing hub will create for the people of Devonport and beyond, helping to improve and promote ways for people to access physical activity and deliver on the city’s Active to Thrive action plan.

    “These great new facilities show what collaborative working can achieve and there was a real buzz from local people at the recent launch. They open up the site and not only make residents feel welcome and supported on their journey to better health but also open the doors to more education, training and employment opportunities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council commemorates 80th anniversary of VE Day

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The Vice Lord Lieutenant, Richard Hamilton-Stubber, Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Kyle Savage and council chief executive Roger Wilson along with local elected members pictured at the beacon lighting ceremony, which formed part of council’s VE Day 80th anniversary celebration event.

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a series of events that paid tribute to this pivotal historical moment and honoured those who made immense sacrifices during World War II.

    A national Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving took place at St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Armagh on Wednesday 07 May from 7.30pm, which marked the beginning of the anniversary commemorations in the borough.

    Organised by the cathedral, the service saw around 400 people in attendance, including His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for County Armagh, The Earl of Caledon; Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage; and local elected representatives.

    The service, which was led by The Very Reverend Shane Forster, Dean of Armagh featured acts of remembrance, prayers, choir music and the lighting of the Lamp Light, symbolising the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the darkness of war.

    Commemorations continued the morning of Thursday 08 May, with the raising of a VE Day flag at the council’s three civic headquarters, which provided a visual reminder of this historic occasion.

    Later that evening a special celebratory event took place at the Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre, with over 200 people attending. The event featured musical entertainment from the Corcrain Flute Band and the Jenny Chambers School of Speech and Drama choir as well as a classic wartime treat of fish and chips.

    Attendees also got to hear an insightful speech from local historian Richard Edgar before The Vice Lord Lieutenant, Richard Hamilton-Stubber read the special VE Day tribute.

    Joined by the Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Kyle Savage and local representatives, the evening concluded with a symbolic beacon lighting ceremony at Craigavon Lakes at 9.30pm.

    Reflecting on the VE Day 80th anniversary commemorations, Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage commented: 

    “As Deputy Lord Mayor, it was a profound honour to participate in our local commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of VE Day. This significant milestone allowed us to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to the immense sacrifices made by those during World War II.”

    An exhibition at Armagh County Museum, which features both digital and physical archives, offering visitors a window into local life during World War II, will remain open until Saturday 05 July.

    While local community groups continue to host their own VE Day celebration events across the borough, following £40,000 provided through the council’s financial assistance programme.

    For more information about national VE Day 80th anniversary events, click here.

    See gallery of images from these VE Day 80th anniversary commemoration events below.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Magistrates order unlicensed pizza business to pay over £5,000

    Source: City of York

    Takeaway pizza

    Published Friday, 9 May 2025

    The owner of a pizza business has been found guilty by York Magistrates of selling food and alcohol without a licence, and has been sentenced to pay a total £5,347.28.

    Emrah Aktas, who owns Pepperoni Palace, 25 Walpole Street, York YO31 8NN, was not licensed to sell hot food after 11pm or drink, yet his business did so in September 2024.  

    As part of routine enforcement activity, officers from City of York Council made a test purchase of hot food and drink online. They visited the premises to see if the order was actually followed through, and paid for the items.

    The premises were visited several times by officers prior to the test purchase. They gave warnings about operating without a licence and gave advice about how to apply for a licence.  

    Mr Aktas did not respond to a request for an interview or to the summons, and didn’t attend court. The case was proved, and he was found guilty in his absence.

    The Magistrates sentenced Mr Aktas to a fine of £2,000, costs of £2,547.28 and a surcharge of £800. A total £5,347.28 collection order was issued, to be paid within 28 days.

    The Magistrates hoped relevant checks were being conducted at the premises.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment at City of York Council, said:  

    Licences are required for a reason, and time limits are important to protect local residents from undue disturbance at anti-social hours.

    “If an unlicensed business sells food and drink outside of these times, particularly late at night or early in the morning, they are acting illegally.

    “We will continue to investigate legitimate complaints and take appropriate legal action. Please report any licensing offences to licensing@york.gov.uk.”

    To find out more about business licenses, please visit www.york.gov.uk/business-licences .

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding extended to SCARF to tackle fuel poverty and reduce emissions

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    In collaboration with SCARF, free home energy advice is being offered across the local authority area. As part of this renewed effort, SCARF will be directly reaching out to households that may qualify for funding to improve their energy performance. Letters will be sent to properties identified in the Scottish Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) register as having an EPC rating of F or G, indicating a low level of energy efficiency that are targeted for this additional support.

    Households identified with low energy efficiency will receive letters detailing the support available. SCARF can assist in identifying funding opportunities and help with the application process for necessary improvements. Eligible households may qualify for the ECO4 Grant Scheme, provided by the Scottish Government, which offers 100% grants for retrofits including solar panels, heat pumps, and wall insulation. This funding is available to households earning less than £31,000, those receiving certain benefits, or those with underlying health conditions. Both private renters and homeowners can benefit from this scheme.

    SCARF will also be present at various community events to provide further information and support. They will arrange free home energy visits to assess properties and progress applications for the ECO4 scheme if eligible.

    For more information on retrofitting your property, reducing fuel bills, and minimising your environmental impact, please find contact details for SCARF at: scarf.org.uk

    Councillor Tom McEwan, Housing and Social Wellbeing Convener, said: “Perth and Kinross Council is committed to alleviating the burden of high fuel bills on our residents. By extending our funding to SCARF, we are taking a significant step towards reducing fuel poverty and improving the energy efficiency of homes across Perth and Kinross. This initiative will not only help lower energy bills for our residents but also contribute to our broader goal of creating a more sustainable community. By improving energy efficiency, we aim to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all our residents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Advocating for Social Sciences in Higher Education: Sciences Po at the CIVICA Global Forum

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    On 6 and 7 May, Sciences Po joined a prominent European event on social sciences in higher education, organised through our European university alliance, CIVICA. The CIVICA Global Forum 2025 was hosted by one of the 10 members of the alliance, IE University (Madrid, Spain).

    The theme of this two-day event, “Leveraging Social Sciences in Higher Education: Navigating Global Challenges and Complexities”, draw high-level speakers, including prominent figures in academia but also representatives from industry and politics. This European debate on the future of higher education included the important topics of European
    competitiveness and the role of AI in enriching the academic ecosystem.

    Sciences Po took its part in those pressing discussions through 6 speakers that made the journey to Madrid:

    > Discover our selection of 6 inspiring quotes from key speakers at the forum:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: HIV market to surpass $32 billion across 7MM in 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    HIV market to surpass $32 billion across 7MM in 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) market across the seven major markets (7MM*) is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.9% from $26.5 billion in 2023 to $32.1 billion in 2033, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s report, “Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Seven-Market Drug Forecast,” reveals that market growth will primarily be driven by the increased uptake of long-acting injectable therapies, as well as the anticipated launch of novel single tablet regimens (STRs).

    Anaelle Tannen, Infectious Disease Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The pipeline analysis indicates a shift away from 3-drug STRs and towards 2-drug STRs. These are hoped to have reduced toxicities and side effects as a result.”

    Six products are currently in Phase III development and are expected to launch by 2033, including four two-drug STRs. These are Gilead Sciences’ (Gilead) once-daily combination of bictegravir and lenacapavir, Merck’s once-daily doravirine and islatravir, Gilead’s once-weekly islatravir and lenacapavir, and a once-weekly regimen of GS-1720 and GS-4182 developed jointly by Gilead and Merck.

    Tannen continues: “Currently all STRs require daily administration and there is a need for alternative and more convenient options for patients which islatravir+lenacapavir and GS-1720+GS-4182 could address.”

    Other notable therapies in late-stage development include CytoDyn’s once-weekly leronlimab, which is expected to be used in patients with CCR5-type virus, and Gilead’s biannual injectable lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)**.

    Tannen adds: “Long-acting injectable therapies will gain significant market share across the 7MM as this method requires infrequent dosing and is thus more convenient. Lenacapavir, for example, is initially expected to be administered subcutaneously biannually for PrEP, and clinical trials are underway to see its efficacy when administered once a year. Data from a Phase I trial has demonstrated lenacapavir’s potential when administered intramuscularly once yearly.”

    Subcutaneous lenacapavir has demonstrated 100% efficacy in preventing new HIV infections in the PURPOSE1 Phase III trial and thus has shown its potential as an important new tool for PrEP. However, subcutaneous lenacapavir is expected to be more expensive than daily oral PrEP and the key opinion leaders (KOLs) interviewed by GlobalData have highlighted that this may be a barrier to access.

    Furthermore, despite the anticipated launch of several innovative products, generic erosion will represent a barrier to growth over the forecast period, with key products such as Biktarvy and Dovato losing patent protection and becoming vulnerable to competition from generics.

    Tannen concludes: “Whilst many pipeline drugs have demonstrated promising efficacy and safety profiles, none will be superior, in terms of commercial success, to the current standard of care Biktarvy.”

    *The US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and Japan.

    **Lenacapavir is already marketed across the 7MM under the brand name Sunlenca for usage in treatment-experienced patients with multidrug-resistant HIV.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New reports examine impact of nuclear decommissioning in Scotland

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New reports examine impact of nuclear decommissioning in Scotland

    Research offers a positive outlook for communities impacted by the decommissioning process.

    A new study has revealed that Scotland’s £25 billion nuclear decommissioning programme could deliver significant long-term economic and social benefits at both national and local levels over the next 90 years and beyond.

    The research – led by the National Decommissioning Centre (NDC), in collaboration with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) – has highlighted potential economy-wide gains in employment, skills development, household income and consumption offering a positive outlook for communities impacted by the decommissioning process.

    The study has helped inform politicians and key policy makers on the opportunities and has contributed to the formation of a cross-party committee on nuclear decommissioning in the Scottish Parliament.

    As one of the UK’s key nuclear decommissioning sites, Dounreay plays a crucial role in the NDA’s long-term efforts to safely decommission early nuclear facilities. It has been a stable employer since it was established in the 1950s but the decommissioning process brings uncertainty for the surrounding communities about the future.

    Interviews were carried out with residents and stakeholders in Caithness and North Sutherland directly impacted by decommissioning at Dounreay. The responses were that the issues are compounded by underinvestment in essential infrastructure, rural depopulation, and remoteness. At the same time, the presence of the skilled workforce as well as the increased interest in the region’s renewable energy resources means that decommissioning can be a driver for building future skills and capacities for economic diversification and local resilience.

    Heather Barton, Cross Industry Learning Manager at the NDA, said:

    It has been great to engage with another area of the University of Aberdeen, the Just Transition Lab, through our partnership with the NDC.

    A real strength of working with the NDC is that there are numerous areas where we can collaborate to achieve our goals of decommissioning the UK’s nuclear sites safely, securely, sustainably and cost effectively.

    This study will help inform politicians and policy makers on key economic development opportunities and enable discussions around support for communities including skills and training.

    To view the full reports, visit:

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Perseverance pays off for fast streamer Folashade

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Perseverance pays off for fast streamer Folashade

    Meet the civil servant who secured a coveted spot on the Civil Service Fast Stream accelerated development programme at the fourth attempt.

    Folashade Atiko

    If you’d told Folashade Atiko five years ago she’d be working right at the heart of government and beginning to help shape policies that could impact on all our lives, she simply wouldn’t have believed you.

    But it’s the 28-year-old civil servant’s own tenacity, talent and resilience that secured her a spot on the coveted Fast Stream accelerated development programme at the fourth attempt – and she’s already seizing the opportunities that it brings.

    Since joining the programme’s policy scheme, the strategy adviser at the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government has met senior ministers, provided support in a House of Lords debate and is helping to deliver a UK-wide strategy on social cohesion.

    Best of all, she is helping to bring the changes she could only dream about whilst studying for a Masters degree in International Development and Public Health at the University of Sheffield. 

    “If you’d have told the ‘university me’ who was writing about these things, that one day I might be advising the government on it, I wouldn’t have believed it – but I actually am,” she said.

    Fast Stream

    The Fast Stream is regarded as one of the UK’s top employers for graduates, blending workplace learning with formal training and, depending on the scheme, the chance to work towards professional qualifications. One in nine of those who gained a coveted place in 2024 were  existing civil servants and they have the chance to become a Grade 7 within three years. 

    Folashade, who lists two-plus years’ supermarket work and a role as a car parking attendant on her pre Civil Service CV, first applied for the programme back in 2020. Whilst two attempts for the Fast Stream were unsuccessful, Folashade did secure a Summer Internship which was extended before joining the Civil Service at the DWP as a policy graduate It was from this role that she applied to the Fast Stream another two times, finally winning a coveted place on her fourth go.

    “I did it with a lot of perseverance,” she said. “I kept trying until they realised I was the sort of person who should be on the Fast Stream.“

    And actually gaining that hands-on experience has proved invaluable to Folashade.

    “I knew I wanted to be a fast streamer, but I didn’t know what they wanted from me to be able to help me get there,” she explained.

    “But having been in the Civil Service for a bit longer and gaining institutional knowledge, I was more able to put it into practice. It gave me a great foundation. I really would recommend it to existing civil servants.”

    Broadening horizons

    Folashade is driven to make a difference to the lives of others and believes the Fast Stream is helping achieve that goal.

    So whilst being involved in meetings that include the highest ministers of state and taking up new opportunities (Folashade even developed a debating pack for minister Lord Khan of Burnley and sat in on his debate at the House of Lords) might add a touch of glamour to her role, she remains firmly grounded. 

    “As exciting as that really was, I still love the day to day of coming into work, working on really important issues and finding ways to tackle loneliness and loss of community,” she said.

    A bright future

    As well as completing her Masters degree (she joined the Civil Service during that period), Folashade is open to the many varied opportunities open to fast streamers.

    “I would definitely like to be in the sort of space where I am now, where the  policies I’m helping to design,develop and deliver are almost immediate,” she said.

    “I definitely want a role where I’m going to work every day to make where I live or where other people live better.”

    Find out more about the Fast Stream.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Digital Excellence Programme helped me connect the dots on AI’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    ‘Digital Excellence Programme helped me connect the dots on AI’

    Julie Fitzpatrick is putting her learning into action and sharing best practice with others.

    Julie Fitzpatrick, Programme Director, DWP

    As programme director at the Department for Work and Pensions,  Julie Fitzpatrick is tasked with helping to implement the Government’s Fraud Error and Debt Bill.

    The bill, which is expected to become law later this year, will introduce a raft of new powers – all with the aim of recouping funds for the taxpayer.

    But Julie also believes there are efficiencies and cost savings to be gained within the Civil Service too – through increased use of digital technology and AI.

    This was one of the reasons behind her decision to sign up for Government Skills’ Digital Excellence Programme.

    “As a government department you have to keep moving forward, be innovative and create efficiencies and I wanted to have the skills and knowledge to do that,” said Julie.

    “Every time we come up with a proposal, my goal now, more than ever, is to ask- how can we create efficiencies? where can we use AI? which manual processes can we digitise?”  

    Connecting the dots

    The Digital Excellence Programme is designed for senior civil servants as well as Grade 6s and Grade 7s and can be completed in 22 hours, although Julie opted to stagger her learning over a number of weeks. The programme also signposts learners to further reading and learning opportunities.

    “It’s good to link up to that expertise and knowledge,” said Julie.

     “People think AI is brand new but it has been around forever and the course really made me think about that fact.  For years we have had digital programmes assessing our risk potential when we apply for insurance, which is similar – but before I did the course I hadn’t connected the dots.

    “I found the course easy to follow and you can pick it up and put it down. Being given examples of how long it has been around and how to use it yourself, is really useful. I went on to do two further courses and join the discussion groups to be a part of the conversation.”

    Spreading the word

    As a result of the programme, Julie is keen to spread the word about the scale of the impact that tech can achieve. She runs a community practice within DWP for the Portfolio Management Office for grades from AO to Grade 6. The use of Copilot  has been particularly beneficial for staff as it reduces the admin burden, Julie believes.

    “Last week I ran a session and got one of my Copilot experts to come along,” she said. “We discussed how we can incorporate Copilot into our ways of working. The more we can educate people the better. 

    “It’s the kind of small-scale efficiency that, when rolled out across government, creates efficiencies and gives people much more fulfilling roles.”

    Julie, who has helped drive a number of key projects across multiple government departments, including at Defra and the Home Office, added: “As a result of what I know now, I’m convinced better use of digital applications is going to give us better jobs 

    “We have to embrace the possibilities, work more efficiently and use the tools that are available.” 

    Full details of  the Digital Excellence Programme

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £25 billion powered Wales Pension Partnership pool to deliver growth and jobs for Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £25 billion powered Wales Pension Partnership pool to deliver growth and jobs for Wales

    People from Cardiff to Carmarthen will see a boost to their local communities and job opportunities, thanks to the Wales Pension Partnership (WPP) launching a new investment company that pools £25 billion of assets.

    • Biggest ever Welsh pension fund to be established with £25 billion pooled into a new investment company that can deliver growth as part of our Plan for Change
    • The Wales Pension Partnership is being transformed – by pooling the pension funds of 22 Local Authorities it will unleash the full potential of the Local Government Pension Scheme to act as an engine for growth in Wales
    • Success of the Partnership is reflected in schemes like Uskmouth Power Station in Newport – supporting 300 jobs with benefits to the local community and economy

    The WPP is being transformed so that the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) pool, which will consolidate the assets of 22 Local Authorities’ schemes representing 412,000 members, will be the biggest pension fund in Welsh history, capable of delivering huge investments felt first-hand by businesses and communities in Wales. 

    By setting up this investment company in Wales, the investment decisions the fund makes can reflect the unique cultural and economic climate of Wales, collaborating with local businesses to invest in communities and delivering growth – making sure the LGPS is delivering for those whose hard-earned money it guards, and their communities.

    To see an example of this, Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell today visited Uskmouth Power Station which has benefited from £6.5 million of investment from the WPP for its redevelopment from a coal fired power station into a sustainable energy site –supporting 300 new full-time jobs during construction driving economic growth and prosperity for the community.

    UK Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell MP said: 

    Pensions are a massive part of the economy – and we’re seeing this brought to life here in Wales, where a successful Local Government Pension Scheme is investing in the right places to drive opportunity and growth for the local community.

    I’m delighted to visit Uskmouth Power Station in Newport, which has had a £6 million boost from the Wales Pension Partnership, creating 300 jobs which mean opportunity and prosperity at a local level.

    Making sure everyone can benefit from the potential of larger pension pools ties into the ambitions of our Plan for Change to boost investment in communities across the country, bringing long-term economic benefits.

    The Wales Pension Partnership said:

    The Wales Pension Partnership investment in Uskmouth Battery Energy Storage Systems demonstrates our ambitions to attract investment into crucial Welsh infrastructure and secure national energy supplies.

    This investment shows our commitment to working with Quinbrook and our strategic partner GCM Grosvenor to: deliver strong investment returns for our pensioners, ensure long-term energy security, reduce carbon emissions, provide jobs and regeneration opportunities across Wales. This is one of many projects that we have in our investment pipeline and will be unveiling over the next 12 months.

    Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS said:

    We have long recognised the benefits of a strong single Welsh Local Government Pension Scheme pool.  We want to see the Wales Pensions Partnership continue to go from strength to strength delivering returns for members and able to invest in economic growth for Wales and the UK.

    UK Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE MP said:

    We are determined to get the best value out of taxpayers’ money, which is why we are reforming the Local Government Pensions Scheme pools in Wales and England to be more efficient, fit-for-purpose and deliver for public servants and their communities.

    The scheme plays a vital role in boosting investment and growth across Wales and ultimately putting more money in working people’s pockets as part of our Plan for Change.

    The site, once a coal fired power station, is being repurposed to provide up to 460 megawatt hours of electricity storage capacity for the National Grid and bring a retired rail line back into service to deliver materials, saving nearly 8,400 heavy good vehicles from the local road network. 

    The investment embraces the spirit of change the government has asked to see from LGPS pools with the wider pooling process for the UK’s world-class LGPS set to conclude in March 2026. Reforms will see the LGPS punching its weight globally, while bringing benefits to local communities through dedicated investment strategies and improving transparency for its members. 

    These reforms will ensure the Local Government Pension Scheme is fit for the future, and boost investment to drive the economic growth and prosperity promised by the Plan for Change.

    Additional Information

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni’s letter to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    A courtesy translation of President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni’s letter to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV is provided below.

    ***

    Holy Father,

    I offer my personal congratulations and those of the Italian Government on your election to the See of Peter.

    Guided by the Holy Spirit, the esteemed Cardinals have found in you the leader of the universal Church. They have done so aware of the fact that the world is facing a “difficult and complex turning point in history”, as the Cardinal Dean reminded us in the homily he gave during the ‘pro eligendo Romano Pontifice’ Mass, marked by epochal challenges that bring our certainties into question and call for anyone in a position of responsibility to make courageous choices for the good of the peoples.

    Italy has an indissoluble bond with the Vicar of Christ. It would not be possible to understand the identity, history and culture of our nation without what Saint John Paul II, in his historic address to the Italian Parliament, defined as its “life-blood”, its faith in Christ. 

    Our home is founded on the extraordinary synthesis between faith and reason. This synthesis has enabled the Italian and European civilisation to conceive of a people-centred world in which life is sacred, men are free and of equal dignity, and the State and the Church are separate but respect each other, and grow together. A civilisation that respects the identities of others, without, however, denying its own, and that builds peace where others sow death and destruction.

    The peace the world so desperately needs and which you invoked several times from the Loggia of Blessings, recalling the relentless and tireless work carried out by the late Pope Francis.

    Italians will look to you as a guide and point of reference, recognising in the Pope and in the Church that spiritual and moral authority coming from the inexhaustible message of love, charity and hope, which flows from the Word of God.
     
    With filial affection, 
    Giorgia Meloni

    [Courtesy translation]
     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE advances gender-sensitive law enforcement and border management in Central Asia

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

    Headline: OSCE advances gender-sensitive law enforcement and border management in Central Asia

    Members of the Regional Network of Women in Law Enforcement and Border Agencies in Central Asia during the Network’s meeting, Vienna, 8 May 2025. (OSCE/Micky Kroell) Photo details

    As part of the OSCE’s efforts to empower women in the security sector and strengthen regional security, the OSCE Secretariat, with support from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the five OSCE field operations in Central Asia, held the first meeting of the Regional Network of Women in Law Enforcement and Border Agencies in Central Asia in Vienna, Austria, on 7 and 8 May.
    The meeting brought together the Network’s members, which comprises representatives of law enforcement and border agencies from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, and featured representatives from the OSCE Chairpersonship, Secretariat, and several participating States. It aimed to build on two preparatory events from 2023 and 2024 and kickstart the Network’s operation.
    The participants developed the Network’s strategic concept and discussed its next steps. They also took part in capacity-building activities to integrate gender-sensitive approaches for detecting human trafficking at borders, for increasing women’s participation in and good governance of the security sector, and for developing related projects. The event also served as a platform for participants to strengthen the Network’s connections with the representatives from the OSCE Secretariat, Chairpersonship and participating States.
    The meeting was held as part of several OSCE extrabudgetary projects, including “WIN for Women and Men”, “Support, capacity-building and awareness-raising for Security Sector Governance and Reform within the OSCE: Phase III” as well as the Transnational Threat Department’s programme and ODIHR’s Human Rights, Gender and Security programme.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Outbrain Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Outbrain Inc. (Nasdaq: OB), which is operating under the new Teads brand following Outbrain’s acquisition of Teads in February 2025, announced today financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Key Financial Metrics1:

      Three Months Ended
    March 31,
    (in millions USD)   2025       2024     % Change
    Revenue $ 286.4     $ 217.0     32  %
    Gross profit   82.7       41.6     99  %
    Net loss   (54.8 )     (5.0 )   NM
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (1.0 )     8.6     (111 )%
               
    Non-GAAP Financial Data*          
    Ex-TAC gross profit   103.1       52.2     98  %
    Adjusted EBITDA   10.7       1.4     665  %
    Adjusted net loss   (15.3 )     (4.9 )   (211 )%
    Free cash flow   (6.6 )     4.6     (242 )%

    _____________________________

    1 Incorporates the results of operations for legacy Teads from February 3, 2025 through March 31, 2025
    * See non-GAAP reconciliations below
    NM Not meaningful

    “We are off to a strong start following the completion of the combination with Teads. In the first quarter, we delivered financial results above the mid-range of our guidance, while closing the acquisition, issuing five-year senior secured notes, and reaching many major milestones of integration and synergy realization. We are in the early days, but the feedback to our brandformance platform strategy from the hundreds of advertisers and media owners we have met has been highly encouraging,” said David Kostman, CEO of Teads.

    First Quarter 2025 Business Highlights:

    • Completed the acquisition of Teads, for total consideration of approximately $900 million, comprised of $625 million in cash and 43.75 million shares of Outbrain common stock. The combined company is operating under the name Teads.
    • Expect to realize approximately $65 million to $75 million of synergies in 2026 with further opportunities for expanded synergies. Of this amount, approximately $60 million relates to cost synergies, including approximately $45 million of compensation-related expenses, with approximately 90% of the estimated compensation-related synergies already actioned. For 2025, expect to realize a benefit from cost synergies of approximately $40 million, which represents an increase from initial expectations.
    • Initial cross-selling of legacy Outbrain performance solutions to legacy Teads enterprise brand customers launched in Q2 with several campaigns sold.
    • New strategic Joint Business Partnerships (JBPs) with Ferrero, Haleon, Philip Morris International, and Beiersdorf.
    • ~500 advertisers spending at least a half a million dollars on a rolling 12 month basis, with an average spend of over $2 million annually, which represents approximately 70% of total customer spend.
    • CTV experienced more than 100% year-over-year growth in Q1 2025, and now represents approximately 5% of total ad spend.
    • Continued strong adoption of Moments vertical video offering launched in Q3 2024 and is now live on over 70 publishers, including Axel Springer, Fox News, and Webedia.
    • Premium supply competitive wins include Godo (Spain) WWS (Japan), and renewals include Conde Nast and TMZ (US), Ansa (Italy), Webedia (France) and Sankei (Japan).

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights:

    • Revenue of $286.4 million, an increase of $69.4 million, or 32%, compared to $217.0 million in the prior year period primarily due to the acquisition, including net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $2.6 million.
    • Gross profit of $82.7 million, an increase of $41.1 million, or 99%, compared to $41.6 million in the prior year period. Gross margin increased to 28.9%, compared to 19.2% in the prior year period, reflecting the higher gross margin profile of the acquired business.
    • Ex-TAC gross profit of $103.1 million, an increase of $50.9 million, or 98%, compared to $52.2 million in the prior year period, primarily due to the acquisition. Our Ex-TAC gross margin increased to 36.0%, compared to 24.0% in the prior year period, reflecting the higher margin profile of the acquired business.
    • Net loss of $54.8 million, compared to net loss of $5.0 million in the prior year period. Net loss in the current period includes pre-tax acquisition-related costs of $16.4 million, impairment charges of $15.6 million primarily related to the discontinuance of the vi product offering, restructuring charges of $7.3 million related to our previously announced restructuring plan to streamline operations and reduce duplicative roles post-acquisition, and bridge facility related costs of $12.0 million.
    • Adjusted net loss of $15.3 million, compared to adjusted net loss of $4.9 million in the prior year period.
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $10.7 million, compared to Adjusted EBITDA of $1.4 million in the prior year period.
    • Net cash used in operating activities of $1.0 million, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $8.6 million in the prior year period. Free cash flow was $(6.6) million, as compared to $4.6 million in the prior year period, primarily related to cash outflows related to transaction costs and restructuring charges of $16.2 million.
    • Cash, cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities were $155.9 million, comprised of cash and cash equivalents of $136.3 million and short-term investments in marketable securities of $19.6 million as of March 31, 2025.
    • Total debt obligations were $627.0 million, including the $610.8 million carrying value of the 10% senior secured notes due 2030 issued in February 2025 (principal amount of $637.5 million, net of unamortized discount and deferred financing costs) and $16.2 million outstanding under a short-term overdraft facility assumed in the acquisition.
    • Entered into a credit agreement with Goldman Sachs Bank, U.S. Bank Trust Company, and certain other lenders, which provided, among other things, for a new $100.0 million super senior secured revolving credit facility, which expires on February 3, 2030, which may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes. The prior revolving credit facility with Silicon Valley Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank & Trust Company, dated as of November 2, 2021 was terminated.

    Second Quarter Guidance

    The following forward-looking statements reflect our expectations for the second quarter and full year of 2025.

    For the second quarter ending June 30, 2025, we expect:

    • Ex-TAC gross profit of $141 million to $150 million
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $26 million to $34 million

    For the full year ending December 31, 2025, we continue to expect:

    • Adjusted EBITDA of at least $180 million

    The above measures are forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures for which a reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is not available without unreasonable efforts. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below. In addition, our guidance is subject to risks and uncertainties, as outlined below in this release.

    Conference Call and Webcast Information

    Outbrain will host an investor conference call this morning, Friday, May 9 at 8:30 am ET. Interested parties are invited to listen to the conference call which can be accessed live by phone by dialing 1-877-497-9071 or for international callers, 1-201-689-8727. A replay will be available two hours after the call and can be accessed by dialing 1-877-660-6853, or for international callers, 1-201-612-7415. The passcode for the live call and the replay is 13753068. The replay will be available until May 23, 2025. Interested investors and other parties may also listen to a simultaneous webcast of the conference call by logging onto the Investors Relations section of the Company’s website at https://investors.outbrain.com. The online replay will be available for a limited time shortly following the call.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to GAAP performance measures, we use the following supplemental non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate our business, measure our performance, identify trends, and allocate our resources: Ex-TAC gross profit, Ex-TAC gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted net income (loss), and adjusted diluted EPS. These non-GAAP financial measures are defined and reconciled to the corresponding GAAP measures below. These non-GAAP financial measures are subject to significant limitations, including those we identify below. In addition, other companies in our industry may define these measures differently, which may reduce their usefulness as comparative measures. As a result, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant as a substitute for revenue, gross profit, net income (loss), diluted EPS, or cash flows from operating activities presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Because we are a global company, the comparability of our operating results is affected by foreign exchange fluctuations. We calculate certain constant currency measures and foreign currency impacts by translating the current year’s reported amounts into comparable amounts using the prior year’s exchange rates. All constant currency financial information that may be presented is non-GAAP and should be used as a supplement to our reported operating results. We believe that this information is helpful to our management and investors to assess our operating performance on a comparable basis. However, these measures are not intended to replace amounts presented in accordance with GAAP and may be different from similar measures calculated by other companies.

    The Company is also providing second quarter and full year guidance. These forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures are calculated based on internal forecasts that omit certain amounts that would be included in GAAP financial measures. The Company has not provided quantitative reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures because it is unable, without unreasonable effort, to predict with reasonable certainty the occurrence or amount of all excluded items that may arise during the forward-looking period, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Such excluded items could be material to the reported results individually or in the aggregate.

    Ex-TAC Gross Profit

    Ex-TAC gross profit is a non-GAAP financial measure. Gross profit is the most comparable GAAP measure. In calculating Ex-TAC gross profit, we add back other cost of revenue to gross profit. Ex-TAC gross profit may fluctuate in the future due to various factors, including, but not limited to, seasonality and changes in the number of media partners and advertisers, advertiser demand or user engagements.

    We present Ex-TAC gross profit, Ex-TAC gross margin (calculated as Ex-TAC gross profit as a percentage of revenue), and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Ex-TAC gross profit, because they are key profitability measures used by our management and board of directors to understand and evaluate our operating performance and trends, develop short-term and long-term operational plans, and make strategic decisions regarding the allocation of capital. Accordingly, we believe that these measures provide information to investors and the market in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. There are limitations on the use of Ex-TAC gross profit in that traffic acquisition cost is a significant component of our total cost of revenue but not the only component and, by definition, Ex-TAC gross profit presented for any period will be higher than gross profit for that period. A potential limitation of this non-GAAP financial measure is that other companies, including companies in our industry, which have a similar business, may define Ex-TAC gross profit differently, which may make comparisons difficult. As a result, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant as a substitute for revenue or gross profit presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before gain on convertible debt; interest expense; interest income and other income (expense), net; provision for income taxes; depreciation and amortization; stock-based compensation; and other income or expenses that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance, including but not limited to, acquisition-related costs, restructuring, and impairment charges. We present Adjusted EBITDA as a supplemental performance measure because it is a key profitability measure used by our management and board of directors to understand and evaluate our operating performance and trends, develop short-term and long-term operational plans and make strategic decisions regarding the allocation of capital, and we believe it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period.

    We believe that Adjusted EBITDA provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. However, our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information of other companies. Adjusted EBITDA should be considered as a supplemental measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any measures of our financial performance that are calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted Diluted EPS

    Adjusted net income (loss) is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income (loss) excluding items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance, including but not limited to gain on convertible debt, merger and acquisition costs, regulatory matter costs, and severance costs related to our cost saving initiatives. Adjusted net income (loss), as defined above, is also presented on a per diluted share basis. We present adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted diluted EPS as supplemental performance measures because we believe they facilitate performance comparisons from period to period. However, adjusted net income (loss) or adjusted diluted EPS should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income (loss) or diluted earnings per share reported in accordance with GAAP.

    Free Cash Flow

    Free cash flow is defined as cash flow provided by (used in) operating activities, less capital expenditures and capitalized software development costs. Free cash flow is a supplementary measure used by our management and board of directors to evaluate our ability to generate cash and we believe it allows for a more complete analysis of our available cash flows. Free cash flow should be considered as a supplemental measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any measures of our financial performance that are calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements generally relating to possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives, and statements relating to our recently completed acquisition (the “Acquisition”) of TEADS, a private limited liability company (société anonyme) incorporated and existing under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“Teads”). You can generally identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “foresee,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions or are not statements of historical fact. We have based these forward- looking statements largely on our expectations and projections regarding future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors including, but not limited to: the ability of Outbrain to successfully integrate Teads or manage the combined business effectively; our ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the Acquisition, including, among other things, operating efficiencies, revenue synergies and other cost savings; our due diligence investigation of Teads may be inadequate or risks related to Teads’ business may materialize; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the Acquisition; our ability to raise additional financing in the future to fund our operations, which may not be available to us on favorable terms or at all; our ability to attract and retain customers, management and other key personnel; the volatility of the market price of the Common Stock, $.001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”); overall advertising demand and traffic generated by our media partners; factors that affect advertising demand and spending, such as the continuation or worsening of unfavorable economic or business conditions or downturns, instability or volatility in financial markets, tariffs and trade wars and other events or factors outside of our control, such as U.S. and global recession concerns, geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing war between Ukraine-Russia and conditions in Israel and the Middle East, supply chain issues, inflationary pressures, labor market volatility, bank closures or disruptions, the impact of challenging economic conditions, political and policy changes or uncertainties in the U.S., and other factors that have and may further impact advertisers’ ability to pay; our ability to continue to innovate, and adoption by our advertisers and media partners of our expanding solutions; the potential impact of artificial intelligence (“AI”) on our industry and our need to invest in AI-based solutions; the success of our sales and marketing investments, which may require significant investments and may involve long sales cycles; our ability to grow our business and manage growth effectively; our ability to compete effectively against current and future competitors; the loss or decline of one or more of our large media partners, and our ability to expand our advertiser and media partner relationships; conditions in Israel, including the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas and any conflicts with other terrorist organizations or other countries; our ability to maintain our revenues or profitability despite quarterly fluctuations in our results, whether due to seasonality, large cyclical events, or other causes; the risk that our research and development efforts may not meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technology market; any failure of our recommendation engine to accurately predict attention or engagement, any deterioration in the quality of our recommendations or failure to present interesting content to users or other factors which may cause us to experience a decline in user engagement or loss of media partners; limits on our ability to collect, use and disclose data to deliver advertisements; our ability to extend our reach into evolving digital media platforms; our ability to maintain and scale our technology platform; our ability to meet demands on our infrastructure and resources due to future growth or otherwise; our failure or the failure of third parties to protect our sites, networks and systems against security breaches, or otherwise to protect the confidential information of us or our partners; outages or disruptions that impact us or our service providers, resulting from cyber incidents, or failures or loss of our infrastructure; significant fluctuations in currency exchange rates; political and regulatory risks in the various markets in which we operate; the challenges of compliance with differing and changing regulatory requirements, including with respect to privacy; the timing and execution of any cost-saving measures and the impact on our business or strategy; and the risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the year ended December 31, 2024. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as an indication of future performance. We cannot assure you that the results, events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur, and actual results, events, or circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation and do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About The Combined Company

    Outbrain Inc. (Nasdaq: OB) and Teads combined on February 3, 2025 and are operating under the new Teads brand. The new Teads is the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, driving full-funnel results for marketers across premium media. With a focus on meaningful business outcomes, the combined company ensures value is driven with every media dollar by leveraging predictive AI technology to connect quality media, beautiful brand creative, and context-driven addressability and measurement. One of the most scaled advertising platforms on the open internet, the new Teads is directly partnered with more than 10,000 publishers and 20,000 advertisers globally. The company is headquartered in New York, New York, with a global team of nearly 1,800 people in 36 countries.

    Media Contact
    press@outbrain.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    IR@outbrain.com
    (332) 205-8999

    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (In thousands, except for share and per share data)
     
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
        (Unaudited)
    Revenue   $ 286,357     $ 216,964  
    Cost of revenue:        
    Traffic acquisition costs     183,235       164,810  
    Other cost of revenue     20,472       10,559  
    Total cost of revenue     203,707       175,369  
    Gross profit     82,650       41,595  
    Operating expenses:        
    Research and development     13,979       9,193  
    Sales and marketing     53,737       23,617  
    General and administrative     36,477       15,215  
    Impairment charges     15,614       —  
    Restructuring charges     7,279       167  
    Total operating expenses     127,086       48,192  
    Loss from operations     (44,436 )     (6,597 )
    Other (expense) income:        
    Interest expense     (23,124 )     (937 )
    Other (expense) income and interest income, net     (484 )     1,405  
    Total other (expense) income, net     (23,608 )     468  
    Loss before income taxes     (68,044 )     (6,129 )
    Benefit from income taxes     (13,201 )     (1,088 )
    Net loss   $ (54,843 )   $ (5,041 )
             
    Weighted average shares outstanding:        
    Basic     77,954,579       49,265,012  
    Diluted     77,954,579       49,265,012  
             
    Net loss per common share:        
    Basic   $ (0.70 )   $ (0.10 )
    Diluted   $ (0.70 )   $ (0.10 )
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (In thousands, except for number of shares and par value)
     
      March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024
      (Unaudited)    
    ASSETS:      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 136,312     $ 89,094  
    Short-term investments in marketable securities   19,567       77,035  
    Accounts receivable, net of allowances   328,386       149,167  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   49,817       27,835  
    Total current assets   534,082       343,131  
    Non-current assets:      
    Property, equipment and capitalized software, net   47,879       45,250  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net   26,874       15,047  
    Intangible assets, net   391,022       16,928  
    Goodwill   587,494       63,063  
    Deferred tax assets   49,957       40,825  
    Indemnification asset   26,556       —  
    Other assets   24,176       24,969  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,688,040     $ 549,213  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 274,060     $ 206,920  
    Accrued compensation and benefits   50,760       19,430  
    Deferred revenue   13,066       6,932  
    Short-term debt   16,202       —  
    Accrued and other current liabilities   118,457       56,189  
    Total current liabilities   472,545       289,471  
    Non-current liabilities:      
    Long-term debt   610,816       —  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   20,356       11,783  
    Deferred tax liabilities   62,099       1,554  
    Contingent tax liabilities   36,632       9,343  
    Other liabilities   10,927       5,719  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 1,213,375     $ 317,870  
           
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Common stock, par value of $0.001 per share − one billion shares authorized; 94,349,511 shares issued and 94,293,190 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2025; 63,503,274 shares issued and 50,090,114 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024   94       64  
    Preferred stock, par value of $0.001 per share − 100,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024   —       —  
    Additional paid-in capital   674,442       484,541  
    Treasury stock, at cost − 56,321 shares as of March 31, 2025 and 13,413,160 shares as of December 31, 2024   (242 )     (74,289 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   24,707       (9,480 )
    Accumulated deficit   (224,336 )     (169,493 )
    TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   474,665       231,343  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 1,688,040     $ 549,213  
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
        (Unaudited)
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:        
    Net loss   $ (54,843 )   $ (5,041 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment     1,935       1,639  
    Amortization of capitalized software development costs     2,472       2,409  
    Amortization of intangible assets     8,466       852  
    Amortization of discount on marketable securities     (425 )     (642 )
    Stock-based compensation     2,941       2,927  
    Non-cash operating lease expense     2,307       1,195  
    Provision for credit losses     298       1,693  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs     12,843       —  
    Deferred income taxes     (17,786 )     (174 )
    Impairment of assets     15,614       —  
    Unrealized foreign currency transaction (gains) losses     1,688       312  
    Other     30       26  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable     37,605       30,398  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     5,901       7,262  
    Accounts payable and other current liabilities     (22,374 )     (31,875 )
    Operating lease liabilities     (2,614 )     (1,205 )
    Deferred revenue     (830 )     (1,471 )
    Other non-current assets and liabilities     5,806       300  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (966 )     8,605  
             
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:        
    Acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired     (598,319 )     (181 )
    Purchases of property and equipment     (2,921 )     (1,335 )
    Capitalized software development costs     (2,699 )     (2,627 )
    Purchases of marketable securities     (16,602 )     (31,578 )
    Proceeds from sales and maturities of marketable securities     74,221       31,492  
    Net cash used in investing activities     (546,320 )     (4,229 )
             
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
    Proceeds from the Bridge Facility     625,000       —  
    Repayments of borrowings under the Bridge Facility     (625,000 )     —  
    Proceeds from senior secured notes     625,305       —  
    Payment of deferred financing costs     (28,155 )     —  
    Payment of stock issuance costs     (775 )     —  
    Treasury stock repurchases and share withholdings on vested awards     (355 )     (4,015 )
    Principal payments on finance lease obligations     —       (255 )
    Proceeds from bank overdrafts, net     74       —  
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     596,094       (4,270 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes     (57 )     363  
    Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   $ 48,751     $ 469  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — Beginning     89,725       71,079  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — Ending   $ 138,476     $ 71,548  
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Non-GAAP Reconciliations
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
    The following table presents the reconciliation of Gross profit to Ex-TAC gross profit and Ex-TAC gross margin, for the periods presented:
     
    ​ Three Months Ended March 31,
    ​   2025       2024  
    Revenue $ 286,357     $ 216,964  
    Traffic acquisition costs   (183,235 )     (164,810 )
    Other cost of revenue   (20,472 )     (10,559 )
    Gross profit   82,650       41,595  
    Other cost of revenue   20,472       10,559  
    Ex-TAC gross profit $ 103,122     $ 52,154  
           
    Gross margin (gross profit as % of revenue)   28.9 %     19.2 %
    Ex-TAC gross margin (Ex-TAC gross profit as % of revenue)   36.0 %     24.0 %
     
    The following table presents the reconciliation of net loss to Adjusted EBITDA, for the periods presented:
     
    ​ Three Months Ended March 31,
    ​   2025       2024  
    Net loss $ (54,843 )   $ (5,041 )
    Interest expense   23,124       937  
    Other expense (income) and interest income, net   484       (1,405 )
    Benefit from income taxes   (13,201 )     (1,088 )
    Depreciation and amortization   12,873       4,900  
    Stock-based compensation   2,941       2,927  
    Acquisition-related costs   16,418       —  
    Restructuring charges   7,279       167  
    Impairment charges   15,614       —  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 10,689     $ 1,397  
           
    Net loss as % of gross profit (66.4 )%   (12.1 )%
    Adjusted EBITDA as % of Ex-TAC Gross Profit   10.4  %     2.7  %
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Non-GAAP Reconciliations
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
    The following table presents the reconciliation of net loss and diluted EPS to adjusted net loss and adjusted diluted EPS, respectively, for the periods presented:
     
    ​ Three Months Ended March 31,
    ​   2024       2023  
    Net loss $ (54,843 )   $ (5,041 )
    Adjustments:      
    Acquisition-related costs   16,418       —  
    Restructuring charges   7,279       167  
    Impairment charges   15,614       —  
    Bridge facility costs   11,996       —  
    Total adjustments, before tax   51,307       167  
    Income tax effect   (11,759 )     (41 )
    Total adjustments, after tax   39,548       126  
    Adjusted net loss $ (15,295 )   $ (4,915 )
           
    Basic and diluted weighted-average shares   77,954,579       49,265,012  
           
    Diluted net loss per share – reported $ (0.70 )   $ (0.10 )
    Adjustments, after tax   0.50       —  
    Diluted loss per share – adjusted $ (0.20 )   $ (0.10 )
    The following table presents the reconciliation of net cash provided by (used in) operating activities to free cash flow, for the periods presented:
     
      Three Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities $ (966 )   $ 8,605  
    Purchases of property and equipment   (2,921 )     (1,335 )
    Capitalized software development costs   (2,699 )     (2,627 )
    Free cash flow $ (6,586 )   $ 4,643  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding boost for Clean Industry Bonus as bids smash expectations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Funding boost for Clean Industry Bonus as bids smash expectations

    Industrial communities set to benefit from new jobs and growth in their towns and cities, as funding is more than doubled for the Clean Industry Bonus.  

    • Industry backs government’s clean energy superpower mission with double the number of bids expected for the Clean Industry Bonus
    • Energy Secretary increases budget to £544 million, backing clean energy growth in UK’s industrial heartlands and coastal communities
    • Follows the Prime Minister’s £300 million announcement to support offshore wind supply chains, building Britain’s clean energy future through Plan for Change

    Hundreds of bids have come through from the UK’s offshore wind sector, in a strong signal that industry supports the government’s clean power by 2030 mission. Following higher than expected demand, the Energy Secretary has increased the bonus from an initial £200 million to £544 million.

    The Clean Industry Bonus will provide financial rewards for offshore wind developers, on the condition they prioritise investment in regions that need it most or in cleaner supply chains, including traditional oil and gas communities, ex-industrial areas and ports and coastal towns.

    It will support cleaner manufacturers, new upgraded factories, port infrastructure and more business for UK supply chains, whilst supporting highly skilled jobs such as engineers, electricians and welders on the clean energy transition.  

    It is expected that for every £1 spent on the bonus, it could leverage up to £17 of private sector investment, mainly into some of the UK’s most deprived communities – providing a huge return for communities from clean energy projects.  

    This comes after the Prime Minister’s announcement last month to bring forward a £300 million investment through Great British Energy to win global offshore wind investment for the UK, building Britain’s clean energy future through the Plan for Change.  

    Government support is expected to leverage up to £9.3 billion in private sector investment over the next four years, creating economic growth by backing the clean energy supply chain that make offshore wind blades and cables and develop low carbon factories.  

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    Industry have backed our clean energy superpower mission, and we are helping them to deliver it.  

    This is the type of muscular industrial policy Britain needs to create jobs, drive growth and transform the fortunes of industrial towns and cities, delivering our Plan for Change.

    Claire Mack, Chief Executive at Scottish Renewables, said:

    This announcement makes clear that clean energy offers a strong return on investment for the country. It also demonstrates that Scotland’s offshore wind sector has the potential to deliver transformational benefits for our supply chains, skilled workforces and coastal communities.

    Now is the time to go further and faster to capture this unrivalled opportunity for green industrial growth. Scottish Renewables will work closely with the UK government to ensure funding from the Clean Industry Bonus can be maximised through the successful deployment of Scotland’s offshore wind pipeline in the years ahead.

    RenewableUK’s Executive Director of Policy Ana Musat said:

    This additional funding has the potential to help secure billions in private investment in new factories manufacturing components for the offshore wind industry across the UK. Importantly for the country, these investments will create new jobs in coastal communities which need fresh opportunities.

    The expansion of the offshore wind supply chain will, in turn, enable us to deliver the massive pipeline of offshore wind projects planned for installation in UK waters at the lowest cost for billpayers in the years ahead. 

    The Clean Industry Bonus is a good starting point as part of a wider industrial strategy which the government is due to unveil in full this summer, and which we hope will be complimented by new policies to support the expansion of UK ports. With larger ports, we could secure even more investment in offshore wind manufacturing and turbine assembly”.  

    Adam Berman, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Energy UK, said:

    The UK’s continued growth in offshore wind is delivering jobs and business opportunities up and down the country.

    Every new, large offshore wind farm adds £2-3 billion to the UK’s economy and – if deployment is accelerated – the sector could boost it by a further £25 billion between now and 2035.

    Ensuring that the people and businesses located near to projects benefit is as important as ensuring wider economic growth. The transformation of regions like the Humber demonstrates the positive impact these projects can have.

    We welcome the government’s focus and support in making sure that communities reap the rewards of this burgeoning sector. Industry is fully aligned with government on the need to capture the full benefits of clean power for both local communities and British businesses building the supply chain that underpins these projects.

    Funding comes ahead of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in the UK’s key sectors including clean energy.  

    The application window for the Clean Industry Bonus is now closed, with the winners expected to be announced after the final budget in May.  

    Notes to editors 

    The budget is expressed in 2025 prices. All CIB payments will be indexed using the Consumer Price Index. Funding is allocated competitively through an auction: proposals that unlock the biggest investments, for the cheapest amount of revenue support, score the highest.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Gravity Reports First Quarter of 2025 Results and Business Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Seoul, South Korea, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GRAVITY Co., Ltd. (NasdaqGM: GRVY) (“Gravity” or “Company”), a developer and publisher of online and mobile games based in South Korea, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and business updates.

    FIRST QUARTER 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

    • Total revenues were KRW 137,464 million (US$ 93,231 thousand), representing a 6% increase from the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024 (“QoQ”) and a 14.8% increase from the first quarter ended March 31, 2024 (“YoY”).
    • Operating profit was KRW 24,730 million (US$ 16,772 thousand), representing a 55% increase QoQ and an 8% decrease YoY.
    • Profit before income tax expenses was KRW 28,450 million (US$ 19,295 thousand), representing a 12.1% increase QoQ and a 12.5% decrease YoY.
    • Net profit attributable to parent company was KRW 22,038 million (US$ 14,947 thousand), representing a 4.6% decrease QoQ and an 18% decrease YoY.

    REVIEW OF FIRST QUARTER 2025 FINANCIAL RESULTS

    Revenues

    Online game revenues for the first quarter of 2025 were KRW 18,806 million (US$ 12,755 thousand), representing a 5.1% decrease QoQ from KRW 19,822 million and a 4.1% increase YoY from KRW 18,065 million. The decrease QoQ was mainly attributable to decreased revenues from Ragnarok Online in Thailand. Such decrease was partially offset by increased revenue from Ragnarok Online in Japan. The increase YoY was largely due to increased revenues from Ragnarok Online in Thailand and China.

    Mobile game revenues were KRW 115,486 million (US$ 78,325 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025, representing a 9.4% increase QoQ from KRW 105,586 million and a 17.2% increase YoY from KRW 98,548 million. The increase QoQ attributed to initial revenues from Ragnarok M: Classic which was launched in Southeast Asia on February 14, 2025 and Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus launched in Global except Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, China, Korea and Japan on February 20, 2025. Such increase was partially offset by decreased revenues from Ragnarok Origin in Southeast Asia and THE RAGNAROK in Southeast Asia. The increase YoY was due to initial revenue from Ragnarok M: Classic in Southeast Asia, THE RAGNAROK in Southeast Asia launched on October 31, 2024 and Ragnarok: Rebirth in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau launched on October 31, 2024. This increase was partially offset by decreased revenues from Ragnarok Origin in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau and North, Central and South America.

    Other revenues were KRW 3,172 million (US$ 2,151 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025, representing a 26.5% decrease QoQ from KRW 4,315 million and a 0.2% increase YoY from KRW 3,166 million.

    Cost of Revenue

    Cost of revenue was KRW 87,458 million (US$ 59,316 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025, representing a 8% increase QoQ from KRW 81,008 million and a 18.8% increase YoY from KRW 73,628 million. The increase QoQ was mainly due to increased commission paid for mobile game services related to Ragnarok M: Classic in Southeast Asia. The increase YoY was primarily due to increased commission paid for mobile game services related to Ragnarok M: Classic in Southeast Asia, THE RAGNAROK in Southeast Asia and Ragnarok: Rebirth in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau.

    Operating Expenses

    Operating expenses were KRW 25,276 million (US$ 17,143 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025, representing a 22.9% decrease QoQ from KRW 32,765 million and a 31.1% increase YoY from KRW 19,282 million. The decrease QoQ was mainly due to decreased advertising expenses for THE RAGNAROK in Southeast Asia and salaries. The increase YoY was mainly due to increased advertising expenses for Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus in Global, Ragnarok V: Returns in Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines and Ragnarok Begins in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau.

    Profit Before Income Tax Expenses

    Profit before income tax expenses was KRW 28,450 million (US$ 19,295 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025 compared with profit before income tax expense of KRW 25,377 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 and profit before income tax expenses of KRW 32,498 million for the first quarter of 2024.

    Net Profit

    As a result of the foregoing factors, Gravity recorded a net profit attributable to parent company of KRW 22,038 million (US$ 14,947 thousand) for the first quarter of 2025 compared with net profit attributable to parent company of KRW 23,099 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 and a net profit attributable to parent company of KRW 26,866 million for the first quarter of 2024.

    Liquidity

    The balance of cash and cash equivalents and short-term financial instruments was KRW 577,163 million (US$ 391,446 thousand) as of March 31, 2025.

    Note: For convenience purposes only, the KRW amounts have been expressed in U.S. dollars at the exchange rate of KRW 1,474.44 to US$ 1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on March 31, 2025 as quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

    GRAVITY BUSINESS UPDATES

    Ragnarok Online IP-based Games

    • Ragnarok M: Classic, an MMORPG Mobile game

    Ragnarok M: Classic was officially launched in Southeast Asia on February 14, 2025 and Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau on April 16, 2025.

    • Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus, a Vertical Idle MMORPG Mobile game

    Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus was launched in Global except for Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, China, Korea and Japan on February 20, 2025 and is underway for its launch in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in the second quarter of 2025 and Korea in the second half of 2025.

    • Ragnarok X: Next Generation, an MMORPG Mobile and PC game

    Ragnarok X: Next Generation was officially launched in North, Central and South America, Oceania, England, Portugal, Spain and Ireland on May 8, 2025 and will be launching in Europe (except England, Portugal, Spain and Ireland) in the second quarter of 2025.

    • THE RAGNAROK, an MMORPG game

    THE RAGNAROK (Chinese title: 巴風特之怒) will be launched on WeChat (H5) Mini Programs in China in the second quarter of 2025.

    • Ragnarok: Dawn (tentative English title), an Idle MMORPG game

    Ragnarok: Dawn (tentative English title) was officially launched on WeChat Mini Programs in China on February 20, 2025, and mobile app version will be launched in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in the second half of 2025.

    • Ragnarok V: Returns, a 3D MMORPG Mobile and PC game

    Ragnarok V: Returns was officially launched in Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines on March 27, 2025.

    • Ragnarok: Back to Glory, a 3D MMORPG Mobile game

    Ragnarok: Back to Glory was officially launched in Korea and re-launched in Southeast Asia on April 17, 2025 and will be launched in China in the third quarter of 2025.

    • Ragnarok Crush, a Puzzle and Tower Defense Mobile game

    Ragnarok Crush will be launched in Global in July 2025.

    • Ragnarok Online America Latina, an MMORPG PC game

    Ragnarok Online America Latina is scheduled to be direct-serviced in Latin America on May 28, 2025.

    • Ragnarok Zero, an RPG PC game

    Ragnarok Zero is being prepared to be launched in Taiwan in July 2025.

    • Ragnarok Libre, a Time Effective MMORPG Telegram game

    Ragnarok Libre is underway for its launch in Global in the second quarter of 2025.

    Ragnarok Online IP-based Blockchain Game

    • Ragnarok Landverse, an MMORPG Blockchain and PC game

    Ragnarok Landverse will be launched in Latin America in the second half of 2025.
    Ragnarok Landverse Genesis, a global new server integrated with RONIN platform, ranked first in trading volume after its official release in Global on March 29, 2025.

    Other IP-based games

    • JLPGA Heroine Collection, a Sports Mobile game

    JLPGA was officially launched in Japan on March 25, 2025.

    • Shambles: Sons of Apocalypse, a Deck-building Roguelike Mobile game

    Shambles: Sons of Apocalypse, was officially launched in Global except for China, Vietnam and Taiwan on March 27, 2025

    • Twilight Monk, a 2.5D Action RPG Console game

    Twilight Monk, was officially launched in Global on March 27, 2025

    • Snow Brothers 2 Special, an Action and Platformer Console game

    Snow Brothers 2 Special, was officially launched in Global on April 10, 2025

    • Meow Star Acers 2, a Farm Simulation Mobile game

    Meow Star Acers 2, is scheduled to be launched in Global in the second half of 2025.

    • Dragonica Origin, an MO Action RPG PC game

    Dragonica Origin will be launched in Southeast Asia in June 2025.

    • Gunbound, an MMO Turned-based Artillery PC game

    Gunbound is underway for its launch in Southeast Asia and Latin America in the second quarter of 2025.

    Expansion of Ragnarok IP-business

    Ragnarok Golf Monsters is an indoor-screen golf brand based on the Ragnarok monster characters. Gravity Communications Co., Ltd. opened the first facility of Ragnarok Golf Monsters in Taipei, Taiwan on February 27, 2025.

    Our New Subsidiary

    Gravity established Gravity Game Unite Sdn. Bhd. (“Gravity Game Unite”), a subsidiary in Malaysia, on March 12, 2025. Gravity will expand various game services including Ragnarok Online IP based games throughout Gravity Game Unite in Malaysian regions.

    Investor Presentation

    Gravity issued an investor presentation. The presentation contains the Company’s recent business updates, results of the first quarter in 2025 and Gravity’s business plan. The presentation can be found on the Company’s website under the IR Archives section at https://www.gravity.co.kr/en/ir/updates. Korean and Japanese versions of the presentation are also provided on the website.

    About GRAVITY Co., Ltd. —————————————————
    Gravity is a developer and publisher of online and mobile games. Gravity’s principal product, Ragnarok Online, is a popular online game in many markets, including Japan and Taiwan, and is currently commercially offered in 91 regions. For more information about Gravity, please visit http://www.gravity.co.kr.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    Certain statements in this press release may include, in addition to historical information, “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe-harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe”, “project,” or “continue” or the negative thereof or other similar words, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Investors should consider the information contained in our submissions and filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our annual report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 on Form 20-F, together with such other documents that we may submit to or file with the SEC from time to time, on Form 6-K. The forward-looking statements speak only as of this press release and we assume no duty to update them to reflect new, changing or unanticipated events or circumstances.

    Contact:

    Mr. Heung Gon Kim
    Chief Financial Officer
    Gravity Co., Ltd.
    Email: kheung@gravity.co.kr

    Ms. Jin Lee
    Ms. Yujin Oh
    IR Unit
    Gravity Co., Ltd.
    Email: ir@gravity.co.kr
    Telephone: +82-2-2132-7800

    GRAVITY Co., Ltd.
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

    (In millions of KRW and thousands of US$)

        As of
        31-Dec-24     31-Mar-25
        KRW     US$     KRW     US$
        (audited)     (unaudited)     (unaudited)     (unaudited)
    Assets                              
    Current assets:                              
    Cash and cash equivalents          228,898          155,244          201,367          136,572
    Short-term financial instruments          324,304         219,951           375,796           254,874
    Accounts receivable, net            81,152           55,039            74,469            50,507
    Other receivables, net              1,572             1,066              2,162              1,466
    Prepaid expenses               8,115             5,504              6,669              4,523
    Other current financial assets              6,602             4,478              6,033               4,092
    Other current assets              2,967              2,012               3,091               2,096
    Total current assets          653,610         443,294          669,587           454,130
    Property and equipment, net              9,957              6,753            10,576              7,173
    Intangible assets, net              7,057              4,786               6,414               4,350
    Deferred tax assets              5,617              3,810               6,294               4,269
    Other non-current financial assets                  1,767                1,198                   670                   454
    Other non-current assets              8,451             5,732             9,366              6,352
    Total assets          686,459         465,573          702,907          476,728
    Liabilities and Equity                              
    Current liabilities:                              
    Accounts payable            67,930           46,072            63,048            42,761
    Deferred revenue            26,761            18,150            24,015            16,288
    Withholdings              1,588              1,077              1,635               1,109
    Accrued expense              2,651             1,798              2,168              1,470
    Income tax payable              6,507             4,413              8,782              5,956
    Other current liabilities              3,212             2,178              3,390              2,299
    Total current liabilities              108,649              73,688            103,038              69,883
    Long-term account payables                 220                149                 220                 149
    Long-term deferred revenue              2,572             1,744              1,322                  897
    Other non-current liabilities              5,361              3,636              5,904               4,003
    Deferred tax liabilities              1,294               878              1,294                  878
    Total liabilities           118,096           80,095          111,778             75,810
    Share capital              3,474             2,356              3,474               2,356
    Capital surplus                26,979              18,298              26,979              18,298
    Other components of equity            23,801           16,143            24,507             16,621
    Retained earnings          513,418          348,212           535,456           363,159
    Equity attributable to owners of the Parent Company          567,672          385,009          590,416           400,434
    Non-controlling interest                 691                 469                  713                  484
    Total equity          568,363          385,478          591,129           400,918
    Total liabilities and equity          686,459         465,573          702,907           476,728

    * For convenience purposes only, the KRW amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars at the rate of KRW 1,474.44 to US$ 1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on March 31, 2025 as quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

    GRAVITY Co., Ltd.
    Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

    (In millions of KRW and thousands of US$ except for share and ADS data)

        Three months ended
        31-Dec-24     31-Mar-24     31-Mar-25
        (KRW)   (US$)     (KRW)   (US$)     (KRW)   (US$)
        (unaudited)   (unaudited)     (unaudited)   (unaudited)     (unaudited)   (unaudited)
    Revenues:                            
    Online games   19,822   13,444                    18,065   12,252                    18,806   12,755
    Mobile games   105,586   71,611                    98,548   66,838                   115,486   78,325
    Other revenue   4,315   2,927                      3,166   2,147                      3,172   2,151
    Total net revenue   129,723   87,982                   119,779   81,237                  137,464   93,231
    Cost of revenue   81,008   54,942                    73,628   49,936                    87,458   59,316
    Gross profit   48,715   33,040                    46,151   31,301                    50,006   33,915
    Operating expenses:                            
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   28,311   19,201                    15,747   10,680                    21,859   14,825
    Research and development   3,669   2,488                      3,601   2,442                      3,431   2,327
    Others, net                            785                       534                               (66)                      (45)                               (14)                         (9)
    Total operating expenses   32,765   22,223                    19,282   13,077                    25,276   17,143
    Operating profit   15,950   10,817                    26,869   18,224                    24,730   16,772
    Finance income(costs):                            
    Finance income                     9,801               6,647                      6,297   4,271                    10,717   7,269
    Finance costs                          (374)                     (254)                            (668)                    (453)                         (6,997)                 (4,746)
    Profit before income tax   25,377   17,210                    32,498   22,042                    28,450   19,295
    Income tax expense   2,274   1,542                      5,615   3,808                      6,372   4,322
    Profit for the year   23,103   15,668                    26,883   18,234                    22,078   14,973
    Profit attributable to:                            
    Non-controlling interest                                 4                           3                                 17                        12                                 40                         26
    Owners of Parent company   23,099   15,665                    26,866   18,222                    22,038   14,947
    Earning per share                            
    – Basic and diluted                      3,324                 2.25                      3,866   2.62                      3,171   2.15
    Weighted average number of shares outstanding                            
    – Basic and diluted               6,948,900        6,948,900               6,948,900   6,948,900               6,948,900   6,948,900
    Earning per ADS                            
    – Basic and diluted                      3,324                2.25                     3,866   2.62                    3,171   2.15

    * For convenience, the KRW amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars at the rate of KRW 1,474.44 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on March 31, 2025 as quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
    (1) Each ADS represents one common share.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Huawei’s ADN Level 4 Solution Won Autonomous Network Operations Award at FutureNet World 2025

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Huawei’s ADN Level 4 Solution Won Autonomous Network Operations Award at FutureNet World 2025

    [London, United Kingdom, May 9, 2025] At FutureNet World 2025 in London, Huawei was honored as the first vendor to receive the Autonomous Network Operations award, reflecting the growing momentum of Autonomous Networks (AN) in the communications industry. FutureNet World is an industry platform dedicated to network automation and AI. The 2025 event brought together over 700 industry leaders from global leading CSPs, standards organizations, and suppliers to explore the future of network transformation. Huawei won the award for its Autonomous Driving Network (ADN) Level 4 solution.
    Huawei’s ADN Level 4 solution won the Autonomous Network Operations award

    Huawei’s ADN Level 4 solution empowers CSPs to achieve Autonomous Networks Level 4 by optimizing their operations and maintenance (O&M) capabilities centered around agents. Targeting high-value scenarios in network maintenance, experience optimization, and service operations, the solution features the Mate-series copilots for four roles and the Spirit-series agents for seven scenarios. Deployed worldwide, it has already delivered positive results across IP, core, optical, and wireless networks.
    Sam Wang, General Manager of Huawei ADN Solution, said in his keynote speech that Huawei will double down on high-value scenarios, drive device-native innovation, and extend the leadership of ADN Level 4 solution. This will support global CSPs in advancing their AN level and achieving commercial success in the 5G-A era, thereby laying a solid foundation for the advent of 6G.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK VE Day Procession to Westminster Abbey

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The Speakers of both Houses met in Central Lobby and processed with the maces, echoing the House of Commons and House of Lords #VEDay procession of 1945.

    They made their way to Westminster Abbey for a service to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation.

    The joint procession reflected the unity of UK Parliament and the nation in marking 80 years since victory was declared in Europe.

    #VEDay80 #VEDay

    Find out what Parliament is doing to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two: https://www.parliament.uk/visiting/remembering-parliaments-world-war-two-contributions/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtGAu1ZYA0w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: Lords marks the 80th Anniversary of victory in Europe and victory over Japan

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

    On Friday in the House of Lords, members hold a debate to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe and victory over Japan.

    Find out more and see who’s taking part https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/april/house-of-lords-80th-anniversary-ve-day-vj-day/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

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

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

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #VEDay

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hbOnGfWvEA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Your City Needs You: Birmingham Launches Drive to Inspire New Local Leaders

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Friday, 9th May 2025

    Birmingham City Council, in partnership with the Local Government Association (LGA), is launching a citywide campaign to encourage residents from all backgrounds to consider standing as a councillor.

    The Be a Councillor Birmingham campaign aims to raise awareness of what councillors do, demystify the role, and support a new wave of local leaders who reflect Birmingham’s rich diversity. With all 101 seats across 69 wards up for election, this creates an opportunity to strengthen democratic representation and support the Council’s improvement journey. 

    As part of the campaign, a tailored programme of events and resources — including community workshops, a dedicated webpage, mentoring support and outreach to under-represented groups — will help residents explore whether local leadership could be their next step. Alongside this, residents are invited to attend one of four free taster sessions at the Council House to inspire and support them in creating change in their communities and to understand more about the role of a councillor. Interest for taster sessions can be registered here.  

    Councillor John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Birmingham is a diverse city — vibrant, youthful and rich in talent. We want our council chambers to reflect the people who live here and understand their lived experiences. Through this campaign, we’re inviting residents to see themselves as local leaders — whether they’ve been active in their communities for years or are just beginning to think about public service. We want to open the door wider, remove the myths, and support people from all backgrounds to step forward and help shape the future of our city.” 

    The Be A Councillor campaign also offers insight into key areas like council finance, community advocacy, legal responsibilities, and how to campaign — making it easier than ever for residents to get informed, get involved, and take action. 

    The Council will work with political parties, independents, and community organisations to ensure the campaign reaches every corner of the city. 

    For more information about the campaign visit: https://www.local.gov.uk/be-councillor. 

    NOTES TO EDITORS: 

    • The campaign officially begins in Spring 2025 and will run up to the 2026 local elections. 
    • Birmingham is home to 187 nationalities and over 50% of the population are from ethnically diverse backgrounds. 
    • The current cabinet is 60% female, reflecting a commitment to diverse leadership. 
    • Further information, event listings, and resources will be available via the campaign webpage at https://www.local.gov.uk/be-councillor. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Car Clubs Help Drive Sustainable Transport

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    As part of its drive to promote sustainable transport choices for people in Dundee, the city council is working with car club operators to highlight the environmental and economic benefits of car sharing. 

    Councillors Heather Anderson and Siobhan Tolland met up with representatives of Co Wheels and Enterprise to discuss how car clubs are growing locally – with cars located across the city and special offers for local people  

    The council has worked with both companies to help them find new street locations for cars. 

    Climate, Environment and Biodiversity convener Councillor Anderson said: “Car clubs offer an alternative to car ownership which help in our efforts to cut pollution and improve air quality, which include the introduction of the city centre Low Emission Zone. 

    “We want to work as closely as we can with car drivers to help enhance our environment for everyone.” 

    Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure convener Councillor Tolland added: “We are keen to have a range of options available for sustainable transport and these clubs offer real choice for people. 

    “Reducing congestion and the resulting pollution is a key aim, and car clubs help to assist with this.” 

    Richard Falconer, Head of Mobility at Co Wheels: “As the longest-established car club operator in Dundee, Co Wheels is proud to have served the city for over 14 years, providing convenient, flexible and sustainable transport options. We were the first to introduce electric vehicles for hire in Dundee, and we continue to lead the way with a growing fleet that now includes nine vehicles across the city centre, including four EVs and brand-new hybrid MG ZS models. 

    “With hundreds of members across Dundee, Co Wheels offers a practical alternative to car ownership, helping reduce congestion and emissions while supporting a cleaner, greener future for the city. We’re also proud to be the highest-rated national car club in the UK — a reflection of our commitment to quality, exceptional customer service and community impact.” 

    You can find details on the Co Wheels website here  

    Jason Parks, Enterprise Car Club Director, UK & Ireland, said: “We are proud to have been part of the Dundee community for more than a decade, providing residents, businesses and visitors with more choice in how they travel and supporting the city’s ambition to reduce congestion and promote shared and active travel.  

    “Our expansive, nationwide car club network connects customers to where they need to go, whether that’s in and around the city, or at train stations, transport hubs and on-street locations across the UK.  

    “Through Enterprise Car Club, members have 24/7 access to vehicles, including cars and vans, that they can rent by the hour or by the day through the convenience of a mobile app. We are committed to providing the residents and businesses of Dundee with accessible mobility solutions that get them to where they need to be in the most efficient and effective way.”  

    You can find details on the Enterprise website here 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Government meets with trade unions on workplace health and safety

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    8 Maggio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, chaired a meeting between the Government and trade union organisations at Palazzo Chigi today, held to outline proposals and initiatives regarding workplace health and safety.

    MIL OSI Europe News –