Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. (“Mytheresa”) and Richemont announce the successful completion of Mytheresa’s acquisition of YOOX NET-A-PORTER (“YNAP”)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. (“Mytheresa”) and Richemont announce the successful completion of Mytheresa’s acquisition of YOOX NET-A-PORTER (“YNAP”)

    24 April 2025 – Mytheresa (NYSE:MYTE) successfully closed its acquisition of YNAP from Richemont (SWX:CFR), through its subsidiary Richemont Italia Holding S.P.A., following the fulfillment of all conditions including receipt of all unconditional approvals from the relevant regulatory authorities.

    Mytheresa is now YNAP’s sole shareholder which it will fully consolidate under the MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. umbrella. The company will be renamed “LuxExperience B.V.” and will continue to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) with the trade name “LuxExperience” and a new ticker symbol of “LUXE”, effective 1 May 2025.

    In exchange for all shares of YNAP and a net cash position of €555m and no financial debt, Richemont has received 49,741,342 shares in Mytheresa, representing 33% of Mytheresa’s fully diluted share capital post issuance of the consideration shares.

    Nora Aufreiter, Chair of the Supervisory Board of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V., said: “The successful acquisition marks a milestone in the great success story of Mytheresa. Our company will become a group that includes some of the best retail banners in digital luxury. We will use our proven strength to execute on our strategic plans and create even more value for our shareholders, brand partners, customers and employees. We are confident that in the course of the integration and restructuring we will become one of the strongest and most resilient global players in the digital luxury sector.”

    The store brands Mytheresa, NET-A-PORTER, MR PORTER, YOOX and THE OUTNET will be strengthened in their differentiated and complementary profiles. Significant synergies will be achieved primarily through a shared infrastructure and technology platform as well as operational efficiency improvements. The off-price division – consisting of YOOX and THE OUTNET – will be separated from the luxury division to enable a much simpler and more efficient operating model under the new roof. YNAP’s white label service business will be discontinued as soon as the Richemont Maisons’ online stores powered by YNAP have been migrated to their own chosen platforms.

    Forward-looking statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact or relating to present facts or current conditions included in this press release are forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statements give Mytheresa’s current expectations and projections relating to the completed transaction and the operation of the combined companies; its financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business, including statements relating to financing activities, future sales, expenses, and profitability; future development and expected growth of our business and industry; our ability to execute our business model and our business strategy; having available sufficient cash and borrowing capacity to meet working capital, debt service and capital expenditure requirements for the next twelve months; and projected capital spending. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “ongoing,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on assumptions that Mytheresa has made in light of its industry experience and perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. As you read and consider this press release, you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties (many of which are beyond Mytheresa’s control) and assumptions. Although Mytheresa believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect its actual operating and financial performance and cause its performance to differ materially from the performance anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Mytheresa believes these factors include, but are not limited to: the risk that the completed transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of YNAP to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their brand partners and customers and on their operating results and businesses generally; the risk that problems may arise in successfully integrating the businesses of YNAP and Mytheresa, which may result in the combined company not operating as effectively and efficiently as expected; the risk that the combined company may be unable to achieve cost-cutting synergies or that it may take longer than expected to achieve those synergies; Mytheresa’s ability to effectively compete in a highly competitive industry; Mytheresa’s ability to respond to consumer demands, spending and tastes; general economic conditions, including economic conditions resulting from deteriorating geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions, such as the recent global trade war that escalated after the U.S. imposed tariffs on countries across the globe, and the adoption of retaliatory tariffs by those countries, that may adversely impact consumer demand; Mytheresa’s ability to acquire new customers and retain existing customers; consumers of luxury products may not choose to shop online in sufficient numbers; the volatility and difficulty in predicting the luxury fashion industry; Mytheresa’s reliance on consumer discretionary spending; and Mytheresa’s ability to maintain average order levels and other factors. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of these assumptions prove incorrect, Mytheresa’s actual operating and financial performance may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements.

    Mytheresa undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

    The achievement or success of the matters covered by such forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If any such risks or uncertainties materialize or if any of the assumptions prove incorrect, Mytheresa’s results could differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements it makes.

    You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statements represent Mytheresa’s management’s beliefs and assumptions only as of the date such statements are made.

    Further information on these and other factors that could affect Mytheresa’s financial results is included in filings it makes with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) from time to time, including the section titled “Risk Factors” in its annual report on Form 20-F and on Form 6-K (reporting its quarterly results). These documents are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations section of our website at: https://investors.mytheresa.com.

    About Mytheresa

    Mytheresa is one of the leading luxury multi-brand digital platforms shipping to over 130 countries. Founded as a boutique in 1987, Mytheresa launched online in 2006 and offers ready-to-wear, shoes, bags and accessories for womenswear, menswear, kidswear as well as lifestyle products and fine jewelry. The highly curated edit of up to 250 brands focuses on true luxury brands such as Bottega Veneta, Brunello Cucinelli, Dolce&Gabbana, Gucci, Loewe, Loro Piana, Moncler, Prada, Saint Laurent, The Row, Valentino, and many more. Mytheresa’s unique digital experience is based on a sharp focus on high-end luxury shoppers, exclusive product and content offerings, leading technology and analytical platforms as well as high quality service operations. The NYSE listed company reported € 913.6 million GMV in fiscal year 2024 (+7% vs. FY23).
    For more information, please visit https://investors.mytheresa.com/.

    “LuxExperience” will be the trade name for LuxExperience B.V., a Dutch company with limited liability, upon completion of the renaming of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V.

    About Richemont

    At Richemont, we craft the future. Our unique portfolio includes prestigious Maisons distinguished by their craftsmanship and creativity. Richemont’s ambition is to nurture its Maisons and businesses and enable them to grow and prosper in a responsible, sustainable manner over the long term.

    Richemont operates in three business areas: Jewellery Maisons with Buccellati, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Vhernier; Specialist Watchmakers with A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Panerai, Piaget, Roger Dubuis and Vacheron Constantin; and Other, primarily Fashion & Accessories Maisons with Alaïa, Chloé, Delvaux, dunhill, G/FORE, Gianvito Rossi, Montblanc, Peter Millar, Purdey, Serapian as well as Watchfinder & Co. Find out more at https://www.richemont.com/.

    Richemont ‘A’ shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, Richemont’s primary listing, and are included in the Swiss Market Index (‘SMI’) of leading stocks. The ‘A’ shares are also traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), Richemont’s secondary listing.

    Investor Relations Contacts
    Mytheresa.com GmbH
    Stefanie Muenz
    phone: +49 89 127695-1919
    email: investors@mytheresa.com

    Media Contacts for public relations
    Mytheresa.com GmbH
    Sandra Romano
    mobile: +49 152 54725178
    email: sandra.romano@mytheresa.com

    Media Contacts for business press
    Mytheresa.com GmbH
    Lisa Schulz
    mobile: +49 151 11216490
    email: lisa.schulz@mytheresa.com

    Media Contacts for business press
    BOC Consult GmbH
    Ruediger Assion
    mobile: +49 176 2424 7691
    email: ruediger.assion@boc-consult.com

    Richemont Contacts
    Investor / analyst enquiries: +41 22 721 30 03; investor.relations@cfrinfo.net
    Media enquiries: +41 22 721 35 07; pressoffice@cfrinfo.net; richemont@teneo.com

    Source: MYT Netherlands Parent B.V.

    Click here for a printer-friendly version in English (PDF)

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Scientists from multiple countries granted access to China’s Chang’e-5 lunar samples for research

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

    Scientists from multiple countries granted access to China’s Chang’e-5 lunar samples for research

    SHANGHAI, April 24 — The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced on Thursday that scientists from institutions in France, Germany, Japan, Pakistan, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (U.S.) have been granted the opportunity to borrow lunar samples collected by the Chang’e-5 mission for scientific research.

    At a ceremony for China’s Space Day in Shanghai, the agency announced that seven institutions from six countries have been authorized to borrow the lunar samples.

    The authorized institutions include the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris (IPGP) in France, the University of Cologne in Germany, Osaka University in Japan, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the Open University in the UK, Brown University in the US, and the State University of New York at Stony Brook in the US.

    In 2020, China’s Chang’e-5 mission retrieved samples from the moon weighing about 1,731 grams.

    Shan Zhongde, head of the CNSA, said China’s lunar exploration program has always adhered to the principles of equality, mutual benefits, peaceful utilization and win-win cooperation, sharing achievements with the international community.

    He added that CNSA will continue to accept international applications for lunar sample research, expressing hope that global scientists will make new discoveries that expand human knowledge and benefit humanity.

    In November 2023, CNSA opened applications for international researchers to borrow Chang’e-5 lunar samples. By the end of December 2023, it had received 24 applications from 11 countries and international organizations.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China to launch Chang’e-8 lunar mission around 2029, collaborating with int’l partners

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

    China to launch Chang’e-8 lunar mission around 2029, collaborating with int’l partners

    SHANGHAI, April 24 — The China National Space Administration (CNSA) revealed Thursday that the Chang’e-8 lunar probe is scheduled for launch around 2029, and will carry payloads from 11 countries and regions and one international organization as part of international cooperation.

    The announcement was made at the opening ceremony for 2025 Space Day of China, which is celebrated annually on April 24.

    The Chang’e-8 mission will target the Leibnitz-Beta Plateau near the lunar south pole region, working with the earlier Chang’e-7 mission to conduct scientific exploration and in-situ resource utilization experiments. These efforts will lay the groundwork for the future International Lunar Research Station.

    According to CNSA, the 10 selected collaborative projects include a multi-functional robot designed by researchers in Hong Kong, a lunar rover developed by Pakistan and the International Society for Terrain-Vehicle Systems (ISTVS), an exploration rover made by Türkiye, and radio astronomical instruments by South Africa and Peru.

    The projects also include Italy’s laser retroreflector arrays, Russia’s plasma and dust analyzer and high-energy particle detector, Thailand’s neutron analyzer, Bahrain and Egypt’s lunar surface imaging system, and Iran’s lunar potential monitor.

    Shan Zhongde, head of CNSA, said China will work closely with international partners to achieve new scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs that will ultimately benefit all of humanity.

    CNSA announced in October 2023 international cooperation opportunities for Chang’e-8 lunar mission, which offered 200 kilograms of payload resources for global partners. A total of 41 cooperation proposals were received.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Eurocastle Releases Fourth Quarter and Year End 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EUROCASTLE INVESTMENT LIMITED

                                                                                                                                                                                                                FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact:        
    Oak Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited
    Company Administrator
    Attn: Nicole Barnes
    Tel: +44 1481 723450        

    Eurocastle Releases Fourth Quarter and Year End 2024 Financial Results

    Guernsey, 24 April 2025 – Eurocastle Investment Limited (Euronext Amsterdam: ECT) today has released its annual report for the year ended 31 December 2024.

    • IFRS NAV of €22.08 million, or €22.05 per share vs €21.34 per share as at Q3 2024 and €21.77 per share as at YE 2023, reflecting an increase in the value of the Company’s holding in a Luxembourg fund under the New Investment Strategy, following the closing of its first investment in October 2024.
    • Adjusted Net Asset Value (“NAV”) of €11.35 million1, or €11.34 per share2 vs. €10.91 per share in Q3 2024 and €11.12 per share as at YE 2023.

            The tables below summarise the NAV by segment:

                         
        YE 2024 NAV   Q3 2024 NAV   YE 2023 NAV
        €’m € p.s.   €’m € p.s.   €’m € p.s.
    New Investment Strategy – Greece   5.77 5.76   0.11 0.11   0.10 0.10
    Legacy Italian Real Estate Funds   0.06 0.06   0.06 0.06   0.08 0.08
    Net Corporate Cash3   12.28 12.26   17.47 17.45   17.83 17.86
    Legacy German Tax Asset   3.97 3.97   3.73 3.72   3.73 3.73
    IFRS NAV   22.08 22.05   21.37 21.34   21.74 21.77
                       
    Legacy German Tax Reserve4   (5.99) (5.97)   (5.44) (5.43)   (5.46) (5.46)
                       
    Adjusted NAV before Liquidation Reserve   16.09 16.08   15.93 15.91   16.28 16.31
                       
    Liquidation Reserve4   (4.74) (4.74)   (5.00) (5.00)   (5.18) (5.19)
                       
    Adjusted NAV   11.35 11.34   10.93 10.91   11.10 11.12
    Ordinary shares outstanding   1,001,555   1,001,555   998,555
                         
                         

    As at 31 December 2024, the Company’s assets mainly comprise:

                1.   €12.28 million, or €12.26 per share, of net corporate cash, which is available to continue seeking investments under the New Investment Strategy.

                2.   €5.77 million, or €5.76 per share, in the Company’s first investment under the New Investment Strategy, a share in a Luxembourg fund which has opportunistically acquired a boutique retail complex in an affluent part of Athens, Greece.

                3.   A tax asset of €3.97 million, or €3.97 per share, representing amounts paid (and associated interest) in relation to additional tax assessed against a legacy German property subsidiary where the Company won the first instance of its appeal in December 2024. The German tax authorities have since appealed the decision and the Company is waiting for the date of the next hearing.

                4.   Residual interests in two legacy Italian Real Estate Fund Investments with an NAV of €0.06 million, or €0.06 per share, where the underlying properties have been fully sold, with both funds now in liquidation.

    2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    FY 2024 Overview

    During 2024, having largely concluded its Realisation Plan, the Company made significant progress in implementing the New Investment Strategy by establishing the platform through which it can raise third party capital and make investments, while also closing on the first acquisition made as part of this strategy.

    Highlights

    • New Investment Strategy – In August 2024, Eurocastle launched a Luxembourg regulated fund, European Properties Investment Fund S.C.A., SICAV RAIF (“EPIF” or the “Fund”), through which it expects to invest alongside selected external co-investors. EPIF initially closed with Eurocastle committing to invest €8 million alongside a €2 million commitment from its JV Partner. EPIF is now being marketed to potential investors with a target size of €100 million.
    • In addition to generating attractive risk adjusted returns on its share of any investments made, Eurocastle also anticipates receiving market standard management and incentive fees from external investors. The Company sees the Fund as an attractive opportunity to earn enhanced returns on the capital it invests while also building a meaningful base for future investments.
    • In October 2024, the Fund made its first acquisition, being part of a boutique retail complex in an affluent part of Athens with Eurocastle investing a total of €5.5 million into the Fund. The asset was acquired from one of the largest Greek banks out of a distressed situation. As at the end of 2024, Eurocastle’s 80% share in the NAV of EPIF is €5.8 million. In parallel with executing this first investment, EPIF has been underwriting a number of additional opportunities.
    • Legacy Italian Real Estate Funds –The remaining NAV for these investments of €0.06 million, or €0.06 per share, reflects cash currently reserved in the funds that is expected to be released once the fund manager resolves certain potential liabilities and liquidates each fund.
    • Legacy German Tax Matter – Prior to 2024, the Company had paid a net amount of €3.7 million in relation to the Legacy German tax matter against which it has raised a corresponding tax asset (together with associated interest). The Company, in pursuing the reimbursement of this amount through the German fiscal court, won the first instance of its appeal in December 2024. Shortly after, the German tax authorities appealed the decision through the German federal tax court and the Company is currently waiting to be notified of the date of the hearing. In the meantime, €2.5 million of the €3.7 million of additional tax paid by the Company, being the additional tax assessed before late payment interest, is accruing interest at 6% per annum, which would be paid to the Company should it finally prevail in the case.
    • The remaining potential exposure, associated with the same point under dispute, is estimated to be €1.7 million. This relates to the years 2013 to 2015 which remain subject to ongoing tax audits. Notwithstanding the Company’s expectation that the tax matter will eventually be resolved in the Company’s favour, as at 31 December 2024, the full potential liability of €6.0 million, or €5.97 per share (including associated defence costs and interest accrued), is fully reserved for within the Additional Reserves.
    • Additional Reserves – As at 31 December 2024, of the total Additional Reserves of €10.7 million, €6.0 million related to the legacy German tax matter with the balance of approximately €4.7 million in place to allow for future costs and potential liabilities while the Company pursues in parallel the New Investment Strategy. The Board anticipates reviewing the appropriate level of reserves once it has further clarity on the amount of commitments received by EPIF.

    Subsequent Events

    On April 23rd, 2025, EPIF successfully held its first investor close, securing €16 million of commitments from 10 investors taking the total fund size to €26 million. Currently, a significant number of potential additional commitments are at advanced stage of due diligence, with a further close expected in May 2025.

    The commitments closed on 23 April 2025 will reduce Eurocastle’s interest in the Fund from 80% to approximately 31%. As a result, the new investors will reimburse Eurocastle an estimated total of €3.5 million of the €5.5 million it had invested to date in EPIF. This reimbursement is to align Eurocastle’s revised pro rata share of the capital called plus compensatory interest. The amount to be paid to Eurocastle is substantially in line with the relevant share of Eurocastle’s valuation of its interest in EPIF as at 31 December 2024.

           
         

    Income Statement for the Fourth Quarter 2024, Full Year 2024 and Full Year 2023

    Q4 2024 FY 2024 FY 2023
      € Thousands € Thousands € Thousands
    Portfolio Returns      
    New Investment Strategy – Greece unrealised fair value movement 429 273
    Legacy Italian NPLs & Other Loans realised gain                          – 2
    Legacy Italian Real Estate Funds unrealised fair value movement                        – (18) (50)
    Fair value movement on Investments                       429 255 (48)
    Other Income 100 113 2
    Interest income                            345 827                            519
    Loss on foreign currency translation                             – (1) (2)
    Total income                        874 1,194 471
           
    Operating Expenses      
    Manager base and incentive fees 42 103 94
    Remaining operating expenses 115 745 1,012
    Other operating expenses 157 848 1,106
    Total expenses 157 848 1,106
           
    Net profit/(loss) for the period/year 717 346 (635)
    € per share 0.72 0.35 (0.64)
      Balance Sheet and Adjusted NAV Reconciliation as at 31 December 2024 New Strategy Investments Greece Legacy Italian

    Investments

    Corporate Total Total
              2024 2023
        € Thousands € Thousands € Thousands € Thousands € Thousands
    Assets          
      Other assets 315 315 210
      Legacy German tax asset 3,974 3,974 3,727
      Investments – New Investment Strategy – Greece 5,770 5,770
      Investments – Legacy Italian Real Estate Funds 64 64 82
      Cash, cash equivalents and treasury investments          
      Cash and cash equivalents 12,415 12,415 13,951
      Treasury investments 4,236
    Total assets 5,770 64 16,704 22,538 22,206
    Liabilities          
      Trade and other payables   389 389 425
      Manager base and incentive fees   63 63 41
    Total liabilities   452 452 466
    IFRS Net Asset Value 5,770 64 16,252 22,086 21,740
    Liquidation cash reserve (4,748) (4,748) (5,185)
    Legacy German tax cash reserve (2,008) (2,008) (1,728)
    Legacy German tax asset (3,974) (3,974) (3,727)
    Adjusted NAV 5,770 64 5,522 11,356 11,100
    Adjusted NAV (€ per Share) 5.76 0.06 5.52 11.34 11.12

    NOTICE:

    This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of the Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    For investment portfolio information, please refer to the Company’s most recent Financial Report, which will be available on the Company’s website (www.eurocastleinv.com).

    ABOUT EUROCASTLE

    Eurocastle Investment Limited (“Eurocastle” or the “Company”) is a publicly traded closed-ended investment company. On 8 July 2022, the Company announced the relaunch of its investment activity and is currently in the early stages of pursuing its new strategy by initially focusing on opportunistic real estate in Greece with a plan to expand across Southern Europe. For more information regarding Eurocastle Investment Limited and to be added to our email distribution list, please visit www.eurocastleinv.com.

    FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, future commitments to sell real estate and achievement of disposal targets, availability of investment and divestment opportunities, timing or certainty of completion of acquisitions and disposals, the operating performance of our investments and financing needs. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “potential”, “intend”, “expect”, “endeavor”, “seek”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “overestimate”, “underestimate”, “believe”, “could”, “project”, “predict”, “project”, “continue”, “plan”, “forecast” or other similar words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, discuss future expectations, describe future plans and strategies, contain projections of results of operations or of financial condition or state other forward-looking information. The Company’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is limited. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, its actual results and performance may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results or stated expectations including the risks regarding Eurocastle’s ability to declare dividends or achieve its targets regarding asset disposals or asset performance.


    1 In light of the Realisation Plan announced in November 2019, the Adjusted NAV as at 31 December 2024 reflects additional reserves for future costs and potential liabilities, which have not been accounted for under the IFRS NAV (“Additional Reserves”). No commitments for these future costs and potential liabilities existed as at 31 December 2024.
    2 Per share calculations for Eurocastle as at 31 December 2024 are based on 1,001,555 shares in issue. YE 2023 NAV per share based on 998,555 shares; Q3 2024 NAV per share based on 1,001,555 shares.
    3 Reflects corporate cash net of accrued liabilities and other assets.

    4 Reserves that were put in place when the Company realised the majority of its investment assets in 2019 in order for the Company to continue in operation and fund its
    future costs and potential liabilities. These reserves are not accounted for under IFRS.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Haffner Energy unveils Hynoca® Flex 500 IG: A flexible, cost-effective alternative to grey hydrogen and fossil fuels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Haffner Energy unveils Hynoca® Flex 500 IG: A flexible, cost-effective alternative to grey hydrogen and fossil fuels

    Cogeneration of hydrogen and electricity offers a unique solution for managing random hydrogen demand

    Vitry-le-François, France – April 24, 2025, 08:00am (CET)

    Haffner Energy introduces Hynoca® Flex 500 IG, a line of hydrogen production units capable of producing 12 tonnes of green hydrogen per day to be delivered under €3/kg without subsidies. Hynoca®Flex 500 IG also enables the production of cost-competitive renewable electricity to manage fluctuations in hydrogen demand or ensure energy autonomy.

    “The expectations for hydrogen are extremely high, but they remain significantly constrained by the chicken-and-egg problem and the high cost of green hydrogen production,” said Philippe Haffner, Co-founder and CEO of Haffner Energy. “Our Hynoca® Flex 500 IG solution simultaneously addresses both challenges, in a market worth over €100 billion worldwide. This is a major milestone for our company, which is expected to have a significant impact on our 2025 results, and which should also enable us to build up our order book for the coming years. More generally, it’s clearly a major paradigm shift for the global hydrogen ecosystem.”

    Thanks to existing subsidies, grants or tax credits available in most developed countries, green hydrogen is now clearly cost-competitive with grey (fossil-based) hydrogen, while providing much more flexibility and bringing a carbon-free solution. Not only does hydrogen and electricity cogeneration provide a unique solution for managing fluctuating hydrogen demand, it can also ensure energy autonomy of the system or even create opportunities in off-grid locations.

    A major breakthrough for the hydrogen market

    With unmatched flexibility, optimized energy efficiency (80%), and near-independence from power grids, Hynoca® Flex 500 IG emerges as a scalable decentralized alternative to grey hydrogen and fossil fuels. The technology is modular and standardized, which ensures reliable and replicable deployment at scale. Available worldwide, the first units can be reserved starting today, with commissioning of the first units early 2027.

    A significant EBITDA contribution starting this year

    Hynoca® Flex 500 IG is expected to make a significant contribution to Haffner Energy’s revenue – and above all to its EBITDA – for the current fiscal year, notably through paying engineering studies. The company reiterates its objective to reach EBITDA breakeven by March 31, 2026.

    Cost-effective, modular green hydrogen

    Hynoca® Flex 500 IG combines performance and modularity to meet industrial and mobility needs:

    • Flexible production, requiring minimal or no grid dependency
    • Optimization of CAPEX and OPEX, ensuring that hydrogen can be commercialized under €3/kg without subsidies Over 80% energy efficiency, maximizing process performance
    • Rapid deployment, free from grid infrastructure constraints
    • Standardized design, ensuring predictable performance and simplified integration

    A syngas with unmatched competitiveness

    Hynoca® Flex 500 IG generates highly competitive syngas, the precursor to hydrogen. Its low cost opens up new economic opportunities beyond hydrogen production.

    • Profitable peak-hour electricity generation: The cost of syngas is so competitive that it enables power production during peak hours, making it an economically viable solution to balance hydrogen demand fluctuations.
    • Operational security without rigid contracts: This flexibility allows plant operators to maintain stable production without requiring rigid offtake agreements.

    By combining hydrogen and electricity generation, Hynoca® Flex 500 IG ensures continuous operation, optimizing revenue streams and enhancing economic resilience, making final investment decisions (FID) easier.

    A strategic complement to electrolysis and power-to-liquid (PTL)

    Each Hynoca® Flex 500 IG unit generates 58,000 tonnes of biogenic CO₂ per year, a key resource for PTL (e-fuels) production and a critical enabler for hydrogen from electrolysis.

    • 58,000 tonnes of renewable CO₂ can convert 5,230 tonnes of hydrogen into 42,000 tonnes of e-methanol (or 18,000 tonnes of e-SAF), easy to transport and store
    • 5,230 tonnes of hydrogen is the volume produced each year by 60 MW of electrolyzer capacity (4,000 hours/year load factor)
    • Strategic synergy between Hynoca® Flex 500 IG and electrolysis plants, structuring the hydrogen economy

    Hynoca® Flex 500 IG not only delivers competitive hydrogen, but it also supports the expansion of electrolysis by providing a reliable source of competitive biogenic CO2.

    Proven, standardized technology for industrial scale deployment

    Hynoca® Flex 500 IG builds on Hynoca® technology, already operational at the Center for hydrogen production, testing and training in Marolles, France. This unit has been producing hydrogen that meets mobility standards.

    Scaling up this technology ensures industrial continuity with no technical risks, optimizing implementation for large-scale projects.

    Hynoca® process accepts all possible organic renewable feedstocks, including agricultural residues, sludge, manure, municipal sorted waste, and woody by-products, supporting a circular, low-carbon economy with a near-zero carbon footprint. Compatibility with all organic feedstocks means considerably lower costs, while at the same time significantly improving security of supply.

    Each Hynoca®Flex 500 IG unit consumes approximately 31,000 tonnes of dry plant-based biomass per year.

    Reservations system to manage market demand

    A recent market survey conducted by Haffner Energy indicates that demand for Hynoca® Flex 500 IG will far exceed the company’s current industrial and commercial capacity.

    To structure production and ensure timely deployment, a reservations system is currently being prepared and will open in 2025 Q3. In the meanwhile, requests for quotations can be made to the company in advance.

    Reservations, which will involve the payment of an upfront fee, constitute a win/win system for the company and its customers, allowing in particular:

    • Guarantee that customers will be served in the face of demand that is expected to far exceed supply
    • Secure delivery timelines and fixed pricing
    • Substantial savings on typical FID (Final Investment Decision) costs
    • Assistance with feedstock sourcing plans

    This system prioritizes committed clients while allowing flexibility for project development, helping to align industrial production capacity with actual market needs.

    About Haffner Energy

    Haffner Energy is a French company providing solutions for the production of competitive clean fuels. With 32 years of experience converting biomass into renewable energies, it has developed innovative proprietary biomass thermolysis and gasification technologies to produce renewable gas, hydrogen and methanol, as well as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The company also contributes to regenerating the planet, through the co-production of biogenic CO2 and biocarbon (or char/biochar). Haffner Energy is listed on Euronext Growth. (ISIN code: FR0014007ND6 – Ticker: ALHAF).

    Media relations

    HAFFNER ENERGY

    Laure BOURDON

    laure.bourdon@haffner-energy.com
    +33 (0) 7 87 96 35 15

    Sales relations

    sales@haffner-energy.com

    Investor relations

    investisseurs@haffner-energy.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Flow Traders Leadership Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Flow Traders Leadership Update

    Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Flow Traders Ltd. (Euronext: FLOW) announces that Mike Kuehnel has conveyed to the Board of Flow Traders Ltd. his intention not to seek re-election as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for another full term at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM). He will leave Flow Traders at the end of August to pursue a new opportunity. To ensure a seamless leadership transition, Mike has agreed to be nominated for re-election as CEO at the upcoming AGM on 13 June 2025, with his renewed term extending until 31 August 2025. The Board has initiated a search for his successor.

    Furthermore, Marc Jansen will be nominated for election as Executive Director of Flow Traders Ltd. at the forthcoming AGM. Marc has played an instrumental role in developing and expanding Flow Traders’ trading footprint. He is also a current member of the Management Board of Flow Traders B.V., the firm’s largest operating entity. In addition, Marc Jansen and Alex Kieft will be appointed as Co-Chief Trading Officers, effective immediately. They will jointly manage the Global Trading Division, focusing on expanding the Company’s trading operations across multiple asset classes and geographies.

    Mike Kuehnel
    Mike joined Flow Traders in August 2021 and was elected as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in September 2021 and subsequently appointed to the role of CEO in February 2023. During his term, Mike has been instrumental in systematically strengthening the firm by enhancing its position as a leading globally diversified trading firm. Specifically, in 2024, he initiated Flow Traders’ Trading Capital Expansion Plan, which successfully contributed to the firm’s second-best financial year in its 20-year history.

    Under Mike’s leadership, and in collaboration with the entire leadership team, the firm has launched several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency through automation as well as enhancing the firm’s structure with the objective of building a fully scalable organization. As part of the firm’s strategy, Mike has played a pivotal role in developing Flow Traders’ global leadership team and in attracting key talent to enhance the firm’s capability set. Subsequently, Mike has facilitated new strategic partnerships across global financial markets, allowing the firm to capitalize on new revenue opportunities to accelerate the growth of the Flow Traders.

    Marc Jansen
    Marc joined Flow Traders in 2013 as a Trader and became Head of Trading EMEA in 2018. He continued playing a pivotal role in building out the firm’s trading operations, when he moved to the Americas, where he assumed the role of Managing Director, before being appointed Head of Trading with a focus on Digital Assets in 2021. He became Global Head of Trading and Management Board Member of Flow Traders B.V. in January 2024. Effective immediately, Marc will be appointed as Co-Chief Trading Officer.

    Alex Kieft
    Alex joined Flow Traders in 2014 as a Trader and was appointed Head of Trading EMEA in 2019, followed by Global Head of Trading with a focus on equities in 2022. Effective immediately, Alex will be appointed as Co-Chief Trading Officer and will lead the firm’s Global Trading Division alongside Marc Jansen.

    Rudolf Ferscha, Chairman of the Board, stated:
    “Flow Traders has evolved beyond its foundational trading focus, marking a significant transition that enables us to capitalize on new opportunities and forge strategic partnerships, thereby advancing our long-term strategic ambitions. This transformation has been successfully initiated and managed under Mike’s leadership, and on behalf of the entire Board, I would like to express our deepest appreciation for his numerous contributions to the firm. 

    We fully respect his decision to pursue another opportunity outside the firm and wish him every success in his future endeavors. We also thank him for his dedication to developing this strengthened leadership team. Under Mike’s guidance, the leadership team has driven the firm’s growth and expansion in recent years, notably with the successful launch of the Trading Capital Expansion Plan last year, leading to the second-best financial year in our 20-year history.

    Additionally, we are thrilled to appoint Marc and Alex as Co-Chief Trading Officers. Both Marc and Alex are esteemed leaders with a proven track record of shaping and accelerating our trading strategies across various asset classes and geographies. Their promotion reflects our dedication to strengthening our leadership and accelerating growth within our Trading Division. With a long-term focus on both talent and capital, we aim to intensify efforts in both traditional and digital asset markets, marking Flow Traders’ next phase of growth.”

    Mike Kuehnel, CEO of Flow Traders, added:
    “Throughout my tenure at Flow Traders, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of technology and innovation on global financial markets. These experiences have reinforced my conviction to engage more broadly in the field of artificial intelligence, prompting my decision not to seek another full term as CEO.

    I am immensely proud of what we have collectively achieved, as evidenced by our strengthened position as a globally diversified trading firm. Equally, I take pride in the development and growth of our global leadership team. Cultivating and attracting talent has been a pivotal focus during my four years, and I am thrilled about the current standing of this team. I have full confidence in Flow Traders’ future, and its ability to grow and become an even more significant force in promoting transparency, efficiency, and resilience within global financial markets.

    I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Board and all my colleagues at Flow Traders, it has been an exceptionally rewarding privilege to work alongside you. Serving as your CFO and CEO over the past four years has been an honor, and I am genuinely excited about the firm’s future.”

    Notes

    • Following shareholder approval at the 2025 AGM, Mike’s re-election as CEO and Executive Director will run until 31 August 2025
    • Following shareholder approval at the 2025 AGM and regulatory vetting, Marc’s election as Executive Director of Flow Traders Ltd. will be effective for a term of four years
    • In the notice for the 2025 Annual General Meeting, scheduled to be published on 2 May, all necessary information will be included in accordance with the nominations outlined in this press release

    Contact Details

    Flow Traders Ltd.

    Investors
    Eric Pan
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        investor.relations@flowtraders.com

    Media
    Laura Peijs
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        press@flowtraders.com

    About Flow Traders
    Flow Traders is a leading trading firm providing liquidity in multiple asset classes, covering all major exchanges. Founded in 2004, Flow Traders is a leading global ETP market marker and has leveraged its expertise in trading European equity ETPs to expand into fixed income, commodities, digital assets and FX globally. Flow Traders’ role in financial markets is to ensure the availability of liquidity and enabling investors to continue to buy or sell financial instruments under all market circumstances, thereby ensuring markets remain resilient and continue to function in an orderly manner. In addition to its trading activities, Flow Traders has established a strategic investment unit focused on fostering market innovation and aligned with our mission to bring greater transparency and efficiency to the financial ecosystem. With over two decades of experience, we have built a team of over 600 talented professionals, located globally, contributing to the firm’s entrepreneurial culture and delivering the company’s mission.

    Important Legal Information

    This press release is prepared by Flow Traders Ltd. and is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and you must not rely on the content of this document when making any investment decisions. The information in this document does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice and is not to be regarded as investor marketing or marketing of any security or financial instrument, or as an offer to buy or sell, or as a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell, securities or financial instruments.

    The information and materials contained in this press release are provided ‘as is’ and Flow Traders Ltd. or any of its affiliates (“Flow Traders”) do not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials and expressly disclaim liability for any errors or omissions. This press release is not intended to be, and shall not constitute in any way a binding or legal agreement, or impose any legal obligation on Flow Traders. All intellectual property rights, including trademarks, are those of their respective owners. All rights reserved. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Flow Traders. No part of it may be redistributed or reproduced without the prior written permission of Flow Traders.

    This press release may include forward-looking statements, which are based on Flow Traders’ current expectations and projections about future events, and are not guarantees of future performance. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations. Words such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “project”, “believe”, “could”, “hope”, “seek”, “plan”, “foresee”, “aim”, “objective”, “potential”, “goal” “strategy”, “target”, “continue” and similar expressions or their negatives are used to identify these forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future whether or not outside the control of Flow Traders. Such factors may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no undue reliance should be placed on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as at the date at which they are made. Flow Traders expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which such statements are based unless required to do so by applicable law.

    Financial objectives are internal objectives of Flow Traders to measure its operational performance and should not be read as indicating that Flow Traders is targeting such metrics for any particular fiscal year. Flow Traders’ ability to achieve these financial objectives is inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond Flow Traders’ control, and upon assumptions with respect to future business decisions that are subject to change. As a result, Flow Traders’ actual results may vary from these financial objectives, and those variations may be material.

    Efficiencies are net, before tax and on a run-rate basis, i.e. taking into account the full-year impact of any measure to be undertaken before the end of the period mentioned. The expected operating efficiencies and cost savings were prepared on the basis of a number of assumptions, projections and estimates, many of which depend on factors that are beyond Flow Traders’ control. These assumptions, projections and estimates are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and actual results may differ, perhaps materially, from those projected. Flow Traders cannot provide any assurance that these assumptions are correct and that these projections and estimates will reflect Flow Traders’ actual results of operations.

    By accepting this document you agree to the terms set out above. If you do not agree with the terms set out above please notify legal.amsterdam@nl.flowtraders.com immediately and delete or destroy this document.

    Market Abuse Regulation
    This press release contains information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Flow Traders 1Q 2025 Trading Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Flow Traders 1Q 2025 Trading Update

    Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Flow Traders Ltd. (Euronext: FLOW) announces its unaudited 1Q 2025 trading update.

    Highlights

    • Flow Traders recorded Net Trading Income of €140.2m and Total Income of €135.1m in 1Q25, an increase of 10% and 4% when compared to €127.1m and €129.6m in 1Q24, respectively.
    • Flow Traders’ ETP Value Traded increased by 24% in 1Q25 to €507bn from €409bn in 1Q24.
    • Fixed Operating Expenses were €50.8m in the quarter, an increase of 15% when compared to the €44.1m in 1Q24, due mostly to increased employee and technology expenses.
    • Total Operating Expenses were €72.7m in 1Q25, an increase of 7% when compared to the €67.9m in 1Q24, due to higher Fixed Operating Expenses.
    • EBITDA was €62.3m in the quarter, an increase of 1% when compared to €61.6m in 1Q24. EBITDA margin was 46% in 1Q25 vs. 48% in 1Q24.
    • Net Profit came in at €36.3m in 1Q25, yielding a basic EPS of €0.84 and diluted EPS of €0.82, a 21% decrease compared to a Net Profit of €45.9m, basic EPS of €1.05, and diluted EPS of €1.04 in 1Q24.
    • Trading Capital stood at €803m at the end of 1Q25, a 32% and 4% increase from €609m and €775m at the end of 1Q24 and 4Q24, respectively, and generated a 68% return on average trading capital1.
    • Shareholders’ equity was €787m at the end of 1Q25, compared to €631m at the end of 1Q24 and €767m at the end of 4Q24.
    • Flow Traders employed 619 FTEs at the end of 1Q25, compared to 601 at the end of 1Q24 and 609 at the end of 4Q24.

    Leadership Update

    In a separate release today, Flow Traders announced that Mike Kuehnel has conveyed to the Board his intention not to seek re-election as CEO for another full term at the 2025 AGM. He will leave Flow Traders at the end of August of this year, to pursue a new opportunity. To ensure a seamless leadership transition, Mike has agreed to be nominated for re-election as CEO at the upcoming AGM on 13 June 2025, his renewed term extending until 31 August 2025. The Board has initiated a search for his successor.

    Furthermore, Marc Jansen will be nominated for election as Executive Director of Flow Traders Ltd. and in addition, Marc Jansen and Alex Kieft will be appointed as Co-Chief Trading Officers, effective immediately.

    Financial Overview

    €million 1Q25 1Q24 Change YTD25 YTD24 Change
    Net trading income 140.2 127.1 10% 140.2 127.1 10%
    Other income (5.1) 2.5 NM (5.1) 2.5 NM
    Total income 135.1 129.6 4% 135.1 129.6 4%
    Revenue by region2            
    Europe 79.9 68.5 17% 79.9 68.5 17%
    Americas 11.4 41.3 (72%) 11.4 41.3 (72%)
    Asia 43.7 19.9 120% 43.7 19.9 120%
    Fixed employee expenses 24.3 20.7 18% 24.3 20.7 18%
    Technology expenses 17.4 15.8 10% 17.4 15.8 10%
    Other expenses 9.1 7.7 19% 9.1 7.7 19%
    Fixed operating expenses 50.8 44.1 15% 50.8 44.1 15%
    Variable employee expenses 22.0 23.8 (8%) 22.0 23.8 (8%)
    Total operating expenses 72.7 67.9 7% 72.7 67.9 7%
    EBITDA 62.3 61.6 1% 62.3 61.6 1%
    Interest expenses 0.4 NM 0.4 NM
    Lease expenses 0.5 0.6 (8%) 0.5 0.6 (8%)
    Depreciation & amortisation 4.7 4.3 11% 4.7 4.3 11%
    Impairment of intangible assets 10.5 NM 10.5 NM
    Profit/(loss) on equity-accounted investments (1.8) (0.4) 375% (1.8) (0.4) 375%
    Profit before tax 44.3 56.4 (21%) 44.3 56.4 (21%)
    Tax expense 8.0 10.6 (24%) 8.0 10.6 (24%)
    Net profit 36.3 45.9 (21%) 36.3 45.9 (21%)
    Basic EPS3 (€) 0.84 1.05 (21%) 0.84 1.05 (21%)
    Fully diluted EPS4 (€) 0.82 1.04 (21%) 0.82 1.04 (21%)
    EBITDA margin 46% 48%   46% 48%  

    Revenue by Region

    €million 1Q23 2Q23 3Q23 4Q23 1Q24 2Q24 3Q24 4Q24 1Q25
    Europe 58.5 33.1 33.6 42.6 68.4 48.6 70.2 86.9 79.9
    Americas 32.8 9.3 22.0 18.1 41.3 13.4 20.8 18.2 11.4
    Asia 19.2 9.0 12.1 13.6 19.9 14.2 23.6 53.8 43.7

    Value Traded Overview

    €billion 1Q25 1Q24 Change YTD25 YTD24 Change
    Flow Traders ETP Value Traded 507 409 24% 507 409 24%
    Europe 245 152 61% 245 152 61%
    Americas 213 229 (7%) 213 229 (7%)
    Asia 49 27 81% 49 27 81%
    Flow Traders non-ETP Value Traded 1,217 1,146 6% 1,217 1,146 6%
    Flow Traders Value Traded 1,724 1,555 11% 1,724 1,555 11%
    Equity 861 819 5% 861 819 5%
    FICC 774 691 12% 774 691 12%
    Other 89 45 100% 89 45 100%
    Market ETP Value Traded5 14,425 11,981 20% 14,425 11,981 20%
    Europe 882 597 48% 882 597 48%
    Americas 11,065 9,965 11% 11,065 9,965 11%
    Asia 2,478 1,419 75% 2,478 1,419 75%
    Asia ex China 645 439 47% 645 439 47%

    Trading Capital

      1Q23 2Q23 3Q23 4Q23 1Q24 2Q24 3Q24 4Q24 1Q25
    Trading Capital (€m) 647 574 585 584 609 624 668 775 803
    Return on Avg Trading Capital1 67% 65% 56% 49% 50% 58% 62% 69% 68%
    Average VIX7 21.0 16.7 15.1 15.4 13.9 14.2 17.1 17.3 18.5

    Market Environment

    Europe

    Equity trading volumes in the quarter across major exchanges saw meaningful increases when compared to the same period a year ago, while market volatility also increased . Fixed Income trading volumes on MTFs increased slightly compared to the same period a year ago.

    Americas

    Equity trading volumes in the U.S. increased compared to the same period a year ago, but at a much lower level when compared to the other regions, while market volatility increased. Fixed Income trading volumes in the U.S. also increased slightly when compared to the same period a year ago, while volatility declined.

    Asia

    Equity trading volumes in Asia were mixed as Hong Kong and China saw significant increases while Japan experienced declines when compared to the same period a year ago. Market volatility increased across the board in Hong Kong, China and Japan when compared to the same period a year ago.

    Digital Assets

    Within Digital Assets, which trades across regions on a 24/7 basis, trading volumes in cryptocurrencies increased when compared to the same period a year ago. However, net fund flows into cryptocurrency ETFs declined significantly compared to a year ago given the spot Bitcoin ETF launches in the U.S. in January 2024.

    Outlook

    Fixed operating expenses guidance for the year remains unchanged and is expected to be in the range of €190-210m given additional technology investments and targeted additions of subject matter experts in growth areas, partially offset by expected operational efficiency gains.

    CEO Statement

    Mike Kuehnel, CEO
    “Flow Traders posted a strong set of results in the first quarter, with the strength in the Equity segment in Europe and Asia in the quarter offsetting the lower contribution from Digital Assets when compared to the first quarter of 2024. The results serve as further confirmation of our diversification strategy and our ability to capture opportunities as they arise. The 68% return on average trading capital in the quarter also further validates our strategic decision to retain more profits to reinvest back into the company under the Trading Capital Expansion Plan, announced in July last year.

    During the quarter, market trading volumes increased meaningfully across Europe and Asia given the macroeconomic uncertainty raised by the prospect of tariffs from the U.S. and the potential impact to the global economy. Volumes were particularly elevated in Hong Kong and China given the continued investor interest in China following the stimulus unveiled by the government in the fourth quarter of last year. Similarly, volumes increased meaningfully in Europe given the market outperformance, as investors looked to rotate their investments given the seismic geopolitical shift in the U.S. and its ramifications on Europe. The Americas had a more muted quarter when compared with the other regions as we allocated more of our capital to regions with greater dislocations. Regardless of where the activities were in the quarter, Flow Traders continued to provide liquidity to our counterparty base and was able to leverage trading opportunities given the breadth of our global trading operation.

    In Digital Assets, while the value of cryptocurrencies pulled back post the U.S. presidential inauguration, we continue to see positive sentiment shifts by regulators in not only the U.S. but also in places like Hong Kong, Japan and Korea. The first Consensus conference in Asia, held in Hong Kong in February, demonstrated the increasing institutional interest and adoption of digital assets and the underlying technology in the region. As one of the earliest adopters, Flow Traders remains instrumental in providing liquidity to this asset class on a 24/7 basis and bridging the gap between traditional finance and digital assets ecosystems.

    Looking forward to the rest of 2025, we remain committed to enhancing our trading capabilities by strategically investing in cutting-edge technology and talent. This approach aligns seamlessly with our growth and diversification strategy. We anticipate that these investments, coupled with our Trading Capital Expansion Plan, will drive top-line growth for the firm over time.”

    Preliminary Financial Calendar

    13 June 2025                AGM
    31 July 2025                1H25 Results

    Analyst Conference Call and Webcast

    The 1Q25 trading update analyst conference call will be held at 10:00 am CEST on Thursday 24 April 2025. The presentation can be downloaded at https://www.flowtraders.com/investors/results-centre and the conference call can be followed via a listen-only audio webcast. A replay of the conference call will be available on the company website for at least 90 days.

    Contact Details

    Flow Traders Ltd.

    Investors
    Eric Pan
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        investor.relations@flowtraders.com

    Media
    Laura Peijs
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        press@flowtraders.com

    About Flow Traders

    Flow Traders is a leading trading firm providing liquidity in multiple asset classes, covering all major exchanges. Founded in 2004, Flow Traders is a leading global ETP market marker and has leveraged its expertise in trading European equity ETPs to expand into fixed income, commodities, digital assets and FX globally. Flow Traders’ role in financial markets is to ensure the availability of liquidity and enabling investors to continue to buy or sell financial instruments under all market circumstances, thereby ensuring markets remain resilient and continue to function in an orderly manner. In addition to its trading activities, Flow Traders has established a strategic investment unit focused on fostering market innovation and aligned with our mission to bring greater transparency and efficiency to the financial ecosystem. With over two decades of experience, we have built a team of over 600 talented professionals, located globally, contributing to the firm’s entrepreneurial culture and delivering the company’s mission.

    Notes

    1. Return on average trading capital defined as LTM NTI divided by the average of the prior and current end of period trading capital.
    2. Revenue by region includes NTI, Other Income, and inter-company revenue.
    3. Weighted average shares outstanding: 1Q25 – 43,394,080; 4Q24 – 43,066,302; 1Q24 – 43,515,359.
    4. Determined by adjusting the basic EPS for the effects of all dilutive share-based payments to employees.
    5. Source – Flow Traders analysis.
    6. Starting in 3Q24, average VIX is calculated as the average of VIX daily closing prices.

    Important Legal Information

    This press release is prepared by Flow Traders Ltd. and is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and you must not rely on the content of this document when making any investment decisions. The information in this document does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice and is not to be regarded as investor marketing or marketing of any security or financial instrument, or as an offer to buy or sell, or as a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell, securities or financial instruments.

    The information and materials contained in this press release are provided ‘as is’ and Flow Traders Ltd. or any of its affiliates (“Flow Traders”) do not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials and expressly disclaim liability for any errors or omissions. This press release is not intended to be, and shall not constitute in any way a binding or legal agreement, or impose any legal obligation on Flow Traders. All intellectual property rights, including trademarks, are those of their respective owners. All rights reserved. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Flow Traders. No part of it may be redistributed or reproduced without the prior written permission of Flow Traders.

    This press release may include forward-looking statements, which are based on Flow Traders’ current expectations and projections about future events, and are not guarantees of future performance. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations. Words such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “project”, “believe”, “could”, “hope”, “seek”, “plan”, “foresee”, “aim”, “objective”, “potential”, “goal” “strategy”, “target”, “continue” and similar expressions or their negatives are used to identify these forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future whether or not outside the control of Flow Traders. Such factors may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no undue reliance should be placed on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as at the date at which they are made. Flow Traders expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which such statements are based unless required to do so by applicable law.

    Financial objectives are internal objectives of Flow Traders to measure its operational performance and should not be read as indicating that Flow Traders is targeting such metrics for any particular fiscal year. Flow Traders’ ability to achieve these financial objectives is inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond Flow Traders’ control, and upon assumptions with respect to future business decisions that are subject to change. As a result, Flow Traders’ actual results may vary from these financial objectives, and those variations may be material.

    Efficiencies are net, before tax and on a run-rate basis, i.e. taking into account the full-year impact of any measure to be undertaken before the end of the period mentioned. The expected operating efficiencies and cost savings were prepared on the basis of a number of assumptions, projections and estimates, many of which depend on factors that are beyond Flow Traders’ control. These assumptions, projections and estimates are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and actual results may differ, perhaps materially, from those projected. Flow Traders cannot provide any assurance that these assumptions are correct and that these projections and estimates will reflect Flow Traders’ actual results of operations.

    By accepting this document you agree to the terms set out above. If you do not agree with the terms set out above please notify legal.amsterdam@nl.flowtraders.com immediately and delete or destroy this document.

    All results published in this release are unaudited.

    Market Abuse Regulation

    This press release contains information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Back to the fuel guzzlers? Coalition plans to end EV tax breaks would hobble the clean transport transition

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Mortimore, Lecturer, Griffith Business School, Griffith University

    wedmoment.stock/Shutterstock

    If elected, the Coalition has pledged to end Labor’s substantial tax break for new zero- or low-emissions vehicles.

    This, combined with an earlier promise to roll back new fuel efficiency standards, would successfully slow the transition to hybrid and battery electric vehicles (EVs).

    The Albanese government pitched these tax breaks as a way to make EVs cheaper to buy and more competitive with internal combustion engine cars. Since the tax break came in, EV popularity has surged. Almost 100,000 people have taken out a novated lease on an EV between mid-2022, when the scheme began, and February 2025.

    The Coalition has been consistently critical of the tax breaks on cost grounds. The scheme has been far more popular than government forecasts envisaged, leading to concerns about a cost blowout. Rather than the A$55 million forecast for 2024-25, the scheme has cost ten times that – $560 million. EV buyers are much more likely to be wealthy, meaning the tax break has been snapped up by people who need it less. The policy is, however, encouraging car suppliers to import more affordable EVs.

    These concerns don’t mean Labor’s policy is bad. Far from it – this tax break is currently the only policy working to drive down transport emissions, now the second-largest source of emissions in Australia. The Coalition has given no indication it would replace the EV tax break with other ways to cut transport emissions.

    Electric vehicles still cost more than their internal combustion engine counterparts.
    meowKa/Shutterstock

    What is this tax break – and did it work?

    In mid-2022, the Albanese government introduced a tax break to encourage uptake of electric vehicles. The measure initially covered hydrogen fuel-cell, battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, but plug-in hybrids are no longer eligible as of April 1.

    The tax break works by giving EV buyers who are current employees a fringe benefits tax exemption for low- or zero-emissions vehicles both held and used for private use. The fringe benefits tax is a flat tax of 47% levied on the car benefit provided by the employer. For the exemption to apply, the retail price of the car has to be under the threshold for the luxury car tax of $91,387.

    People in high incomes brackets often like to negotiate with their employer to have a car included as part of their salary package so they can reduce their taxable income. The fringe benefits tax is levied on these types of benefits.

    The scheme works by exempting purchasers of new EVs from fringe benefits tax. A battery electric Hyundai Kona retailed for around $60,000 last year – 32% more in price than its internal combustion engine equivalent. The fringe benefits tax of around $11,700 annually ends up being larger because of the EV’s high sale price. Without this exemption, the tax acts as a major disincentive for the uptake of EVs.
    By and large, electric vehicles cost significantly more than their traditional counterparts. This price gap is dropping as new manufacturers enter the market, but it’s still there. While EVs have lower fuel costs, the higher upfront cost has put off many prospective buyers. This is the issue Labor’s tax exemption was intended to fix.

    Has the scheme worked? Overall, yes. In 2022, EVs accounted for just 3.3% of all new cars sold in Australia. By 2023, almost two-thirds of battery electric, vehicles were sold to private buyers, a 145% increase. And in 2024, the figure had almost tripled to 9.6%. Without this tax incentive, Australia’s uptake of EVs would most likely be much lower.

    If a future Coalition government ended the tax break, Australia would return to the pre-2022 era, where fringe benefits tax acted as a significant disincentive for EVs.

    The tax break isn’t perfect – but it’s better than nothing

    Australia’s main power grid now runs on an average of 40% clean energy. As a result, emissions have been tracking downward in these sectors. But transport emissions are still rising. Transport is now Australia’s second-largest source of emissions – almost 100 million tonnes (Mt) out of our total emissions of 434 Mt. By 2030, transport is projected to be the largest source of domestic emissions.

    Under the 2015 Paris Agreement, nations agreed at least 20% of light vehicles on their roads would be low- or zero-emissions by 2030. But Australia is lagging well behind the pack on the shift to cleaner transport.

    At present, just 1% of Australia’s car fleet is electric. Even EVs make up close to 10% of new sales, changing the makeup of the entire fleet (16.8 million) will take years.

    By contrast, almost 90% of new cars sold in Norway are electric, according to a 2024 report from the International Energy Agency. In China it’s just under 60%, Sweden it’s 60%, Netherlands 30%, the UK 25% and the United States 10%.

    These countries have used a combination of tax incentives and fuel efficiency regulations to drive rapid uptake. While Labor has moved to introduce both of these, progress hasn’t been as fast.

    Back to the fuel guzzlers?

    Australians rely heavily on cars. But the long lack of fuel efficiency standards mean many models sold here emit much more than in other OECD countries – 150 grams per kilometre versus 107 across 29 European Union nations as of 2023. Put another way, a new car in Australia uses 40% more fuel than its equivalent in the EU. Many drivers prefer big cars, such as the top-selling Ford Ranger.

    If the Coalition ends the tax break and pulls the teeth of new emissions standards, it would bring recent modest progress to a halt.

    The Coalition has rightly pointed out the inequity of the tax break as it stands. My research has shown this could be fixed. Throwing the scheme out without proposing another way to cut transport emissions is disheartening.

    Anna Mortimore receives funding from Reliable Affordable Clean Energy Cooperative Research Centre for 2030 (RACE for 2030).

    ref. Back to the fuel guzzlers? Coalition plans to end EV tax breaks would hobble the clean transport transition – https://theconversation.com/back-to-the-fuel-guzzlers-coalition-plans-to-end-ev-tax-breaks-would-hobble-the-clean-transport-transition-255211

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI: Exor Press Release – Tender Offer Result

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO, OR TO ANY PERSON LOCATED OR RESIDENT IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN, OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

    Amsterdam, 24 April 2025

    EXOR ANNOUNCES OVERSUBSCRIBED TENDER OFFER,
    AS PART OF €1 BILLION SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAM

    Exor N.V. (“Exor” or the “Company”) announces the results of the Tender Offer set out in the Offer Memorandum published by the Company on 26 March 2025 (the “Offer Memorandum”). The Tender Offer closed at 17:40 CET on 23 April 2025.

    22,965,749 Ordinary Shares were validly tendered by Qualifying Shareholders in the Tender Offer and, following application of the scaling-down mechanism set out in the Offer Memorandum, 12,254,495 Ordinary Shares will be purchased at a price per Ordinary Share of EUR 81.6027 (the Strike Price), for a total consideration of EUR 1 billion. This represents 5.5% of the Ordinary Shares issued in the share capital of Exor. The Strike Price of the Tender Offer, determined in the manner described in the Offer Memorandum is equal to the Reference VWAP +2%.

    The aggregate value (at the Strike Price) of the Ordinary Shares validly tendered by Qualifying Shareholders at a price at or below the Strike Price (or as Strike Price Tenders) exceeded EUR 1 billion, and hence the Tender Offer is oversubscribed. Because the Tender Offer is oversubscribed, tenders will be accepted as follows, in line with the Offer Memorandum:

    • all Strike Price Tenders will be purchased in full;
    • all tenders at a price below the Strike Price (excluding Strike Price Tenders) will be purchased in full;
    • tenders at the Strike Price will be scaled down by 38.15% so that the total consideration for the Ordinary Shares purchased in the Tender Offer does not exceed EUR 1 billion; and
    • all tenders at a price higher than the Strike Price will be rejected and will not be purchased in the Tender Offer.

    The settlement of the Tender Offer is expected to take place on or around 28 April 2025.

    In accordance with the Irrevocable Undertaking by Giovanni Agnelli B.V., 6,985,062 Ordinary Shares will be purchased from Giovanni Agnelli B.V. as part of the Tender Offer. After settlement, Giovanni Agnelli B.V. will hold 114,714,169 Ordinary Shares, representing 51.9% of the Ordinary Shares issued in the share capital of the Company before the share cancellation.

    Following settlement, Exor will start the process of cancelling the 12,254,495 Ordinary Shares acquired as part of the Tender Offer and 950,000 Ordinary Shares currently held in treasury, representing 6.0% of the Ordinary Shares issued in the share capital of Exor. In addition, Exor will cancel the 6,985,062 Special Voting Shares to be retransferred to Exor in connection with the Tender Offer and 1,462,186 Special Voting Shares currently held in treasury.

    Terms used but not defined in this announcement have the meaning assigned to them in the Offer Memorandum.

    Qualifying Shareholders whose Ordinary Shares were validly tendered and accepted by the Company are still entitled to participate at the forthcoming AGM, which will be held on 22 May 2025, and cast their vote on such Ordinary Shares (and any corresponding Special Voting Shares) in the usual manner, provided that these Ordinary Shares were held in an intermediary account participating in the Euronext Securities Milan system (formerly known as Monte Titoli), or on the Company’s Loyalty Register, as applicable, on the record date.

    About Exor

    Exor N.V. (AEX: EXO) has been building great companies since its foundation by the Agnelli Family. For more than a century, Exor has made successful investments worldwide, applying a culture that combines entrepreneurial spirit and financial discipline. Its portfolio is principally made up of companies in which Exor is the largest shareholder including Ferrari, Stellantis, Philips and CNH.

    Regulated Information

    This press release contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the European Market Abuse Regulation (596/2014).

    Restrictions

    This announcement does not constitute or form part of an offer or invitation, or a solicitation of any offer or invitation, to purchase any Ordinary Shares or other securities.

    Goldman Sachs Bank Europe SE (“Goldman Sachs”), which is authorised and regulated by the European Central Bank and the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (Die Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht) and Deutsche Bundesbank in Germany, is acting exclusively as Dealer Manager to Exor and to no-one else in connection with the Tender Offer. Neither Goldman Sachs nor its affiliates, nor their respective partners, directors, officers, employees or agents are responsible to any other person than Exor for providing the protections afforded to clients of Goldman Sachs or for providing advice in connection with the Tender Offer.

    ING Bank N.V. (“ING“) is directly supervised by the European Central Bank as part of the Single Supervisory Mechanism and regulated by De Nederlandsche Bank and the Dutch Autoriteit Financiële Markten, and is acting as Dealer Manager and Tender Agent exclusively for Exor and for no-one else in connection with the Tender Offer and will not be responsible to any person other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to clients of ING or for providing assistance in connection with the Tender Offer.

    Apart from the responsibilities and liabilities, if any, which may be imposed on the Dealer Managers under their respective legal or regulatory regime: (i) none of the Dealer Managers or any persons associated or affiliated with either of them accepts any responsibility whatsoever or makes any warranty or representation, express or implied, in relation to the contents of the Offer Memorandum, including its accuracy, completeness or verification or for any other statement made or purported to be made by, or on behalf of it, Exor or the members of the Board, in connection with Exor and/or the Tender Offer; and (ii) each of the Dealer Managers accordingly disclaims, to the fullest extent permitted by law, all and any liability whatsoever, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise (save as referred to above) which they might otherwise be found to have in respect of the Offer Memorandum or any such statement.

    Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements

    This announcement includes statements that are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms anticipates, believes, could, estimates, expects, intends, may, plans, projects, should or will, or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, goals, future events or intentions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to future events and circumstances.

    Forward-looking statements may, and often do, differ materially from actual results. Any forward-looking statements in this announcement reflect Exor’s current view with respect to future events and are subject to risks relating to future events and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to the Group and its operations, results of operations, and growth strategy. Other than in accordance with its legal or regulatory obligations (including the Market Abuse Regulation and applicable stock exchange rules), Exor is not under any obligation and Exor expressly disclaims any intention or obligation (to the maximum extent permitted by law) to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Dealer Managers and Tender Agent

    Goldman Sachs and ING each act as a Dealer Manager, and together as the Dealer Managers for the Tender Offer. ING acts as Tender Agent for the Tender Offer.

    Further information

    Public announcements in connection are available on the dedicated tender offer website of the Company at https://www.exor.com/pages/investors-media/shareholders-corner/share-buyback.

    For any questions related to this announcement, please contact Exor’s Investor Relations at
    ir@exor.com or +31 (0)20 240 2 222.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Dassault Systèmes and Airbus Extend Strategic Partnership to Use Virtual Twins for Next-Generation Programs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, FranceApril 24, 2025

    Dassault Systèmes and Airbus Extend Strategic Partnership to Use Virtual Twins for Next-Generation Programs

    • Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform will be used across Airbus, company-wide, for all future generations of civil and military aircraft and helicopters
    • More than 20,000 users from every business area and the value chain will collaborate and use Dassault Systèmes’ virtual twins to improve efficiency, shorten development cycles and reduce costs
    • This is a key milestone in the digital transformation of Airbus’ ways of working and the preparation of the next generation of aerospace products

    Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) and Airbus have extended their long-term strategic partnership, putting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform at the heart of lifecycle management of all new Airbus programs for civil and military aircraft and helicopters.

    This deployment will support the entire development chain for all Airbus civil and military aircraft and helicopters. More than 20,000 users from every business area, as well as Airbus suppliers, will be able to collaborate more effectively and use virtual twins – on premise or on a sovereign cloud – to shorten development cycles, anticipate and improve production efficiency, and enhance aftersales support – all while reducing costs.

    “Digitalization is a key enabler that we are leveraging to support our core priorities, whether it is ramping up the production of our commercial aircraft, preparing the next generation of platforms that will further contribute to the decarbonization of our sector, or pioneering the defense and security solutions of tomorrow,” said Guillaume Faury, CEO, Airbus. “This renewed partnership with Dassault Systèmes will play an important role in accelerating our progress towards these goals, while ensuring the highest levels of quality, safety and security throughout the lifecycle of our products and solutions, from design to in-service operations.”

    “Our long history of collaboration with Airbus embarks on its next chapter, enabling the entire enterprise and its value chain to innovate globally, efficiently and virtually for decades to come. Airbus can take full advantage of AI-powered generative experiences, and scientific advances in material science, modeling, simulation, production and operation systems efficiency with our 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This will open new possibilities to imagine, create and produce the experiences that will define the future of the aerospace industry,” said Bernard Charlès, Executive Chairman, Dassault Systèmes.

    Dassault Systèmes will provide Airbus with seven industry solution experiences based on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform: “Program Excellence,” “Winning Concept,” “Co-Design to Target,” “Cleared to Operate,” “Ready for Rate,” “Build to Operate,” and “Keep Them Operating.”1  

    ###

    FOR MORE INFORMATION

    Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions: http://www.3ds.com

    ABOUT DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress.  Since 1981, the company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients and citizens.  With Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 370,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact.  For more information, visit:  www.3ds.com

    Dassault Systèmes Press Contacts
    Corporate / France        Arnaud MALHERBE        arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com        +33 (0)1 61 62 87 73
    North America        Natasha LEVANTI        natasha.levanti@3ds.com        +1 (508) 449 8097
    EMEA        Virginie BLINDENBERG        virginie.blindenberg@3ds.com        +33 (0) 1 61 62 84 21
    China        Grace MU        grace.mu@3ds.com        +86 10 6536 2288
    Japan        Reina YAMAGUCHI        reina.yamaguchi@3ds.com        +81 90 9325 2545
    Korea        Jeemin JEONG        jeemin.jeong@3ds.com        +82 2 3271 6653
    India        Priyanka PANDEY        priyanka.pandey@3ds.com        +91 9886302179


    1 The agreement between Dassault Systèmes and Airbus was signed in Q4 2024.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Dassault Systèmes: Solid start to the year with strong subscription growth, EPS at the high end of guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, FranceApril 24, 2025

    Dassault Systèmes: Solid start to the year with strong subscription growth, EPS at the high end of guidance

    Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) today reports its IFRS unaudited estimated financial results for the first quarter 2025 ended March 31, 2025. The Group’s Board of Directors approved these estimated results on April 23, 2025. This press release also includes financial information on a non-IFRS basis and reconciliations with IFRS figures in the Appendix.

    Summary Highlights1  

    (unaudited, non-IFRS unless otherwise noted,
    all growth rates in constant currencies)

    • 1Q25: Software revenue increased by 5% driven by recurring revenue up 7%;
    • 1Q25: Strong subscription growth of 14%, bringing New business up 7%;
    • 1Q25: 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue growth of 17%;
    • 1Q25: Diluted EPS up 5% (6% as reported) to €0.32;
    • 1Q25: Cash flow from operations grew 21%, as reported, to €813 million (IFRS);
    • FY25: Full year objectives unchanged, total revenue growth of 6-8% and diluted EPS of €1.36-€1.39.

    Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Executive Officer Commentary

    Pascal Daloz, Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Executive Officer, commented:

    “In February this year we announced Gen 7, the new generation of representation of our customers’ virtual universes – we call it 3D UNIV+RSES. This seventh generation of MODSIM data, powered by AI and spatial computing, makes the 3DEXPERIENCE the next-generation platform for knowledge and know-how, establishing it as a global IP management platform. Early customer feedback confirms that platform-based AI leveraging virtual twins creates competitive advantage. 

    We’ve had a solid start to the year. In the first quarter, the Manufacturing Industries sector performed well led by Aerospace & Defense and High Tech, along with Transportation & Mobility in China, Japan and US. At the same time, we’re accelerating in Sovereign Infrastructure, where energy, security, and AI capabilities – through high-performance data centers – are becoming strategic imperatives for nations and territories.

    We are committed to being the trusted partner for our customers – helping them stay ahead, while strengthening our leadership position for the long term and raising barriers to entry.”

    Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Financial Officer Commentary

    (revenue, operating margin and diluted EPS (‘EPS’) growth rates in constant currencies,
    data on a non-IFRS basis)

    Rouven Bergmann, Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Financial Officer, commented:

    “In the first quarter, our revenue is driven by strong subscription growth of 14%. As a result, recurring revenue now represents 86% of software revenue, highlighting the resilience of our business model. Regarding operational efficiency, we reached the upper end of our EPS guidance and saw strong growth in operating cash flow, increasing by 21% as reported.

    Entering 2025, our approach was to provide a risk-adjusted financial outlook. Since then, the introduction of new tariffs has created a more volatile market environment, which could lead to longer decision-making cycles. That said, our pipeline remains solid, and our current visibility aligns with the midpoint of our full year guidance.

    Therefore, we keep our 2025 outlook of 6-8% total revenue growth and 7-10% EPS growth unchanged. In addition, we are slightly adjusting our operating margin target, expecting a year-over-year expansion of 50-70 basis points, versus 70-100 basis points prior, to gain additional flexibility and invest in Gen 7 to support our long-term growth.”

    Financial Summary

    In millions of Euros,
    except per share data and percentages
      IFRS   Non-IFRS
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Change Change in constant currencies   Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Change Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue   1,573.0 1,499.7 5% 4%   1,573.0 1,499.7 5% 4%
    Software Revenue   1,432.7 1,352.8 6% 5%   1,432.7 1,352.8 6% 5%
    Operating Margin   19.4% 21.6% (2.3)pts     30.9% 31.1% (0.2)pt  
    Diluted EPS   0.20 0.21 (9)%     0.32 0.30 6% 5%

    First Quarter 2025 Versus 2024 Financial Comparisons

    (unaudited, IFRS and non-IFRS unless otherwise noted,
    all revenue growth rates in constant currencies)

    • Total Revenue: Total revenue in the first quarter grew by 4% to €1.57 billion, and software revenue increased by 5% to €1.43 billion. Subscription & support revenue rose by 7%; recurring revenue represented 86% of software revenue, up 2 basis points versus last year. Licenses and other software revenue declined by 10% to €198 million. Services revenue was down 6% to €140 million, during the quarter.
    • Software Revenue by Geography: Revenue in the Americas increased by 7% to represent 43% of software revenue. This growth acceleration is driven by Aerospace & Defense, Transport & Mobility and High-Tech. Despite tariff uncertainty, Europe increased by 1%, led by good growth in Aerospace & Defense. Europe represented 36% of software revenue. In Asia, revenue increased by 5%, driven by India, Southeast Asia and Korea. Asia represented 22% of software revenue.
    • Software Revenue by Product Line:
      • Industrial Innovation software revenue increased by 8% to €793 million. This strong broad-based performance was led by CATIA, ENOVIA, DELMIA and NETVIBES. Industrial Innovation software represented 55% of software revenue.
    • Life Sciences software revenue was stable at €293 million, accounting for 20% of software revenue. MEDIDATA was impacted by continued CRO2 headwinds, while benefiting from the steady dynamic with Large Pharma and Mid-Market.
    • Mainstream Innovation software revenue increased by 2% to €347 million. SOLIDWORKS had a slow start to the year, but saw solid bookings and good momentum in 3DEXPERIENCE adoption. CENTRIC PLM was impacted by timing of renewals, after an exceptional year of growth in 2024. Mainstream Innovation represented 24% of software revenue, during the period.
    • Software Revenue by Industry: Aerospace & Defense, High Tech and Industrial Equipment were among the best performers during the quarter.
    • Key Strategic Drivers: 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue increased by 17%, driven by Aerospace & Defense, High Tech and Transportation & Mobility, along with opportunities in the sovereign infrastructure domain. 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue represented 39% of 3DEXPERIENCE eligible software revenue. Cloud software revenue grew by 7% and represented 25% of software revenue during the period. 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud software revenue increased by 41%.
    • Operating Income and Margin: IFRS operating income declined by 6% to €304 million, as reported. Non-IFRS operating income increased by 3% in constant currencies to €486 million (up 4% as reported). The IFRS operating margin stood at 19.4% compared to 21.6% in the first quarter of 2024. The non-IFRS operating margin totaled 30.9% versus 31.1% during the same period last year.
    • Earnings per Share: IFRS diluted EPS was €0.20, down 9% as reported. Non-IFRS diluted EPS grew to €0.32, up 6% as reported, or 5% in constant currencies.
    • Cash Flow from Operations (IFRS): Cash flow from operations totaled €813 million, an increase of 21% relative to the same period last year with strong cash collection. Cash flow from operations was principally used for the acquisition of ContentServ for €191 million (net of €11 million of cash acquired), repurchase of Treasury Shares for €80 million, repayment of debt for €59 million and €56 million for investments in CAPEX.
    • Balance Sheet (IFRS): Dassault Systèmes had a net cash position of €1.79 billion as of March 31, 2025, an increase of €0.33 billion, compared to €1.46 billion for the year ending December 31, 2024. Cash and cash equivalents totaled €4.24 billion at the end of March 2025.

    Financial Objectives for 2025

    Dassault Systèmes’ second quarter and 2025 financial objectives presented below are given on a non-IFRS basis and reflect the principal 2025 currency exchange rate assumptions for the US dollar and Japanese yen as well as the potential impact from additional non-Euro currencies:

               
          Q2 2025 FY 2025  
      Total Revenue (billion) €1.520 – €1.580 €6.567 – €6.667  
      Growth 2 – 6% 6 – 7%  
      Growth ex FX 3 – 7% 6 – 8%  
               
      Software revenue growth * 3 – 7% 6 – 8%  
        Of which licenses and other software revenue growth * (6) – 1% 2 – 6%  
        Of which recurring revenue growth * 5 – 8% 7 – 8%  
     

    Services revenue growth *

    3 – 7%

    4 – 6%  
               
      Operating Margin 29.8% – 29.9% 32.3% – 32.6%  
               
      EPS Diluted €0.30 – €0.31 €1.36 – €1.39  
      Growth (1) – 3% 7 – 9%  
      Growth ex FX 1 – 5% 7 – 10%  
               
      US dollar $1.10 per Euro $1.09 per Euro  
      Japanese yen (before hedging) JPY 155.0 per Euro JPY 156.4 per Euro  
      * Growth in Constant Currencies      

    These objectives are prepared and communicated only on a non-IFRS basis and are subject to the cautionary statement set forth below.

    The 2025 non-IFRS financial objectives set forth above do not take into account the following accounting elements below and are estimated based upon the 2025 principal currency exchange rates above: no significant contract liabilities write-downs; share-based compensation expenses, including related social charges, estimated at approximately €213 million (these estimates do not include any new stock option or share grants issued after March 31, 2025); amortization of acquired intangibles and of tangibles reevaluation, estimated at approximately €353 million, largely impacted by the acquisition of MEDIDATA and lease incentives of acquired companies at approximately €1 million.

    The above objectives also do not include any impact from other operating income and expenses, a net principally comprised of acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets; from one-time items included in financial revenue; from one-time tax effects; and from the income tax effects of these non-IFRS adjustments. Finally, these estimates do not include any new acquisitions or restructuring completed after March 31, 2025.

    Corporate Announcements

    Today’s Webcast and Conference Call Information

    Today, Thursday, April 24, 2025, Dassault Systèmes will host, from Paris, a webcasted presentation at 9:00 AM London Time / 10:00 AM Paris time, and will then host a conference call at 8:30 AM New York time / 1:30 PM London time / 2:30 PM Paris time. The webcasted presentation and conference calls will be available online by accessing investor.3ds.com.

    Additional investor information is available at investor.3ds.com or by calling Dassault Systèmes’ Investor Relations at +33.1.61.62.69.24.

    Investor Relations Events

    • Capital Markets Day: June 6, 2025
    • Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release: July 24, 2025
    • Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Release: October 23, 2025
    • Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings Release: February 11, 2026

    Forward-looking Information

    Statements herein that are not historical facts but express expectations or objectives for the future, including but not limited to statements regarding the Group’s non-IFRS financial performance objectives are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on Dassault Systèmes management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or performances may differ materially from those in such statements due to a range of factors.

    The Group’s actual results or performance may be materially negatively affected by numerous risks and uncertainties, as described in the “Risk Factors” section 1.9 of the 2024 Universal Registration Document (‘Document d’enregistrement universel’) filed with the AMF (French Financial Markets Authority) on March 18, 2025, available on the Group’s website www.3ds.com.

    In particular, please refer to the risk factor “Uncertain Global Environment” in section 1.9.1.1 of the 2024 Universal Registration Document set out below for ease of reference:

    “In light of the uncertainties regarding economic, business, social, health and geopolitical conditions at the global level, Dassault Systèmes’ revenue, net earnings and cash flows may grow more slowly, whether on an annual or quarterly basis, mainly due to the following factors:

    • the deployment of Dassault Systèmes’ solutions may represent a large portion of a customer’s investments in software technology. Decisions to make such an investment are impacted by the economic environment in which the customers operate. Uncertain global geopolitical, economic and health conditions and the lack of visibility or the lack of financial resources may cause some customers, e.g. within the automotive, aerospace, energy or natural resources industries, to reduce, postpone or cancel their investments, or to reduce or not renew ongoing paid maintenance for their installed base, which impact larger customers’ revenue with their respective sub-contractors;
    • the political, economic and monetary situation in certain geographic regions where Dassault Systèmes operates could become more volatile and negatively affect Dassault Systèmes’ business, and in particular its revenue, for example, due to stricter export compliance rules or the introduction of new customs barriers or controls on the exchange of goods and services;
    • continued pressure or volatility on raw materials and energy prices could also slow down Dassault Systèmes’ diversification efforts in new industries;
    • uncertainties regarding the extent and duration of costs inflation could adversely affect the financial position of Dassault Systèmes; and
    • the sales cycle of the Dassault Systèmes’ products – already relatively long due to the strategic nature of such investments for customers – could further lengthen.

    The occurrence of crises – health and political crises in particular – could have consequences both for the health and safety of Dassault Systèmes’ employees and for the Company. It could also adversely impact the financial situation or financing and supply capabilities of Dassault Systèmes’ existing and potential customers, commercial and technology partners, some of whom may be forced to temporarily close sites or to cease operations. A deteriorating economic environment could generate increased price pressure and affect the collection of receivables, which would negatively affect Dassault Systèmes’ revenue, financial performance and market position.

    Dassault Systèmes makes every effort to take into consideration this uncertain outlook. Dassault Systèmes’ business results, however, may not develop as anticipated. Furthermore, due to factors affecting sales of Dassault Systèmes’ products and services, there may be a substantial time lag between an improvement in global economic and business conditions and an upswing in the Company’s business results.

    In preparing such forward-looking statements, the Group has in particular assumed an average US dollar to euro exchange rate of US$1.10 per €1.00 as well as an average Japanese yen to euro exchange rate of JPY155.0 to €1.00, before hedging for the second quarter 2025. The Group has assumed an average US dollar to euro exchange rate of US$1.09 per €1.00 as well as an average Japanese yen to euro exchange rate of JPY156.4 to €1.00, before hedging for the full year 2025. However, currency values fluctuate, and the Group’s results may be significantly affected by changes in exchange rates.   

    Non-IFRS Financial Information

    Readers are cautioned that the supplemental non-IFRS financial information presented in this press release is subject to inherent limitations. It is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for IFRS measurements. The supplemental non-IFRS financial information should be read only in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. Furthermore, the Group’s supplemental non-IFRS financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled “non-IFRS” measures used by other companies. Specific limitations for individual non-IFRS measures are set forth in the Company’s 2024 Universal Registration Document filed with the AMF on March 18, 2025.

    In the tables accompanying this press release the Group sets forth its supplemental non-IFRS figures for revenue, operating income, operating margin, net income and diluted earnings per share, which exclude the effect of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ deferred revenue, share-based compensation expense and related social charges, the amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangibles reevaluation, certain other operating income and expense, net, including impairment of goodwill and acquired intangibles, the effect of adjusting lease incentives of acquired companies, certain one-time items included in financial revenue and other, net, and the income tax effect of the non-IFRS adjustments and certain one-time tax effects. The tables also set forth the most comparable IFRS financial measure and reconciliations of this information with non-IFRS information.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION

    Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions: http://www.3ds.com

    ABOUT DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Since 1981, the company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients and citizens.
    With Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 370 000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact.
    For more information, visit www.3ds.com

    Dassault Systèmes Investor Relations Team                        FTI Consulting

    Beatrix Martinez: +33 1 61 62 40 73                                Arnaud de Cheffontaines: +33 1 47 03 69 48

                                                                    Jamie Ricketts : +44 20 3727 1600

    investors@3ds.com

    Dassault Systèmes Press Contacts

    Corporate / France        Arnaud MALHERBE        

    arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com        

    +33 (0)1 61 62 87 73

    © Dassault Systèmes. All rights reserved. 3DEXPERIENCE, the 3DS logo, the Compass icon, IFWE, 3DEXCITE, 3DVIA, BIOVIA, CATIA, CENTRIC PLM, DELMIA, ENOVIA, GEOVIA, MEDIDATA, NETVIBES, OUTSCALE, SIMULIA and SOLIDWORKS are commercial trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes, a European company (Societas Europaea) incorporated under French law, and registered with the Versailles trade and companies registry under number 322 306 440, or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are owned by their respective owners. Use of any Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries trademarks is subject to their express written approval.

    APPENDIX TABLE OF CONTENTS

    Due to rounding, numbers presented throughout this and other documents may not add up precisely to the totals provided and percentages may not precisely reflect the absolute figures.    

    Glossary of Definitions

    Non-IFRS Financial Information

    Acquisitions and Foreign Exchange Impact

    Condensed consolidated statements of income

    Condensed consolidated balance sheet

    Condensed consolidated cash flow statement

    IFRS – non-IFRS reconciliation

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES – Glossary of Definitions

    Information in Constant Currencies

    Dassault Systèmes has followed a long-standing policy of measuring its revenue performance and setting its revenue objectives exclusive of currency in order to measure in a transparent manner the underlying level of improvement in its total revenue and software revenue by activity, industry, geography and product lines. The Group believes it is helpful to evaluate its growth exclusive of currency impacts, particularly to help understand revenue trends in its business. Therefore, the Group provides percentage increases or decreases in its revenue and expenses (in both IFRS as well as non-IFRS) to eliminate the effect of changes in currency values, particularly the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen, relative to the euro. When trend information is expressed “in constant currencies”, the results of the “prior” period have first been recalculated using the average exchange rates of the comparable period in the current year, and then compared with the results of the comparable period in the current year.

    While constant currency calculations are not considered to be an IFRS measure, the Group believes these measures are critical to understanding its global revenue results and to compare with many of its competitors who report their financial results in U.S. dollars. Therefore, Dassault Systèmes includes this calculation for comparing IFRS revenue figures as well non-IFRS revenue figures for comparable periods. All information at constant currencies is expressed as a rounded percentage and therefore may not precisely reflect the absolute figures.

    Information on Growth excluding acquisitions (“organic growth”)

    In addition to financial indicators on the entire Group’s scope, Dassault Systèmes provides growth excluding acquisitions effect, also named organic growth. In order to do so, the data relating to the scope is restated excluding acquisitions, from the date of the transaction, over a period of 12 months.

    Information on Industrial Sectors

    The Group provides broad end-to-end software solutions and services: its platform-based virtual twin experiences combine modeling, simulation, data science and collaborative innovation to support companies in the three sectors it serves, namely Manufacturing Industries, Life Sciences & Healthcare, and Infrastructure & Cities.

    These three sectors comprise twelve industries:

    • Manufacturing Industries: Transportation & Mobility; Aerospace & Defense; Marine & Offshore; Industrial Equipment; High-Tech; Home & Lifestyle; Consumer Packaged Goods – Retail. In Manufacturing Industries, Dassault Systèmes helps customers virtualize their operations, improve data sharing and collaboration across their organization, reduce costs and time-to-market, and become more sustainable;
    • Life Sciences & Healthcare: Life Sciences & Healthcare. In this sector, the Group aims to address the entire cycle of the patient journey to lead the way toward precision medicine. To reach the broader healthcare ecosystem from research to commercial, the Group’s solutions connect all elements from molecule development to prevention to care, and combine new therapeutics, medical practices, and Medtech;
    • Infrastructure & Cities: Infrastructure, Energy & Materials; Architecture, Engineering & Construction; Business Services; Cities & Public Services. In Infrastructure & Cities, the Group supports the virtualization of the sector in making its industries more efficient and sustainable, and creating desirable living environments.

    Information on Product Lines

    The Group’s product lines financial reporting include the following financial information:

    • Industrial Innovation software revenue, which includes CATIA, ENOVIA, SIMULIA, DELMIA, GEOVIA, NETVIBES, and 3DEXCITE brands;
    • Life Sciences software revenue, which includes MEDIDATA and BIOVIA brands;
    • Mainstream Innovation software revenue which includes SOLIDWORKS, as well as its CENTRIC PLM and 3DVIA brands.

    Starting from 2022, OUTSCALE became a brand of the Group, extending the portfolio of software applications. As the first sovereign and sustainable operator on the cloud, OUTSCALE enables governments and corporations from all sectors to achieve digital autonomy through a Cloud experience and with a world-class cyber governance.

    GEOs

    Eleven GEOs are responsible for driving the development of the Company’s business and implementing its customer‑centric engagement model. Teams leverage strong networks of local customers, users, partners, and influencers.

    These GEOs are structured into three groups:

    • the “Americas” group, made of two GEOs;
    • the “Europe” group, comprising Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and made of four GEOs;
    • the “Asia” group, comprising Asia and Oceania and made of five GEOs.

    3DEXPERIENCE Software Contribution

    To measure the relative share of 3DEXPERIENCE software in its revenues, Dassault Systèmes calculates the percentage contribution by comparing total 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue to software revenue for all product lines except SOLIDWORKS, MEDIDATA, CENTRIC PLM and other acquisitions (defined as “3DEXPERIENCE Eligible software revenue”).

    Cloud revenue

    Cloud revenue is generated from contracts that provide access to cloud-based solutions (SaaS), infrastructure as a service (IaaS), cloud solution development and cloud managed services. These offerings are delivered by Dassault Systèmes through its own cloud infrastructure or by third-party cloud providers. They are available through different deployment methods: Dedicated cloud, Sovereign cloud and International cloud. Cloud solutions are generally offered through subscription-based models or perpetual licenses with support and hosting services.

    New business

    New business is the combination of subscription revenue and licenses & other software revenue.

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    NON-IFRS FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data, percentages, headcount and exchange rates)

    Non-IFRS key figures exclude the effects of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ contract liabilities (deferred revenue), share-based compensation expense, including related social charges, amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation, lease incentives of acquired companies, other operating income and expense, net, including the acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets, certain one-time items included in financial loss, net, certain one-time tax effects and the income tax effects of these non-IFRS adjustments.

    Comparable IFRS financial information and a reconciliation of the IFRS and non-IFRS measures are set forth in the separate tables within this Attachment.

    In millions of Euros, except per share data, percentages, headcount and exchange rates Non-IFRS reported
    Three months ended
    March 31,

    2025

    March 31,

    2024

    Change Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue € 1,573.0 € 1,499.7 5% 4%
             
    Revenue breakdown by activity        
    Software revenue 1,432.7 1,352.8 6% 5%
    Of which licenses and other software revenue 198.1 218.5 (9)% (10)%
    Of which subscription and support revenue 1,234.6 1,134.3 9% 7%
    Services revenue 140.2 146.8 (4)% (6)%
             
    Software revenue breakdown by product line        
    Industrial Innovation 793.1 731.4 8% 8%
    Life Sciences 292.6 284.7 3% 0%
    Mainstream Innovation 347.1 336.7 3% 2%
             
    Software Revenue breakdown by geography        
    Americas 611.1 553.6 10% 7%
    Europe 513.2 503.2 2% 1%
    Asia 308.4 296.0 4% 5%
             
    Operating income € 486.1 € 466.5 4%  
    Operating margin 30.9% 31.1%    
             
    Net income attributable to shareholders € 420.1 € 397.2 6%  
    Diluted earnings per share € 0.32 € 0.30 6% 5%
             
    Closing headcount 26,225 25,780 2%  
             
    Average Rate USD per Euro 1.05 1.09 (3)%  
    Average Rate JPY per Euro 160.45 161.15 (0)%  

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    ACQUISITIONS AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE IMPACT

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros Non-IFRS reported o/w growth at constant rate and scope o/w change of scope impact at current year rate o/w FX impact on previous year figures
    March 31,

    2025

    March 31,

    2024

    Change
    Revenue QTD 1,573.0 1,499.7 73.3 52.6 0.9 19.8

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages)

    In millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages IFRS reported
    Three months ended
    March 31, March 31,
    2025 2024
    Licenses and other software revenue 198.1 218.5
    Subscription and Support revenue 1,234.6 1,134.3
    Software revenue 1,432.7 1,352.8
    Services revenue 140.2 146.8
    Total Revenue € 1,573.0 € 1,499.7
    Cost of software revenue (1) (129.2) (111.9)
    Cost of services revenue (131.1) (131.8)
    Research and development expenses (348.6) (311.4)
    Marketing and sales expenses (446.5) (420.3)
    General and administrative expenses (120.4) (105.1)
    Amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation (88.3) (93.3)
    Other operating income and expense, net (4.4) (1.8)
    Total Operating Expenses (1,268.5) (1,175.6)
    Operating Income € 304.5 € 324.1
    Financial income (loss), net 30.3 30.2
    Income before income taxes € 334.8 € 354.2
    Income tax expense (75.5) (68.3)
    Net Income € 259.4 € 286.0
    Non-controlling interest 1.2 (0.3)
    Net Income attributable to equity holders of the parent € 260.5 € 285.7
    Basic earnings per share 0.20 0.22
    Diluted earnings per share € 0.20 € 0.21
    Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 1,312.3 1,313.6
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 1,332.2 1,331.1

            (1) Excluding amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation.

    IFRS reported

     

    Three months ended March 31, 2025
    Change (2) Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue 5% 4%
    Revenue by activity    
    Software revenue 6% 5%
    Services revenue (4)% (6)%
    Software Revenue by product line    
    Industrial Innovation 8% 8%
    Life Sciences 3% 0%
    Mainstream Innovation 3% 2%
    Software Revenue by geography    
    Americas 10% 7%
    Europe 2% 1%
    Asia 4% 5%

                    (2) Variation compared to the same period in the prior year.

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros IFRS reported
    March 31, December 31,
    2025 2024
    ASSETS    
    Cash and cash equivalents 4,242.9 3,952.6
    Trade accounts receivable, net 1,709.5 2,120.9
    Contract assets 34.3 30.1
    Other current assets 464.8 464.0
    Total current assets 6,451.5 6,567.6
    Property and equipment, net 928.7 945.8
    Goodwill and Intangible assets, net 7,597.6 7,687.1
    Other non-current assets 358.9 345.5
    Total non-current assets 8,885.2 8,978.3
    Total Assets € 15,336.7 € 15,545.9
    LIABILITIES    
    Trade accounts payable 199.5 259.9
    Contract liabilities 1,716.0 1,663.4
    Borrowings, current 411.4 450.8
    Other current liabilities 1,109.7 1,147.4
    Total current liabilities 3,436.6 3,521.5
    Borrowings, non-current 2,043.3 2,042.8
    Other non-current liabilities 887.9 900.9
    Total non-current liabilities 2,931.3 2,943.7
    Non-controlling interests 14.3 14.1
    Parent shareholders’ equity 8,954.5 9,066.6
    Total Liabilities € 15,336.7 € 15,545.9

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros IFRS reported
    Three months ended
    March 31, March 31, Change
    2025 2024
    Net income attributable to equity holders of the parent 260.5 285.7 (25.2)
    Non-controlling interest (1.2) 0.3 (1.4)
    Net income 259.4 286.0 (26.6)
    Depreciation of property and equipment 50.5 47.6 2.8
    Amortization of intangible assets 89.6 95.2 (5.6)
    Adjustments for other non-cash items 16.1 37.7 (21.6)
    Changes in working capital 397.4 204.4 193.0
    Net Cash From Operating Activities € 813.0 € 670.9 € 142.1
           
    Additions to property, equipment and intangibles assets (55.9) (57.2) 1.2
    Payment for acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired (193.8) (4.5) (189.2)
    Other (37.8) 22.3 (60.1)
    Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities € (287.5) € (39.4) € (248.1)
           
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options 22.2 21.3 0.8
    Repurchase and sale of treasury stock (80.1) (131.1) 51.0
    Acquisition of non-controlling interests (0.2) (2.6) 2.5
    Repayment of borrowings (58.9) (0.1) (58.8)
    Repayment of lease liabilities (22.6) (24.0) 1.4
    Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities € (139.6) € (136.5) € (3.0)
           
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (95.7) 32.7 (128.4)
           
    Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents € 290.3 € 527.7 € (237.4)
           
           
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period € 3,952.6 € 3,568.3  
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of period € 4,242.9 € 4,095.9  

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES
    SUPPLEMENTAL NON-IFRS FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    IFRS – NON-IFRS RECONCILIATION
    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages)

    Readers are cautioned that the supplemental non-IFRS information presented in this press release is subject to inherent limitations. It is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered as a substitute for IFRS measurements. Also, the Group’s supplemental non-IFRS financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled “non-IFRS” measures used by other companies. Further specific limitations for individual non-IFRS measures, and the reasons for presenting non-IFRS financial information, are set forth in the Group’s Document d’Enregistrement Universel for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the AMF on March 18, 2025. To compensate for these limitations, the supplemental non-IFRS financial information should be read not in isolation, but only in conjunction with the Group’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    In millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages Three months ended March 31, Change
    2025 Adjustment(1) 2025 2024 Adjustment(1) 2024 IFRS Non-IFRS(2)
    IFRS Non-IFRS IFRS Non-IFRS
    Total Revenue € 1,573.0 € 1,573.0 € 1,499.7 € 1,499.7 5% 5%
    Revenue breakdown by activity                
    Software revenue 1,432.7 1,432.7 1,352.8 1,352.8 6% 6%
    Licenses and other software revenue 198.1 198.1 218.5 218.5 (9)% (9)%
    Subscription and Support revenue 1,234.6 1,234.6 1,134.3 1,134.3 9% 9%
    Recurring portion of Software revenue 86%   86% 84%   84%    
    Services revenue 140.2 140.2 146.8 146.8 (4)% (4)%
    Software Revenue breakdown by product line                
    Industrial Innovation 793.1 793.1 731.4 731.4 8% 8%
    Life Sciences 292.6 292.6 284.7 284.7 3% 3%
    Mainstream Innovation 347.1 347.1 336.7 336.7 3% 3%
    Software Revenue breakdown by geography                
    Americas 611.1 611.1 553.6 553.6 10% 10%
    Europe 513.2 513.2 503.2 503.2 2% 2%
    Asia 308.4 308.4 296.0 296.0 4% 4%
    Total Operating Expenses € (1,268.5) € 181.6 € (1,086.9) € (1,175.6) € 142.4 € (1,033.2) 8% 5%
    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges (88.5) 88.5 (46.7) 46.7    
    Amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation (88.3) 88.3 (93.3) 93.3    
    Lease incentives of acquired companies (0.4) 0.4 (0.7) 0.7    
    Other operating income and expense, net (4.4) 4.4 (1.8) 1.8    
    Operating Income € 304.5 € 181.6 € 486.1 € 324.1 € 142.4 € 466.5 (6)% 4%
    Operating Margin 19.4%   30.9% 21.6%   31.1%    
    Financial income (loss), net 30.3 0.6 30.9 30.2 1.0 31.2 1% (1)%
    Income tax expense (75.5) (21.6) (97.1) (68.3) (31.6) (99.9) 11% (3)%
    Non-controlling interest 1.2 (0.9) 0.2 (0.3) (0.3) (0.5) N/A (141)%
    Net Income attributable to shareholders € 260.5 € 159.6 € 420.1 € 285.7 € 111.5 € 397.2 (9)% 6%
    Diluted Earnings Per Share (3) € 0.20 € 0.12 € 0.32 € 0.21 € 0.08 € 0.30 (9)% 6%

    (1) In the reconciliation schedule above, (i) all adjustments to IFRS revenue data reflect the exclusion of the effect of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ contract liabilities (deferred revenue); (ii) adjustments to IFRS operating expense data reflect the exclusion of the amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation, share-based compensation expense, including related social charges, lease incentives of acquired companies, as detailed below, and other operating income and expense, net including acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets; (iii) adjustments to IFRS financial loss, net reflect the exclusion of certain one-time items included in financial loss, net, and; (iv) all adjustments to IFRS income data reflect the combined effect of these adjustments, plus with respect to net income and diluted earnings per share, certain one-time tax effects and the income tax effect of the non-IFRS adjustments.

    In millions of Euros, except percentages Three months ended March 31, Change
    2025

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2025

    Non-IFRS

    2024

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2024

    Non-IFRS

    IFRS Non-

    IFRS

    Cost of revenue (260.3) 4.9 0.1 (255.2) (243.8) 2.9 0.2 (240.6) 7% 6%
    Research and development expenses (348.6) 32.5 0.1 (316.0) (311.4) 17.9 0.3 (293.2) 12% 8%
    Marketing and sales expenses (446.5) 24.5 0.1 (421.9) (420.3) 13.7 0.1 (406.5) 6% 4%
    General and administrative expenses (120.4) 26.6 0.0 (93.8) (105.1) 12.3 0.0 (92.7) 15% 1%
    Total   € 88.5 € 0.4     € 46.7 € 0.7      

    (2) The non-IFRS percentage increase (decrease) compares non-IFRS measures for the two different periods. In the event there is non-IFRS adjustment to the relevant measure for only one of the periods under comparison, the non-IFRS increase (decrease) compares the non-IFRS measure to the relevant IFRS measure.
    (3) Based on a weighted average 1,332.2 million diluted shares for Q1 2025 and 1,331.1 million diluted shares for Q1 2024, and, for IFRS only, a diluted net income attributable to the sharehorlders of € 260.5 million for Q1 2025 (€ 285.7 million for Q1 2024). The Diluted net income attributable to equity holders of the Group corresponds to the Net Income attributable to equity holders of the Group adjusted by the impact of the share-based compensation plans to be settled either in cash or in shares at the option of the Group.


    1 IFRS figures for 1Q25: total revenue at €1.57 billion, operating margin of 19.4% and diluted EPS at €0.20.

    2 Contract Research Organizations

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation

    Interim report
    24 April 2025 at 08:00 EEST

    Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025

    Network Infrastructure delivers strong net sales growth to start 2025

    • Infinera acquisition completed during Q1, increasing Nokia’s scale in Optical Networks and with hyperscalers. Integration underway with many portfolio decisions already taken. Positive momentum with customers, with Q1 seeing strong order intake for Infinera driven by growth in hyperscalers.
    • Q1 net sales declined 3% y-o-y on a constant currency and portfolio basis (-1% reported) due to a challenging prior year comparison in Nokia Technologies. Network Infrastructure grew 11% on a constant currency and portfolio basis while Cloud and Network Services grew 8%. Mobile Networks grew 2%.
    • Comparable gross margin in Q1 decreased 820bps y-o-y to 42.3% (reported decreased 820bps to 41.5%), half of which is related to lower net sales in Nokia Technologies. It was also impacted by a contract settlement charge with net impact of EUR 120 million in Mobile Networks.
    • Q1 comparable operating margin decreased 990bps y-o-y to 3.6% (reported up 1 020bps to -1.1%), mainly due to lower gross margin and increased operating expenses resulting from targeted investments for long-term growth.
    • Q1 comparable diluted EPS for the period of EUR 0.03; reported diluted EPS for the period of EUR -0.01.
    • Q1 free cash flow of EUR 0.7 billion, net cash balance of EUR 3.0 billion.
    • Full year 2025 outlook unchanged with comparable operating profit of between EUR 1.9 billion and 2.4 billion and free cash flow conversion from comparable operating profit of between 50% and 80%.

    This is a summary of the Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025 published today. Nokia only publishes a summary of its financial reports in stock exchange releases. The summary focuses on Nokia Group’s financial information as well as on Nokia’s outlook. The detailed, segment-level discussion will be available in the complete financial report hosted at www.nokia.com/financials. A video interview summarizing the key points of our Q1 results will also be published on the website. Investors should not solely rely on summaries of Nokia’s financial reports and should also review the complete reports with tables.

    JUSTIN HOTARD, PRESIDENT AND CEO, ON Q1 2025 RESULTS

    In the following quote, net sales growth rates are on a constant currency and portfolio basis.
    Since joining Nokia as President and CEO three weeks ago, I’ve had great engagements with some of our customers, partners and employees. I see great potential for Nokia, and my early focus is on capital allocation to ensure we both drive efficiency and invest sufficiently in the right growth segments for long-term value creation. I am impressed with our core technology base across our portfolio including in RAN and core as well as in IP, Optical and Fiber technologies. In speaking with customers, it is clear we play a critical role as a trusted partner operating their mobile and fixed networks and have the potential to expand our presence in hyperscale, enterprise and defense markets. Spending the time with our employees I’ve been excited by their innovative spirit, energy and drive to unlock Nokia’s full potential.

    Our first quarter financial performance saw a net sales decline of 3%. However, excluding the catch-up element of licensing deals signed in the prior year, sales grew 7%. Our operating margin declined year-on-year due to the challenging prior year comparison in Nokia Technologies and a one-time charge in Mobile Networks, while profitability improved in both Network Infrastructure and Cloud and Network Services.

    Network Infrastructure net sales grew 11% with all units contributing to growth and its backlog increased. The highlight of the first quarter was the completion of the Infinera acquisition. Our expanded Optical Networks business had a strong first quarter with 15% net sales growth along with several important design wins, particularly with hyperscalers. We have initiated the integration of Infinera and made many important roadmap decisions which we communicated to customers in early April. We are on track to deliver our synergy targets and I believe this acquisition has significant value creation potential for Nokia.

    In Mobile Networks we continue to see positive signs of stabilization with further wins in addition to those we discussed last quarter. Today we have announced an important contract extension with T-Mobile US. Regarding our financial performance, net sales grew 2% but profitability was impacted by an unexpected one-time contract settlement with a net impact of EUR 120 million. The settlement related to a project for a single customer that started shipping in 2019 and the settlement fully resolves the situation.

    Cloud and Network Services delivered net sales growth of 8% and we continue to see strong demand in the market for our 5G Core offers with additional footprint won at AT&T, Boost Mobile, Ooredoo Qatar and Telefónica. Nokia Technologies continued its execution with further deals signed in the quarter that increased the contracted annual net sales run-rate to approximately EUR 1.4 billion.

    Looking forward, we are not immune to the rapidly evolving global trade landscape however based on early customer feedback, I believe our markets should prove to be relatively resilient. In 2025, we continue to expect strong net sales growth in Network Infrastructure, growth in Cloud and Network Services and largely stable net sales for Mobile Networks. In Nokia Technologies we expect approximately EUR 1.1 billion of operating profit.

    Regarding the tariff situation, there could be some short-term disruption. We will continue to utilize the flexibility of our global manufacturing network to minimize impact of the evolving tariff landscape. Based on what we see today, we currently expect a EUR 20 to 30 million impact to our comparable operating profit in the second quarter from the current tariffs. Given the lack of visibility, we have not taken an assumption related to tariffs in the second half of 2025.

    In terms of our outlook for the financial year 2025, we will continue to focus on investing in future growth opportunities and we now have an unexpected charge impacting Mobile Networks. Considering these factors, while achieving the top-end of the range will now be more challenging, our comparable operating profit guidance remains between EUR 1.9 and 2.4 billion. Our free cash flow guidance remains between 50% and 80% of comparable operating profit.

    In the coming months I will continue to listen and learn from customers, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders. I will provide an update with our Q2 results and I look forward to presenting our complete value creation vision for Nokia at our capital markets day which we now expect to hold in November.

    Justin Hotard
    President and CEO

    FINANCIAL RESULTS

    EUR million (except for EPS in EUR) Q1’25 Q1’24 YoY change
    Reported results      
    Net sales 4 390 4 444 (1)%
    Gross margin % 41.5% 49.7% (820)bps
    Research and development expenses (1 145) (1 125) 2%
    Selling, general and administrative expenses (728) (693) 5%
    Operating (loss)/profit (48) 405 (112)%
    Operating margin % (1.1)% 9.1% (1 020)bps
    (Loss)/profit from continuing operations (60) 451  
    Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations (13)  
    (Loss)/profit for the period (60) 438  
    EPS for the period, diluted (0.01) 0.08  
    Net cash and interest-bearing financial investments 2 988 5 137 (42)%
    Comparable results      
    Net sales 4 390 4 444 (1)%
    Constant currency and portfolio YoY change(1)             (3%)
    Gross margin % 42.3% 50.5% (820)bps
    Research and development expenses (1 115) (1 076) 4%
    Selling, general and administrative expenses (587) (584) 1%
    Operating profit 156 600 (74)%
    Operating margin % 3.6% 13.5% (990)bps
    Profit for the period 153 512 (70)%
    EPS for the period, diluted 0.03 0.09 (67)%
    Business group results Network
    Infrastructure
    Mobile
    Networks
    Cloud and Network Services Nokia
    Technologies
    Group Common and Other
    EUR million Q1’25 Q1’24 Q1’25 Q1’24 Q1’25 Q1’24 Q1’25 Q1’24 Q1’25 Q1’24
    Net sales 1 722 1 439 1 729 1 682 567 546 369 757 4 23
    YoY change 20%   3%   4%   (51)%   (83)%  
    Constant currency and portfolio YoY change(1) 11%   2%   8%   (52)%   (83)%  
    Gross margin % 40.6% 40.8% 30.9% 40.9% 45.9% 39.4% 100.0% 100.0%    
    Operating profit/(loss) 135 85 (152) (32) 14 (37) 259 658 (99) (75)
    Operating margin % 7.8% 5.9% (8.8)% (1.9)% 2.5% (6.8)% 70.2% 86.9%    

    (1) This metric provides additional information on the growth of the business and adjusts for both currency impacts and portfolio changes. The full definition is provided in the Alternative performance measures section in Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025.

    SHAREHOLDER DISTRIBUTION

    Dividend

    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting 2025 to be held on 29 April 2025 authorizes the Board to resolve on the distribution of an aggregate maximum of EUR 0.14 per share to be paid in respect of the financial year 2024. The authorization would be used to distribute dividend and/or assets from the reserve for invested unrestricted equity in four installments during the authorization period unless the Board decides otherwise for a justified reason. Subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting, the Board is expected to resolve on the amount and timing of each distribution so that the preliminary record and payment dates will be as set out in the Board’s proposal to the Annual General Meeting. Accordingly, the first expected record date would be 5 May 2025 and the expected payment date would be 12 May 2025. The actual dividend payment date outside Finland will be determined by the practices of the intermediary banks transferring the dividend payments.

    Share buyback program

    On 27 June 2024, Nokia announced its intention to acquire Infinera in a transaction that valued Infinera at US$1.7 billion equity value with up to 30% of the consideration to be paid in Nokia American depositary shares, depending on the elections of Infinera shareholders. To offset the dilution from the transaction to Nokia shareholders, on 22 November 2024 Nokia announced a share buyback program targeting to repurchase 150 million shares. This share buyback program was completed on 2 April 2025. Under this program, Nokia repurchased 150 million of its own shares at an average price per share of approximately EUR 4.69. The repurchases reduced the company’s unrestricted equity by approximately EUR 703 million and the repurchased shares were cancelled on 23 April 2025.

    OUTLOOK

    The outlook provided below reflects the acquisition of Infinera.

      Full Year 2025
    Comparable operating profit(1) EUR 1.9 billion to EUR 2.4 billion
    Free cash flow(1) 50% to 80% conversion from comparable operating profit

    1Please refer to Alternative performance measures section in Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025 for a full explanation of how these terms are defined.

    The outlook and all of the underlying outlook assumptions described below are forward-looking statements subject to a number of risks and uncertainties as described or referred to in the Risk Factors section later in this report.

    Along with Nokia’s official outlook targets provided above, Nokia provides the below additional assumptions that support the group level financial outlook.

      Full year 2025 Comment
    Group Common and Other operating expenses approximately EUR 400 million  
    Comparable financial income and expenses Positive EUR 50 to 150 million  
    Comparable income tax rate ~25%  
    Cash outflows related to income taxes EUR 500 million (update) Mainly reflecting evolving regional mix and the inclusion of Infinera
    Capital Expenditures EUR 650 million (update) Reflecting the inclusion of Infinera
    Recurring gross cost savings EUR 400 million Related to ongoing cost savings program and not including Infinera-related synergies
    Restructuring and associated charges related to cost savings programs EUR 250 million Related to ongoing cost savings program and not including Infinera-related synergies
    Restructuring and associated cash outflows EUR 400 million Related to ongoing cost savings program and not including Infinera-related synergies

    ADDITIONAL TOPICS

    Completion of Infinera acquisition

    On 28 February 2025, Nokia announced the completion of the acquisition of Infinera Corporation, pursuant to the definitive agreement announced on 27 June 2024. Infinera, the San Jose based global supplier of innovative open optical networking solutions and advanced optical semiconductors, has become part of the Nokia group effective as of the closing with Nokia holding 100% of its equity and voting rights. The total purchase consideration was EUR 2.5 billion, consisting of cash proceeds, Nokia shares in the form of American Depositary Shares, the fair value of the portion of Infinera’s performance and restricted shares attributable to pre-combination services that were replaced with Nokia’s share-based payment awards and the fair value of Infinera’s convertible senior notes in line with relevant bond indentures. For more information regarding the acquisition, refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Nokia Corporation Interim Report for Q1 2025.

    “Constant currency and portfolio net sales growth” alternative performance metric

    In Q1 2025, Nokia has introduced a new alternative performance metric (APM), “constant currency and portfolio net sales growth”. Constant currency and portfolio net sales growth is presented on a constant currency basis and also assumes certain specific acquisitions had already been owned during both periods and as if disposals had already occurred in both comparison periods. This has been added to mainly consider the acquisition of Infinera and is an evolution of the constant currency APM that had been previously used.

    RISK FACTORS

    Nokia and its businesses are exposed to a number of risks and uncertainties which include but are not limited to:

    • Competitive intensity, which is expected to continue at a high level as some competitors seek to take share;
    • Changes in customer network investments related to their ability to monetize the network;
    • Our ability to ensure competitiveness of our product roadmaps and costs through additional R&D investments;
    • Our ability to procure certain standard components and the costs thereof, such as semiconductors;
    • Disturbance in the global supply chain;
    • Impact of inflation, increased global macro-uncertainty, major currency fluctuations, changes in tariffs and higher interest rates;
    • Potential economic impact and disruption of global pandemics;
    • War or other geopolitical conflicts, disruptions and potential costs thereof;
    • Other macroeconomic, industry and competitive developments;
    • Timing and value of new, renewed and existing patent licensing agreements with licensees;
    • Results in brand and technology licensing; costs to protect and enforce our intellectual property rights; on-going litigation with respect to licensing and regulatory landscape for patent licensing;
    • The outcomes of on-going and potential disputes and litigation;
    • Our ability to execute, complete, successfully integrate and realize the expected benefits from transactions;
    • Timing of completions and acceptances of certain projects;
    • Our product and regional mix;
    • Uncertainty in forecasting income tax expenses and cash outflows, over the long-term, as they are also subject to possible changes due to business mix, the timing of patent licensing cash flow and changes in tax legislation, including potential tax reforms in various countries and OECD initiatives;
    • Our ability to utilize our Finnish deferred tax assets and their recognition on our balance sheet;
    • Our ability to meet our sustainability and other ESG targets, including our targets relating to greenhouse gas emissions;

    as well the risk factors specified under Forward-looking statements of this release, and our 2024 annual report on Form 20-F published on 13 March 2025 under Operating and financial review and prospects-Risk factors.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Certain statements herein that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect Nokia’s current expectations and views of future developments and include statements regarding: A) expectations, plans, benefits or outlook related to our strategies, projects, programs, product launches, growth management, licenses, sustainability and other ESG targets, operational key performance indicators and decisions on market exits; B) expectations, plans or benefits related to future performance of our businesses (including the expected impact, timing and duration of potential global pandemics, geopolitical conflicts and the general or regional macroeconomic conditions on our businesses, our supply chain, the timing of market changes or turning points in demand and our customers’ businesses) and any future dividends and other distributions of profit; C) expectations and targets regarding financial performance and results of operations, including market share, prices, net sales, income, margins, cash flows, cost savings, the timing of receivables, operating expenses, provisions, impairments, tariffs, taxes, currency exchange rates, hedging, investment funds, inflation, product cost reductions, competitiveness, value creation, revenue generation in any specific region, and licensing income and payments; D) ability to execute, expectations, plans or benefits related to transactions, investments and changes in organizational structure and operating model; E) impact on revenue with respect to litigation/renewal discussions; and F) any statements preceded by or including “anticipate”, “continue”, “believe”, “envisage”, “expect”, “aim”, “will”, “target”, “may”, “would”, “could“, “see”, “plan”, “ensure” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from such statements. These statements are based on management’s best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to them. These forward-looking statements are only predictions based upon our current expectations and views of future events and developments and are subject to risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Factors, including risks and uncertainties that could cause these differences, include those risks and uncertainties identified in the Risk Factors above.

    ANALYST WEBCAST

    • Nokia’s webcast will begin on 24 April 2025 at 11.30 a.m. Finnish time (EEST). The webcast will last approximately 60 minutes.
    • The webcast will be a presentation followed by a Q&A session. Presentation slides will be available for download at www.nokia.com/financials.
    • A link to the webcast will be available at www.nokia.com/financials.
    • Media representatives can listen in via the link, or alternatively call +1-412-317-5619.

    FINANCIAL CALENDAR

    • Nokia’s Annual General Meeting 2025 is planned to be held on 29 April 2025.
    • Nokia plans to publish its second quarter and half year 2025 results on 24 July 2025.
    • Nokia plans to publish its third quarter and January-September 2025 results on 23 October 2025.

    About Nokia

    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia
    Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia

    Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sp Mortgage Bank Plc & Savings Banks Group: Half-Year Reports for January–June 2025 will be published on 13 August 2025 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stock Exchange Release 
    24th of April 2025 at 8 am (CET +1) 

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc & Savings Banks Group: Half-Year Reports for 1st of January–30th of June 2024 will be published on 13th of August 2025 as a stock exchange release and can be also found at www.saastopankki.fi.

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc & Savings Banks Group 

    Further information: 

    Kai Koskela 
    Managing Director, Savings Banks Union Coop 
    kai.koskela@sastopankki.fi
    +358 40 549 0430  

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc is part of the Savings Banks Group and the Savings Banks Amalgamation. The role of Sp Mortgage Bank is, together with Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc, to be responsible for obtaining funding for the Savings Banks Group from money and capital markets. Sp Mortgage Bank is responsible for the Savings Banks Group’s mortgage-secured funding by issuing covered bonds. 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc & Savings Banks Group: Half-Year Reports January–June 2025 will be published on 13 August 2025 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stock Exchange Release 
    24th of April 2025 at 8 am (CET +1) 

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc & Savings Banks Group: Half year Reports for 1st of January–30th of June 2025 will be published on 13th of August 2025 as a stock exchange release and can be also found at www.saastopankki.fi

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc & Savings Banks Group 

    Further information: 

    Kai Koskela 
    Managing Director, Savings Banks Union Coop 
    kai.koskela@sastopankki.fi
    +358 40 549 0430  

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc is part of the Savings Banks Amalgamation and Savings Banks Group and operates as Group’s central credit institution. Central Bank of Savings Banks’ role is to ensure liquidity and wholesale funding of the Savings Banks Group via operating in the money and capital markets, issue payment cards, and provide payment transfer and account operator services.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bigbank’s Unaudited Financial Results for Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bigbank’s total gross loan portfolio grew to a record 2.3 billion euros by the end of the first quarter, up 102 million euros (+5%) quarter on quarter and 550 million euros (+32%) year on year. The business loan portfolio grew by 44 million euros (+6%) to 808 million euros, the home loan portfolio by 51 million euros (+8%) to 664 million euros and the consumer loan portfolio by 12 million euros (+1%) to 840 million euros compared to the previous quarter.

    Bigbank’s deposit portfolio grew in the first quarter mainly through savings deposits. In countries with smaller deposit portfolios, Bigbank offered attractive savings deposit rates in the first quarter – the highest rate was 3.25%, which was offered throughout the quarter in Estonia. While interest rates were lower in the Netherlands and Germany, which have the largest savings deposit portfolios, customers in those countries also showed strong interest in Bigbank’s savings deposits, despite fierce competition and decreasing interest rates.

    Compared to the previous quarter, the Group’s savings deposit portfolio grew by 124 million euros (+12%) to 1.14 billion euros and term deposit portfolio increased by 33 million euros (+2%) to 1.4 billion euros. Current accounts launched for existing customers in Estonia in December last year amounted to 3 million euros at the end of the first quarter. The Group’s total deposit portfolio grew by 159 million euros (+7%) quarter on quarter and by 400 million euros (+19%) year on year to 2.55 billion euros.

    In the first quarter of 2025, Bigbank earned a net profit of 9.8 million euros. Compared to the first quarter of 2024, net profit increased by 3.4 million euros, driven by an improvement in the payment performance of the consumer loan portfolio through a decrease of 1.1 million euros in the net allowance for expected credit losses and a decrease of 2.4 million euros in provisions.

    Compared to the first quarter of 2024, interest income grew by 3.3 million euros (+8%) to 46.2 million euros. Due to the growth in the deposit portfolio and the increase in the volume of bonds issued, interest expense grew also by 3.3 million euros (+19%) to 20.6 million euros. Compared to the same period last year, Bigbank’s net interest income remained stable at 25.6 million euros.

    A positive development in the first quarter was the improvement in the payment performance of the Baltic consumer loan portfolios. As a result, the Group’s net allowance for expected credit losses decreased by 1.1 million euros year on year to 4.6 million euros. In addition, while provisions of 2.4 million euros had to be recognised in the first quarter of 2024, no such costs were incurred in the first quarter of 2025. The credit quality of home loans continued to be very good, and the business loan portfolio was fairly stable.

    Compared to the end of 2024, the portfolio of loans more than 90 days past due grew by 4.7 million euros to 58.8 million euros and accounted for 2.5% of the total loan portfolio (+0.1 pp from the end of 2024). The share of stage 3 (non-performing) loans grew by 10.1 million euros in the first quarter and accounted for 5.1% of the total loan portfolio at the end of the quarter (+0.2 pp from the end of 2024). A relatively high level of the stage 3 portfolio is mainly related to a few bigger loans which are well secured and therefore do not increase expected credit losses. As the share of stage 3 loans surpassed the 5% threshold, Bigbank activated an action plan to bring the level below 5%. This movement was not unexpected as the Group has significantly reduced the sale of non-performing loans in recent quarters. Slower growth in loans more than 90 days past due and their overall lower level reflect that, in addition to loans with long-term payment delays, a significant share of stage 3 loans is made up of loans without long-term payment delays.

    The investment property portfolio increased to 72.6 million euros by the end of the first quarter (+9% compared to the end of 2024). The Group did not recognise any gains or losses from changes in the fair value of investment property during the period.

    Bigbank issued Additional Tier 1 (AT1) bonds in the amount of 3 million euros in the first quarter, increasing its common equity Tier 1 capital by the same amount. A total of 300 bonds with a nominal value of 10,000 euros each were issued to 38 investors. The initial issue size of 3 million euros was fully subscribed. In addition, Bigbank increased the volume of AT1 bonds issued in November 2024 by 1 million euros in the first quarter.

    Income statement, in thousands of euros Q1 2025 Q1 2024 3M 2025 3M 2024
    Net interest income 25,574 25,557 25,574 25,557
    Net fee and commission income 2,523 2,164 2,523 2,164
    Net income (loss) on financial assets 1,950 1,071 1,950 1,071
    Net other operating income -895 -849 -895 -849
    Total net operating income 29,152 27,943 29,152 27,943
    Salaries and associated charges -7,477 -6,412 -7,477 -6,412
    Administrative expenses -2,752 -3,669 -2,752 -3,669
    Depreciation, amortisation and impairment -2,137 -2,052 -2,137 -2,052
    Other gains (losses) 14 -2,419 14 -2,419
    Total expenses -12,352 -14,552 -12,352 -14,552
    Profit before loss allowances 16,800 13,391 16,800 13,391
    Net allowance for expected credit losses -4,635 -5,720 -4,635 -5,720
    Profit before income tax 12,165 7,671 12,165 7,671
    Income tax expense -2,301 -1,275 -2,301 -1,275
    Profit for the period from continuing operations 9,864 6,396 9,864 6,396
    Profit from discontinued operations 0 21 0 21
    Profit for the period 9,864 6,417 9,864 6,417
    Statement of financial position, in thousands of euros 31 March 2025 31 Dec 2024 31 March 2024
    Cash and cash equivalents 487,160 448,661 652,065
    Debt securities at FVOCI 49,431 22,334 13,586
    Loans to customers 2,297,987 2,196,482 1,747,606
    Other assets 109,603 110,939 89,823
    Total assets 2,944,181 2,778,416 2,503,080
    Customer deposits and loans received 2,560,513 2,401,689 2,161,463
    Subordinated notes 95,943 91,668 76,476
    Other liabilities 16,885 15,290 21,688
    Total liabilities 2,673,341 2,508,647 2,259,627
    Equity 270,840 269,769 243,453
    Total liabilities and equity 2,944,181 2,778,416 2,503,080

    Compared to the unaudited financial results published for Q1 2024, the net interest income and the net allowance for expected credit losses for the Q1 2024 have been adjusted, both reduced by 0.8 million euros. The adjustment is related to an identified error, where interest income from impaired financial assets had been accrued on the gross exposure of the financial assets, rather than on net basis. This correction does not impact the net profit for Q1 2024.

    Comment from Martin Länts, Chairman of the Management Board of Bigbank AS:

    In the first quarter of 2025, Bigbank continued its strong growth across all core areas. Our loan portfolio reached a record 2.3 billion euros, with increases in business, home, and consumer loan segments. Particularly encouraging is the significant growth of the home loan portfolio, reflecting not only a more active real estate market but also the trust customers place in Bigbank.

    Our deposit portfolio also continued to grow, driven primarily by our savings deposit product. We are pleased to see that more and more people are choosing our savings deposit – a product that combines some of the best interest rates on the market with flexible access to savings. During the quarter, the volume of the savings deposit portfolio increased by 123 million euros, reaching a group record of 1.14 billion euros.

    The current account service launched for Estonian customers in December last year has been well received. By the end of the quarter, over 3,500 customers had opened a current account. Bigbank offers a 2% interest rate on current account balances. Product development in the field of daily banking will continue at full speed in the coming quarters, with the aim of launching new functionalities in Estonia and gradually expanding the service to Latvia and Lithuania.

    Net profit for the first quarter of the year amounted to 9.8 million euros, an increase of 3.4 million euros compared to the same period last year. This growth was supported, among other factors, by a significant improvement in the payment behaviour of the consumer loan portfolio, which led to a decrease in the net cost of expected credit loss.

    In March, we successfully completed a 3-million-euro AT1 bond issue, which was fully subscribed. In addition, we increased the volume of bonds issued in November 2024 by 1 million euros. Both transactions were aimed at meeting regulatory capital requirements and support the continuation of the bank’s strategic growth, focusing on the expansion of the home and business loan portfolios.

    We thank all our investors and partners for their trust. Our goal remains to provide strong, responsible, and long-term value-creating banking.

    Bigbank AS (www.bigbank.eu), with over 30 years of operating history, is a commercial bank owned by Estonian capital. As of 31 March 2025, the bank’s total assets amounted to 2.9 billion euros, with equity of 271 million euros. Operating in nine countries, the bank serves more than 169,000 active customers and employs over 550 people. The credit rating agency Moody’s has assigned Bigbank a long-term bank deposit rating of Ba1, along with a baseline credit assessment (BCA) and an adjusted BCA of Ba2.

    Argo Kiltsmann
    Member of the Management Board
    Telephone: +372 5393 0833
    Email: argo.kiltsmann@bigbank.ee
    www.bigbank.ee

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia lands strategic 5G RAN deal with T-Mobile US to enhance nationwide connectivity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia lands strategic 5G RAN deal with T-Mobile US to enhance nationwide connectivity

    • Nokia boosts T-Mobile US’s award-winning 5G network with network footprint expansion and site modernization.
    • Partnership brings enhanced 5G connectivity to additional T-Mobile subscribers across the country.
    • Nokia to supply equipment from industry-leading AirScale portfolio.

    24 April 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced a significant multi-year extension of its strategic partnership with T-Mobile US, further expanding and enhancing the Un-carrier’s industry-leading nationwide 5G network coverage and capacity. The agreement will advance T-Mobile’s network by deploying next-generation baseband and radio technologies. T-Mobile’s network already reaches more than 98 percent of the U.S. population. This collaboration demonstrates its commitment to further extending its high-performance 5G capabilities.

    Under the agreement, Nokia will supply its industry-leading AirScale Radio Access Network (RAN) portfolio – including its latest generation Habrok Massive MIMO and Levante Ultra-Performance baseband solutions. These are powered by its energy-efficient ReefShark System-on-Chip technology and will boost T-Mobile’s 5G network for maximum performance, efficiency and reliability. Nokia will also deploy its AI-powered MantaRay SON and AutoPilot, a self-organizing network solution for optimization and automation. The deal includes hardware, software, maintenance, and support services.

    This collaboration will also advance T-Mobile’s network evolution by leveraging next-generation RAN architectures that enhance agility, scalability, and operational efficiency. Nokia will continue to support T-Mobile’s groundbreaking AI-RAN initiatives, including the ongoing technology partnership at T-Mobile’s AI-RAN Innovation Center launched last year. The center is dedicated to integrating AI into RAN to revolutionize network experiences and deliver stronger business outcomes.

    Ulf Ewaldsson, President of Technology, T-Mobile, commented, “T-Mobile’s nationwide standalone 5G network has solidified our global leadership by delivering tangible benefits to our customers. This new agreement with Nokia will further enhance our current network capabilities as we strengthen our journey supercharged with 5G Advanced, laying a robust foundation for future innovation.”

    Justin Hotard, President and CEO of Nokia, said: “This new agreement strengthens our deep partnership with T-Mobile US, and extends their leadership in delivering next-generation connectivity across the U.S. By implementing Nokia’s latest AirScale RAN innovations, along with advanced virtualized and AI-RAN-based solutions, T-Mobile will unlock premium 5G performance for their customers. I’m excited to continue our partnership to shape the next chapter of mobile connectivity in the U.S.”

    Nokia is T-Mobile US’s long-standing partner in RAN. The combination of Nokia’s advanced solutions and T-Mobile’s “Challenger to Champion” strategic initiatives have helped T-Mobile to become America’s largest, fastest, and most awarded 5G network, covering more than 332 million people across two million square miles.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news
    Product Page: Nokia Cloud RAN
    Product Page: Nokia anyRAN
    Product Page: Nokia AirScale Baseband
    Product Page: MantaRay NM

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ’s partnership with United Kingdom reinforced

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful three-day visit to the United Kingdom, where he met with His Majesty King Charles III and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

    “The UK is one of New Zealand’s most trusted partners, and I had a hugely productive day with Prime Minister Starmer,” Mr Luxon says. 

    The two leaders released a Joint Statement in which they pledged to do more to ensure the partnership remains robust in a rapidly changing world.

    “Prime Minister Starmer and I underlined our commitment to the international rules-based system. We also talked about boosting bilateral trade and investment, especially while the global economy is under such extreme pressure.”

    “Export growth will be critical to improving our economic prospects in the coming years so our businesses can create more jobs and lift incomes for Kiwis. 

    “Our free trade agreement provides New Zealand business with certainty of access to the high-value UK market where we have enjoyed export growth of more than 20 per cent in the last year.”

    Mr Luxon also hosted an investment roundtable with British business leaders to promote New Zealand as open for business.

    “Building on the success of our international investment summit earlier in the year, I continued to make the case for New Zealand as a place to invest, so we can get infrastructure built and grow our businesses to put more money in Kiwis’ pockets.

    “During my visit to London I also witnessed a number of commercial deals between UK and New Zealand companies, worth more than $120 million.”  

    The Prime Ministers agreed to refresh the Joint Statement on Defence Cooperation to ensure the partnership can respond to today’s global challenges. 

    Mr Luxon also announced New Zealand will extend the deployment of NZDF personnel to the UK and Europe to train Ukrainian soldiers until December 2026. 

    Mr Luxon visited some of those soldiers, met with representatives of the UK Government, the Leader of the Opposition and New Zealand and UK businesses. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 24, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 24, 2025.

    The ocean can look deceptively calm – until it isn’t. Here’s what ‘hazardous surf’ really means
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate, Beach Safety Research Group, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney Over the Easter weekend, seven people drowned along the Australian coast. Most were swept off rock platforms – extremely dangerous locations that are increasingly prevalent in Australia’s coastal fatality data. The weather was

    The major parties have announced their plans to address domestic and family violence. How do they stack up?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Professor (Practice), Faculty of Business and Economics, Monash University In the past week, at least seven women have been killed in Australia, allegedly by men. These deaths have occurred in different contexts – across state borders, communities and relationships. But are united by one truth:

    The biggest losers: how Australians became the world’s most enthusiastic gamblers
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wayne Peake, Adjunct research fellow, School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University The story goes that the late billionaire Australian media magnate Kerry Packer once visited a Las Vegas casino, where a Texan was bragging about his ranch and how many millions it was worth.

    A golden era for personalized medicine is approaching, but are we ready?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nazia Pathan, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University Biobanks have become some of the most transformative tools in medical research, enabling scientists to study the relationships between genes, health and disease on an unprecedented scale (Piqsels/Siyya) If there’s a disease that seems to run

    The billions spent on NZ’s accommodation supplement is failing to make rent affordable – so what will?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edward Yiu, Associate Professor, School of Business, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Pixelbliss/Shutterstock New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market has left many low and middle-income families reliant on the accommodation supplement to cover rent and mortgage payments. But our new research has found the scheme, which costs

    Fossil teeth show extinct giant kangaroos spent their lives close to home – and perished when the climate changed
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Laurikainen Gaete, PhD Candidate, University of Wollongong Chris Laurikainen Gaete Large kangaroos today roam long distances across the outback, often surviving droughts by moving in mobs to find new food when pickings are slim. But not all kangaroos have been this way. In new research published

    The billions spent on NZ’s accomodation supplement is failing to make rent affordable – so what will?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edward Yiu, Associate Professor, School of Business, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Pixelbliss/Shutterstock New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market has left many low and middle-income families reliant on the accommodation supplement to cover rent and mortgage payments. But our new research has found the scheme, which costs

    The gambling industry has women in its sights. Why aren’t policymakers paying attention?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simone McCarthy, Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Commercial Determinants of Health, Deakin University Wpadington/Shutterstock Whatever the code, whatever the season, Australian sports fans are bombarded with gambling ads. Drawing on Australians’ passion, loyalty and pride for sport, the devastating health and social consequences of gambling – including financial

    When ‘equal’ does not mean ‘the same’: Liberals still do not understand their women problem
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol Johnson, Emerita Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Adelaide “Women’s” issues are once again playing a significant role in the election debate as Labor and the Liberals trade barbs over which parties’ policies will benefit women most. In the latest salvo, the opposition

    Tremors, seizures and paralysis: this brain disorder is more common than multiple sclerosis – but often goes undiagnosed
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Scrivener, PhD Candidate, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Kateryna Kon/Shutterstock Imagine suddenly losing the ability to move a limb, walk or speak. You would probably recognise this as a medical emergency and get to hospital. Now imagine the doctors

    The origin story of the Anzac biscuit is largely myth – but that shouldn’t obscure the history of women during the war
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Garritt C. Van Dyk, Senior Lecturer in History, University of Waikato Australian Comforts Fund buffet in Longueval, France, 1916. Australian War Memorial The Anzac biscuit is a cultural icon, infused with mythical value, representing the connection between women on the home front and soldiers serving overseas during

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Frank Bongiorno on dramatic shifts in how elections are fought and won
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra This election has been lacklustre, without the touch of excitement of some past campaigns. Through the decades, campaigning has changed dramatically, adopting new techniques and technologies. This time, we’ve seen politicians try to jump onto viral podcasts. To discuss old

    Albanese government announces $1.2 billion plan to purchase critical minerals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra A re-elected Albanese government will take the unprecedented step of buying or obtaining options over key critical minerals to protect Australia’s national interest and boost its economic resilience. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s ordering a review into American

    Why special measures to boost Fiji women’s political representation remain a distant goal
    RNZ Pacific Despite calls from women’s groups urging the government to implement policies to address the underrepresentation of women in politics, the introduction of temporary special measures (TSM) to increase women’s political representation in Fiji remains a distant goal. This week, leader of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (Sodelpa), Cabinet Minister Aseri Radrodro, and opposition

    Albanese government announces $1.2 billion in plan to purchase critical minerals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra A re-elected Albanese government will take the unprecedented step of buying or obtaining options over key critical minerals to protect Australia’s national interest and boost its economic resilience. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s ordering a review into American

    Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage

    Australia needs bold ideas on defence. The Coalition’s increased spending plan falls disappointingly short
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Layton, Visiting Fellow, Strategic Studies, Griffith University Just as voting has begun in this year’s federal election, the Coalition has released its long-awaited defence policy platform. The main focus, as expected, is a boost in defence spending to 3% of Australia’s GDP within the next decade.

    Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liz Hicks, Lecturer in Law, The University of Melbourne Roberto La Rosa/Shutterstock Snipers in helicopters have shot more than 700 koalas in the Budj Bim National Park in western Victoria in recent weeks. It’s believed to be the first time koalas have been culled in this way.

    Rather than short-term fixes, communities need flexible plans to prepare for a range of likely climate impacts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Logan, Senior Lecturer Above the Bar of Civil Systems Engineering, University of Canterbury Dave Rowland/Getty Images As New Zealanders clean up after ex-Cyclone Tam which left thousands without power and communities once again facing flooding, it’s tempting to seek immediate solutions. However, after the cleanup and

    Why do Labor and the Coalition have so many similar policies? It’s simple mathematics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabriele Gratton, Professor of Politics and Economics and ARC Future Fellow, UNSW Sydney Pundits and political scientists like to repeat that we live in an age of political polarisation. But if you sat through the second debate between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI China: Giant panda pair arrives in Austria for 10-year stay

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

    A giant panda from China arrives at the Vienna Airport in Austria on April 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    VIENNA, April 23 — Two giant pandas from southwest China’s Sichuan Province arrived at Vienna’s Schoenbrunn Zoo on Wednesday, marking the start of a decade-long stay as symbols of friendship between China and Austria.

    The pandas – male He Feng and female Lan Yun – were both born in 2020. According to the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, He Feng is energetic, while Lan Yun is known for her gentle nature. Their names refer to the freshness of lotus flowers and the fragrance of orchids, reflecting traditional Chinese symbolism.

    The pandas will be introduced to the public after completing a period of quarantine and acclimatization. Their arrival will be celebrated in an official ceremony, and the zoo’s newly designed panda enclosure will be reopened.

    A giant panda from China arrives at the Vienna Airport in Austria on April 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    “We are very proud to be committed to the protection and preservation of the giant panda and its habitat,” said zoo director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck. “We are delighted that the new pair will now act as ambassadors for their endangered wild counterparts.”

    Ahead of the transfer, two Austrian keepers traveled to China to study the pandas’ behavior and dietary needs. A Chinese keeper and veterinarian have also accompanied the animals to Austria and will remain on-site to assist with their adjustment to the new environment.

    This latest exchange builds on more than two decades of cooperation between China and Austria. Since 2003, the two nations have collaborated on panda conservation, achieving progress in breeding, disease control, staff training, and public education.

    Giant pandas enjoy food at China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in Ya’an, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Sept. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Transcript of April 2025 Fiscal Monitor Press Briefing

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    April 23, 2025

    Speakers:

    Vitor Gaspar, Director, Fiscal Affairs Department
    Era Dabla‑Norris, Deputy Director, Fiscal Affairs Department
    Davide Furceri, Division Chief, Fiscal Affairs Department

    Moderator: Tatiana Mossot, Moderator, Senior Communications Officer

    The Moderator: Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening for our viewers around the world. I am Tatiana Mossot with the IMF Communications Department, and I will be your host for today’s press briefing on the Spring Meetings 2025 Fiscal Monitor named “Fiscal Policy Under Uncertainty.” I am pleased to introduce the Director of the IMF Fiscal Affairs Department, Vitor Gaspar. He is joined by Era Dabla‑Norris, Deputy Director of the Fiscal Affairs Department, and Davide Furceri, Division Chief of the Fiscal Affairs Department. Good morning, Vitor, Era, and Davide.

    Before taking your questions, let me start our briefing by turning to Vitor for his opening remarks. Vitor, the floor is yours.

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Good morning. Many thanks for your kind introduction. Thank you all for your interest in the Fiscal Monitor, covering fiscal policies around the world. Since the last Fiscal Monitor in October 2024, global economic prospects have significantly deteriorated and risks to the economic outlook are elevated and tilted to the downside. Uncertainty is very high, and confidence has been weakening. Financial markets have partially corrected, and financing conditions have tightened.

    Global public debt is very high and rising. According to the WEO reference projection in 2025, it will rise above 95 percent of GDP. It is higher and growing faster than pre‑pandemic. It will be approaching 100 percent of GDP by the end of the decade, surpassing the pandemic peak, but global numbers hide a wide diversity across countries. In the figure, every bubble represents a country. The larger the bubble, the larger the country’s GDP. The figure shows debt levels on the vertical axis and debt growth on the horizontal axis compared to pre‑pandemic. The higher the bubble in the figure, the more debt has increased compared to 2019.

    119 countries are above the horizontal axis. For these countries, public debt is higher than pre‑pandemic. The further to the right in the figure, the faster debt grows compared to pre‑pandemic trends. Bubbles as you can see are all over the chart. That illustrates a wide diversity across countries. Therefore, fiscal policies must vary in line with country‑specific factors and circumstances, but in the face of turbulent and threatening times ahead, resilience is needed everywhere. Countries should redouble efforts to keep their own fiscal house in order.

    Let us zoom in on the top, the right top quadrant. Countries in the quadrant have public debt higher and rising faster. This group includes 59 countries. That is about one third of the 175 countries in the chart. But their economies represent 80 percent of world GDP. Their economic weight makes them the main drivers of global trends. You can see many large bubbles in this quadrant. No surprise. Most large economies, including the largest, are there.

    Now, let us focus on the remaining two thirds of countries in the world. There are 116 countries in the group that represent about 20 percent of world GDP. In the chart that you are looking at, the blue line represents all countries except for the 59 that I have mentioned before. The two lines in the chart representing the world and representing the remaining 116 countries evolve similarly up to the year of the pandemic. After 2020, as you can see, the trends diverge. The two lines actually cross in 2023. For these 116 countries, aggregate public debt is now well below pandemic levels, but going forward, it is very flat, indicating a stabilization of public debt at high levels. But the distinctive feature of the current conjuncture is uncertainty. One must go beyond referenced projections.

    In the words of the Managing Director, trade policy uncertainty is off the charts. Upside risk to public debt projections dominates the outlook. The October 2024 Fiscal Monitor introduced a novel tool to quantify the distribution of debt risks around the referenced projection. We call it public debt at risk. According to this tool, global public debt three years ahead would come at 117 percent of GDP in a severe adverse scenario.

    Recent developments with sharpening, increasing, and persistent uncertainty, tightening financing conditions push public debt at risk even higher. In a fast-changing and perilous world, Ministers of Finance must act urgently and decisively. They face stark tradeoffs and painful choices. Policymakers should invest their political capital in building confidence and trust. That starts with keeping their own houses in order. That is especially important in a situation that tested the resilience of individual economies, not to mention the entire system. Putting the house in order involves three policy priorities.

    First, fiscal policy should be part of overall stability‑oriented macroeconomic policies. Second, fiscal policy should in most countries aim at reducing public debt and rebuilding buffers to create space to respond to spending pressures and other economic shocks through a credible medium‑term framework. Third, fiscal policy should, together with other threshold policies, aim at improving potential growth, thereby easing policy tradeoffs. In these times of high uncertainty, fiscal policy must be an anchor for confidence and stability that can contribute to a competitive economy, delivering growth and prosperity for all.

    Ministers of Finance must build trust, tax fairly, spend wisely and take the long view. My colleagues and I are ready to answer any questions that you may have.

    The Moderator: Thank you, Vitor. We will now open the floor to your questions, but before we do that, a couple of ground rules, please. If you want to ask a question, please raise your hand first, wait until I call you and a colleague will give you the microphone. When you ask your questions, please identify yourself and the network you are working for. And for colleagues online, please ask your questions on Webex, and we will come to you.

    QUESTION: According to the report, tariffs and trade tensions have increased uncertainty and risks to economic growth. How can affected countries manage the negative impact on public confidence and growth, especially considering the high level of public debt and financial challenges they are already facing?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Thank you very much for your question. That allows me to summarize again the top‑level message from the Fiscal Monitor. Global public debt, as you said, is high, rising, and we always emphasize it is also risky. It rose above $100 trillion in 2024, and that was a headline six months ago. In the IMF referenced projections, that will continue rising, approaching 100 percent of GDP by the end of the decade.

    But what we emphasize most at this point in time is the unusually elevated degree of uncertainty. To repeat the quote from the Managing Director, “Trade policy uncertainty is literally off the charts.” There is, therefore, a sense of urgency in policymaking. According to our public‑debt‑at‑risk tool, our estimates for three years ahead point to debt at risk at 117 percent of GDP for the world, which is a level that has not been seen in many decades.

    But even that extreme adverse scenario may be under‑estimating tail risks because trade and geoeconomic uncertainty has escalated, financing conditions tightened, financial market volatility is visible from headlines, and spending pressures have intensified further. So, in those conditions, the point about countries keeping their own houses in order is crucial, and that is instrumental to deliver resilience and sustained growth from a long‑term perspective.

    The Moderator: Thank you, Vitor. As you may have seen, there are two chapters, the second one is on emerging markets. And I think Era and Davide; we have some questions for you too.

    QUESTION: Given the current global economic slow‑down, what are the specific challenges and impacts faced by emerging and developing countries and what policy measures can be implemented to mitigate these effects?

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Let me start with what we see as some of the key sources of uncertainty that emerging market and developing economies are facing. Vitor had laid out some of the broader issues but let me highlight three. So, in addition to the fact that we see growth prospects being marked down across the board, and we see that emerging markets and developing economies could be impacted through trade, financial and commodity channels, let me highlight three specific risks. The first is escalating uncertainty about tariffs and associated policies. In the Fiscal Monitor, we find that geoeconomic uncertainty, in particular, an escalation of geoeconomic uncertainty actually can push up debt over the medium term by about 4.5 percentage points. For emerging market economies in particular, it could be as high as 6 percent of GDP.

    Why is this the case? Because essentially, with higher geoeconomic uncertainty, that can dampen growth prospects, it lowers revenues because consumption production tends to fall. It also leads to higher spending, so as a result, fiscal positions deteriorate and debt increases. That is one important source of risks.

    A second source of risks is more volatile financial conditions. In the U.S., for instance, or other systemically important economies can spillover into emerging market and developing economies. And it can do so by raising sovereign borrowing costs. So, our analysis in the Fiscal Monitor shows that at 100 basis point increase in U.S. nominal Treasury yields translates into 100 basis point increase in emerging market economies’ borrowing costs. And this lasts for several months.

    A third source of risk is that we have seen that debt levels are high in many emerging markets and developing economies, so interest expenses are commensurately very high, and they are eating up a larger share of the budget. So, our analysis shows that 1 percentage point of GDP increase in interest expenses results in crowding out of other essential items within the budget, such as social spending and infrastructure investment. So, as Vitor pointed out, in this environment, it is very, very important for countries to put their own fiscal house in order.

    What does that mean? Country specifics will vary, but what it really means is that countries need to think about putting in place a gradual fiscal adjustment within a credible medium‑term fiscal framework. For EMDEs, where tax revenues are low, they can mobilize additional revenues by expanding the tax base. They can eliminate energy subsidies and other types of subsidies that can be distortionary. They can find ways to reprioritize spending. And most importantly, they can think about the policies that are needed to boost growth because that really can help ease these fiscal tradeoffs.

    QUESTION: My question is about energy subsidies and perhaps pension reforms, which are not related to emerging markets but pretty much the same problem. It is when the margin exists in many countries when you want to have some fiscal space. But in those many countries you have already social tensions that are quite high, so what are the possibilities for countries to make those reforms that are highly unpopular most of the time if they want to have this margin created?

    Ms. Dabla‑Norris: Let me talk about energy subsidies and my colleague Davide can speak a little bit about pension reforms. As you correctly pointed out, countries need to reduce debt. They need to create fiscal space. And energy subsidies and pension reforms can be important reforms that countries can undertake to generate fiscal savings. So, when we look at energy subsidy reforms in particular, energy, they account for about 1.5 percent of GDP on average in emerging markets and developing economies. And reforming them can have tremendous benefits for the economy. So let me enumerate some of them.

    First, it increases energy efficiency in the economy. Secondly, it generates fiscal savings that can then be used to increase other types of social spending and needed priority infrastructure investments. And finally, many of these subsidies tend to be highly regressive, so they do not necessarily benefit the poorest segment or the most vulnerable segments of society.

    In our Fiscal Monitor Chapter 2, what we did is we developed a novel real‑time measure of public sentiment. This is the sentiment of households, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to gauge how governments can leverage strategies in order to make these kinds of reforms acceptable. There are a number of things that we found that are specific to energy subsidy reforms that I would like to talk about.

    The first is that we found that reforms that are—or changes that take place gradually have greater success of being implemented. To give you an example, Colombia very recently had an energy subsidy reform. They implemented it over a two‑year period, that was preannounced, so that people had time to adjust.

    A second strategy that we found successful—to be successful in shaping the acceptability of these reforms is that there was timely implementation of accompanying measures. And countries that put in place accompanying measures to really protect and support the most vulnerable, countries that put in place measures up‑front and invested in social programs and social infrastructure that was very visible to the public had a greater chance of succeeding.

    We also found that policies that were well‑communicated, that built consensus, that explained the tradeoffs to people had a much higher success of being accepted by the general public. For example, Morocco made it very clear that there was going to be a comprehensive communication strategy at the very beginning, at the very outset, and the message that was conveyed was that subsidies were a poor instrument for providing social support. A host of these strategies can be used by countries to implement these politically challenging reforms.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: The chapter also deals with pension reforms. We know that in many countries, spending on pensions is quite high. Just to give you a couple of numbers, in the case of advanced economies, it is 8 percent of GDP; in emerging market, about four. This spending is projected to increase due to increasing life expectancy and retirement. Reforming the pension system is important to generate fiscal savings but also to sustain labor‑force participation, as well as employment.

    Some of the key messages that we find in the chapter on reforms touch upon some of the issues that Era mentioned, gradual and timly of the reform. But for pension, what we find is that strategic communication and stakeholder engagement has been especially important. Indeed, there are cases of countries that have succeeded in implementing significant reform, for example, presenting an increasing retirement age as part of the reform that was trying to sustain adequate benefit levels. Or in some cases they were creating bipartisan commissions where they were engaging with stakeholders to hear their concerns and think about implementing the reform in the best way.

    An important issue when we think about pension reform is strengthening financial literacy and making sure that various stakeholders will talk about the potential benefits and cost of various pension schemes. Thank you.

    The Moderator: Very last one before we move to the U.S. and the other countries and regional and then we will move to other topics.

    QUESTION: I still want to focus on Chapter 2 because we are talking about developing economies and public sentiment. Era, when you were talking, you talked about subsidies being discretionary, not making the budgets, you know, complete and all of that, but we also know for many developing countries and even frontier economies, they are under pressure to cut back energy subsidies to ease debt burdens, yet these same subsidies often help keep the lights on for millions of families, low‑income families and businesses. You talked about growth earlier on. So, without these low‑income businesses, how would you also get growth? How does the IMF suggest governments manage this delicate balance and enable these countries to rationalize subsidies while safeguarding energy subsidies and cushioning the most vulnerable without leaving them behind because we are torn between having to think that subsidies are really 100 percent bad, so I really wanted to comment on that.

    Then on Nigeria, energy subsidy reforms that were seen have sparked protests and public frustrations, reflecting a top balance between fiscal responsibility and social equity. How do you think that Nigeria can navigate this difficult path and what specific measures can the IMF suggest ensuring that these reforms are fair, inclusive and accepted by the public. Thank you.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Let me talk in more detail about subsidies. Thank you for your question. These are challenging reforms to undertake. Why? Because they impact people’s, small firms’ pocketbooks immediately. An increase in energy prices as the government is moving towards cost recovery, pricing impacts pocketbooks immediately. This is a very tangible impact. Whereas the benefits that I spoke of, which are energy efficiency, the ability to reallocate fiscal savings take time to materialize. They are much more diffuse. Everyone benefits from those, but the pocket impact is felt immediately. This is why it is important as we note in our chapter, this is why it is important to have—for governments to think about a comprehensive strategy on how to implement these reforms. When you look at public sentiment across different sort of steps of these reforms, what we find that is really important is that countries that put in place compensatory mechanisms — whether this is cash transfers or more targeted transfers — really for those people who need it most have an easier time in carrying out these types of reforms. So in environments where the public does not trust the government, where there is weak accountability, doing these things up‑front in a very visible way, increasing support for social programs makes it very tangible to the public that the government is going to be doing this, and it is going to be accountable, if you will, for the fiscal savings that will be generated.

    QUESTION: Good morning. As risks for the fiscal outlook have intensified and debt levels may rise even further, as stated in the Fiscal Monitor, how worried are you about any sort of global debt crisis or regional crises that can appear, considering slower growth and new spending pressures on countries?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: As you heard yesterday, recession and crisis more than an individual nature are not in our reference projections, although, of course, part of the role of the Fiscal Monitor is precisely to systemically look at risks and vulnerabilities, and our public‑debt‑at‑risk tool is one of the instruments to do exactly that.

    Now, one point which I believe is very important is that precisely because risks and uncertainty are so elevated right now, there is a sense of urgency in policy action. Why? Because there is still time to adopt policies that improve resilience, and there is still time to think through what are the most relevant vulnerability scenarios that apply to individual countries, to regions, or even to broader systems. And it is very important to do that result systemically so that one is ready if and when a crisis comes. Our experience during the pandemic showed that countries that had easy access to financial markets and ample fiscal space did substantially better than others at managing the shocks associated with the pandemic.

    The Moderator: Thank you. We will get back to this part of the room.

    QUESTION: My question is that you just mentioned the public debt remains very elevated and also this would cause fiscal space to continue to narrow down in many countries, including some major economies. So, what consequence will this bring to the world global economy if this kind of situation continues to develop?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: So I think that the answer that I gave to the question just now applies, given these elevated risks and uncertainties, it is crucial that countries focus on keeping their own house in order since situations around the world are so diverse, as Era emphasized, that will imply different policies in different countries. But the crucial thing is that in a situation that is as fast changing as the one we are facing now and where risks and uncertainties are so elevated, there is an urgency in acting to improve fiscal space, build buffers, and, therefore, be in a position to ensure resilience and sustain growth.

    The Moderator: Thank you. We will get back to this part of the room. The gentleman with the red shirt, please.

    QUESTION: Thank you very much. Allow me to back‑pedal to the EMDEs. The Fiscal Monitor speaks about the need to widen the tax base. A number of frontier market economies have been rolling out significant economic present stacks and minimum top‑up tax in line with the Pillar 1 and Pillar 2. But now this puts them in the cross‑hairs with the Trump administration, and many are now wondering whether they should be rolling back. So which pathway does the Fund see sustainable, considering many are looking at preferential access to the American market?

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Regarding the tax, I think it is important to make three important points. The first is that in the current situation where many emerging market and developing countries are characterized by three factors, one, foreign aid is declining; second, we have seen that increasing financial volatility can increase interest rates in these countries. This is in a situation where interest rates over revenue for many countries is about 10 percent of GDP. Third, [volatile] financial conditions also implies that less flows will go to these countries. The point that we make in the Fiscal Monitor is that revenue and revenue mobilization can be a stable source for financing significant spending for social benefit or public investment. How we should strengthen revenue mobilization, typically there are three sorts of arrows that you can go. One is expanding the tax base. Second, eliminate tax exemptions. Third, which is also important, and that the IMF does a lot of work in terms of capacity development is strengthening tax administrations. When we think about the tax strategy, we have to consider all of these three elements, and for many emerging markets and developing countries, there are significant potential tax gains that can be achieved.

    The Moderator: Yes, please.

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Just one word of addition. Davide correctly pointed out these three very important elements, broadening the tax base, dealing with tax expenditures and strengthening revenue administration. Yesterday I participated in a high‑level panel precisely on the mobilization of resources, and these three elements were repeated by the Ministers of Pakistan, Paraguay and Rwanda, and they found this frame relevant in their own experience of trying to improve the capacity of their countries to mobilize revenues.

    The Moderator: We have two questions online. I think this one will be for you, Era, about Spain. Yesterday they revised upwards the growth of Spain and have already highlighted the good performance of the Spanish economy. What should this country do with these good growth results regarding its fiscal policies in the short and medium term? And we will have another one for South Africa online.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you for the question. Given Spain’s relatively strong fiscal position as well as economic position, there is scope now to front‑load some of the adjustment that they were thinking about because public debt levels in Spain still remain very high, although they have come down from the pandemic peaks. They still remain very high. This would be really important to put debt firmly down on a downward trajectory.

    Accumulative adjustment of about 3 percent of GDP over the next three years, say 2025 to 2029, similar to the one that was envisaged in terms of magnitude by the authorities but more frontloaded, would help achieve the goal. Now, as Vitor has pointed out, we are encouraging countries to bring debt down for a number of reasons. This is important because you want to reduce debt risks. This is important because countries should either expand or replenish the buffers that were diminished in the wake of the pandemic and also because of ongoing uncertainties. Finally, because countries will need—countries like Spain will need to spend on other areas, population aging, climate, defense and such.

    The Moderator: Just before we go to South Africa, any other European question? One time, two time, no European question in the room. OK.

    QUESTION: Thank you. The question on South Africa but also on the broader region: On South Africa, the IMF is quite significantly more pessimistic on the fiscal trajectory than our own government, which sees debt stabilizing, whereas the IMF sees it rising close to 90 percent of GDP at the end of the decade. Why are you so much more pessimistic of the authorities’ promised consolidation? But also on the region, sub‑Saharan Africa more broadly, how do you see the impact of what is happening globally on the region’s ability to borrow and particularly to borrow in international markets, and given a lot of the countries in the region are in debt distress or close to debt distress, what impact will that have on the economies of the sub‑Saharan Africa? Thank you.

    The Moderator: Thank you very much.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you very much. Briefly on South Africa, the general government deficit in South Africa was about 6 percent of GDP in 2024. We project the fiscal deficit in 2025, although this is subject to considerable—all projections are subject to considerable uncertainties at this juncture to be around 6.6 percent of GDP. This is mainly driven by higher spending. Some of the differences stem from the fact that our projections are based on much more conservative assumptions regarding the buoyancy of the tax system, as well as the extent of primary spending compression that can be undertaken. So that really accounts for differences in projections between the two countries and also the path of debt going forward. Let me turn it over to Davide.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Yes, more broadly and on financing costs for sub‑Saharan African regions, let me point out two factors. The first is that, of course, we have seen interest rates rising. So, this increasing interest rate in many countries, including South Africa, is basically driven by two factors. You have sort of an interest rate in main advanced economies that has been on a rising trend. On the positive side, in many countries, especially those with better fiscal positions, you actually have seen spreads, so the difference between the domestic interest rate and the foreign interest rate declines. However, and this is something that we point out in the Fiscal Monitor, that increased risk, increase of risk of uncertainty, financial market volatility, can turn things around. In other words, we see that increasing financial market volatility globally can lead to an increase in spreads.

    The second point is that one part we have seen for many low‑income countries since the pandemic is they are relying much more on domestic issuance of debt rather than on the foreign market. This is on one hand sort of offset some of the challenges like to the global environment but also increase some sort of domestic vulnerability, because sometimes the interest rates rise. There are things that are important to think about this strategy. But definitely, as we mentioned, interest rate is a source of rising in terms of revenue is a source of concern. Let me make the point again that we made, I think strengthening fiscal buffers, revenue mobilization are important elements to reduce — to have this trend to decline.

    The Moderator: Thank you. I believe we received some questions for Latin America and, yes, there are some reporters in the room. Yes, please, the lady in the third row here.

    QUESTION: Thank you. You already talked about emerging markets, but focusing on Latin America, I want to know which one—you already have talked about it too, but which one is the biggest fiscal risk and what should economies in Latin America should be thinking about doing in terms of growing and accepting new investment, for example, to confront the situation abroad? Thank you.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you for your question. Many of the risks that other emerging market economies face, countries in Latin America obviously also face, we have already talked at length about that. But I am going to talk about a few things that are specific to many of the countries in Latin America. So, there is two challenges that limit fiscal flexibility in Latin America. The first is that there are spending rigidities. What I mean by that is there is a lot of amounts of spending that is mandatory, on pensions, on wages, on transfers. This leaves very little room for fiscal flexibility.

    At the same time, like many other emerging markets and developing economies, spending pressures are on the rise. There are growing demands for social services, for infrastructure, for adopting to climate change, and all of these are putting pressures on the budget. Now, when you look at what has happened since the pandemic, countries have made ambitious plans to consolidate their budget. There have been ambitious announcements of fiscal consolidation plans, but at the same time expenditure increases have outpaced revenue gains. So, for many countries in the region, we see debt levels continuing to rise. And the challenge here is that we are in a world with greater uncertainty than we were even six months ago. So, it is really important for countries in the region to implement at a minimum the announced fiscal consolidation plan and to do this within credible medium‑term frameworks. Many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean region have fiscal rules. So to implement these rules, to spend efficiently, to think about the types of fiscal reforms that are needed, whether it is revenue mobilization in countries where revenue‑to‑GDP ratios are low, whether it is spending prioritization or reprioritization, to create the room that is needed for priority investments and social spending and infrastructure and such.

    The Moderator: Thank you. One last question.

    QUESTION: I am from Thailand. I want to ask about the overall trend of the public debt, especially for the ASEAN 5. It would be great if you could mention specifically on Thailand.

    The Moderator: I think we had the Nigeria question to answer too, and we will close there. Thank you.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Let me start with Nigeria. So, Nigeria managed to do a very difficult reform that was important to deliver fiscal savings. The authorities also scaled up transfers, technical transfers. What we think there is, what is important to act on two pillars. One is to generate additional fiscal savings. We mentioned revenue mobilization. To really scale up spending on social protection, spending on investment, in a way as was mentioned, many countries, they need to spend, and there I want to go back to Vitor’s first remarks. We encourage countries to spend very wisely. Strengthening prioritization in terms of spending, strengthening the efficiency of spending is important. Final important message we would like to give for Nigeria but also for other countries is that fiscal institutions are very important. Having a medium‑term fiscal framework, Public Financial Management are key important because on the one hand they try to help the fiscal anchor, so they set apart for the fiscal adjustment, but also reduce the fiscal uncertainty per se. So as Vitor mentioned, we want the fiscal to be a source of stability and not a source of uncertainty, and that is where fiscal institutions have an important role to play.

    The Moderator: Thank you. Very quickly, Era.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: On ASEAN, there is a huge variation in fiscal positions across the region. On average, the ASEAN region debt‑to‑GDP ratios are lower than they are in other emerging market and developing economies. That said, in Thailand, relative to the other countries in ASEAN, debt levels are slightly more elevated, over 60 percent of GDP. Our advice has been that fiscal policy should be prudent and parsimonious, given all the reasons we have discussed over the course of this morning. So, measures that are needed to smooth adjustment in light of higher tariffs should be thought of in a wise way, temporary, targeted measures in the context of tariff uncertainty, and ongoing consolidation plans implemented to bring debt down in a sustainable manner.

    The Moderator: Thank you very much

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/04/24/tr-042325-fm-press-briefing

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transcript of April 2025 Fiscal Monitor Press Briefing

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    April 23, 2025

    Speakers:

    Vitor Gaspar, Director, Fiscal Affairs Department
    Era Dabla‑Norris, Deputy Director, Fiscal Affairs Department
    Davide Furceri, Division Chief, Fiscal Affairs Department

    Moderator: Tatiana Mossot, Moderator, Senior Communications Officer

    The Moderator: Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening for our viewers around the world. I am Tatiana Mossot with the IMF Communications Department, and I will be your host for today’s press briefing on the Spring Meetings 2025 Fiscal Monitor named “Fiscal Policy Under Uncertainty.” I am pleased to introduce the Director of the IMF Fiscal Affairs Department, Vitor Gaspar. He is joined by Era Dabla‑Norris, Deputy Director of the Fiscal Affairs Department, and Davide Furceri, Division Chief of the Fiscal Affairs Department. Good morning, Vitor, Era, and Davide.

    Before taking your questions, let me start our briefing by turning to Vitor for his opening remarks. Vitor, the floor is yours.

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Good morning. Many thanks for your kind introduction. Thank you all for your interest in the Fiscal Monitor, covering fiscal policies around the world. Since the last Fiscal Monitor in October 2024, global economic prospects have significantly deteriorated and risks to the economic outlook are elevated and tilted to the downside. Uncertainty is very high, and confidence has been weakening. Financial markets have partially corrected, and financing conditions have tightened.

    Global public debt is very high and rising. According to the WEO reference projection in 2025, it will rise above 95 percent of GDP. It is higher and growing faster than pre‑pandemic. It will be approaching 100 percent of GDP by the end of the decade, surpassing the pandemic peak, but global numbers hide a wide diversity across countries. In the figure, every bubble represents a country. The larger the bubble, the larger the country’s GDP. The figure shows debt levels on the vertical axis and debt growth on the horizontal axis compared to pre‑pandemic. The higher the bubble in the figure, the more debt has increased compared to 2019.

    119 countries are above the horizontal axis. For these countries, public debt is higher than pre‑pandemic. The further to the right in the figure, the faster debt grows compared to pre‑pandemic trends. Bubbles as you can see are all over the chart. That illustrates a wide diversity across countries. Therefore, fiscal policies must vary in line with country‑specific factors and circumstances, but in the face of turbulent and threatening times ahead, resilience is needed everywhere. Countries should redouble efforts to keep their own fiscal house in order.

    Let us zoom in on the top, the right top quadrant. Countries in the quadrant have public debt higher and rising faster. This group includes 59 countries. That is about one third of the 175 countries in the chart. But their economies represent 80 percent of world GDP. Their economic weight makes them the main drivers of global trends. You can see many large bubbles in this quadrant. No surprise. Most large economies, including the largest, are there.

    Now, let us focus on the remaining two thirds of countries in the world. There are 116 countries in the group that represent about 20 percent of world GDP. In the chart that you are looking at, the blue line represents all countries except for the 59 that I have mentioned before. The two lines in the chart representing the world and representing the remaining 116 countries evolve similarly up to the year of the pandemic. After 2020, as you can see, the trends diverge. The two lines actually cross in 2023. For these 116 countries, aggregate public debt is now well below pandemic levels, but going forward, it is very flat, indicating a stabilization of public debt at high levels. But the distinctive feature of the current conjuncture is uncertainty. One must go beyond referenced projections.

    In the words of the Managing Director, trade policy uncertainty is off the charts. Upside risk to public debt projections dominates the outlook. The October 2024 Fiscal Monitor introduced a novel tool to quantify the distribution of debt risks around the referenced projection. We call it public debt at risk. According to this tool, global public debt three years ahead would come at 117 percent of GDP in a severe adverse scenario.

    Recent developments with sharpening, increasing, and persistent uncertainty, tightening financing conditions push public debt at risk even higher. In a fast-changing and perilous world, Ministers of Finance must act urgently and decisively. They face stark tradeoffs and painful choices. Policymakers should invest their political capital in building confidence and trust. That starts with keeping their own houses in order. That is especially important in a situation that tested the resilience of individual economies, not to mention the entire system. Putting the house in order involves three policy priorities.

    First, fiscal policy should be part of overall stability‑oriented macroeconomic policies. Second, fiscal policy should in most countries aim at reducing public debt and rebuilding buffers to create space to respond to spending pressures and other economic shocks through a credible medium‑term framework. Third, fiscal policy should, together with other threshold policies, aim at improving potential growth, thereby easing policy tradeoffs. In these times of high uncertainty, fiscal policy must be an anchor for confidence and stability that can contribute to a competitive economy, delivering growth and prosperity for all.

    Ministers of Finance must build trust, tax fairly, spend wisely and take the long view. My colleagues and I are ready to answer any questions that you may have.

    The Moderator: Thank you, Vitor. We will now open the floor to your questions, but before we do that, a couple of ground rules, please. If you want to ask a question, please raise your hand first, wait until I call you and a colleague will give you the microphone. When you ask your questions, please identify yourself and the network you are working for. And for colleagues online, please ask your questions on Webex, and we will come to you.

    QUESTION: According to the report, tariffs and trade tensions have increased uncertainty and risks to economic growth. How can affected countries manage the negative impact on public confidence and growth, especially considering the high level of public debt and financial challenges they are already facing?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Thank you very much for your question. That allows me to summarize again the top‑level message from the Fiscal Monitor. Global public debt, as you said, is high, rising, and we always emphasize it is also risky. It rose above $100 trillion in 2024, and that was a headline six months ago. In the IMF referenced projections, that will continue rising, approaching 100 percent of GDP by the end of the decade.

    But what we emphasize most at this point in time is the unusually elevated degree of uncertainty. To repeat the quote from the Managing Director, “Trade policy uncertainty is literally off the charts.” There is, therefore, a sense of urgency in policymaking. According to our public‑debt‑at‑risk tool, our estimates for three years ahead point to debt at risk at 117 percent of GDP for the world, which is a level that has not been seen in many decades.

    But even that extreme adverse scenario may be under‑estimating tail risks because trade and geoeconomic uncertainty has escalated, financing conditions tightened, financial market volatility is visible from headlines, and spending pressures have intensified further. So, in those conditions, the point about countries keeping their own houses in order is crucial, and that is instrumental to deliver resilience and sustained growth from a long‑term perspective.

    The Moderator: Thank you, Vitor. As you may have seen, there are two chapters, the second one is on emerging markets. And I think Era and Davide; we have some questions for you too.

    QUESTION: Given the current global economic slow‑down, what are the specific challenges and impacts faced by emerging and developing countries and what policy measures can be implemented to mitigate these effects?

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Let me start with what we see as some of the key sources of uncertainty that emerging market and developing economies are facing. Vitor had laid out some of the broader issues but let me highlight three. So, in addition to the fact that we see growth prospects being marked down across the board, and we see that emerging markets and developing economies could be impacted through trade, financial and commodity channels, let me highlight three specific risks. The first is escalating uncertainty about tariffs and associated policies. In the Fiscal Monitor, we find that geoeconomic uncertainty, in particular, an escalation of geoeconomic uncertainty actually can push up debt over the medium term by about 4.5 percentage points. For emerging market economies in particular, it could be as high as 6 percent of GDP.

    Why is this the case? Because essentially, with higher geoeconomic uncertainty, that can dampen growth prospects, it lowers revenues because consumption production tends to fall. It also leads to higher spending, so as a result, fiscal positions deteriorate and debt increases. That is one important source of risks.

    A second source of risks is more volatile financial conditions. In the U.S., for instance, or other systemically important economies can spillover into emerging market and developing economies. And it can do so by raising sovereign borrowing costs. So, our analysis in the Fiscal Monitor shows that at 100 basis point increase in U.S. nominal Treasury yields translates into 100 basis point increase in emerging market economies’ borrowing costs. And this lasts for several months.

    A third source of risk is that we have seen that debt levels are high in many emerging markets and developing economies, so interest expenses are commensurately very high, and they are eating up a larger share of the budget. So, our analysis shows that 1 percentage point of GDP increase in interest expenses results in crowding out of other essential items within the budget, such as social spending and infrastructure investment. So, as Vitor pointed out, in this environment, it is very, very important for countries to put their own fiscal house in order.

    What does that mean? Country specifics will vary, but what it really means is that countries need to think about putting in place a gradual fiscal adjustment within a credible medium‑term fiscal framework. For EMDEs, where tax revenues are low, they can mobilize additional revenues by expanding the tax base. They can eliminate energy subsidies and other types of subsidies that can be distortionary. They can find ways to reprioritize spending. And most importantly, they can think about the policies that are needed to boost growth because that really can help ease these fiscal tradeoffs.

    QUESTION: My question is about energy subsidies and perhaps pension reforms, which are not related to emerging markets but pretty much the same problem. It is when the margin exists in many countries when you want to have some fiscal space. But in those many countries you have already social tensions that are quite high, so what are the possibilities for countries to make those reforms that are highly unpopular most of the time if they want to have this margin created?

    Ms. Dabla‑Norris: Let me talk about energy subsidies and my colleague Davide can speak a little bit about pension reforms. As you correctly pointed out, countries need to reduce debt. They need to create fiscal space. And energy subsidies and pension reforms can be important reforms that countries can undertake to generate fiscal savings. So, when we look at energy subsidy reforms in particular, energy, they account for about 1.5 percent of GDP on average in emerging markets and developing economies. And reforming them can have tremendous benefits for the economy. So let me enumerate some of them.

    First, it increases energy efficiency in the economy. Secondly, it generates fiscal savings that can then be used to increase other types of social spending and needed priority infrastructure investments. And finally, many of these subsidies tend to be highly regressive, so they do not necessarily benefit the poorest segment or the most vulnerable segments of society.

    In our Fiscal Monitor Chapter 2, what we did is we developed a novel real‑time measure of public sentiment. This is the sentiment of households, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to gauge how governments can leverage strategies in order to make these kinds of reforms acceptable. There are a number of things that we found that are specific to energy subsidy reforms that I would like to talk about.

    The first is that we found that reforms that are—or changes that take place gradually have greater success of being implemented. To give you an example, Colombia very recently had an energy subsidy reform. They implemented it over a two‑year period, that was preannounced, so that people had time to adjust.

    A second strategy that we found successful—to be successful in shaping the acceptability of these reforms is that there was timely implementation of accompanying measures. And countries that put in place accompanying measures to really protect and support the most vulnerable, countries that put in place measures up‑front and invested in social programs and social infrastructure that was very visible to the public had a greater chance of succeeding.

    We also found that policies that were well‑communicated, that built consensus, that explained the tradeoffs to people had a much higher success of being accepted by the general public. For example, Morocco made it very clear that there was going to be a comprehensive communication strategy at the very beginning, at the very outset, and the message that was conveyed was that subsidies were a poor instrument for providing social support. A host of these strategies can be used by countries to implement these politically challenging reforms.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: The chapter also deals with pension reforms. We know that in many countries, spending on pensions is quite high. Just to give you a couple of numbers, in the case of advanced economies, it is 8 percent of GDP; in emerging market, about four. This spending is projected to increase due to increasing life expectancy and retirement. Reforming the pension system is important to generate fiscal savings but also to sustain labor‑force participation, as well as employment.

    Some of the key messages that we find in the chapter on reforms touch upon some of the issues that Era mentioned, gradual and timly of the reform. But for pension, what we find is that strategic communication and stakeholder engagement has been especially important. Indeed, there are cases of countries that have succeeded in implementing significant reform, for example, presenting an increasing retirement age as part of the reform that was trying to sustain adequate benefit levels. Or in some cases they were creating bipartisan commissions where they were engaging with stakeholders to hear their concerns and think about implementing the reform in the best way.

    An important issue when we think about pension reform is strengthening financial literacy and making sure that various stakeholders will talk about the potential benefits and cost of various pension schemes. Thank you.

    The Moderator: Very last one before we move to the U.S. and the other countries and regional and then we will move to other topics.

    QUESTION: I still want to focus on Chapter 2 because we are talking about developing economies and public sentiment. Era, when you were talking, you talked about subsidies being discretionary, not making the budgets, you know, complete and all of that, but we also know for many developing countries and even frontier economies, they are under pressure to cut back energy subsidies to ease debt burdens, yet these same subsidies often help keep the lights on for millions of families, low‑income families and businesses. You talked about growth earlier on. So, without these low‑income businesses, how would you also get growth? How does the IMF suggest governments manage this delicate balance and enable these countries to rationalize subsidies while safeguarding energy subsidies and cushioning the most vulnerable without leaving them behind because we are torn between having to think that subsidies are really 100 percent bad, so I really wanted to comment on that.

    Then on Nigeria, energy subsidy reforms that were seen have sparked protests and public frustrations, reflecting a top balance between fiscal responsibility and social equity. How do you think that Nigeria can navigate this difficult path and what specific measures can the IMF suggest ensuring that these reforms are fair, inclusive and accepted by the public. Thank you.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Let me talk in more detail about subsidies. Thank you for your question. These are challenging reforms to undertake. Why? Because they impact people’s, small firms’ pocketbooks immediately. An increase in energy prices as the government is moving towards cost recovery, pricing impacts pocketbooks immediately. This is a very tangible impact. Whereas the benefits that I spoke of, which are energy efficiency, the ability to reallocate fiscal savings take time to materialize. They are much more diffuse. Everyone benefits from those, but the pocket impact is felt immediately. This is why it is important as we note in our chapter, this is why it is important to have—for governments to think about a comprehensive strategy on how to implement these reforms. When you look at public sentiment across different sort of steps of these reforms, what we find that is really important is that countries that put in place compensatory mechanisms — whether this is cash transfers or more targeted transfers — really for those people who need it most have an easier time in carrying out these types of reforms. So in environments where the public does not trust the government, where there is weak accountability, doing these things up‑front in a very visible way, increasing support for social programs makes it very tangible to the public that the government is going to be doing this, and it is going to be accountable, if you will, for the fiscal savings that will be generated.

    QUESTION: Good morning. As risks for the fiscal outlook have intensified and debt levels may rise even further, as stated in the Fiscal Monitor, how worried are you about any sort of global debt crisis or regional crises that can appear, considering slower growth and new spending pressures on countries?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: As you heard yesterday, recession and crisis more than an individual nature are not in our reference projections, although, of course, part of the role of the Fiscal Monitor is precisely to systemically look at risks and vulnerabilities, and our public‑debt‑at‑risk tool is one of the instruments to do exactly that.

    Now, one point which I believe is very important is that precisely because risks and uncertainty are so elevated right now, there is a sense of urgency in policy action. Why? Because there is still time to adopt policies that improve resilience, and there is still time to think through what are the most relevant vulnerability scenarios that apply to individual countries, to regions, or even to broader systems. And it is very important to do that result systemically so that one is ready if and when a crisis comes. Our experience during the pandemic showed that countries that had easy access to financial markets and ample fiscal space did substantially better than others at managing the shocks associated with the pandemic.

    The Moderator: Thank you. We will get back to this part of the room.

    QUESTION: My question is that you just mentioned the public debt remains very elevated and also this would cause fiscal space to continue to narrow down in many countries, including some major economies. So, what consequence will this bring to the world global economy if this kind of situation continues to develop?

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: So I think that the answer that I gave to the question just now applies, given these elevated risks and uncertainties, it is crucial that countries focus on keeping their own house in order since situations around the world are so diverse, as Era emphasized, that will imply different policies in different countries. But the crucial thing is that in a situation that is as fast changing as the one we are facing now and where risks and uncertainties are so elevated, there is an urgency in acting to improve fiscal space, build buffers, and, therefore, be in a position to ensure resilience and sustain growth.

    The Moderator: Thank you. We will get back to this part of the room. The gentleman with the red shirt, please.

    QUESTION: Thank you very much. Allow me to back‑pedal to the EMDEs. The Fiscal Monitor speaks about the need to widen the tax base. A number of frontier market economies have been rolling out significant economic present stacks and minimum top‑up tax in line with the Pillar 1 and Pillar 2. But now this puts them in the cross‑hairs with the Trump administration, and many are now wondering whether they should be rolling back. So which pathway does the Fund see sustainable, considering many are looking at preferential access to the American market?

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Regarding the tax, I think it is important to make three important points. The first is that in the current situation where many emerging market and developing countries are characterized by three factors, one, foreign aid is declining; second, we have seen that increasing financial volatility can increase interest rates in these countries. This is in a situation where interest rates over revenue for many countries is about 10 percent of GDP. Third, [volatile] financial conditions also implies that less flows will go to these countries. The point that we make in the Fiscal Monitor is that revenue and revenue mobilization can be a stable source for financing significant spending for social benefit or public investment. How we should strengthen revenue mobilization, typically there are three sorts of arrows that you can go. One is expanding the tax base. Second, eliminate tax exemptions. Third, which is also important, and that the IMF does a lot of work in terms of capacity development is strengthening tax administrations. When we think about the tax strategy, we have to consider all of these three elements, and for many emerging markets and developing countries, there are significant potential tax gains that can be achieved.

    The Moderator: Yes, please.

    Mr. Vitor Gaspar: Just one word of addition. Davide correctly pointed out these three very important elements, broadening the tax base, dealing with tax expenditures and strengthening revenue administration. Yesterday I participated in a high‑level panel precisely on the mobilization of resources, and these three elements were repeated by the Ministers of Pakistan, Paraguay and Rwanda, and they found this frame relevant in their own experience of trying to improve the capacity of their countries to mobilize revenues.

    The Moderator: We have two questions online. I think this one will be for you, Era, about Spain. Yesterday they revised upwards the growth of Spain and have already highlighted the good performance of the Spanish economy. What should this country do with these good growth results regarding its fiscal policies in the short and medium term? And we will have another one for South Africa online.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you for the question. Given Spain’s relatively strong fiscal position as well as economic position, there is scope now to front‑load some of the adjustment that they were thinking about because public debt levels in Spain still remain very high, although they have come down from the pandemic peaks. They still remain very high. This would be really important to put debt firmly down on a downward trajectory.

    Accumulative adjustment of about 3 percent of GDP over the next three years, say 2025 to 2029, similar to the one that was envisaged in terms of magnitude by the authorities but more frontloaded, would help achieve the goal. Now, as Vitor has pointed out, we are encouraging countries to bring debt down for a number of reasons. This is important because you want to reduce debt risks. This is important because countries should either expand or replenish the buffers that were diminished in the wake of the pandemic and also because of ongoing uncertainties. Finally, because countries will need—countries like Spain will need to spend on other areas, population aging, climate, defense and such.

    The Moderator: Just before we go to South Africa, any other European question? One time, two time, no European question in the room. OK.

    QUESTION: Thank you. The question on South Africa but also on the broader region: On South Africa, the IMF is quite significantly more pessimistic on the fiscal trajectory than our own government, which sees debt stabilizing, whereas the IMF sees it rising close to 90 percent of GDP at the end of the decade. Why are you so much more pessimistic of the authorities’ promised consolidation? But also on the region, sub‑Saharan Africa more broadly, how do you see the impact of what is happening globally on the region’s ability to borrow and particularly to borrow in international markets, and given a lot of the countries in the region are in debt distress or close to debt distress, what impact will that have on the economies of the sub‑Saharan Africa? Thank you.

    The Moderator: Thank you very much.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you very much. Briefly on South Africa, the general government deficit in South Africa was about 6 percent of GDP in 2024. We project the fiscal deficit in 2025, although this is subject to considerable—all projections are subject to considerable uncertainties at this juncture to be around 6.6 percent of GDP. This is mainly driven by higher spending. Some of the differences stem from the fact that our projections are based on much more conservative assumptions regarding the buoyancy of the tax system, as well as the extent of primary spending compression that can be undertaken. So that really accounts for differences in projections between the two countries and also the path of debt going forward. Let me turn it over to Davide.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Yes, more broadly and on financing costs for sub‑Saharan African regions, let me point out two factors. The first is that, of course, we have seen interest rates rising. So, this increasing interest rate in many countries, including South Africa, is basically driven by two factors. You have sort of an interest rate in main advanced economies that has been on a rising trend. On the positive side, in many countries, especially those with better fiscal positions, you actually have seen spreads, so the difference between the domestic interest rate and the foreign interest rate declines. However, and this is something that we point out in the Fiscal Monitor, that increased risk, increase of risk of uncertainty, financial market volatility, can turn things around. In other words, we see that increasing financial market volatility globally can lead to an increase in spreads.

    The second point is that one part we have seen for many low‑income countries since the pandemic is they are relying much more on domestic issuance of debt rather than on the foreign market. This is on one hand sort of offset some of the challenges like to the global environment but also increase some sort of domestic vulnerability, because sometimes the interest rates rise. There are things that are important to think about this strategy. But definitely, as we mentioned, interest rate is a source of rising in terms of revenue is a source of concern. Let me make the point again that we made, I think strengthening fiscal buffers, revenue mobilization are important elements to reduce — to have this trend to decline.

    The Moderator: Thank you. I believe we received some questions for Latin America and, yes, there are some reporters in the room. Yes, please, the lady in the third row here.

    QUESTION: Thank you. You already talked about emerging markets, but focusing on Latin America, I want to know which one—you already have talked about it too, but which one is the biggest fiscal risk and what should economies in Latin America should be thinking about doing in terms of growing and accepting new investment, for example, to confront the situation abroad? Thank you.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: Thank you for your question. Many of the risks that other emerging market economies face, countries in Latin America obviously also face, we have already talked at length about that. But I am going to talk about a few things that are specific to many of the countries in Latin America. So, there is two challenges that limit fiscal flexibility in Latin America. The first is that there are spending rigidities. What I mean by that is there is a lot of amounts of spending that is mandatory, on pensions, on wages, on transfers. This leaves very little room for fiscal flexibility.

    At the same time, like many other emerging markets and developing economies, spending pressures are on the rise. There are growing demands for social services, for infrastructure, for adopting to climate change, and all of these are putting pressures on the budget. Now, when you look at what has happened since the pandemic, countries have made ambitious plans to consolidate their budget. There have been ambitious announcements of fiscal consolidation plans, but at the same time expenditure increases have outpaced revenue gains. So, for many countries in the region, we see debt levels continuing to rise. And the challenge here is that we are in a world with greater uncertainty than we were even six months ago. So, it is really important for countries in the region to implement at a minimum the announced fiscal consolidation plan and to do this within credible medium‑term frameworks. Many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean region have fiscal rules. So to implement these rules, to spend efficiently, to think about the types of fiscal reforms that are needed, whether it is revenue mobilization in countries where revenue‑to‑GDP ratios are low, whether it is spending prioritization or reprioritization, to create the room that is needed for priority investments and social spending and infrastructure and such.

    The Moderator: Thank you. One last question.

    QUESTION: I am from Thailand. I want to ask about the overall trend of the public debt, especially for the ASEAN 5. It would be great if you could mention specifically on Thailand.

    The Moderator: I think we had the Nigeria question to answer too, and we will close there. Thank you.

    Mr. Davide Furceri: Let me start with Nigeria. So, Nigeria managed to do a very difficult reform that was important to deliver fiscal savings. The authorities also scaled up transfers, technical transfers. What we think there is, what is important to act on two pillars. One is to generate additional fiscal savings. We mentioned revenue mobilization. To really scale up spending on social protection, spending on investment, in a way as was mentioned, many countries, they need to spend, and there I want to go back to Vitor’s first remarks. We encourage countries to spend very wisely. Strengthening prioritization in terms of spending, strengthening the efficiency of spending is important. Final important message we would like to give for Nigeria but also for other countries is that fiscal institutions are very important. Having a medium‑term fiscal framework, Public Financial Management are key important because on the one hand they try to help the fiscal anchor, so they set apart for the fiscal adjustment, but also reduce the fiscal uncertainty per se. So as Vitor mentioned, we want the fiscal to be a source of stability and not a source of uncertainty, and that is where fiscal institutions have an important role to play.

    The Moderator: Thank you. Very quickly, Era.

    Ms. Era Dabla‑Norris: On ASEAN, there is a huge variation in fiscal positions across the region. On average, the ASEAN region debt‑to‑GDP ratios are lower than they are in other emerging market and developing economies. That said, in Thailand, relative to the other countries in ASEAN, debt levels are slightly more elevated, over 60 percent of GDP. Our advice has been that fiscal policy should be prudent and parsimonious, given all the reasons we have discussed over the course of this morning. So, measures that are needed to smooth adjustment in light of higher tariffs should be thought of in a wise way, temporary, targeted measures in the context of tariff uncertainty, and ongoing consolidation plans implemented to bring debt down in a sustainable manner.

    The Moderator: Thank you very much

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Jade Power Announces Director Appointment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jade Power Trust (“Jade Power” or the “Trust”) (NEX:JPWR.H) is pleased to announce the appointment of an independent director, Bruce McCannel, to the Board of Directors of Jade Power Administrator Inc., effective immediately.

    Bruce is currently a corporate consultant primarily focused on government and stakeholder engagement and communications strategies. Holding a Master of Public Administration degree, Bruce worked in budget development for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Finance, was an Executive Director for the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport, and was on the board of directors for the Canadian Parks Council. When he was the head coach of the University of Regina Cougars Track and Field program, Bruce was a member of the board of directors for Saskatchewan Athletics and the Excel Athletika Track and Field Club.

    David Barclay, Chief Executive Officer stated “We look forward to working with Bruce on the Board. We are excited by the value that his experience in government and stakeholder relations will bring to the Trust.”

    For further information please contact:

    David Barclay
    Chief Executive Officer
    +1 954-895-7217
    david.barclay@bellsouth.net

    About Jade Power

    The Trust, through its direct and indirect subsidiaries in Canada, the Netherlands and Romania, was formed to acquire interests in renewable energy assets in Romania, other countries in Europe and abroad that can provide stable cash flow to the Trust and a suitable risk-adjusted return on investment. All material information about the Trust may be found under Jade Power’s issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements in this press release contain forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as “anticipates”, “plans”, “proposes”, “estimates”, “intends”, “expects”, “believes”, “may” and “will”. The forward-looking statements are founded on the basis of expectations and assumptions made by the Trust. Details of the risk factors relating to Jade Power and its business are discussed under the heading “Business Risks and Uncertainties” in the Trust’s annual Management’s Discussion & Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023, a copy of which is available on Jade Power’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Most of these factors are outside the control of the Trust. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as otherwise required by applicable securities statutes or regulation, Jade Power expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Neither the TSXV nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government launches call for evidence on men’s health 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government launches call for evidence on men’s health 

    It will inform England’s first ever men’s health strategy to tackle the life expectancy gap.

    • Call for evidence will inform England’s first ever men’s health strategy to tackle life expectancy gap
    • Members of the public and healthcare experts will get their say on ways to tackle biggest health problems facing men as part of Plan for Change to improve health care for everyone
    • This follows government’s first ever Men’s Health Summit held in partnership with Movember, co-hosted by Arsenal and Premier League 

    The government is today (Thursday 24 April) calling for men of all ages to come forward and feed into England’s first ever men’s health strategy.

    The 12-week call for evidence will gather vital insights from the public, health and social care professionals, academics and employers so the government can properly consider how to prevent and tackle the biggest issues facing men from all backgrounds.  

    It will ask for their views on what is working and what more needs to be done to close the life expectancy gap between men and women, as men in England die nearly four years earlier than women on average. 

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 

    Every day, men across England are dying early from preventable causes. Men are hit harder by a range of conditions, while tragically suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50. 

    Our Plan for Change means we will tackle these issues head on through a men’s health strategy, and today’s call for evidence is the crucial next step in understanding what works, what doesn’t, and how we can design services men will actually use. I urge people to come forward to share their views.

    The call for evidence will seek responses on how the government’s Plan for Change can work across the board to improve the health and wellbeing of men, through: 

    • Prevention – finding the right areas and the right ways to promote healthier behaviours  
    • Diagnosis and treatment – improving outcomes for health conditions that hit men harder
    • Encouragement to come forward – improving men’s access to, engagement with and experience of the health service

    This government is committed to fixing the NHS and getting a grip on the stark health inequalities that exist across the country through the Plan for Change, which will rebuild the health service and deliver better care for everyone. With a clearer, more tailored approach for both men and women, their distinct health needs will be met better.

    In women’s health, we’re turning the commitments in the women’s health strategy into tangible actions – taking urgent action to tackle gynaecology waiting lists through the Elective Reform Plan, investing in a major AI breast cancer screening trial, and implementing key priority areas outlines in our strategy – alongside taking wider government action to tackle violence against women and girls.

    Amy O’Connor, Global Lead, Policy and Advocacy at Movember, said:

    Too many men are dying too young, the men’s health strategy is a once in a generation opportunity to invest in positive change for men and their loved ones. Share your solutions – whether it’s more community support groups, improved education, or enhancing clinical training, to create a lasting impact on the future of men’s health.

    Julie Bentley, Samaritans CEO, said:

    Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 so it’s critical that suicide prevention is front and centre of this strategy. With men making up 75 percent of all suicides, this strategy is a real opportunity to prevent thousands of deaths.  

    Recognising what works for different groups of men, focusing on key risk factors and providing evidenced based support will be crucial and we’d encourage everyone to submit evidence to this important consultation. We look forward to working with Government on meaningful ways to cut suicide rates and save lives.

    Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community and Wellbeing Board, said: 

    We are pleased that the Government has announced plans to launch the first-ever Men’s Health Strategy with a call for evidence. It’s a significant step towards improving men’s health outcomes and ensuring that men can live healthier, longer, happier lives.

    The call for evidence will be open for views on the Department of Health and Social Care website until 17 July. The government aims to launch the men’s health strategy later this year. 

    Notes to editors 

    • The call for evidence will run for 12 weeks from 24 April 2025 to 17 July 2025. 
    • Men are disproportionately affected by a number of health conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. 
    • Around 3 in 4 people who died by suicide in 2023 were men. Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under the age of 50. 
    • Those in the most deprived areas of England are expected to live almost 10 years less than those in the least deprived areas. 
    • The men’s health strategy was announced by the Health Secretary at the Men’s Health Summit held in partnership with Movember, hosted by Arsenal and the Premier League, in November. For more information see here Secretary of State commits to first ever men’s health strategy – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SFO sets out route for businesses to avoid prosecution

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    SFO sets out route for businesses to avoid prosecution

    The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has today launched new guidance for corporates about self-reporting, co-operation and Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs).

    The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) today launched new guidance, stating for the first time that if a corporate self-reports suspected wrongdoing and co-operates fully with investigators, it can expect to be invited to negotiate a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) rather than face prosecution, unless exceptional circumstances apply.

    At a legal conference in London, SFO Director Nick Ephgrave introduced new corporate co-operation guidance that will make it simpler for corporates to report suspected wrongdoing by a direct route to the SFO’s Intelligence Division via a secure reporting portal. 

    The guidance also provides greater clarity on what the SFO views as ‘genuine co-operation’, including preservation of digital and hard copy material, presenting the facts on suspected criminal conduct and early engagement with the SFO on any internal investigation.  The guidance also gives examples of what the SFO views as uncooperative conduct, including attempts to “forum shop” by unreasonably reporting offending to another jurisdiction for strategic reasons and attempts to minimise or obfuscate the involvement of individuals.

    In return, a self-reporting company can expect the SFO to:

    • Contact it within 48 business hours of a self-report or other initial contact.

    • Provide a decision whether to open an investigation within six months of a self-report.

    • Conclude its investigation within a prompt time frame.

    • Conclude DPA negotiations within six months of sending an invite.

    Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office, said:

    We are determined to lead the fight against serious and complex fraud, bribery and corruption at home and side by side with international partners. Our new guidance sets out how corporates can report suspected criminality to us and what we expect from cooperating corporates.

    If you have knowledge of wrongdoing, the gamble of keeping this to yourself has never been riskier.

    The new guidance comes amidst a push by the SFO to optimise its operating environment to tackle top-tier criminality, including by advancing plans to incentivise whistleblowers, supporting reform of outdated disclosure practice, trialling new technology and setting up a taskforce to tackle international bribery and corruption with key partners.

    Press Office

    Email news@sfo.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number +44 (0)7557 009842

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister launches major boost for UK clean energy industry

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister launches major boost for UK clean energy industry

    Prime Minister brings forward £300 million for Great British Energy to invest in offshore wind supply chains ahead of the Future of Energy Security summit.

    • Prime Minister brings forward an initial £300 million investment ahead of Spending Review through Great British Energy to win global offshore wind investment for the UK
    • Fund will boost domestic jobs, mobilise additional private investment, and secure manufacturing facilities for critical clean energy supply chains like floating offshore platforms
    • Prime Minister and Energy Secretary to announce pro-investment plans at major international summit bringing together governments and industry from around the world to drive collective energy security

    Communities across the country will benefit from new investment in domestic clean energy supply chains – driving economic growth and supporting thousands of jobs through the Plan for Change.

    Workers and businesses in the UK’s industrial heartlands will benefit from an initial £300 million of funding through Great British Energy to invest in supply chains for domestic offshore wind. It is expected that the investment will directly and indirectly mobilise billions in additional private investment – helping de-risk clean energy projects and supporting thousands of jobs and revitalising the UK’s industrial heartlands.

    The public investment complements the £43 billion of private investment pledged for clean energy projects since July.

    Britain’s engineers, technicians, and welders are being backed by this fast-tracked funding, brought forward by the Prime Minister ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review, which will allow Great British Energy, the country’s publicly-owned clean energy company, to invest in new supply chains for offshore wind manufacturing components such as floating offshore platforms and cables. This builds on the government’s landmark investment in domestic supply chains through initiatives such as the Clean Industry Bonus and the National Wealth Fund.

    As part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in the UK’s key sectors including clean energy, the new investment in domestic offshore wind is part of the Prime Minister’s drive to ensure that the clean energy future is ‘built in Britain’. The funding will ensure that the nation builds resilient domestic supply chains for components which are essential to delivering clean power by 2030.

    It comes after the Prime Minister said that a new era of global insecurity means that the government must go further and faster in reshaping the economy through the Plan for Change, and that this requires a new muscular industrial policy that supports British industry to forge ahead.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Delivering the Plan for Change means winning the race for the clean energy jobs of the future, which will drive growth and help us reach clean power by 2030.

    That is why I am bringing forward much-needed investment in our domestic offshore wind supply chains, strengthening our security and creating good jobs for our welders, electricians, and engineers.

    Let my message to the world go out: come and build the clean energy future in Britain.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    It is only by taking back control of our energy that we can protect families and businesses from the rollercoaster of global markets we don’t control.

    That is why this government is doubling down on our clean energy superpower mission – driving economic growth, good jobs and investment across our country.

    The Prime Minister, ministers and business leaders will gather in London today for the 2-day summit on the Future of Energy Security – hosted by the UK government and International Energy Agency – as countries take action to protect themselves from future energy shocks in these unstable times. Leaders from around the world, including the President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen, will come together to address the global challenges and opportunities of speeding up the clean energy transition.

    The Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, National Wealth Fund CEO John Flint and Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier will today write to global clean energy developers and investors inviting them to invest here in Britain. It follows the government announcing a series of pro-growth measures including major reforms to speed up grid connections and overhaul planning rules.

    Dan McGrail, interim CEO of Great British Energy, said:

    Great British Energy will help the UK win the global race for clean energy jobs and growth by investing in homegrown supply chains and ensuring key infrastructure parts are made here in Britain.

    We will work closely with businesses across the clean energy sector to get funding out as fast as possible and get projects off the ground.

    Deputy CEO of RenewableUK, Jane Cooper, said,

    There’s a huge opportunity for the UK to secure thousands of new jobs and supply chain investment in the sector, which will make our home-grown energy supply even more secure.

    The Prime Minister’s funding will be critical to ensuring the UK grasps the industrial opportunities in the offshore wind supply chain, at a time of intense global competition for clean energy investment. By nurturing existing UK companies, and ensuring we’re a competitive location for international investors, there’s an opportunity to triple our manufacturing capacity over the next decade, adding £25 billion to the UK economy and creating an additional 10,000 jobs in the supply chain.

    This new government funding is a clear signal of intent to secure those priorities and is vital to unlocking further co-investment from industry.

    The funding for supply chains will be made available as part of the £8.3 billion for Great British Energy over this parliament, with individual companies able to apply for grants if they can show that they will produce long-term investments in UK supply chains.

    Great British Energy, the country’s publicly-owned clean energy company, will produce a return on investment for the British people, and ensure British billpayers reap the benefits of clean, secure, home-grown energy. This first phase of grant funding is needed to capture investment now and reap benefits of jobs and growth.

    Notes to editors

    More details on the £43 billion announced since July can be found here: Clean energy projects prioritised for grid connections .

    Great British Energy’s supply chain fund is expected to be open for applications by the end of the year, with an initial £300 million available for offshore wind schemes over this Parliament. Further details on criteria and eligibility will be published in due course.

    The investment comes in the context of the 2024 Industrial Growth Plan, in which the Offshore Wind Industry Council proposed to match fund £300 million of grant investment in the UK’s supply chains with private sector investment.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1,000 retirement savings boost from plans to bring together small pension pots

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £1,000 retirement savings boost from plans to bring together small pension pots

    Millions of Brits will find it easier to track their pension savings with the creation of a small pensions pot consolidator, in reforms unveiled by the pensions minister today (Thursday 24 April).

    • Government unveils reforms to combine small pension pots to make working people better off as part of Plan for Change
    • Move is set to boost retirement savings for the average worker by around £1000 and save businesses £225 million a year in unnecessary admin costs
    • Comes as part of Pension Schemes Bill which will drive investment in pensions industry and deliver on the government’s growth mission

    This new initiative will tackle the growing problem of small, forgotten pension pots that many people accumulate as they move between employers over their working lives. There are now 13 million of these small pots, holding £1,000 or less, with the number increasing by around one million a year. 

    This is a hassle for savers and can stop them getting a good return on their savings if they have to pay multiple flat rate charges. Overseeing all these small pots also costs the pensions industry around £225 million in unnecessary admin costs.  

    Under reforms introduced by this government as part of the Pension Schemes Bill, each individual’s small pots will be brought together into one pension scheme that is certified as delivering good value to savers. Individuals will retain the right to opt out.

    This will cut costs for savers and make it easier to keep track of their pensions while boosting living standards and make working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    This announcement will reduce costs as well as hassle for savers, in time increasing the pension pot of an average earner by around £1,000 – boosting living standards and making working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: 

    It’s great news that more people are saving for their retirement. But I want to make pension saving as simple and rewarding as possible.

    There are now more small pension pots in the UK than pensioners – raising costs and hassle for workers trying to track their savings. It also costs the pensions industry hundreds of millions of pounds every year. 

    We will automatically bring together people’s small pots into one high performing pension, reducing costs as well as hassle for savers. In time this could boost the pension of an average earner by around £1,000 as part of our Plan for Change to put more money in people’s pockets.

    The announcement follows the work of the Small Pots Delivery Group. Their findings, aimed at supporting the design and implementation of the new small pots consolidator scheme, include:

    • A Small Pots Data Platform to identify and source the pension pots that could be consolidated.
    • A framework setting out the rules a scheme would need to follow to become a consolidator scheme. These would include already being in an Automatic Enrolment qualifying scheme, having a specified level of scale to manage expansion, providing good value for money for their members and providing additional protection for members from flat fee charges.
    • Safeguards for savers whose pension pots would be consolidated which include a member op-out option. 

    Transforming the pension landscape through the Pension Schemes Bill, set to be introduced in Parliament later this Spring, will deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment to boost investment and returns for savers and make working people better off. 

    The Bill will help over 15 million people, boost pension pots by £11,000 and spur on greater investment in productive assets. 

    Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, said: 

    The accumulation of small pots creates unnecessary cost and complexity for savers and schemes alike. The PLSA has worked extensively with industry and the DWP to propose solutions and supports the model being proposed by the Government.

    We look forward to working on delivering the recommendations of the Small Pots Development Group and are pleased the Government is tackling this long-standing issue in the Pension Schemes Bill.

    Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: 

    Which? called for the consolidation of small pots under £1,000 before the election, so we are delighted that the government is committing to doing this – a move that will provide greater value for savers and support them to keep track of their pensions. 

    Which? looks forward to working with the government to ensure the pensions system is fit for the modern age.

    Gail Izat, Workplace Managing Director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group said: 

    The number of small pots in the system is growing at a rate of knots and ultimately heightens the risk that people will lose track of their hard-earned savings. 

    The introduction of consolidators that can administer these pots effectively and invest them dynamically will be a step forward and when combined with pension dashboards will empower people to take control of their savings. We look forward to working with government on the creation of this new system.

    Additional Information

    The Delivery Group was chaired by the DWP and had representation from: 

    • The Financial Conduct Authority 

    • The Pensions Regulator 

    • Pension and Lifetime Savings Association 

    • Association of British Insurers 

    • Pensions Administration Standards Association 

    • Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals 

    • Association of Pensions Lawyers 

    • Which? 

    • Federation of Small Businesses 

    • Confederation of British Industry 

    • Chair of the industry led Small Pots Coordination Group 

    • Pensions Policy Institute

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Build it in Britain: invitation to clean energy developers and investors

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Build it in Britain: invitation to clean energy developers and investors

    Open letter to clean energy developers and investors inviting them to support the clean energy mission by ‘building it in Britain’.

    Documents

    Details

    The Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, National Wealth Fund CEO John Flint and Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier have written to clean energy developers and investors inviting them to invest here in Britain.

    This follows the government announcing an initial £300 million of funding through Great British Energy to invest in domestic offshore wind supply chains, as well as a series of pro-growth measures including major reforms to speed up grid connections and overhaul planning rules.

    The clarity, consistency and urgency of the UK’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission provides certainty and stability for global investors to ensure the UK takes advantage of the enormous opportunities created by the clean energy transition.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National roadshow kicks off to get businesses exporting and grow the economy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National roadshow kicks off to get businesses exporting and grow the economy

    SMEs from across the UK will benefit from new government support to match them up with international buyers and markets.

    • Export Roadshows, created to get more small businesses exporting and grow the economy, kick off today in the North East 
    • Taking place across all nations and regions of the UK, events will bring together small firms, industry experts, trade bodies and government  
    • Part of the modern Industrial Strategy, the roadshow aims to channel government support to growth-driving sectors, as part of the Plan for Change 

    SMEs from across the UK will benefit from new government support to match them up with international buyers and markets, to turbocharge UK exports and grow the economy as part of the Plan for Change. 

    The ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ roadshows, kicking off today [24 April] in Blyth and taking place across all nations and regions of the UK, have been designed to directly connect international buyers with SME exporters ready to seize the opportunity to grow their businesses. Through these events, the Government is working to maximise international opportunities for UK businesses by highlighting tangible opportunities that exist in new markets.   

    Each event will be aligned to one of the eight key growth driving sectors outlined in Britain’s modern Industrial Strategy, channelling government support to sectors with the highest potential to create jobs, boost productivity and grow the economy. All of which will help deliver the Plan for Change to put more money in more working people’s pockets.   

    Highlighted sectors include clean energy, advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, digital and technology, and financial services.  

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, said: 

    Maximising the UK’s export potential is crucial to achieving our Plan for Change, by creating good jobs with high wages, raising productivity, and boosting the economy. 

    Through these roadshows, the government is focussing on supporting key growth sectors, making it quicker and easier for smaller businesses to connect with markets, grasp export opportunities and expand. 

    The focus of the first roadshow, taking place today, is exporting in the clean energy sector.  

    There will be 100 attendees at the event – made up of small businesses, trade bodies, and government representatives, as well as 30 Commercial Officers from UK embassies and consulates from around the world, and 97 buyers, all of whom will join the event virtually through pre-planned meetings. 

    The 97 buyers span 19 markets worldwide, from Argentina to Austria, Thailand, Turkey, Mexico, India, and the UAE.  

    All roadshow events will provide opportunities for delegates to meet with domestic and international Commercial Officers, who will be on hand to offer expert support and advice on specific products, markets, and export opportunities.  

    There will also be a designated advice zone for SMEs to learn about wider export support services offered by the Department for Business and Trade, as well as those provided by other public sectors partners like regional Growth Hubs, and trusted private sector providers like the Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Business, UKEF and MAKE UK.  

    A range of workshops and seminars on topical issues such as ‘conducting market research’ and ‘routes to market’ will take place throughout the day, led by the UK Export Academy. Several of these will feature DBT Export Champions who will speak of their own experiences in target markets.   

    Alex Marshall, Group Business Development Director at Clarke Energy, said:  

    From the Americas, Africa, Asia to Australasia, clean technologies are now established as one of the most important pillars of the global economy.  

    So as an Export Champion and a UK business developing innovative clean technology solutions across the world, this Made in the UK, Sold to the World roadshow event is an excellent place to discuss the latest international trends and export opportunities for UK businesses in the clean energy sector. 

    We know that when SMEs trade around the world, the whole economy benefits, which is why this government is so committed to supporting smaller businesses grow and export.   

    Just last month, the Department of Business and Trade relaunched the Board of Trade, to help businesses, and in particular the UK’s 5.5 million SMEs, boost their exports.  

    And later this year, we will be launching a small business strategy to raise growth and productivity across the UK’s SME population and boost the number of scale-ups.   

    UK businesses can access DBT’s wealth of export support via Great.gov.uk. This comprises an online support offer and a wider network of support including the Export Academy, UK Export Finance, the International Markets network, and one-to-one support from International Trade Advisers. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major step for fraud prevention with landmark ban on SIM farms

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Major step for fraud prevention with landmark ban on SIM farms

    The UK will become the first country in Europe to ban the possession and supply of SIM farms – technical devices used to defraud the public.

    Getty Images

    Members of the public will be better protected from fraudsters and scammers through a landmark, Europe-first ban on the possession and supply of SIM farms, the Fraud Minister Lord Hanson has confirmed today.

    SIM farms are technical devices capable of holding multiple SIM cards enabling criminals to send scam texts to thousands of people at once or set up ‘verified’ online accounts in large volumes. They increase the chances of innocent consumers falling victim to major financial losses. 

    With recent data showing that fraud increased last year by 19%, and that it accounts for more than 40% of all reported crime in England and Wales, the government is acting to prevent and counter these evolving threats and deliver security for the public as a foundation of the Plan for Change. This follows the commitment to publish a new, expanded fraud strategy before the end of the year.

    The new offence will make the possession or supply of SIM farms without a legitimate reason illegal, shutting down a key route used by criminals to exploit the public, and will carry an unlimited fine in England and Wales and a £5,000 fine in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

    The ban will come into effect 6 months after the Crime and Policing Bill receives Royal Assent.

    It will mean that those offenders using these devices to defraud the public will not only continue to face the full force of the law for their heinous actions but will also be hit with hefty fines.

    Fraud Minister Lord Hanson said:

    Fraud devastates lives, and I am determined to take the decisive action necessary to protect the public from these shameful criminals.

    Two-thirds of British adults say they’ve received a suspicious message on their phone – equivalent to more than 35 million people – which is why cracking down on SIM farms is so vital to protecting the public.

    This marks a leap forward in our fight against fraud and will provide law enforcement and industry partners the clarity they need to protect the public from this shameful crime. This government will continue to take robust action to protect the public from fraud and deliver security and resilience through the Plan for Change.

    Anyone who is worried about being a victim of fraud and wants to find out more about how to better stay protected, including understanding the tactics fraudsters use, should visit Stop! Think Fraud – How to stay safe from scams.

    Rachel Andrews, Head of Corporate Security at Vodafone UK, said:

    Vodafone UK is committed to protecting all our customers from fraud, including activity enabled by SIM farms. So far this year we have blocked over 38.5 million suspected scam messages, and in 2024 that figure reached over 73.5 million for the year.

    As an industry, UK telecoms operators have blocked more than 1 billion suspected scam messages since 2023. However, we cannot fully tackle fraud in isolation, collaboration between industry and government is crucial. This is a really important step taken by the Home Office and we fully support the inclusion of SIM farms in the upcoming legislation.

    We look forward to working together on this issue.

    Nick Sharp, Deputy Director for Fraud at the National Crime Agency, said:

    Fraud is the crime we are all most likely to experience, and one that causes victims significant emotional and financial harm.

    We know that fraud at scale is being facilitated by SIM farms, which give criminals a means and an opportunity to contact victims at scale with relative ease.

    The ban announced today is very welcome. It will give us a vital tool to step up our fight against fraudsters, target the services they rely on, and better protect the public.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference takes place at Hillsborough Castle

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference takes place at Hillsborough Castle

    The conference is due to take place today, Thursday 24 April

    The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) will take place at Hillsborough Castle today (Thursday 24th April), the first time the Conference has been held in Northern Ireland since 2006. 

    Established under the Good Friday Agreement, the BIIGC is a bilateral forum  which meets regularly, aiming “to bring together the British and Irish Governments to promote cooperation at all levels on all matters of mutual interest within the competence of both Governments”. 

    Today’s meeting will be chaired by Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn and Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Minister for Defence Simon Harris. The meeting will also be attended by the Parliamentary under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Fleur Anderson MP and the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan TD. 

    It follows the UK-Ireland summit in March when the two governments pledged to work closely to deliver security, investment and growth

    This new era of co-operation with Ireland is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change to put more money in working people’s pockets across the country through a future of greater national security and renewal.

    At today’s BIIGC meeting, the two Governments are expected to discuss ongoing efforts to find a way forward regarding the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland. They will also cover political stability, security, and other areas of bilateral cooperation.

    Secretary of State Hilary Benn said:

    This will be an important meeting in developing the strong and close relationship between the UK and the Irish Governments as we continue to work together on a range of issues.

    Tánaiste Simon Harris said:

    I am looking forward to this significant meeting of the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference and to continuing the intensive discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on the challenging but essential work of dealing with the legacy of the past.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom