Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight joins government’s fast-track devolution programme 5 February 2025 Isle of Wight joins government’s fast-track devolution priority programme

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight has been included in the government’s fast-track plans for devolution.

    The Isle of Wight Council, alongside Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, and Southampton City Council, received confirmation today (Wednesday) that their joint expression of interest in the government’s devolution priority programme has been accepted.

    This acceptance marks a pivotal step towards the creation of a new mayoral strategic authority, aiming to transfer power and funding from Whitehall to the Solent and Hampshire region while enabling local councils to collaborate on strategic, region-wide issues.

    The mayoral strategic authority will not replace local councils, but rather work closely with local authorities in the region to develop and deliver their plans with most of its focus on responsibilities which are currently held by Whitehall.

    Councillor Phil Jordan, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said: “Currently, central government and Whitehall departments make some key strategic decisions about policy and funding for the Island and the wider area.

    “Devolution would shift more of these policy-making powers and additional funding to local authorities such as the Isle of Wight Council.

    “This change is expected to provide greater local control over vital areas such as major transport infrastructure, and health services, giving residents more power to shape the things that are important to them and ensuring robust local accountability.”

    As part of devolution proposals, a mayor would, subject to agreement and approval, be elected in the spring of 2026 to head up the new strategic combined authority. The mayor would promote the interests of the wider region to central government with the aim of driving local economic growth.

    The government is due to launch a public consultation in the spring to gather residents’ views on the plans. Any devolution deal would then undergo scrutiny and approval by Isle of Wight councillors.

    To facilitate devolution, the government has agreed to defer this year’s Isle of Wight Council elections by 12 months. However, this postponement is contingent on the necessary legislative changes being laid down and approved.

    The government has not yet confirmed arrangements in relation to town, parish, and community council elections.

    Councillor Jordan added: “Given the pressing deadlines, this decision by government is understandable and provides us with the necessary time and capacity to focus intently on this critical work.

    “By collaborating across political parties and engaging with local communities, we can ensure we secure the best possible outcomes for our residents.”

    He added: “The devolution proposal is incredibly promising, with the potential to deliver significant advantages to local residents and businesses.

    “It offers a unique opportunity to tailor decisions to local needs and priorities. This would enable us to shape our own future while potentially attracting significant funding to improve quality of life and promote business growth.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Annual general meeting of Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    Euronext Dublin
    Other stakeholders

    Date        5 February 2025

    Annual general meeting of Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S

    The bank will hold its annual general meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 5 March 2025 at the ROFI Centre, Kirkevej 26, Rindum, 6950 Ringkøbing, Denmark.

    Agenda as per the bank’s articles of association:

    1. Election of chairperson

    The board of directors proposes that Allan Østergaard Sørensen, attorney-at-law, chair the general meeting.

    2. The board’s report on the bank’s activities in the previous year

    The board of directors proposes that the board’s report on the bank’s activities in the previous year be adopted.

    3. Presentation of the annual report for approval

    The board of directors proposes that the annual report for 2024 be approved.

    Further reference is made to the published annual report for 2024.

    4. Decision on allocation of profit or covering of loss under the approved annual report

    The board of directors proposes that the distribution of profit be approved.

    Further reference is made to the published annual report for 2024.

    5. Consultative vote on the remuneration report

    The board of directors proposes that the remuneration report for 2024 be approved.

    Further reference is made to the published remuneration report for 2024.

    6. Approval of the remuneration of the board of directors for the current financial year

    The shareholders’ committee and the board of directors propose that the remuneration of the board of directors for the current financial year be approved.

    Further reference is made to the full proposals.

    7. Remuneration policy

    The board of directors proposes that the updated remuneration policy be approved.

    Further reference is made to the full proposals.

    8. Election of members to the shareholders’ committee

    In accordance with the decision made by the bank’s annual general meeting held on 28 February 2024, the following members of the shareholders’ committee, whose terms of office end in 2025 and 2026, are resigning: Mette Bundgaard, Per Lykkegaard Christensen, Ole Kirkegård Erlandsen, Thomas Sindberg Hansen, Tonny Hansen, Kim Jacobsen, Morten Jensen, Kasper Lykke Kjeldsen, Lotte Littau Kjærgaard, Niels Erik Burgdorf Madsen, Martin Krogh Pedersen, Poul Kjær Poulsgaard, Kristian Skannerup, Allan Østergaard Sørensen, Jørgen Kolle Sørensen, Sten Uggerhøj, Lasse Svoldgaard Vesterby and Christina Ørskov.

    In addition, Lars Møller and Yvonne Skagen must retire from the shareholders’ committee due to the age requirement in the articles of association.

    The shareholders’ committee and the board of directors propose re-election of the following members, whose terms of office end in 2025 and 2026:

    • Mette Bundgaard, police superintendent, No, born 1966
    • Per Lykkegaard Christensen, farmer, Hjallerup, born 1959
    • Ole Kirkegård Erlandsen, butcher, Snejbjerg, born 1962
    • Thomas Sindberg Hansen, grocer, Kloster, born 1978
    • Tonny Hansen, former college principal, Ringkøbing, born 1958
    • Kim Jacobsen, manager, Aalborg, born 1969
    • Morten Jensen, attorney-at-law (Supreme Court), Dronninglund, born 1961
    • Kasper Lykke Kjeldsen, timber merchant, Højbjerg, born 1981
    • Lotte Littau Kjærgaard, manager, Holstebro, born 1969
    • Niels Erik Burgdorf Madsen, manager, Ølgod, born 1959
    • Martin Krogh Pedersen, CEO, Ringkøbing, born 1967
    • Poul Kjær Poulsgaard, farmer, Madum, born 1974
    • Kristian Skannerup, manufacturer, Tim, born 1959
    • Allan Østergaard Sørensen, attorney-at-law (High Court), Ringkøbing, born 1982
    • Jørgen Kolle Sørensen, sales representative and branch manager, Hvide Sande, born 1970
    • Sten Uggerhøj, car dealer, Frederikshavn, born 1959
    • Lasse Svoldgaard Vesterby, manager, Ringkøbing, born 1978
    • Christina Ørskov, manager, Gærum, born 1969

    The shareholders’ committee and the board of directors propose the following for election:

    • Rasmus Alstrup, farmer, Videbæk, born 1985
    • Rikke Ahnfeldt Kjær, CFO, Gistrup, born 1980
    • Pia Stevnhøj Sommer, sales director, Lind, born 1979

    In recruiting and proposing candidates for the shareholders’ committee (election and re-election), the committee and board of directors have focused on ensuring a diverse committee membership in terms of business experience, professional qualifications and expertise, gender, age etc.

    9. Election of one or more auditors

    In accordance with the audit committee’s recommendation, the shareholders’ committee and the board of directors propose that PricewaterhouseCoopers, Statsautoriseret Revisionspartner-selskab be re-elected as external auditor and sustainability auditor.

    Further reference is made to the full proposals.

    10. Authorisation for the board of directors to permit the bank to acquire its own shares

    The board of directors proposes that it be granted authorisation to permit the bank to acquire its own shares, in accordance with current legislation, until the next annual general meeting, to a total nominal value of ten percent (10%) of the share capital, such that the shares can be acquired at current market price plus or minus ten percent (+/-10%) at the time of acquisition. 
    Further reference is made to the full proposals.

    11. Any proposals from the board of directors, the shareholders’ committee or shareholders

    11.a. Proposed amendments to the articles of association

    The shareholders’ committee and the board of directors propose the following amendments to the articles of association:

    Art. 2a-2b:
    It is proposed that the authorisations in articles 2a and 2b be extended to 4 March 2030.
    If the proposal is approved, the wording of articles 2a and 2b of the bank’s articles of association will be changed to the following:

    Art. 2a:
    “The general meeting has decided to authorise the board of directors to increase the share capital in one or more rounds by up to nom. DKK 5,341,347 with right of pre-emption for the bank’s existing shareholders. The capital increase shall be fully paid up in cash. The capital increase may be below the market price. This authorisation shall apply until 4 March 2030.”

    Art. 2b:
    “The general meeting has decided to authorise the board of directors to increase the share capital in one or more rounds by up to nom. DKK 2,670,673 without right of pre-emption for the bank’s existing shareholders. The capital increase may be by cash payment or contribution of an existing company or specific asset values corresponding to the value of the shares issued. The capital increase shall be fully paid up at the market price ascertained by the board of directors. This authorisation shall apply until 4 March 2030.”

    The background to the proposal is that the board of directors wants to ensure continued flexibility regarding the granting of authorisations to the board of directors.

    The proposed amendments to the articles of association are also given in the full proposals to which we refer and which are available on the bank’s website, www.landbobanken.com.

    11.b. Proposal to reduce the bank’s share capital by nom. DKK 1,315,042 by cancellation of its own shares

    The board of directors proposes a reduction in the bank’s share capital from nom. DKK 26,706,739 to nom. DKK 25,391,697 by cancellation of 1,315,042 nom. DKK 1 shares from the bank’s holding of its own shares of a nominal value of DKK 1,315,042.

    Please note that, in accordance with section 188(1) of the Danish Companies Act, the purpose of the reduction in the bank’s share capital is payment to shareholders. The amount of the reduction has been used as payment to shareholders for shares acquired by the bank under the authorisation previously granted to the board of directors by the general meeting.

    The share capital will consequently be reduced by nom. DKK 1,315,042 and the bank’s holding of its own shares will be reduced by 1,315,042 nom. DKK 1 shares. Please note that, in accordance with section 188(2) of the Danish Companies Act, the shares in question were acquired for a total sum of DKK 1,524,948,149. This means that, apart from the reduction in nominal capital, DKK 1,523,633,107 has been paid to shareholders.

    The purpose of the board of directors’ proposed reduction of the share capital is to maintain flexibility in the bank’s capital structure.

    If the proposal is adopted, the following changes will be made to articles 2, 2a, 2b and 2c of the articles of association:
    Art. 2: The amount of “26,706,739” will be changed to “25,391,697”, Art. 2a: The amount of “5,341,347” will be changed to “5,078,339”, Art. 2b: The amount of “2,670,673” will be changed to “2,539,169”, and Art. 2c: The amount of “5,341,347” will be changed to “5,078,339”.

    11.c. Proposed authorisation for the board of directors or its appointee

    The board of directors proposes that the board of directors, or its appointee, be authorised to report the decisions which have been adopted at the general meeting for registration and to make such changes to the documents submitted to the Danish Business Authority as the Authority may require or find appropriate in connection with registration of the decisions of the general meeting.

    11.d. Proposal from a shareholder

    Proposal from shareholder Poul Aksel Andersen, Hobro:

    Reason for the proposal:
    The minutes of the 2024 annual general meeting state that: “In recruiting and proposing candidates for the shareholders’ committee (election and re-election), the committee and board of directors have focused on ensuring a diverse committee membership in terms of business experience, professional qualifications and expertise, gender, age etc.”

    Despite this, it is evident from the minutes that all of the elected members of the shareholders’ committee in 2024 were in leading positions. The shareholders’ committee is therefore hardly representative of the bank’s shareholders or customers in terms of business experience, professional qualifications or expertise.

    Proposal:
    It is proposed, that Ringkjøbing Landbobank’s work of recruiting and proposing of candidates in the future should focus on making the composition of the shareholders’ committee representative of the bank’s shareholders and customers; that the bank should make the process of admitting committee members transparent for all shareholders who might be interested in joining the shareholders’ committee; and that the bank’s work should focus specifically on ensuring that at least 25% of the members of the shareholders’ committee are employees without responsibilities for managing other staff.

    The board of directors’ recommendation regarding the proposal:

    The members of the bank’s board of directors are elected by the shareholders’ committee. Six of the eight current board members elected by the shareholders’ committee came from the membership of the shareholders’ committee. The shareholders’ committee is thus a recruitment channel for the board of directors. It is relevant, therefore, that the members of the shareholders’ committee possess the right competences for onward recruitment to the board of directors. In addition, the authorities nowadays impose a number of requirements on serving members of boards of directors of financial undertakings, including in relation to their competences, and there are also requirements regarding the collective competences of the plenary board of directors.

    The board of directors, the board of directors’ nomination committee and the shareholders’ committee are already working to promote diversity in the shareholders’ committee.

    The board of directors does not consider it appropriate to tie the board of directors’ nomination committee, the board of directors and the shareholders’ committee to a specific framework in future recruitment processes for nominations of candidates to the shareholders’ committee.

    For the above reasons, the board of directors does not support the proposal.

    Validity requirements for resolutions

    The proposals under items 11.a. and 11.b. of the agenda require adoption by at least two-thirds (2/3) both of votes cast and of the share capital with voting rights represented at the general meeting. Other proposals can be adopted by simple majority vote, except item 5 on the agenda which is a consultative vote.

    Amount of share capital and the shareholders’ voting rights and date of registration – the right to attend and vote at the general meeting

    Please note that the amount of the share capital is nom. DKK 26,706,739 consisting of 26,706,739 nom. DKK 1 shares.

    As for shareholders’ voting rights, each share of nom. DKK 1 carries one (1) vote when the share is recorded in the company’s share register, or when the shareholder has reported and documented their right. However, a shareholder may cast no more than 3,000 votes.

    The right to attend and vote at the general meeting may only be exercised by shareholders who, by 11:59 p.m. on the date of registration, Wednesday, 26 February 2025, are listed as shareholders in the register of shareholders or have submitted a request to the bank, which the bank has received by that deadline, for inclusion in the register of shareholders.

    Registration for the general meeting, questions and admission cards

    Registration for the general meeting can be made

    • by contacting Euronext Securities A/S by phone +45 4358 8866 or email to CPH-investor@euronext.com or
    • by contacting one of the bank’s branches.

    In accordance with the bank’s articles of association, the deadline for registering for the general meeting is 11:59 p.m. on Friday 28 February 2025, after which admission cards for the general meeting can no longer be ordered.

    Shareholders or proxies may be accompanied by an adviser, provided the adviser’s attendance has been notified on time.

    Shareholders may ask questions in writing about the agenda items or the bank’s position in general, to be answered at the general meeting. Questions may be sent by letter to Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S, for the attention of: General Management, Torvet 1, 6950 Ringkøbing, Denmark, or by email to regnskab@landbobanken.dk.

    Voting

    Shareholders may attend and vote in person or by proxy at the general meeting. Postal voting is also possible before the general meeting.

    Shareholders may grant proxy to the bank’s board of directors or a third party by 11:59 p.m. on Friday 28 February 2025. The proxy may be issued electronically on InvestorPortal at Euronext Securities, via the bank’s website www.landbobanken.com or in writing on a proxy form which is available from the bank’s branches.

    If a written proxy is used, it must be completed and signed, and received at the bank by the above deadline, i.e. 11:59 p.m. on Friday 28 February 2025.

    The proxy may be sent by post for the attention of: Accounts Department, Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S, Torvet 1, 6950 Ringkøbing, Denmark, by email to regnskab@landbobanken.dk or by fax to +45 7624 4913.

    Shareholders may also send a postal vote before the general meeting.

    Postal votes may be cast electronically on InvestorPortal at Euronext Securities, via the bank’s website www.landbobanken.com or in writing on a postal vote form which is available from the bank’s branches.

    If a postal vote is cast, the ballot paper must be returned for the attention of: Accounts Department, Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S, Torvet 1, 6950 Ringkøbing, Denmark, by email to regnskab@landbobanken.dk or by fax to +45 7624 4913.

    Electronic postal votes must be cast by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, by which time a postal ballot paper must also be received by the bank.

    Exercising financial rights

    Ringkjøbing Landbobank’s shareholders can choose Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S as the account-holding institution for the purpose of exercising the financial rights through Ringkjøbing Landbobank A/S.

    Further information

    The annual report, agenda and full proposals with the proposed amendments to the articles of association, the remuneration report, other documents under section 99(1) of the Danish Companies Act and information on the collection and processing of personal data in connection with the annual general meeting will be published on the bank’s website www.landbobanken.com and made available for inspection by shareholders on Wednesday, 5 February 2025.

    Recording and webcast

    The general meeting will be recorded and the recording will subsequently be uploaded to the bank’s website, www.landbobanken.com.

    The general meeting will also be webcast via the bank’s website, www.landbobanken.com and can be viewed by everyone. It will not be possible to ask questions or vote via the webcast.

    Personal data

    For details on the bank’s processing of personal data in respect of general meetings, please see Ringkjøbing Landbobank’s privacy policy for shareholders etc., which is available on the bank’s website, www.landbobanken.com.

    Dividend

    Any dividend is expected to be available in shareholders’ return accounts on 10 March 2025.

    Yours sincerely

    Ringkjøbing Landbobank

    On behalf of the board of directors

    Martin Krogh Pedersen
    Chair of the board of directors

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Firms which took customers’ deposits but didn’t fit their kitchens are shut down following phoenix concerns

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Insolvency Service investigations found the Manchester-based companies took upfront payments from more than 20 customers, but there is no evidence they installed the kitchens as promised

    • Customers complained they did not receive the kitchens they had paid deposits for to Smart Choice Kitchens Limited and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms Limited  

    • A phoenix company, Connect Kitchens Limited, was suspected of being set up to continue the same operation 

    • The three companies, connected by a shared director, were shut down in court following investigations by the Insolvency Service 

    A group of linked kitchen design and fitting companies based in Manchester have been shut down after taking upfront payments from more than 20 customers for products they did not provide. 

    Smart Choice Kitchens Limited, Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms Limited, and Connect Kitchens Limited were all wound-up at a hearing of the High Court in Manchester on Tuesday 4 February following an investigation by the Insolvency Service into their business practices which also identified a pattern of phoenixism. 

    The companies encouraged customers to make payments before the kitchens were delivered and installed. 

    They then failed to supply the kitchens and customers were left unable to obtain refunds. 

    A total of 21 customers complained to Action Fraud about the actions of Smart Choice Kitchens and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms. Combined, the complainants had paid deposits of more than £50,000 to the two companies. 

    The victims all said that after paying a deposit, they were then falsely informed that the companies had gone into liquidation, or “went bankrupt”. 

    Insolvency Service investigators were also concerned that Connect Kitchens was acting as a successor company to Smart Choice Kitchens and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms, putting consumers at risk of losing further sums of money due to phoenixism. 

    David Hope, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Our investigations into Smart Choice Kitchens and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms concluded that they were taking money from customers for kitchens they never had any intention of fitting. The victims found out about the companies through Facebook or Google and were then treated in very similar ways, losing hundreds if not thousands of pounds. 

    We were concerned that Connect Kitchens was a phoenix company created to continue the same operation. Our concerns only increased when our investigations uncovered three previous companies run by the same director and her associate, all of which appeared to use the same objectionable and dishonest trading practices. 

    Phoenix companies being set up with the sole purpose of causing clear financial harm to the public will not be tolerated by the Insolvency Service. 

    Stopping these companies from trading will protect potential future victims, disrupt suspected fraudulent activity, and act as a deterrent to others considering a similar business model.

    Smart Choice Kitchens, Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms, and Connect Kitchens were all established between November 2022 and July 2023. 

    The three companies shared a director, known as Toni Amana or Toni Amana Warrington. 

    Connect Kitchens appointed a second director in October 2024 but Warrington remained the sole person with significant control over the company. 

    Warrington and a known associate of hers were directors of three other companies which operated a similar business model to Smart Choice Kitchens, Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms, and Connect Kitchens. 

    Those three companies, Your Style Kitchens Ltd, Your Style Kitchens & Bathrooms Ltd, and Designer Kitchens and Bathrooms Limited, all stopped trading and were struck-off the Companies House register in August 2023, October 2023, and January 2024. 

    Bank statements obtained by the Insolvency Service for Smart Choice Kitchens and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms revealed that the majority of payments were made to Warrington’s associate. 

    Warrington also failed to co-operate with the Insolvency Service’s investigations. 

    No accounting records were produced for any of the three companies and both Smart Choice Kitchens and Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms did not file accounts at Companies House on time.  

    The Official Receiver has been appointed as liquidator of Smart Choice Kitchens Limited, Empire Kitchens and Bathrooms Limited, and Connect Kitchens Limited. 

    All enquiries concerning the affairs of the three companies should be made to the Official Receiver of the Public Interest Unit: 16th Floor, 1 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1HZ. Email: piu.or@insolvency.gov.uk

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on fire at Mount Edgcumbe

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park has been closed to all visitors today (Wednesday) following a fire at the Barrow Centre yesterday evening.

    Two flats and two holiday lets at the Centre have been seriously damaged by the fire, which was put out by crews from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service assisted by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, who are still on site this morning.

    The Barrow Centre was evacuated as soon as the fire was discovered and fortunately no one was injured.

    Other sections of the Barrow Centre housing businesses and flats are now being assessed. Mount Edgcumbe House itself has not been impacted.

    Sadly, those living in the damaged flats have lost their personal belongings. They were provided with temporary accommodation elsewhere in the park last night.

    The cause of the fire is being investigated.

    The buildings will now be assessed by structural engineers and the area around the Barrow Centre made safe and cordoned off.

    The park is expected to reopen tomorrow and an update on when businesses in the Barrow Centre can re-open will be provided once all the assessments have been completed.

    The Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park team is contacting anyone who have any upcoming events or bookings that may be affected by the fire.

    Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park is jointly owned and managed by Plymouth City Council and Cornwall Council.

    Plymouth councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Joint chair of the Mount Edgcumbe Joint Committee, said: “Everyone here is obviously devastated by the damage caused to the properties on the estate and our sympathies are with the families who have lost their possessions and the affected business owners. We will be supporting those families and the affected businesses however we can.

    “We are very thankful no one was injured by the fire and will leave it to the fire service to investigate its cause and how it spread. We are grateful for the efforts of the fire crews throughout the night.

    “Our priority is to support the families affected and to make the area safe so we can reopen the park and help the businesses resume their operations as soon as possible.”

    Cornwall councillor Kate Ewert, Joint chair of the Mount Edgcumbe Joint Committee, said: “The fire is devastating for everyone involved and I know there is a sense of shock amongst those who live and work here but we can be thankful that no one has been hurt. The fire service did an incredible job in getting to the site quickly and protecting the remainder of the property.

    “Our thoughts are with those who have lost all their possessions and I know the community is keen to pull together and provide support in whatever way it can. We will all be working together to help those impacted by this to get the Barrow Centre back up and running as soon possible.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Council election period begins

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The Notice of Election to community councils in Edinburgh has been published today (February 5).

    Community councils are groups of elected local residents who care about their communities. These councils play an important role in the democratic process and act in the interests of their local areas.

    The nomination period runs from tomorrow (6 February) until 27 February. This is when you can nominate yourself to stand for election as a community councillor.

    An election will only be held in a community council area if there are more people nominated than places on the community council. Should this be necessary the election date will be 27 March.

    The new community council term will start on 28 March and will last four years. The next community council elections are planned for 2029 though this may be subject to change.

    Find out more about community councils and how to stand for election on our website along with the full text of the Notice of Election. 

    Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said:

    Community councils remain an integral part of the social and democratic fabric of our city. In my experience as a ward councillor, I truly value my relationship with community councils and the excellent work that they do.

    From campaigning on key local issues, to organising meetings, chairing debates, liaising with local and national representatives and much more – the life of a community councillor in the Capital is never ordinary.

    This is an excellent opportunity to take a lead in your local area and make your community a better place. I’d encourage all residents to consider standing as a community councillor. Edinburgh draws its strength from its citizens, and we need their views and ideas to move forward together.

    Secretary of Edinburgh Association of Community Councils, Ken Robertson said:

    You have a community council voice in city life, by right. Don’t step to the side and stay silent.

    Published: February 5th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improving support for people who want to go smokefree

    Source: City of Coventry

    If you currently or have previously smoked tobacco products, we would love to hear from you!

    We want to understand how we can best support people who want to quit smoking. Your feedback will help us develop better resources and support to help residents lead healthier, smokefree lives.

    The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. All responses will remain confidential and will only be used to improve services.

    Access the survey.

    This survey is being carried out for Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council by independent researchers, Social Engine. Everyone who completes the survey can also enter our prize draw with the chance to win a £250 shopping voucher or one of five runners-up vouchers of £50. Winners will be drawn at random after the survey closes on Friday 21 February. Terms and conditions of the prize draw are here: T-Cs – Smoke Free Generation – Survey 2025.

    Thank you for sharing your experiences.

    Also, please share this with your friends and family, whether they may have successfully stopped smoking or still smoke now.

    Published: Wednesday, 5th February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Defense Program Funds Study of Cranial Regeneration

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Biomedical engineering researchers at UConn Health believe there might be a way to use ultrasound to compel the body to regrow cranial tissue.

    Yusuf Khan, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery, and Dr. David Hersh, associate professor of neurosurgery, have been studying whether some principles of bone development in children could apply to bone healing in adults who’ve had part of their skull removed and replaced.

    A decompressive craniectomy (left) is performed to accommodate intracranial swelling by removing a large portion of the skull. When the swelling resolves, a cranioplasty (right) is performed to replace the missing bone, often with the original bone flap that had been removed during the first surgery. (Images provided by David Hersh)

    They recently were awarded a two-year grant totaling $435,000 through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, part of the Department of Defense.

    A decompressive craniectomy, or the removal of a portion of the skull, is a potentially life-saving intervention for when a patient suffers from brain edema, or severe swelling, such as when there has been a traumatic brain injury. The procedure gives the swelling brain more space, relieving pressure and lowering the risk of herniation, which can be fatal.

    Hersh, a pediatric neurosurgeon at Connecticut Children’s who performs craniectomies on select patients with certain conditions, notes that after the follow-up cranioplasty, which is when the portion of skull that had been removed is then reattached, that piece of bone can have problems reintegrating with the remainder of the skull. In some cases, the bone gets resorbed, meaning it instead starts to shrink and get absorbed by the body.

    “You end up being left with big gaps in the bone, which can leave the underlying brain at risk,” Hersh says. “And then the patient needs even more surgeries to provide appropriate coverage, which might involve a synthetic replacement.”

    Dr. David Hersh (left), UConn School of Medicine associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurosurgeon at Connecticut Children’s, speaks with Yusuf Khan, associate program director of the UConn School of Medicine’s Skeletal Biology and Regeneration Graduate Program, in Khan’s lab at UConn Health. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

    Original bone has many biological and other advantages over synthetic materials, such as metals or hard plastics, and trying to eliminate or reduce the need for synthetics is one of the tenets of regenerative engineering.

    In 2019, Hersh started collaborating with Khan, who had been studying therapeutic ultrasound and how it facilitates fracture repair. Hersh had prior experience using therapeutic ultrasound for neurosurgical applications such as for blood brain barrier opening.

    “David came to me with a very specific pediatric problem that he wanted to try to solve,” Khan says. “This grant really grew from the original pediatric application, but, through us working together over the years, we realized the potential for adults, too. And the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program is an ideal funder for a project like this because of the type of battlefield injuries that soldiers unfortunately experience.”

    The focus is on the dura, the thin layer of tissue that encloses the brain, and whether low-intensity ultrasound can provide a physical force that the cells can sense, possibly stimulating cranial bone regeneration.

    “We think that there’s something unique about those dural cells in that they respond to physical forces, just like bone cells do,” Khan says. “We’ve seen interesting responses by dural cells from young animals that are exposed to ultrasound, and we’re now going to explore whether skeletally mature cells act the same way. We plan to add stem cells to the defect site to study how they communicate with dural cells and whether this can stimulate new bone formation.”

    Hannah Anderson is a 2025 Ph.D. candidate in The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering. Yusuf Khan is her mentor. (Photo by Chris DeFrancesco)

    Khan likens it to how certain fractures actually benefit from weight-bearing during the healing process.

    Hersh says the body already provides an encouraging clue.

    “Our hypothesis is based on what people have learned about normal development –the skull grows in response to the underlying dura releasing signals that then stimulate bone formation,” Hersh says. “We think that happens as a result of the brain itself growing when we’re young and applying mechanical strain to the dura, which then signals to the bone above it. So, our aim is to recreate that natural process to facilitate bone healing in a way that’s similar to the original bone development.”

    While studying this issue may have utility for wounded warriors, its potential applications may extend far beyond that. Examples include patients undergoing a decompressive craniectomy and subsequent cranioplasty for reasons unrelated to combat, including in the setting of civilian traumatic brain injury and certain severe types of stroke.

    “This collaboration on regenerating cranial bone is so important for the future of our wounded warriors,” says Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, the founder and director of the Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering. “It is also beneficial to any mature patient with a traumatic brain injury. Congratulations to Dr. Khan and Dr. Hersh for securing funding to continue their life-altering research.”

    The UConn School of Medicine’s Dr. David Hersh (left) and Yusuf Khan are studying how ultrasound may help the body regrow skull bone, funded through a grant from the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

    Khan is the associate program director of the UConn School of Medicine’s Skeletal Biology and Regeneration Graduate Program and a member of the Laurencin Institute.

    “This is a great example of the power of academic interdisciplinary medicine, where a talented surgeon brought a clinical problem to an engaged and creative scientist-engineer to work towards the betterment of patient care,” says Dr. Isaac Moss, chair of UConn Health’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “When I connected Drs. Hersh and Khan five years ago, it was clear that these two faculty members would form a great partnership and it’s great to see fruits from this collaboration.”

    Dr. Ketan Bulsara, chair of UConn Health’s Department of Neurosurgery, agrees.

    “The interdepartmental collaboration between Dr. Hersh from neurosurgery and Dr. Khan from orthopedic surgery is just another example of our symbiotic clinical and research excellence that has the potential to transform patient care through our tripartite mission,” Bulsara says. “I congratulate them both on receiving this prestigious grant, and congratulate Dr. Jonathan Martin also for leading our exemplary pediatric neurosurgery team at Connecticut Children’s.”

    Martin, a professor of surgery and pediatrics, directs Connecticut Children’s Division of Neurosurgery and holds its Paul M. Kanev Chair of Pediatric Neurosurgery.

    “We have been privileged to partner with the UConn Health Department of Neurosurgery through the neurosurgery residency program, which has also expanded our access to new clinical and research partners,” Martin says. “The collaboration between Connecticut Children’s and UConn Health has accelerated the ability of exceptional faculty like Dr. Hersh to pursue answers to difficult questions that will benefit patients well beyond Connecticut and Western New England.”

    The grant starts Feb. 1. While the research is in its very early stages, Khan says when the time comes, the work in the lab will be easily translatable.

    “To me, this represents the best version of a clinician-research collaboration, where there is a clinical need looking for a solution, and there is a research solution looking for the ideal clinical application,” he says. “This demonstrates the power of and the need for clinician-scientist collaborations.”

    The work was supported by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense, in the amount of $435,465.00, through the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program under Award No. HT9425-25-1-0053. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions and recommendations are those of the author and are not necessarily endorsed by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs or the Department of Defense.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Axyom.Core and Cirrus Core Networks Partner on Technologies and Services for Mobile Virtual Network Operators

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Axyom.Core, a leader in cloud-native wireless core and radio access network (RAN) solutions, today announced a reseller agreement with Cirrus Core Networks (CCN), a U.S.-based specialized system integrator. Through this partnership, CCN will offer Axyom.Core’s innovative technology, enabling Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) to deliver differentiated subscriber and Internet of Things (IoT) packages, along with enhanced service offerings.

    The MVNO market is expected to grow rapidly in the future, primarily due to factors such as increased mobile broadband speeds and the need for value-added services, according to Polaris Market Research. The collaboration combines Axyom.Core’s market-leading packet core products and Cirrus Core Networks’ networking capabilities, as well as its comprehensive suite of professional and managed services.

    “This collaboration represents a pivotal step for Axyom.Core in our commitment to supporting customers of all sizes, from large communications service providers to emerging MVNOs,” said Jim Collier, vice president of global sales and marketing, Axyom.Core. “By working with Cirrus Core Networks, we are expanding our reach, ensuring that our industry-leading packet core products are accessible worldwide. Together, we are empowering network operators to meet evolving customer demands and build the next generation of wireless services.”

    Axyom.Core’s cloud-native, high-performance solutions deliver the flexibility and scalability that support seamless connectivity for operators navigating the complexities of 5G transformation.

    “This partnership combines Axyom.Core’s well-regarded technology with CCN’s proven expertise in managed services and deployment solutions, enabling MVNOs to evolve into thick MVNOs seamlessly,” said Adam Crane, CEO of Cirrus Core Networks. “Whether it’s established operators or new eSIM entrants with limited networking experience, CCN provides the infrastructure expertise needed to accelerate their success. By taking on the complexity of networking, we empower our MVNO partners to focus on what matters most – their subscribers – while delivering differentiated and innovative service packages that redefine the mobile experience.”

    Go here to schedule a meeting with Axyom.Core at Mobile World Congress, taking place March 3–6 in Barcelona, Spain. Visit Hall 2, Stand 2G11 to learn more about how Axyom.Core and Cirrus Core Networks are empowering MVNOs with innovative solutions.

    About Axyom.Core
    Axyom.Core is a global leader in cloud-native wireless core and radio access network solutions, trusted by major communications service providers worldwide, including six of the top ten. Its product portfolio includes high-performance 4G and 5G converged core, Femto core, security gateway, and enterprise RAN units. Axyom.Core is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the telecommunications industry. For more information, visit www.axyomcore.ai.

    About Cirrus Core Networks (CCN)
    Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, with operations in the U.S., U.K. and India, Cirrus Core Networks (CCN) provides Communication Service Providers (CSPs), enterprises and industrial companies an end-to-end Core solution using a flexible business model – from a completely managed Network as a Service (NaaS) to a Build Operate Transfer solution. The company offers an impressive portfolio that includes 4G/5G EPC, HSS/HLR, DRA, IMS/VoLTE/VoWiFi, and a multitude of value-added services that powers MVNOs, Private LTE, Carrier Breakout & Optimization Hub (CBO), and many more use cases.

    At CCN, we apply our team’s extensive vendor and operator experience in collaborative ways to drive the development, deployment, operation and evolution of our solutions. Learn more about CCN’s creative solutions at www.cirruscorenetworks.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Dassault Systèmes: declaration of the number of outstanding shares and voting rights as of January 31, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, FranceFebruary 5, 2025

    Declaration of the number of outstanding shares and
    voting rights as of January 31, 2025

    Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) today announced below the total number of its outstanding shares and voting rights as of January 31, 2025, according to articles 223-16 and 221-3 of the General Regulation of the Autorité des marchés financiers.

    Number of outstanding shares: 1,339,708,416

    Number of voting rights*: 2,013,171,040

    *The total number of voting rights is calculated on the basis of the total number of outstanding shares, even if the voting rights attached thereto are suspended, pursuant to Article 223-11 of the General Regulation of the Autorité des marchés financiers relating to the method for calculating the percentages of holdings in shares and in voting rights. We invite our shareholders to refer to this article should they need to declare crossing of thresholds.

    Declarations related to crossing of threshold must be sent to:
    Dassault Systèmes, Investor Relations Service, 10, rue Marcel Dassault, CS 40501, 78946 Vélizy-Villacoublay Cedex (France). E-mail address: Investors@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, 350 000 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
    Béatrix Martinez :                                        Arnaud de Cheffontaines: +33 1 47 03 69 48
    +33 1 61 62 40 73                                        Jamie Ricketts : +44 20 3727 1600
    investors@3ds.com                                        

    Dassault Systèmes Press Contacts
    Corporate / France        
    Arnaud Malherbe: +33 1 61 62 87 73
    arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com        

    © 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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo’s Board of Directors has resolved on a share split

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 5 February 2025 at 3:35 pm EET

    Sampo’s Board of Directors has resolved on a share split

    The Board of Directors of Sampo plc has today resolved on a share split by way of a share issue without consideration in proportion to shares owned by shareholders. The resolution is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting held on 25 April 2024.

    In the share split, Sampo will issue four (4) new A shares for each existing A share and four (4) new B shares for each existing B share to shareholders in proportion to their existing holdings on the record day of the share issuance on 12 February 2025. In total, 2,152,191,088 new Sampo A shares and 800,000 new Sampo B shares will be issued. Following the registration of the new shares, Sampo’s total share count will amount to 2,691,238,860 shares.

    The new shares are expected to be registered with the Finnish Trade Register on or about 12 February 2025. The new shares shall be issued without consideration as book-entries in the book-entry system maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy. The new shares shall, where applicable, be further registered as Swedish depository receipts in the securities depository and settlement register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB and in the form of share entitlements book-entered in VP Securities A/S in Denmark.

    Trading in the new A shares on Nasdaq Helsinki, Nasdaq Stockholm (in the form of Swedish depository receipts) and Nasdaq Copenhagen (in the form of share entitlements) is expected to commence on or about 13 February 2025. However, the new Swedish depository receipts are expected to be available on the accounts in Euroclear Sweden on or about 14 February 2025. The share split does not require any action from shareholders nor holders of Swedish depository receipts. The share split will not affect Sampo’s ISIN codes.

    SAMPO PLC
    Board of Directors

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Maria Silander
    Communications Manager, Media Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0031

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    FIN-FSA
    The principal media
    www.sampo.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Clegg Construction start refurbishment work on £23m new Specialist Education School

    Source: City of Coventry

    Construction workers with Cllr Dr Kindy Sandhu and officers from Coventry City Council in front of the Woodlands development.

    The development of a new facility at the former Woodlands School will provide specially designed and much-needed additional space for pupils at Woodfield School.

    Contractor, Clegg Construction, known for their design and construction excellence, have commenced the redevelopment works.

    As part of the £23 million project Clegg will creating outdoor play facilities, such as play areas and an outdoor forest school to enhance the specialist teaching spaces to support the needs of the pupils. They will also be carrying out the internal refurbishment of the seven original buildings and provision of a new carpark.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “Every child in the city deserves to have the best education they possibly can, and this new facility is going to offer that. The new design will provide the best possible learning experiences moving forward.”

    “It’s really exciting that Clegg will soon be making a start on the construction work at the site. It’s going to be a huge asset for the pupils once it’s all finished and I’m looking forward to seeing the development work progress”.

    Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “Clegg has wide experience of delivering new and refurbished educational facilities and we are extremely proud to have been appointed to redevelop, reconfigure, and repurpose this site. The team at Clegg Construction is looking forward to starting work on this project, alongside our delivery partners.”

    The new school is due to be completed in 2026.

    To keep up to date with the latest news, sign up for our Your Coventry email newsletter or follow the Council on FacebookX (formerly Twitter), YouTubeInstagramLinkedIn and TikTok.

    Published: Wednesday, 5th February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, December and Annual 2024

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $98.4 billion in December, up $19.5 billion from $78.9 billion in November, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit: $98.4 Billion  +24.7%°
    Exports: $266.5 Billion  –2.6%°
    Imports: $364.9 Billion  +3.5%°

    Next release: Thursday, March 6, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, February 5, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    December exports were $266.5 billion, $7.1 billion less than November exports. December imports were $364.9 billion, $12.4 billion more than November imports.

    The December increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $18.9 billion to $123.0 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.6 billion to $24.5 billion.

    For 2024, the goods and services deficit increased $133.5 billion, or 17.0 percent, from 2023. Exports increased $119.8 billion or 3.9 percent. Imports increased $253.3 billion or 6.6 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit increased $4.7 billion to $83.8 billion for the three months ending in December.

    • Average exports decreased $1.2 billion to $268.8 billion in December.
    • Average imports increased $3.5 billion to $352.7 billion in December.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $19.2 billion from the three months ending in December 2023.

    • Average exports increased $9.8 billion from December 2023.
    • Average imports increased $29.0 billion from December 2023.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods decreased $7.5 billion to $170.2 billion in December.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis decreased $6.7 billion.

    • Consumer goods decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations decreased $1.4 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Crude oil decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Other petroleum products decreased $0.3 billion.
      • Other precious metals decreased $0.3 billion.
      • Fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides decreased $0.3 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.4 billion.
      • Computers decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft increased $1.4 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Trucks, buses, and special purpose vehicles decreased $0.4 billion.
      • Other automotive parts and accessories decreased $0.3 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.8 billion.

    Exports of services increased $0.4 billion to $96.3 billion in December.

    • Travel increased $0.3 billion.
    • Financial services increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $11.4 billion to $293.1 billion in December.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $11.3 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials increased $10.8 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes increased $9.2 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold increased $1.0 billion.
    • Consumer goods increased $2.2 billion.
      • Toys, games, and sporting goods increased $0.8 billion.
      • Cell phones and other household goods increased $0.8 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $1.3 billion.
      • Computers increased $1.2 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.9 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft decreased $1.1 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines decreased $2.2 billion.
      • Passenger cars decreased $1.6 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services increased $1.0 billion to $71.8 billion in December.

    • Transport increased $0.5 billion.
    • Travel increased $0.3 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $14.9 billion, or 15.4 percent, to $111.9 billion in December, compared to a 17.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods decreased $5.4 billion, or 3.7 percent, to $141.9 billion, compared to a 3.8 percent decrease in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $9.5 billion, or 3.9 percent, to $253.8 billion, compared to a 4.0 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    In addition to revisions to source data for the November statistics, the seasonally adjusted goods data were revised for January through November so that the totals of the seasonally adjusted months equal the annual totals.

    Revisions to November exports

    • Exports of goods were revised up $0.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Revisions to November imports

    • Imports of goods were revised up $0.8 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The December figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($5.0), South and Central America ($3.5), United Kingdom ($2.3), Hong Kong ($0.7), Brazil ($0.4), Saudi Arabia ($0.4), Belgium ($0.3), and Australia ($0.2). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with China ($25.3), European Union ($20.4), Mexico ($15.2), Switzerland ($13.0), Vietnam ($11.4), Canada ($7.9), Germany ($7.6), Taiwan ($6.9), Ireland ($6.2), South Korea ($5.6), Japan ($5.5), India ($4.9), Italy ($4.1), Malaysia ($2.5), France ($1.1), Israel ($0.8), and Singapore ($0.4).

    • The deficit with Switzerland increased $9.1 billion to $13.0 billion in December. Exports decreased $0.7 billion to $1.2 billion and imports increased $8.4 billion to $14.2 billion.
    • The deficit with Canada increased $2.9 billion to $7.9 billion in December. Exports decreased $0.4 billion to $29.1 billion and imports increased $2.5 billion to $37.0 billion.
    • The deficit with Ireland decreased $3.1 billion to $6.2 billion in December. Exports decreased $0.1 billion to $1.2 billion and imports decreased $3.2 billion to $7.5 billion.

    Annual Summary for 2024

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    For 2024, the goods and services deficit was $918.4 billion, up $133.5 billion from $784.9 billion in 2023. Exports were $3,191.6 billion, up $119.8 billion from 2023. Imports were $4,110.0 billion, up $253.3 billion from 2023.

    The 2024 increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $148.5 billion, or 14.0 percent, to $1,211.7 billion and an increase in the services surplus of $14.9 billion, or 5.4 percent, to $293.3 billion.

    The goods and services deficit was 3.1 percent of current-dollar gross domestic product in 2024, up from 2.8 percent in 2023.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods increased $38.6 billion to $2,083.8 billion in 2024.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $47.1 billion.

    • Capital goods increased $40.2 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $11.3 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft engines increased $8.7 billion.
      • Computers increased $8.2 billion.
      • Semiconductors increased $8.1 billion.
    • Other goods increased $17.9 billion. (See the “Notice” for more information.)
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines decreased $10.8 billion.
      • Other automotive parts and accessories decreased $4.3 billion.
      • Passenger cars decreased $4.0 billion.
      • Trucks, buses, and special purpose vehicles decreased $3.0 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $8.5 billion.

    Exports of services increased $81.2 billion to $1,107.8 billion in 2024.

    • Travel increased $26.3 billion.
    • Other business services increased $16.0 billion.
    • Telecommunications, computer, and information services increased $11.9 billion.
    • Financial services increased $11.6 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $187.1 billion to $3,295.6 billion in 2024.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $187.2 billion.

    • Capital goods increased $103.3 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $33.5 billion.
      • Computers increased $28.3 billion.
      • Semiconductors increased $9.4 billion.
      • Other industrial machinery increased $9.0 billion.
    • Consumer goods increased $48.4 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $43.6 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $16.1 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $10.0 billion.
      • Other automotive parts and accessories increased $4.8 billion.
    • Foods, feeds, and beverages increased $15.9 billion.
      • Meat products increased $3.5 billion.
      • Fruits, frozen juices increased $2.3 billion.
      • Bakery products increased $2.2 billion.
      • Other foods increased $2.0 billion.
      • Vegetables increased $1.7 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.2 billion.

    Imports of services increased $66.2 billion to $814.4 billion in 2024.

    • Travel increased $19.2 billion.
    • Charges for the use of intellectual property increased $12.2 billion.
    • Transport increased $11.7 billion.
    • Insurance services increased $11.5 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $98.8 billion, or 9.6 percent, to $1,132.4 billion in 2024, compared to a 13.2 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods increased $41.7 billion, or 2.5 percent, to $1,737.8 billion, compared to a 2.3 percent increase in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $140.5 billion, or 5.1 percent, to $2,870.2 billion, compared to a 6.1 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas – Census Basis (exhibits 14 and 14a)

    The 2024 figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($55.5), South and Central America ($47.3), Hong Kong ($21.9), Australia ($17.9), and United Kingdom ($11.9). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with China ($295.4), European Union ($235.6), Mexico ($171.8), Vietnam ($123.5), Ireland ($86.7), Germany ($84.8), Taiwan ($73.9), Japan ($68.5), South Korea ($66.0), Canada ($63.3), India ($45.7), Thailand ($45.6), Italy ($44.0), Switzerland ($38.5), Malaysia ($24.8), Indonesia ($17.9), France ($16.4), Austria ($13.1), and Sweden ($9.8).

    • The deficit with the European Union increased $26.9 billion to $235.6 billion in 2024. Exports increased $2.6 billion to $370.2 billion and imports increased $29.4 billion to $605.8 billion.
    • The deficit with Taiwan increased $26.1 billion to $73.9 billion in 2024. Exports increased $2.4 billion to $42.3 billion and imports increased $28.5 billion to $116.3 billion.
    • The surplus with the Netherlands increased $12.7 billion to $55.5 billion in 2024. Exports increased $8.3 billion to $89.6 billion and imports decreased $4.4 billion to $34.1 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: March 6, 2025, at 8:30 a.m EST
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, January 2025

    Notice

    Impact of Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Release of CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

    The CBSA introduced a new accounting system (CARM) on October 21, 2024. As a result, importers in Canada have experienced delays in filing shipment information. These delays affected the compilation of statistics on U.S. exports of goods to Canada for September through December 2024, which are derived from data compiled by Canada through the United States – Canada Data Exchange. A dollar estimate of the filing backlog is included in estimates for late receipts and, following the Census Bureau’s customary practice for late receipt estimates, is included in the export end-use category “Other goods” as well as in exports to Canada. This estimate will be replaced with the actual transactions reported by the Harmonized System classification in June 2025 with the release of “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, Annual Revision.” Until then, please refer to the supplemental spreadsheet “CARM Exports to Canada Corrections,” which provides a breakdown of the late receipts by 1-digit end-use category. This spreadsheet will be updated as late export transactions are received to reflect reassignments from the initial “Other goods” category to the appropriate 1-digit end-use category.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on 800-549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov or BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    Upcoming Changes to the Real (Chained-Dollar) Series

    Effective with the release of the February 2025 statistics on April 3, 2025, the Census Bureau will continue to use the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) U.S. Import and Export Price Indexes to calculate the chained-dollar series (exhibits 10 and 11). The BLS will be implementing changes to the indexes with the release of the February 2025 U.S. Import and Export Price Indexes on March 18, 2025. The changes to the indexes could impact the chained-dollar values. Please refer to the BLS notice for additional information on the Upcoming Change to Data Source for Import and Export Price Indexes: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

    If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Statistical Methods Division, International Trade Statistical Methods Branch, on 301-763-3080.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine: prospects for peace are slim unless Europe grips the reality of Trump’s world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    When EU leaders gathered for their first ever meeting solely dedicated to defence issues on February 3, in Brussels, the war in Ukraine was uppermost on their minds. Yet, three weeks before the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine is only the tip of an iceberg of security challenges that Europe faces.

    War on a scale not seen in Europe since 1945 has returned to the continent. Russian sabotage of everything from critical infrastructure to elections is at levels reminiscent of the cold war. And the future of the EU’s most important defence alliance, Nato, is uncertain.

    In light of these challenges alone, let alone the ongoing instability in the Middle East, western Balkans and south Caucasus, it’s hard to disagree with the observation by EU council president António Costa that: “Europe needs to assume greater responsibility for its own defence.”

    But it’s hardly a groundbreaking statement. And at the end of proceedings, the outcome of what was ultimately only an informal meeting, was underwhelmingly summarised by Costa as “progress in our discussions on building the Europe of defence”.

    This does not bode well for Ukraine. US support is unlikely to continue at the levels reached during the final months of the Biden administration. In fact, ongoing debates in the White House on Ukraine policy have already caused some disruption to arms shipments from Washington to Kyiv.

    Building blocs

    If there is a silver lining for Ukraine here, it is Trump’s continuous search for a good deal. His latest idea is that Ukraine could pay for US support with favourable concessions on rare earths, and potentially other strategic resources.

    These would include preferential deals to supply the US with titanium, iron ore and coal, as well as critical minerals, including lithium. Whether this is a sustainable basis for US support in the long term is as unclear as whether it will make any material difference to Trump thinking beyond a ceasefire.

    The other ray of hope for Ukraine is that there is a much greater recognition in EU capitals now about the need for a common European approach to defence. A greater focus on building a “coalition of the willing” including non-EU members UK and Norway is a potentially promising path.

    But hope, as they say, is not a winning strategy. In a Trump-like transactional fashion, Brussels – in exchange for a deal on defence with London – is insisting on UK concessions on youth mobility and fishing rights. It’s unlikely that this will prove an insurmountable stumbling bloc, but it will create yet more delays at a moment when time is of the essence for Europe as a whole to signal determination about security and defence.

    This is further complicated by two factors. On the one hand, there is the looming threat of a trade war between the US and the EU. That the UK may still be able to avoid a similar fate, according to Trump, feels like good news for London. But it will also put the UK in a potentially awkward position as it seeks an ambitious post-Brexit reset with the EU and harbours hopes to improve relations with China.

    With Trump clearly hostile towards both Brussels and Beijing, this may become an impossible balancing act for the British government to pull off.

    Europe’s fragile unity

    On the other hand, EU unity has become more fragile. Trump’s victory has emboldened other populist leaders in Europe – notably the significantly more pro-Russian Slovak and Hungarian prime ministers, Robert Fico and Viktor Orbán. The same applies to the UK, where Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party – which has overtaken the ruling Labour party in the latest public opinion polls – is known for his Ukraine-sceptical views.

    To that equation add a weak government in France and the likelihood of protracted coalition negotiations in Germany after hotly contested parliamentary elections at the end of February. The prospects for decisive EU and wider European action on strengthening its own security and defence capabilities right now appear vanishingly slim.

    Seen in the light of such multiple and complex challenges, it is astonishing how much the EU is still trapped in a wishful thinking exercise – and one that appears more and more disconnected from reality. Contrary to Costa’s fulsome pronouncements after the EU leaders’ meeting, there is little evidence that the US under Trump will remain Europe’s friend, ally and partner.

    There’s also little to suggest that the American president shares the values and principles that once underpinned the now rapidly dismantling international order. Other countries’ national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of their borders are not at the forefront of Trump’s foreign policy doctrine.

    If, as Costa proclaimed, “peace in Europe depends on Ukraine winning a comprehensive, just and lasting peace”, then the future looks bleak indeed for Europe and Ukraine. At this point the EU and its member states are a long way off from being able to provide Ukraine with the support it needs to win. This is not just because they lack the military and defence-industrial capabilities. They also lack a credible, shared vision of how to acquire them while navigating a Trumpian world.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    ref. Ukraine: prospects for peace are slim unless Europe grips the reality of Trump’s world – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-prospects-for-peace-are-slim-unless-europe-grips-the-reality-of-trumps-world-248911

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Democrats are switching off the news – a psychologist explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Geoff Beattie, Professor of Psychology, Edge Hill University

    Many Democrats appear to be switching off mainstream news channels and other media, following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election.

    Around 72% of Democrats say they feel a need to limit their consumption of news about politics and government, according to a recent poll by AP-NORC.

    Research has highlighted the negative effects of news avoidance (resistance to, or avoidance of, news) on people’s political knowledge and civic engagement, the cornerstones of democratic thought and action.

    Research also shows what prompts news avoidance generally – and the return of Trump may be increasing the percentage of people in the US who are turning away from news and current affairs.

    Research from the University of Jyvaskyla in Finland measured how news avoidance varied across several nations between 2016 and 2019. It also attempted to identify the drivers of news avoidance.

    Researchers found the proportion of consumers who actively avoided the news varied significantly from one country to another – and for some, it was temporary.

    In their sample of five countries, they found news avoidance was highest in Argentina (45%) and the US (41%) and lowest in Finland (17%) and Japan (11%), with Israel somewhere in between. The US, it seems, has always been high but there are some suggestions it is getting worse.

    People made conscious decisions about what news to consume and what to avoid, given the amount of news available. News overload and cognitive fatigue (where people feel worn out by the amount of news they feel they should listen to) were especially important when there was intense national news focus on certain individuals. Examples of this could be coverage of the corruption case involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel, or Trump’s recent stream of executive orders.

    But factors can vary. The study found that in Japan, the main cognitive driver was “a reluctance to discuss or be exposed to subjective and often extreme opinions”. In Argentina, it was a distrust of politicians generally.

    However, emotional factors were also critical to news avoidance. Many interviewees reported feeling emotional distress, sadness, fear and anger with certain types of negative news, to the extent that it sometimes affected their mental health.

    But emotional factors also affect specific behaviour. News avoidance can become “news aversion” (more emotional, more visceral), turning away from the news not because of some deliberate rational judgment (“I’ll reduce my viewing a little, according to American Psychological Association guidelines”) but because of overwhelming feelings of anxiety or disgust when confronted by certain stories or individuals.

    Disgust is a powerful negative emotion linked to very quick responding, and could create a need to turn away from something immediately. Feelings of anxiety may be linked to images of political figures, for instance.

    I have just finished writing a book exploring climate anxiety. For some, this can be a debilitating form of anxiety, and it is growing globally especially among young people. It can be overwhelming, affecting study, work and sleep.

    What can you do about news avoidance?

    The recent image of Trump yelling that “we’re going to drill, baby, drill” has been implanted in the minds of many who suffer from climate anxiety, possibly intensifying their distress.

    For many Democrats, the aftermath of Trump’s victory was emotionally devastating. On October 24 2024 (two weeks before the election), an open letter was published in the New York Times signed by 233 mental health professionals with the following warning: “We have an ethical duty to warn the public that Donald Trump is an existential threat to democracy. His symptoms of severe, untreatable personality disorder – malignant narcissism – makes him deceitful, destructive, deluded and dangerous. He is grossly unfit for leadership.”

    For Democrats in particular, Trump may display many negative features including his lack of remorse or self-awareness, his break from traditional political norms and use of populist, nationalist rhetoric, or his rejection of civil discourse in favour of divisive and inflammatory language.

    So Trump’s victory seemed, to many Democrats, to signal the triumph of ignorance, bigotry and authoritarianism. An emotional response from them was always likely, and chimes with this avoiding of news.

    Cognitive dissonance

    Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that when individuals are confronted with information (in this case from Trump) that contradicts their deeply held beliefs but they still sit and listen dutifully, this can create considerable psychological discomfort.

    To reduce this discomfort, people often engage in behaviour that avoids or minimises this conflict. But they can’t change their political views, and they can’t change Trump or his policies (he has got an incredibly powerful mandate), so that leaves few other options. Or perhaps just one: avoiding the relentless media cycle of Trump’s tweets, policies, pronouncements, presidential pardons, and executive orders.

    By switching off, Democrats – and even some Republicans – can temporarily ease the cognitive dissonance they feel, and this may allow some emotional relief.

    Moreover, this avoidance might help protect them against the further erosion of their political and social identity. They might feel that if they continue to consume news that reaffirms Trump’s power, or as if they are accepting their defeat and their misreading of the American public and, by extension, the legitimacy of his presidency.

    But where will that disengagement take them? And how easy will it be for them to overcome their visceral response to reengage, to reassert themselves and fight back? It’s always more difficult when thoughts and emotion are so tightly intertwined like this.

    But for US Democrats, engagement based on accurate information is critical for the ongoing democratic process, regardless of how painful this might feel right now.

    Geoff Beattie does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Why Democrats are switching off the news – a psychologist explains – https://theconversation.com/why-democrats-are-switching-off-the-news-a-psychologist-explains-248512

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to outwit gambling adverts by ‘inoculating’ people against them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jamie Torrance, Lecturer and Researcher in Psychology, Swansea University

    Gambling companies spend an estimated £1.5 billion annually on ad campaigns in the UK alone. Maxx-Studio/Shutterstock

    In a world awash with enticing promises of quick riches and thrilling wins, gambling advertisements have practically become inescapable. These meticulously crafted promotions aim to tap into the hearts and minds of consumers persuading them to gamble – whether that means starting or keeping going.

    With gambling advertising showing no signs of abating, and gambling addiction an ongoing problem across the UK, it is vital that consumers are given tools to resist. Our recent research has found that a targeted approach using “counteradvertising” videos can help people combat these persuasive tactics.

    Gambling advertisements portray gambling in a consistently positive light. They emphasise wins over losses and integrate logos into sporting events, exploiting fans’ emotional bonds with their teams and favourite athletes. For example, our previous research found that an average of 1,565 gambling logos were visible via pitch-side hoardings and on players’ kit during each English Premier League match in the 2022-23 season.

    They also widely promote financial incentives like “free bets”. These are promotions typically giving customers a chance to place a bet without using their own money.

    These incentives often come with opaque terms and conditions, encouraging riskier and potentially more harmful betting behaviour. Social media influencers and affiliates also play a role, disguising promotions as expert advice while profiting from players’ losses.

    The scale of the gambling industry’s investment in advertising is staggering. In the UK alone, companies spend an estimated £1.5 billion annually on ad campaigns spanning television, sports sponsorships and social media.

    While much attention has focused on the effects of gambling ads on children and people with gambling disorders, young adults aged 18 to 29 represent another vulnerable demographic. With lower levels of advertising literacy, young adults are less equipped to recognise and resist manipulative techniques. They also face heightened risks of gambling-related harm when exposed to legal gambling.

    A 2023 study showed that the “safer gambling” messages displayed at the end of gambling ads, such as “take time to think”, are ineffective at reducing harm. Even the term “safer gambling” itself is often seen by viewers, academics and some policymakers as an industry-favoured concept. Research has shown how it can downplay risks, leading to less regulatory oversight by implying that gambling is inherently “safe”. So, it is vital that consumers have the tools to resist the persuasive techniques used in gambling advertising.

    Inoculation theory

    To address this issue, we designed a seven-minute counteradvertising video informed by “inoculation theory”, which is a concept similar to vaccination. By exposing viewers to weakened forms of persuasive gambling tactics, the video aimed to build resistance to these strategies when encountered in the real world.

    Our video targeted five common advertising strategies: the positive portrayal of gambling, demographic targeting, embedding gambling in sports, “free” offers and affiliate marketing. Input from people who had experienced harm from gambling helped ensure the video’s relevance and effect.

    In the video, viewers saw real-world examples of these advertising strategies. Expert narration helped to unpack the manipulative tactics involved. In the segment on “free” offers, the narrator dissected the fine print of a real “free £10 bet” ad. Viewers learned that the offer’s terms were so restrictive that withdrawing the “free” £10 was nearly impossible. It required a £300 deposit of their own money and 50 wagers on slots before any withdrawal was allowed.

    We then conducted a randomised online experiment involving 1,200 young adult gamblers (aged 18 to 29). Half of the participants watched the counteradvertising video, while the other half viewed a video on healthy eating. Participants completed surveys before and after the video and again one month later, measuring their scepticism toward gambling ads, awareness of persuasive tactics and engagement with “free” offer promotions.

    Can counteradvertising videos help to ‘inoculate’ people against harmful gambling?
    REDPIXEL.PL/Shutterstock

    The participants who watched the counteradvertising video reported significantly higher levels of scepticism and awareness of gambling advertising strategies compared to the control group. These effects persisted over time. Even a month later, those who viewed the video maintained their heightened resistance to gambling ads.

    The intervention also led to tangible behavioural changes. Participants who watched the video showed a statistically significant decrease in their use of “free offers”. And 21% of them reported completely ceasing their engagement with such promotions within a month.

    Our findings highlight the potential for counteradvertising to complement broader harm reduction efforts in gambling, such as education and awareness campaigns. In autumn 2024, the UK government announced a statutory levy on gambling operators. It’s expected to generate approximately £100 million annually for research, prevention and treatment of gambling-related harm. But there’s not enough attention on tackling gambling advertising specifically.

    Empowering consumers

    Counteradvertising could be scaled up and delivered alongside independent “safer gambling” messages. By empowering consumers to critically evaluate gambling promotions, our videos have the potential to reduce gambling-related harm at its source.

    Future research could explore alternative delivery formats, such as shorter videos tailored for social media platforms. Or they could examine the long-term effects of repeated exposure to counteradvertising messages.

    With gambling ads dominating our screens, it’s time to level the playing field. Counteradvertising offers a powerful way to help consumers see through the allure of “free bets” and “wins”. And it could help people make more informed choices about their gambling behaviour.

    In the last three years, Jamie Torrance has received: Open access publication funding from Gambling Research Exchange Ontario (GREO), Conference travel and accommodation funding from the Academic Forum for the Study of Gambling (AFSG), and an exploratory research grant from the ASFG and GREO.

    Philip Newall is a member of the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling – an advisory group of the Gambling Commission in Great Britain. In the last three years, Philip Newall has contributed to research projects funded by the Academic Forum for the Study of Gambling, Clean Up Gambling, Gambling Research Australia, and the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation. Philip Newall has received honoraria for reviewing from the Academic Forum for the Study of Gambling and the Belgium Ministry of Justice, travel and accommodation funding from the Alberta Gambling Research Institute and the Economic and Social Research Institute, and open access fee funding from the Academic Forum for the Study of Gambling and Greo Evidence Insights.

    ref. How to outwit gambling adverts by ‘inoculating’ people against them – https://theconversation.com/how-to-outwit-gambling-adverts-by-inoculating-people-against-them-247637

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ongoing security challenges in the OSCE region in focus as Spain chairs OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

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

    Headline: Ongoing security challenges in the OSCE region in focus as Spain chairs OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

    Chairperson H.E. Cristóbal Ramón Valdés, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Spain to the OSCE at the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) meeting, Vienna, 5 February 2025. (OSCE/Micky Kroell) Photo details

    Spain led its second meeting as Chair of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) on 5 February, reaffirming the country’s strong commitment to the Organization and its principles. Spain aims to strengthen dialogue and co-operation on security-related issues, recognizing that multilateral engagement remains key to addressing conflicts and challenges across the OSCE region.
    Spain will prioritize efforts to reinforce a comprehensive, rule-based security framework that upholds international law. Recognizing the growing complexity of security threats, Spain called for renewed commitment to multilateralism and co-operative solutions.
    Emphasizing the importance of the OSCE’s founding principles, the Spanish FSC Chair underlined the need to revive the “Helsinki spirit”—a legacy of diplomacy and conflict prevention that has been instrumental in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Throughout its FSC Chairpersonship, Spain aims to foster dialogue and build consensus to address security concerns in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
    The FSC is an autonomous decision-making body of the OSCE, with the aim of maintaining military security and stability in the OSCE area. The FSC brings together delegates from all 57 participating States on a weekly basis. It contributes to the implementation of confidence and security-building measures by facilitating the exchange of military information among States.
    Spain will chair FSC meetings until April 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Global: As Trump tries to slash US foreign aid, here are 3 common myths many Americans mistakenly believe about it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joannie Tremblay-Boire, Assistant Professor of Public Policy, University of Maryland

    U.S. lawmakers and employees and supporters of the U.S. Agency for International Development speak outside the agency’s headquarters on Feb. 3, 2025. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

    U.S. foreign aid is in disarray.

    The Trump administration froze most aid disbursements on Jan. 20. According to billionaire Elon Musk, an adviser to President Donald Trump with “special government employee status,” the U.S. Agency for International Development, widely known as USAID, had been shut down as of Feb. 3, 2025.

    Although the Trump administration lacks the legal authority to do this, hundreds of people on the agency’s staff have been put on unpaid leave or fired, according to news reports.

    And the agency’s official website wasn’t working. A partial replacement, however, had appeared within the State Department’s website.

    I’m a scholar of public policy who researches nonprofits, which in the foreign aid sphere are often called nongovernmental organizations. These groups are responsible for carrying out many programs funded by foreign aid from governments such as the United States.

    In light of the Trump administration’s attack on the government’s main foreign aid agency and the disruption of this funding, I believe it’s important to debunk three common myths:

    1. The U.S. spends too much on foreign aid.
    2. The U.S. spends more than its fair share on foreign aid compared with other countries.
    3. Corrupt governments squander U.S. foreign aid.

    What is foreign aid?

    Foreign aid consists of money, goods and services – such as training – that government agencies provide to other countries. Foreign aid falls into two broad categories: economic assistance and military – sometimes called security – aid.

    Economic assistance includes all programs with development or humanitarian objectives. That tends to include projects related to health, disaster relief, the promotion of civil society, agriculture and the like. Most U.S. economic aid dollars come from the State Department budget, including spending allocated by USAID, which has operated as an independent agency since the Kennedy administration.

    On Feb. 3, Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that he was serving as USAID’s acting director, indicating that the agency was no longer independent of the State Department.

    While U.S. taxpayers have long spent just a few bucks each on foreign aid every year, the impact is profound, saving millions of people from hunger, averting the worst of natural disasters such as droughts and flooding, tackling life-threatening diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, and more.

    Myth No. 1: US spends too much on foreign aid

    The United States consistently spends only about 1% of its budget on foreign aid, including military and economic support. The 2023 aid managed by USAID totaled about US$40 billion.

    Americans tend to believe that their government spends a far bigger share of its budget on foreign aid than it does.

    In a survey the Kaiser Family Foundation conducted in 2015, it found that, on average, Americans believed that foreign aid accounts for nearly one-third of the budget. Only 3% of those polled answered correctly that foreign aid constituted 1% or less of total federal spending.

    Myth No. 2: US spends more than its fair share

    According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States is by far the leading national source of economic assistance dollars. In 2023, it contributed $64.7 billion in overseas development assistance, far outpacing the $37.9 billion spent by Germany, the second-biggest source of that kind of aid. Some of this assistance is managed by USAID, some by the Department of State, and a small portion by other government agencies, such as the Treasury and Health and Human Services departments.

    That tells only part of the story, however. The United States spends very little on foreign aid relative to the size of its economy, particularly compared with other rich countries. The U.S. spent about 0.24% of its gross national income on overseas development assistance in 2023. By comparison, Norway, the top contributor by this metric, gave 1.09% of its gross national income in overseas development aid that year. The United States ranks toward the bottom of OECD countries, close to Portugal and Spain, by this measurement.

    In 1970, the United Nations General Assembly agreed that “economically advanced countries” would aim to direct at least 0.7% of their national income to overseas development assistance. Although developed countries have repeatedly mentioned this target in agreements and at summits since then, very few countries have reached that goal. In 2023, only five countries met the 0.7% target.

    The OECD average was just 0.37% in 2023 – far higher than the 0.24% the U.S. provided that year.

    Myth No. 3: Corrupt governments squander US aid

    You may think that foreign aid consists of government-to-government transfers of money. But governments channel most aid through nonprofits such as Catholic Relief Services, public-private partnerships, private companies such as Chemonics International and Deloitte, and multilateral organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank.

    In fact, according to the Congressional Research Service, between 2013 and 2022, most U.S. foreign assistance bypassed governments altogether: NGOs received 24% of the money, for-profit companies 21%, multilateral organizations 34%, and other organizations, such as universities, research institutes and faith-based organizations, 7%.

    When the political scientist Simone Dietrich researched this question, she found that the United States outsources a lot of its foreign aid to NGOs. This is especially the case with the support it provides countries with bad governance and rampant corruption such as Sudan and Sri Lanka, which could be likely to squander or swipe those funds.

    To be sure, corrupt governments sometimes do squander U.S. foreign aid. But it is important to understand that most aid never enters the coffers of those corrupt governments in the first place.

    Even without Trump’s proposed cuts, US fails to lead

    Even if Trump fails at his current bid to greatly reduce foreign aid spending, other countries, including the United Kingdom and Denmark, are spending far more on economic assistance for the world’s poorest people, as a share of their economies, than the U.S. does.

    Slashing foreign aid would damage U.S. credibility with American allies, reduce U.S. influence around the globe and – as a group of more than 120 retired generals and admirals predicted when Trump tried to slash foreign aid in his first administration – make Americans less safe.

    Parts of this article appeared in a story first published on April 6, 2017, and have been updated.

    Joannie Tremblay-Boire does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. As Trump tries to slash US foreign aid, here are 3 common myths many Americans mistakenly believe about it – https://theconversation.com/as-trump-tries-to-slash-us-foreign-aid-here-are-3-common-myths-many-americans-mistakenly-believe-about-it-248979

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Digital diagnostics to double number of foreign publications in 2024

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine of the Moscow Department of Health (DZM)

    The scientific journal Digital Diagnostics has seen a significant increase in the number of publications by foreign authors in 2024, doubling the figures for previous years. This year, the journal has published 16 articles written by foreign authors, compared to an average of 7 articles per year in previous years. The journal currently collaborates with authors from six countries.

    Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine.

    Yuri Vasiliev, Chief Consultant in Radiology at the Moscow Health Department and CEO of the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, noted that in 2024, their journal expanded its international reach as it featured articles by Indian scientists for the first time. He noted that India, as a member of BRICS, is part of an international organization with which they actively cooperate. He expressed confidence that broad international cooperation and exchange of experience will significantly improve scientific development in their countries. He also noted that 16 foreign articles were published in the journal this year, significantly more than the 7 articles published in 2022 and 2021. Notably, Italy presented 13 articles on clinical cases and scientific reviews, while Indian scientists presented original research in teleradiology, which is considered a valuable contribution to the field.

    In 2024, two landmark papers by Indian authors were published: “Radiological evaluation of pulmonary vascular and gastrointestinal changes in COVID-19 patients referred to a tertiary care centre in Chennai, India: a prospective cross-sectional study” and “Role of teleradiology in interpreting ultrasound images obtained in the emergency setting”. These papers were prepared by research teams from Image Core Lab and Mahatma Gandhi.

    This year, the Diagnostics and Telemedicine Center actively established contacts with colleagues from the BRICS countries. The Center’s employees took part in the International Municipal Forum of the BRICS countries and visited a specialized healthcare exhibition in New Delhi called India Health. In addition, the Center was visited by delegations from four BRICS countries – China, India, Iran and South Africa.

    Digital Diagnostics is recognized as one of the most progressive and prestigious journals in the field of radiology. Every year its portfolio expands and includes a wide range of topics, such as radiology and instrumental diagnostics, innovative methods, application of artificial intelligence, healthcare management and other scientific topics. The journal publishes articles by outstanding Russian scientists, as well as international experts who make a significant contribution to the development of scientific research. The journal publishes articles in three languages: Russian, English and Chinese, with a circulation of 5,000 copies.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fairer funding for charities

    Source: Scottish Government

    More than £60 million for pilot projects focusing on essential services and eradicating child poverty.

    A new Fairer Funding pilot to deliver on the Scottish Government’s top priority of eradicating child poverty will provide additional multi-year funding in the form of 45 grants to organisations across Scotland.

    The funding, subject to budget approval, will support projects in areas including health, education, poverty and culture and have a total value of £61.7 million in 2025-26 and £63.2 million in 2026- 27.

    Speaking on her visit today to the Gathering, the largest third sector event in the UK, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “I know many charities, faced with rising costs and falling donations, need more security and stability to enable them to plan and develop. Child poverty, in particular, requires longer-term interventions to help achieve the solutions we want to see. For that, the third sector needs financial stability and certainty. That’s why I have prioritised delivering on our commitment to provide more multi-year funding where we can to support the vital work of the third sector in Scotland, as part of our fairer funding approach.

    “The pilot is the first step in mainstreaming multi-year funding agreements more widely across the third sector. It will give organisations the ability to plan for the future and make the most of their resources. The pilot’s focus on grants connected to tackling child poverty and the delivery of frontline services to our communities will maximise the impact of longer term funding and support the delivery of our number one priority, eradicating child poverty.”  

    Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) Chief Executive Anna Fowlie said:

    “The voluntary sector has a crucial role to play in delivering essential services across Scotland that people and communities rely on. Multi-year funding models are vital, providing security to voluntary organisations and, crucially, allowing them to get on and deliver for people and communities.

     “We welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to piloting multi-year funding for a range of voluntary organisations across Scotland – a first step, we hope, towards rolling out Fair Funding principles to voluntary sector funding.”

    Background

    Organisations to receive multi-year funding for 2025/26 and 2026/27

    Social Justice

    Scottish Refugee Council

    Scottish Empty Homes Partnership

    Homeless Network Scotland

    Housing Options Scotland

    Poverty Alliance

    CentreStage – Social Innovation Partnership

    COVEY – Social Innovation Partnership

    Flexibility Works – Social Innovation Partnership

    Heavy Sound – Social Innovation Partnership

    MsMissMrs – Social Innovation Partnership

    Street Soccer – Social Innovation Partnership

    WorkingRite – Social Innovation Partnership

    MCR Pathways

    Economy and Gaelic

    Scottish Mountain Rescue

    Constitution, External Affairs and Culture

    Youth Music Initiative

    Sistema Scotland

    Health and Social Care

    Cruse Scotland Bereavement Helpline

    Penumbra Self-harm support pilots

    BASICS Funding PHEC BASICS Scotland

    The Listening Service Samaritans

    Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for adults

    Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund Management

    Autism Advice Line Scottish Autism

    Young Scot Carer support funding

    Active Play Development Programme Inspiring Scotland

    Active Play Development Programme Actify

    Community Food Networks Edinburgh Community Food

    Community Food Networks Lanarkshire Community Food and Health Partnership

    Community Food Networks Community Food Initiative North East

    Community Food Networks Glasgow Community Food Network

    Drugs Policy: Core Funding Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs

    Drugs Policy: Family Recovery Initiative Fund Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs

    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder FASD Hub Scotland Service 

    Finance and Local Government

    Planning Aid Scotland

    Education and Skills

    Dyslexia Scotland

    Children’s Advocacy for Children’s Hearings

    Who Cares Scotland

    Inspiring Scotland

    Children in Scotland Enquire National Advice and Information Service on Additional Support for Learning

    Scottish Book Trust Bookbug

    Access to Childcare Fund

    Scottish Association of Minority Ethnic Educators

    Justice and Home Affairs

    Victim Centred Approach Fund

    Apex Scotland

    Medics Against Violence

    These pilots are in addition to the multi-year funding announced last week by Creative Scotland, which has been funded as part of a record £34 million uplift for culture in the draft 2025-26 Scottish Budget.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preston City Council re-sign The Armed Forces Covenant

    Source: City of Preston

    Reinforcing the Council’s commitment to supporting Armed Forces serving members and veterans.

    Yesterday, Tuesday 4 February, Major Steve Tickle, Lord Lieutenant Amanda Parker, Preston City Council Chief Executive Adrian Phillips and members of the Armed Forces and Preston City Council gathered to re-sign The Armed Forces Covenant. 

    Preston City Council first signed the Armed Forces Community Covenant in 2012, and yesterday’s event reinforced the Council’s commitment to supporting Armed Forces serving members and veterans. 

    The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by local authorities that ‘together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, including the bereaved, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society.’ 

    The Covenant focuses on helping members of the Armed Forces community have the same access to Government and commercial services and products as any other citizen. This support is provided in a number of areas including healthcare, education and childcare, housing and accommodation, employment, and financial services. 

    Preston City Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Melanie Close said: 

    “I am delighted that Preston City Council is committing to signing the Armed Forces Covenant. We are proud to reinforce our commitment to supporting our existing service personnel and their families, reservists and veterans who have all made a significant contribution to our communities.” 

    Preston City Council is an Armed Forces Friendly Employer and is proud to hold the Armed Forces Silver Award for those who proudly protect our nation, with honour, courage, and commitment and is now working towards achieving the Armed Forces Gold Award.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader welcomes + History LGBT Month

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The rainbow flag flying above the City Chambers

    This February marks the 20th anniversary of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender plus (LGBT+) History Month, with Council Leader, Jane Meagher, showing her support.

    Following the repeal of Section 28, LGBT+ History Month was created to recognise and honour the contributions of the LGBT+ community.

    The Council will mark the annual celebration by flying the rainbow flag above the City Chambers for the entire month of February.

    Council Leader Jane Meagher said:

    LGBT+ History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the history of the LGBT+ rights movement and campaign for equal rights. On the twentieth anniversary of this vital awareness month, we must recognise those individuals who have pushed the boundaries and advocated for social progress, creating a more inclusive world for all of us.

    We are proud of Edinburgh’s diversity and that anyone is welcome to make the city their home, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. It’s important that we demonstrate our support by proudly flying the rainbow flag above the City Chambers for the month of February. The flag is an international symbol of LGBT+ pride, showing all who live in and visit our city that we not only value but champion respect, tolerance, and inclusivity for all.

    Published: February 5th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDIA – Food and “certain hope” for the poor, in the spirit of the Jubilee: the Capuchin mission in Tamil Nadu

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Dindigul (Agenzia Fides) – The “Assisi Free Food Support” initiative aims to offer food to the neediest students in rural areas, those who cannot afford even one meal a day, as well as to those who share this situation of deprivation. This initiative is launched today, February 5, at Anugraha College (whose name means “Providence of God”), a center run by the Capuchin Fathers in the diocese of Dindigul, in Tamil Nadu, and is presented as a prophetic gesture for the Jubilee Year. “We intend to demonstrate in a concrete way our closeness to the poorest, in the spirit of the Jubilee that announces hope to those in need,” says Father George Bernardshaw Jesudass OFM. Cap, director of the school, which houses 900 young people between 18 and 23 years old. The centre, dedicated to guiding students from rural families in their formation and higher education, is affiliated with the Kamaraj University of Madurai. “We are happy and receive support from both the friars of the Mary Queen of Peace Province and others, since any kind of help is prescious in order to generate a positive impact in the lives of our students and ensure the basis of food security necessary for study,” adds the friar, who is also Provincial Vicar. The initiative reflects the inclusive approach of the Indian Capuchins, especially in favour of the most disadvantaged in rural areas, without ethnic, cultural or caste distinctions. “When we are in heaven, the doors will be open to all, regardless of culture, language, social status or caste,” recalls Father Bernardshaw. “The caste mentality persists in society and even in some hierarchical structures of the Church, which represents a danger for the Catholic community. We, as Capuchin friars, do not impose barriers or hierarchies in our relationship with our neighbours; we are close to everyone and our doors remain open,” he says. The director reports that the province, made up of 150 Franciscan religious, is committed to various areas of the apostolate: “from aid and solidarity towards the needy, psychological and social counselling, the management of homes for abandoned elderly people and the mentally ill, to assistance to victims of addictions, especially among young people addicted to drugs or alcohol, without forgetting the important field of education, through schools that accompany the growth of students from rural families. This apostolate allows the friars to stay close to the people and to be widely appreciated.”“In the name of Francis of Assisi, we also try to give people that ‘certain hope’ that he preached,” explains the provincial father, Fr Arockiadoss Savarimuthu. The Capuchin friars have been present in India for almost 400 years. Their journey in the country is divided into four phases: at first, they were directly linked to the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda Fide (1632-1887); later, their missionary activities were promoted through provinces of other nations (1887-1982); then, with the birth of the “Commissariat of India”, Capuchin provinces were developed throughout the country (1922-1963); and, finally, the Indian Capuchins were consolidated and spread in their own land, also carrying out missions ad gentes (1963-today). During almost 400 years of mission, the friars have baptized thousands of people, founded various dioceses, contributed to the formation of the local clergy and erected 13 cathedrals, which remain a clear testimony of their dedication to the mission and to the Church in India. It is common for Capuchin convents to have annexes as charity centres, centres for social development and apostolic activities, also in the cultural field, through the publication of works of Franciscan theology and spirituality in the local language. Among the significant dates of this long history, the beginning of the Capuchin mission in India in 1632 stands out, marked by the landing of Brother Ephrem de Nevers, from France, in Madras, in the south of the country; and, later, in 1703, the missionary landing in Tibet and Nepal by Italian Capuchins from Le Marche area. In 2021, the friars celebrated the centenary of the opening of the first novitiate in India. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 5/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SOUTH SUDAN – Local health authorities forced to suspend HIV & AIDS program in Yambio: thousands of lives at risk

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 5 February 2025

    Yambio (Agenzia Fides) – The suspension of the HIV & AIDS program in Yambio has placed thousands of lives at risk. Healthcare workers, patients, and local authorities are now calling for urgent intervention to restore funding and ensure continued access to life-saving treatment.Following the decision to halt the activities of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for 90 days, which makes the United States the main country for providing humanitarian aid, the Western Equatoria State Ministry of Health has confirmed the suspension of the HIV & AIDS program in Yambio due to funding cuts from the United States, leaving thousands of vulnerable individuals uncertain about their future.“The program was halted following decisions from the United States. I spoke with the program director of CMMB Yambio, and they assured me that discussions are ongoing. We expect to receive further updates soon,” said Health Minister James Abdallah Arona to the local press.The Minister expressed concern about the impact of the decision, emphasizing that the program was heavily reliant on international donors, including USAID and Sweden. “If funding stops, people will suffer. I urge the national government and our partners to engage donors to ensure continued support for our vulnerable population,” said Arona.According to reports, the HIV/AIDS prevalence in Western Equatoria is 6.8%. This is higher than the prevalence in the other states of the greater Equatoria region, which are Central Equatoria (3.1%) and Eastern Equatoria (4.0%).“We were instructed to halt all ongoing services. Before closing, we informed all county health departments about the development,” said the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) clinician from CMMB Yambio, Henry Biata Nzari. “The government must act swiftly to prevent further suffering. The community is highly vulnerable, and the impact of this suspension could be devastating,” he stressed.USAID was founded in 1961 with the aim of fighting global poverty, providing humanitarian assistance to countries affected by conflict or health emergencies, and supporting the development of democratic societies by improving their potential. Since the 1980s, USAID has worked in the areas of food security, the right to education and humanitarian assistance, focusing on combating the spread of pandemic threats and diseases such as HIV and malaria, as well as supporting maternal and child health. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 5/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: This announcement is straight out of an authoritarian playbook.

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party Co-Leader Adrian Ramsay MP has responded to the news that local elections in a number of parts of England this May will cancelled saying: “It’s hard to think of anything more anti-democratic than cancelling elections ahead of a significant change in local democracy. It’s straight out of an authoritarian playbook.

    “How can the Government claim an electoral mandate for these major changes if those most impacted see their elections cancelled?  

    “The Green Party is urging the Government to protect democracy, allow these long-planned elections to take place and get around the table with elected representatives of all parties to discuss how to make devolution work for people in local areas across the country. 

    “We want decisions closest to where they have the greatest impact with significant devolution of powers and funding from Westminster. That is the way to keep the vital connection between the politicians making decisions and those affected by them and avoid further alienation from the political process. The imposition of huge, remote councils against the will of local people would fly in the face of local democracy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Closed notice to improve: The City Literary Institute

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A financial health notice to improve issued to The City Literary Institute by the Education and Skills Funding Agency.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Details

    This notice to improve is now closed.

    This letter and its annex serves as a notice to improve financial health at The City Literary Institute.

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Tornado 2 Tempest’: Fighter jet component recycling project off to flying start

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Individual parts from retired Tornado aircraft have been ground down and 3D printed into new components suitable for next generation Tempest fighter jets.

    A Tempest Jet flying over London.

    First-of-its-kind initiative shows how defence is an engine for growth and supports the government’s Plan for Change.

    Development could save money, support the UK defence industry and producer higher quality components.

    Individual parts from retired fighter jets have been ground down and 3D printed into new components suitable for the UK’s next generation of military aircraft – a first of its kind initiative for the Royal Air Force.

    The innovative recycling project has seen parts from old Tornado aircraft turned into powered metal and used to 3D print new components suitable for Tempest jets. This is a great example of UK-developed technology of the future, and demonstrates UK defence industry as an engine for growth and a key part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The development could save taxpayer money, reduce the UK’s reliance on global supply chains of critical and high value metals and produce components that are lighter, stronger, and longer lasting than those made through traditional forging techniques.

    Many of the Ministry of Defence’s surplus assets contain strategic metals, including high quality steel, aluminum, and titanium, and the Tornado 2 Tempest project team have been identifying whether some of these components could be atomised into powders – known as “feedstock” – for additive manufacturing to make new parts.

    Tornado parts containing titanium, including jet engine compressor blades from a low-pressure air compressor, were selected. They were cleaned, successfully atomised and recycled into a 3D printed nose cone and compressor blades by Additive Manufacturing Solutions Limited (AMS) for Orpheus – Rolls-Royce’s small engine concept that is part of the MOD’s Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme delivering Tempest.

    The nose cone was fitted onto an Orpheus test engine and passed suitability and safety checks – demonstrating the technique has potential use in the sixth-generation jet.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle said:

    The Tornado 2 Tempest project highlights the creativity, ingenuity and innovation defence employs in our approach to national security.

    By working with key industry partners, we can deliver savings, reduce reliance on global supply chains and ensure our Armed Forces have the very best kit to keep our country safe.

    Not only does this initiative have a positive impact on the environment and national security, it supports the domestic defence industry acting as an engine for growth, which is at the heart of Plan for Change.

    The project was led by Defence Equipment and Support’s (DE&S) Defence Recycling & Disposals Team (DRDT) in partnership with the MOD FCAS team, Rolls-Royce and AMS based in Burscough, Lancashire.

    The initiative also led to the creation of three jobs and sustained two at Small Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME), AMS. The business now expects to create 25 new jobs by offering the innovation to other suppliers.

    A team of more than 80 people participated in the project, including DRDT’s commercial graduates and Rolls-Royce graduate apprentices, combining current skills and innovative technologies to deliver and maintain future capabilities.

    Funded by UK Strategic Command’s Defence Support Organisation in relation to its Circular Economics for Defence Concept Note, the feat shows that turning old parts into new is viable and could bring huge benefits to the MOD and wider Defence, especially through increasing the accessibility of strategic metals to the UK Defence industry and suppliers.

    The MOD’s Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS) recently awarded the Tornado 2 Tempest Rolls-Royce Team a CDLS Commendation in recognition of their commitment and dedication to the delivery and improvement of support to the front line.

    The team also demonstrated a Digital Product Passport (DPP) by capturing and recording material provenance and lifecycle data. This can potentially enable more informed decisions around material allocation and protect against the use of counterfeit materials.

    Andrew Eady, Rolls-Royce VP FCAS Sustainability, said:

    The Tornado 2 Tempest project exemplifies the forward-thinking sustainability principles embedded in the FCAS Sustainability Strategy and MoD Defence Support Strategy.

    This project is bold, exciting and innovative, and a demonstration of exemplary collaboration between the MoD, industry and SME, furthering the drive for circular economy practices and innovative digital enablers in Defence.

    Robert Higham, AMS Director, said:

    At AMS our tagline is ‘Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future’ and we were confident our innovations and ideas would have a great bearing on the future of a resilient supply.

    This project turned our proposed solutions into a reality, and we have been very humbled and grateful to the MOD and Rolls Royce, for allowing us to showcase our capability to deliver game-changing circular economy processes and parts in Defence.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Dayforce Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results1

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dayforce® recurring revenue of $347.9 million, up 19% year-over-year in the fourth quarter

    Total revenue of $465.2 million, up 16% year-over-year in the fourth quarter

    Full year 2024 net cash provided by operating activities of $281.1 million, up 28%

    Annual Dayforce gross revenue retention rate of 98%

    MINNEAPOLIS and TORONTO, Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dayforce, Inc. (“Dayforce” or the “Company”) (NYSE:DAY) (TSX:DAY), a global leader in human capital management (“HCM”) technology, today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    “2024 was a year of outstanding progress and innovation for Dayforce. We launched the Dayforce brand, maintained our product positioning as leaders in HCM, and drove significant innovation to help our customers achieve their best work,” said David Ossip, Chair and CEO of Dayforce. “We are optimistic about 2025 as current and prospective customers continue to recognize the value the Dayforce platform provides as they streamline HCM processes and navigate compliance complexities.”

    “The fourth quarter of 2024 was the strongest sales quarter in our history – helping us close out a successful year with robust growth across both new business and add-on sales,” said Stephen Holdridge, President and COO of Dayforce. “We saw a healthy mix of enterprise, major-market, and global sales on top of annual gross retention rate of 98% – another company record. This momentum, alongside the strength of our sales pipeline, gives us great confidence in our right to continue winning in 2025.” 

    “Looking out to 2025, we plan to continue executing on the vision laid out during our November investor day, operating the business for optimal cash generation while maintaining our pace of innovation and high levels of customer success,” said Jeremy Johnson, CFO of Dayforce. “I’m pleased that we are starting the year with demonstrable progress toward our profitability goals, raising our 2025 Adjusted EBITDA guidance 100 basis points to 32%.”

    Financial Highlights for the Fourth Quarter 20241

    • Total revenue was $465.2 million, an increase of 16.4%, or 17.0% on a constant currency basis.
    • Dayforce recurring revenue was $347.9 million, an increase of 19.1%, or 19.5% on a constant currency basis. Excluding float revenue, Dayforce recurring revenue was $307.6 million, an increase of 20.0%, or 20.4% on a constant currency basis.
    • Cloud recurring gross margin was 80.0%, compared to 77.0%, an increase of 3.0 percentage points. Adjusted Cloud recurring gross margin was 80.4%, compared to 78.1%, an increase of 2.3 percentage points.
    • Operating profit was $28.5 million, compared to $38.8 million. Adjusted operating profit was $103.3 million, compared to $78.9 million.
    • Net income was $10.8 million, compared to $45.6 million. Adjusted net income was $97.1 million, compared to $80.3 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $129.2 million, compared to $99.2 million. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 27.8%, compared to 24.8%, an increase of 3.0 percentage points.
    • Diluted net income per share was $0.07, compared to $0.29. Adjusted diluted net income per share was $0.60, compared to $0.50.

    Financial Highlights for the Full Year 20241

    • Total revenue was $1,760.0 million, an increase of 16.3%, or 16.7% on a constant currency basis.
    • Dayforce recurring revenue was $1,339.9 million, an increase of 20.6%, or 20.8% on a constant currency basis. Excluding float revenue, Dayforce recurring revenue was $1,159.7 million, an increase of 20.4%, or 20.7% on a constant currency basis.
    • Cloud annualized recurring revenue (“ARR”) was $1,474.1 million, an increase of 17.9%, or $223.5 million.2
    • Cloud recurring gross margin was 78.9%, compared to 77.0%, an increase of 1.9 percentage points. Adjusted Cloud recurring gross margin was 79.8%, compared to 78.3%, an increase of 1.5 percentage points.
    • Operating profit was $104.1 million, compared to $133.1 million. Adjusted operating profit was $410.5 million, compared to $339.8 million.
    • Annual Dayforce gross revenue retention rate was 98.0% for the full year of 2024, compared to 97.1%.2
    • Net income was $18.1 million, compared to $54.8 million. Adjusted net income was $315.8 million, compared to $238.7 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $501.5 million, compared to $410.2 million. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 28.5%, compared to 27.1%, an increase of 1.4 percentage points.
    • Diluted net income per share was $0.11, compared to $0.35. Adjusted diluted net income per share was $1.97, compared to $1.51.
    • Net cash provided by operating activities was $281.1 million, compared to $219.5 million.
    • Free cash flow was $171.5 million, compared to $105.1 million. Free cash flow margin was 9.7%, compared to 6.9%, an increase of 2.8 percentage points.
    • Cash and equivalents were $579.7 million, compared to $570.3 million.

    Supplemental Detail

    • 7.62 million global employees were live on the Dayforce platform as of December 31, 2024, up 11.4% compared to 6.84 million global employees as of December 31, 2023.3
    • 6,876 customers were live on the Dayforce platform as of December 31, 2024, an increase of 146 customers since September 30, 2024 and an increase of 483 customers since December 31, 2023, or 7.6% year-over-year.3
    • Dayforce recurring revenue per customer was $163,101 for the trailing twelve months ended December 31, 2024, an increase of 11.1%.4
    • The average float balance for Dayforce’s customer funds during the quarter was $4.68 billion and the average yield on Dayforce’s float balance was 3.8%, a decrease of 10 basis points year-over-year. Float revenue from invested customer funds was $45.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
    • The average U.S. dollar to Canadian dollar foreign exchange rate was $1.40 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $1.36 for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Dayforce presents percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis in order to exclude the effect of foreign currency rate fluctuations, which it believes is useful to management and investors. Percentage change in revenue was calculated on a constant currency basis by applying the average foreign exchange rate in effect during the comparable prior period.

    1 The financial highlights are on a year-over-year basis, unless otherwise stated. All financial results are reported in United States (“U.S.”) dollars and in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”), unless otherwise stated.
    2 Excluding Ascender and eloomi.
    3 Excluding Ascender, ADAM HCM, and eloomi.
    4 Excluding float revenue, Ascender, ADAM HCM, and eloomi revenue, and on a constant currency basis. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for discussion of percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis.

    Business Highlights

    • The Company launched its first mass advertising campaign across the U.S. after uniting its global brand as Dayforce.
    • Dayforce announced the launch of the Dayforce Partner Network to create growth opportunities and provide an exceptional experience for customers.
    • Dayforce was named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape – Worldwide Cloud-Enabled Human Capital Management 2024 Vendor Assessment and a Leader in the Nucleus Research Full Suite Talent Acquisition Technology Value Matrix 2024.
    • Dayforce won the gold medal and was named a Leader in Software Reviews Data Quadrant Awards for both HCM Enterprise Software and WFM Enterprise Software and was recognized by Constellation Research for excellence in Workforce Management Suites, HCM Suites with a North American Focus, Global HCM Suites, and Payroll for North American SMBs.
    • For the second consecutive year, Dayforce was named by Newsweek magazine and the Best Practice Institute as one of the Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces in America, made Computerworld’s list of Best Places to Work in IT, and earned a place on the United Kingdom’s (“U.K.”) Most Loved Workplace list.
    • Dayforce achieved record attendance at Dayforce Discover 2024, its annual customer conference in Las Vegas, where it welcomed its global community of customers, prospective customers, partners, and industry disruptors.

    Sales Highlights

    • A large member-owned retail cooperative selected the full Dayforce suite to support all 66,000 employees at 362 stores across nine states in the U.S.
    • A large global manufacturer and distributor of paints and coatings supporting 60,000 employees has expanded its partnership with Dayforce Payroll and Workforce Management for its regions beyond the U.S.
    • A global air services provider with over 48,000 employees across 35 countries has expanded its partnership with Dayforce to its U.S. operations. The company, which employs 3,200 in the U.S., has purchased the full suite of Dayforce products, including Managed Payroll.
    • A space exploration company selected Dayforce Payroll and Time and Attendance to support its 18,000 employees.
    • A global manufacturer of construction equipment selected Dayforce for Managed Payroll and Time and Attendance, supporting 6,500 employees and 500 pensioners globally.
    • A large Indigenous organization in the U.S. selected the full Dayforce suite to support 5,000 employees across Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado.
    • A specialty food distributor with 5,000 employees across the U.S. and Canada has expanded its Dayforce partnership to include Advanced Experience Hub, Succession Planning, Co-Pilot, Career Explorer, Engagement, and Talent Acquisition Management.
    • A global beverage company has expanded its partnership with Dayforce choosing Time and Managed Payroll, to support 3,100 employees across the United States and Canada.
    • A global leader specializing in radiation detection, measurement, and monitoring solutions opted for the full Dayforce HCM suite to support its 3,000 employees globally.

    Customer Highlights

    • A global aviation services provider with over 55,000 employees across 36 countries has successfully gone live with Dayforce HR and Payroll for 8,000 employees in the U.K. and plans to continue its global rollout of the platform.
    • A leading American entertainment company with 23,000 employees successfully launched Dayforce Talent – Performance, Learning, Compensation, and Succession Planning – across its U.S. operations.
    • A leading U.K. contract catering and support services provider successfully implemented Dayforce HR and Payroll for its 10,500 employees.
    • A large public sector organization in North Carolina has gone live with Dayforce HR, Payroll, Benefits, Time, and People Analytics to support 8,000 employees.
    • A U.S gaming and digital entertainment company has successfully gone live with Dayforce HR, Payroll, Time and People Analytics, supporting 5,800 employees across the U.S. and Canada.
    • A global cybersecurity company has gone live with Dayforce HR, Payroll, and Time and Attendance, supporting 2,900 employees across the U.S.
    • A leading U.S. based commercial real estate company has successfully implemented Dayforce, using HR, Managed Payroll, Managed Benefits, Time and Talent to support its 2,650 employees.

    Product Roadmap Highlights

    In the fourth quarter, Dayforce continued to set a new standard for the HCM industry by bringing product capabilities to market to help organizations invest in their people and push their businesses forward.

    • 900+ compliance updates in 2024 further strengthen the company’s industry-leading position in compliance by addressing taxes, workers’ compensation, garnishments, dependent care, and multiple state and city rate changes.
    • New intelligence capabilities across the Dayforce suite will help customers simplify and accelerate business processes including:
      • Dayforce Co-Pilot, made generally available to all customers in Q4, optimizes people operations by enabling a more informed, empowered, and productive workforce through a powerful GenAI assistant that is personalized to answer contextual questions, summarize data, and provide step-by-step guidance.
      • Dayforce Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) Agents, announced at Dayforce Discover, will help customers accelerate workflows, efficiencies, and decision-making by automating repetitive tasks across the employee lifecycle.
      • AI-enhanced Dayforce Demand Forecasting, a new capability, better predicts demand and labor needs by delivering AI-enhanced insights through machine learning algorithms to help organizations plan more effectively.
      • Dayforce Workforce Insights, a new feature, provides critical workforce insights and serves as a one-stop shop for people leaders.
    • Dayforce Shift Marketplace supercharges staffing mobility by enabling workers to search for, select, and fill open shifts, right from their mobile device. Shift Marketplace provides workers with the up-front information required to understand their role, work, and compensation.
    • Dayforce Talent enhancements elevate the experience for talent acquisition professionals by enabling them to hire at scale, reduce complexities in recruitment, and view qualified candidates quickly and efficiently.
    • Dayforce Wallet updates include new direct-to-bank functionality with the option to continue to access available pay using Dayforce Wallet or to choose to send pay directly to another personal bank account and expanded access to on-demand pay using Dayforce Mobile.

    Business Outlook

    Based on information available as of February 5, 2025, Dayforce is issuing the following guidance for the full year and first quarter of 2025 as indicated below. Comparisons are on a year-over-year basis, unless stated otherwise.

    First Quarter 2025 Guidance

    • Total revenue, excluding float, of $421 million to $427 million, an increase of approximately 13.5% to 15% on a GAAP basis, or approximately 15.5% to 17% on a constant currency basis.
    • Float revenue of $53 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin of 31% to 32%.

    Full Year 2025 Guidance

    • Total revenue, excluding float, of $1,745 million to $1,760 million, an increase of approximately 11.9% to 12.8% on a GAAP basis, or approximately 14% to 15% on a constant currency basis.
    • Dayforce recurring revenue, excluding float, of $1,315 million to $1,340 million, an increase of approximately 13.4% to 15.5% on a GAAP basis, or approximately 15% to 17% on a constant currency basis.
    • Float revenue of $180 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin of 32%.
    • Free cash flow margin of 12%.

    Please refer to the “Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for a reconciliation of Dayforce’s free cash flow margin guidance. Dayforce has not reconciled the Adjusted EBITDA margin ranges for the first quarter or full year of 2025 to the directly comparable GAAP financial measures because applicable information for the future period, on which these reconciliations would be based, is not available without unreasonable efforts due to uncertainty regarding, and the potential variability of, depreciation and amortization, share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, and other items.

    Foreign Exchange

    For the first quarter and full year of 2025, Dayforce’s guidance assumes an average U.S. dollar to key foreign currencies as follows:

      % of 2024 total
    revenue
    Foreign exchange
    rate assumed in
    guidance
    Foreign exchange rate
    in Q1 2024
    Foreign exchange rate
    in FY 2024
    U.S. dollar to Canadian dollar 21% 1.44 1.35 1.37
    U.S. dollar to Australian dollar 4% 1.61 1.52 1.52
    U.S. dollar to Great British pound 3% 0.81 0.79 0.78
             

    Conference Call Details

    Dayforce will host a live webcast and conference call to discuss the fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on February 5, 2025. Those wishing to participate via the webcast should access the call through the Investor Relations section of the Dayforce website. Those wishing to participate via the telephone may dial in at 877-497-9071 (USA) or 201-689-8727 (International). The webcast replay will be available through the Investor Relations section of the Dayforce website.

    About Dayforce

    Dayforce makes work life better. Everything we do as a global leader in HCM technology is focused on improving work for thousands of customers and millions of employees around the world. Our single, global people platform for HR, Pay, Time, Talent, and Analytics equips Dayforce customers to unlock their full workforce potential and operate with confidence. To learn how Dayforce helps create quantifiable value for organizations of all sizes and industries, visit dayforce.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. 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 Dayforce’s current expectations and projections relating to its financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. Users can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements in this press release include statements relating to the full year and first quarter of 2025, as well as those relating to future growth initiatives. These statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “assume”, “project,” “seek,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “will,” “may,” “could,” “continue,” “likely,” “should,” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events, but not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on assumptions that Dayforce has made in light of its industry experience and its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors that it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. As users consider this press release, it should be understood that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. These assumptions and Dayforce’s future performance or results involve risks and uncertainties (many of which are beyond its control). In particular:

    • its inability to maintain its high Cloud solutions growth rate, manage its domestic and international growth effectively, or execute on its growth strategy;
    • the impact of disruptions to the movement of funds to initiate payroll-related transactions on behalf of  customers;
    • its failure to manage its aging technical operations infrastructure;
    • system breaches, interruptions or failures, including cyber-security breaches, identity theft, or other disruptions that could compromise customer information or sensitive company information, including its ongoing consent order with the Federal Trade Commission regarding data protection;
    • its failure to comply with applicable privacy, data protection, information security, and financial services laws, regulations and standards;
    • its inability to successfully compete in the markets in which Dayforce operates and expand its current offerings into new markets or further penetrate existing markets due to competition;
    • its failure to properly update its solutions to enable its customers to comply with applicable laws;
    • its failure to provide new or enhanced functionality and features, including those that may involve artificial intelligence or machine learning;
    • its inability to maintain necessary third-party relationships, and third-party software licenses, and identify errors in the software it licenses;
    • its inability to offer and deliver high-quality technical support, implementation, and professional services;
    • its inability to attract and retain senior management employees and highly skilled employees;
    • the impact of its outstanding debt obligations on its financial condition, results of operations, and value of its common stock;
    • its ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, and the effect of the existing material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting on its business, financial condition, and results of operations; or
    • the impact of adverse economic and market conditions on its business, operating results, or financial condition.

    Although Dayforce has attempted to identify important risk factors, additional factors or events that could cause Dayforce’s actual performance to differ from these forward-looking statements may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Dayforce to predict all of them. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of Dayforce’s assumptions prove incorrect, its actual financial condition, results of operations, future performance, and business may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements. In addition to any factors and assumptions set forth above in this press release, the material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: the general economy remains stable; the competitive environment in the HCM market remains stable; the demand environment for HCM solutions remains stable; Dayforce’s implementation capabilities and cycle times remain stable; foreign exchange rates, both current and those used in developing forward-looking statements, specifically U.S. dollar to Canadian dollar, remain stable at, or near, current rates; Dayforce will be able to maintain its relationships with its employees, customers, and partners; Dayforce will continue to attract qualified personnel to support its development requirements and the support of its new and existing customers; and that the risk factors noted above, individually or collectively, do not have a material impact on Dayforce. Any forward-looking statement made by Dayforce in this press release speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Dayforce undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

         
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited)
         
      December 31,  
      2024     2023  
    (In millions, except per share data)          
    Assets          
    Current assets:          
    Cash and equivalents $ 579.7     $ 570.3  
    Restricted cash         0.8  
    Trade and other receivables, net   264.8       228.8  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   137.5       126.7  
    Total current assets before customer funds   982.0       926.6  
    Customer funds   5,001.5       5,028.6  
    Total current assets   5,983.5       5,955.2  
    Right of use lease assets, net   12.3       19.1  
    Property, plant, and equipment, net   223.7       210.1  
    Goodwill   2,336.7       2,293.9  
    Other intangible assets, net   189.2       230.2  
    Deferred sales commissions   231.8       192.1  
    Other assets   139.8       110.3  
    Total assets $ 9,117.0     $ 9,010.9  
               
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity          
    Current liabilities:          
    Current portion of long-term debt $ 7.3     $ 7.6  
    Current portion of long-term lease liabilities   5.7       7.0  
    Accounts payable   77.0       66.7  
    Deferred revenue   42.3       40.2  
    Employee compensation and benefits   126.8       92.9  
    Other accrued expenses   31.5       30.4  
    Total current liabilities before customer funds obligations   290.6       244.8  
    Customer funds obligations   5,024.2       5,090.1  
    Total current liabilities   5,314.8       5,334.9  
    Long-term debt, less current portion   1,209.1       1,210.1  
    Employee benefit plans   5.9       27.7  
    Long-term lease liabilities, less current portion   10.8       18.9  
    Other liabilities   30.1       21.1  
    Total liabilities   6,570.7       6,612.7  
    Commitments and contingencies          
    Stockholders’ equity:          
    Common stock, $0.01 par, 500.0 shares authorized, 159.0 and 156.3 shares issued and outstanding, respectively   1.6       1.6  
    Additional paid in capital   3,363.2       3,151.1  
    Accumulated deficit   (335.8 )     (317.8 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (482.7 )     (436.7 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   2,546.3       2,398.2  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 9,117.0     $ 9,010.9  
                   
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Unaudited)
               
      Three Months Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    (In millions, except per share data)                      
    Revenue:                      
    Recurring $ 393.7     $ 339.1     $ 1,517.3     $ 1,297.3  
    Professional services and other   71.5       60.6       242.7       216.4  
    Total revenue   465.2       399.7       1,760.0       1,513.7  
    Cost of revenue:                      
    Recurring   87.6       85.5       352.7       324.9  
    Professional services and other   80.2       68.6       291.0       265.6  
    Product development and management   57.0       56.4       223.8       209.9  
    Depreciation and amortization   21.8       19.4       80.4       66.8  
    Total cost of revenue   246.6       229.9       947.9       867.2  
    Gross profit   218.6       169.8       812.1       646.5  
    Selling and marketing   93.5       72.7       342.0       250.2  
    General and administrative   96.6       58.3       366.0       263.2  
    Operating profit   28.5       38.8       104.1       133.1  
    Interest expense, net   7.4       8.9       40.6       36.1  
    Other expense (income), net   20.2       (5.6 )     25.9       1.0  
    Income before income taxes   0.9       35.5       37.6       96.0  
    Income tax (benefit) expense   (9.9 )     (10.1 )     19.5       41.2  
    Net income $ 10.8     $ 45.6     $ 18.1     $ 54.8  
    Net income per share:                      
    Basic $ 0.07     $ 0.29     $ 0.11     $ 0.35  
    Diluted $ 0.07     $ 0.29     $ 0.11     $ 0.35  
    Weighted average shares outstanding:                      
    Basic   158.3       156.2       157.8       155.3  
    Diluted   161.8       159.2       160.4       158.5  
                                   
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
         
      Year Ended December 31,  
      2024     2023  
    (In millions)          
    Cash flows from operating activities          
    Net income $ 18.1     $ 54.8  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
    Deferred income tax (benefit) expense   (34.1 )     4.1  
    Depreciation and amortization   209.8       132.5  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs and debt discount   4.2       4.4  
    Loss on debt extinguishment   4.3        
    Provision for doubtful accounts   10.1       5.4  
    Net periodic pension and postretirement cost   10.1       1.1  
    Share-based compensation expense   155.5       136.7  
    Change in fair value of contingent consideration   9.0       4.3  
    Other   0.1       1.0  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities, excluding effects of acquisitions:          
    Trade and other receivables   (48.0 )     (48.3 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (3.3 )     (22.1 )
    Deferred sales commissions   (43.9 )     (39.5 )
    Accounts payable and other accrued expenses   15.7       9.3  
    Deferred revenue   (4.4 )     (1.3 )
    Employee compensation and benefits   12.8       (7.5 )
    Accrued taxes   (3.6 )     (4.7 )
    Payment of contingent consideration   (20.9 )      
    Other assets and liabilities   (10.4 )     (10.7 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   281.1       219.5  
               
    Cash flows from investing activities          
    Purchases of customer funds marketable securities   (541.1 )     (528.1 )
    Proceeds from sale and maturity of customer funds marketable securities   353.4       445.5  
    Purchases of marketable securities   (16.2 )     (6.8 )
    Proceeds from sale and maturity of marketable securities   14.7       2.0  
    Expenditures for property, plant, and equipment   (14.3 )     (19.0 )
    Expenditures for software and technology   (95.3 )     (95.4 )
    Acquisition costs, net of cash acquired   (173.1 )      
    Other         (1.0 )
    Net cash used in investing activities   (471.9 )     (202.8 )
               
    Cash flows from financing activities          
    Increase in customer funds obligations, net   51.8       200.9  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock under share-based compensation plans   56.6       49.0  
    Repurchases of common stock   (36.1 )      
    Proceeds from debt issuance   650.0        
    Repayment of long-term debt obligations   (648.3 )     (7.9 )
    Payment of debt refinancing costs   (11.4 )      
    Payment of contingent consideration   (3.0 )      
    Net cash provided by financing activities   59.6       242.0  
               
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, restricted cash, and equivalents   (36.3 )     11.5  
    Net (decrease) increase in cash, restricted cash, and equivalents   (167.5 )     270.2  
    Cash, restricted cash, and equivalents at beginning of period   3,421.4       3,151.2  
    Cash, restricted cash, and equivalents at end of period $ 3,253.9     $ 3,421.4  
               
    Reconciliation of cash, restricted cash, and equivalents to the
    consolidated balance sheets
             
    Cash and equivalents $ 579.7     $ 570.3  
    Restricted cash         0.8  
    Restricted cash and equivalents included in customer funds   2,674.2       2,850.3  
    Total cash, restricted cash, and equivalents $ 3,253.9     $ 3,421.4  
               
    Supplemental cash flow information          
    Cash paid for interest $ 45.3     $ 52.4  
    Cash paid for income taxes   56.4       43.0  
    Cash received from income tax refunds   0.8       0.6  
                   
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Revenue Financial Measures
    (Unaudited)
                           
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Percentage
    change in
    revenue
        Impact of
    changes in
    foreign
    currency
    (a)
        Percentage
    change in
    revenue on
    a constant
    currency
    basis (a)
     
      2024     2023     2024 vs.
    2023
              2024 vs.
    2023
     
      (In millions)                    
    Revenue:                            
    Recurring revenue:                            
    Dayforce recurring, excluding float $ 307.6     $ 256.4       20.0 %     (0.4 )%     20.4 %
    Dayforce float   40.3       35.7       12.9 %     (0.5 )%     13.4 %
    Total Dayforce recurring   347.9       292.1       19.1 %     (0.4 )%     19.5 %
    Powerpay recurring, excluding float   23.1       23.1       (— )%     (2.6 )%     2.6 %
    Powerpay float   4.4       5.0       (12.0 )%     (4.0 )%     (8.0 )%
    Total Powerpay recurring   27.5       28.1       (2.1 )%     (2.8 )%     0.7 %
    Total Cloud recurring   375.4       320.2       17.2 %     (0.7 )%     17.9 %
    Other recurring (b)   18.3       18.9       (3.2 )%     0.5 %     (3.7 )%
    Total recurring revenue   393.7       339.1       16.1 %     (0.6 )%     16.7 %
    Professional services and other (c)   71.5       60.6       18.0 %     (0.8 )%     18.8 %
    Total revenue $ 465.2     $ 399.7       16.4 %     (0.6 )%     17.0 %
    a) Dayforce has calculated percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis by applying the average foreign exchange rate in effect during the comparable prior period. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for discussion of percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis.
    b) Float attributable to Other recurring was $0.4 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, respectively.
    c) For the three months ended December 31, 2024, Professional services and other consisted of $69.4 million, $1.9 million, $0.2 million associated with Dayforce, Other, and Powerpay, respectively. For the three months ended December 31, 2023, Professional services and other consisted of $57.6 million, $2.7 million, and $0.3 million associated with Dayforce, Other, and Powerpay, respectively.
       
      Year Ended December 31,     Percentage
    change in
    revenue
        Impact of
    changes in
    foreign
    currency
    (a)
        Percentage
    change in
    revenue on
    a constant
    currency
    basis (a)
     
      2024     2023     2024 vs.
    2023
              2024 vs.
    2023
     
      (In millions)                    
    Revenue:                            
    Recurring revenue:                            
    Dayforce recurring, excluding float $ 1,159.7     $ 962.9       20.4 %     (0.3 )%     20.7 %
    Dayforce float   180.2       148.2       21.6 %     (0.3 )%     21.9 %
    Total Dayforce recurring   1,339.9       1,111.1       20.6 %     (0.2 )%     20.8 %
    Powerpay recurring, excluding float   83.7       81.9       2.2 %     (1.6 )%     3.8 %
    Powerpay float   18.8       18.4       2.2 %     (1.6 )%     3.8 %
    Total Powerpay recurring   102.5       100.3       2.2 %     (1.6 )%     3.8 %
    Total Cloud recurring   1,442.4       1,211.4       19.1 %     (0.3 )%     19.4 %
    Other recurring (b)   74.9       85.9       (12.8 )%     (0.7 )%     (12.1 )%
    Total recurring revenue   1,517.3       1,297.3       17.0 %     (0.3 )%     17.3 %
    Professional services and other (c)   242.7       216.4       12.2 %     (0.3 )%     12.5 %
    Total revenue $ 1,760.0     $ 1,513.7       16.3 %     (0.4 )%     16.7 %
    a) Dayforce has calculated percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis by applying the average foreign exchange rate in effect during the comparable prior period. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for discussion of percentage change in revenue on a constant currency basis.
    b) Float attributable to Other recurring was $1.3 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    c) For the year ended December 31, 2024, Professional services and other consisted of $233.8 million, $8.5 million, and $0.4 million associated with Dayforce, Other, and Powerpay, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2023, Professional services and other consisted of $202.1 million, $13.8 million, and $0.5 million associated with Dayforce, Other, and Powerpay, respectively.
       
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Share-Based Compensation Expense and Related Employer Taxes
    (Unaudited)
               
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
     
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
      (in millions)  
    Cost of revenue – Cloud $ 1.7     $ 3.5     $ 11.3     $ 15.4  
    Cost of revenue – Other   0.5       0.3       2.2       1.5  
    Professional services and other   2.5       3.7       14.2       17.2  
    Product development and management   7.6       6.8       32.6       32.5  
    Sales and marketing   9.1       4.5       36.3       23.5  
    General and administrative   16.8             60.0       47.0  
    Total $ 38.2     $ 18.8     $ 156.6     $ 137.1  
                                   
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    (Unaudited)
     
    The following tables reconcile Dayforce’s reported results to its non-GAAP financial measures:
         
      Three Months Ended December 31, 2024  
      As
    reported
        As
    reported
    margins
    (a)
        Share-based
    compensation
        Amortization     Other (b)     As
    adjusted
    (b)
        As
    adjusted
    margins
    (a)
     
      (Dollars in millions, except per share data)  
    Cost of Cloud recurring revenue $ 75.2       80.0 %   $ 1.7     $     $ 0.1     $ 73.4       80.4 %
                                             
    Operating profit $ 28.5       6.1 %   $ 38.2     $ 32.5     $ 4.1     $ 103.3       22.2 %
                                             
    Net income $ 10.8       2.3 %   $ 38.2     $ 32.5     $ 15.6     $ 97.1       20.9 %
    Interest expense, net   7.4                               7.4        
    Income tax benefit (c)   (9.9 )                       (8.8 )     (1.1 )      
    Depreciation and amortization   58.3                   32.5             25.8        
    EBITDA $ 66.6           $ 38.2     $     $ 24.4     $ 129.2       27.8 %
                                             
    Net income per share – diluted $ 0.07           $ 0.24     $ 0.20     $ 0.10     $ 0.60        
    (a) Cloud recurring gross margin is defined as total Cloud recurring revenue less cost of Cloud recurring revenue as a percentage of total Cloud recurring revenue. Operating profit margin and net profit margin are determined by calculating the percentage operating profit and net income are of total revenue. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted margins.
    (b) The as adjusted column is a non-GAAP financial measure, adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items. The adjustment to operating profit consists of $4.1 million of restructuring expenses. The adjustments to net income also include $17.1 million of foreign exchange loss, $3.2 million of costs associated with the planned termination of its frozen U.S. pension plan, and a $8.8 million net adjustment for the effect of income taxes related to these items. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted metrics.
    (c) Income tax effects have been calculated based on the statutory tax rates in effect in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions during the period.
       
      Three Months Ended December 31, 2023  
      As
    reported
        As
    reported
    margins
    (a)
        Share-based
    compensation
        Amortization     Other (b)     As
    adjusted
    (b)
        As
    adjusted
    margins
    (a)
     
      (Dollars in millions, except per share data)  
    Cost of Cloud recurring revenue $ 73.7       77.0 %   $ 3.5     $     $     $ 70.2       78.1 %
                                             
    Operating profit $ 38.8       9.7 %   $ 18.8     $ 27.8     $ (6.5 )   $ 78.9       19.7 %
                                             
    Net income $ 45.6       11.4 %   $ 18.8     $ 27.8     $ (11.9 )   $ 80.3       20.1 %
    Interest expense, net   8.9                               8.9        
    Income tax benefit (c)   (10.1 )                       0.5       (10.6 )      
    Depreciation and amortization   48.4                   27.8             20.6        
    EBITDA $ 92.8           $ 18.8     $     $ (12.4 )   $ 99.2       24.8 %
                                             
    Net income per share – diluted $ 0.29           $ 0.12     $ 0.17     $ (0.07 )   $ 0.50        
    (a) Cloud recurring gross margin is defined as total Cloud recurring revenue less cost of Cloud recurring revenue as a percentage of total Cloud recurring revenue. Operating profit margin and net profit margin are determined by calculating the percentage operating profit and net income are of total revenue. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted margins.
    (b) The as adjusted column is a non-GAAP financial measure, adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items. The adjustments to operating profit consist of a $7.5 million gain related to the impact of the fair value adjustment for the DataFuzion contingent consideration, a $0.3 million gain related to the abandonment of certain leased facilities, and $1.3 million of restructuring expenses. The adjustments to net income also include $5.9 million of foreign exchange gain and a $0.5 million net adjustment for the effect of income taxes related to these items. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted metrics.
    (c) Income tax effects have been calculated based on the statutory tax rates in effect in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions during the period.
       
      Year Ended December 31, 2024  
      As
    reported
        As
    reported
    margins
    (a)
        Share-based
    compensation
        Amortization     Other (b)     As
    adjusted
    (b)
        As
    adjusted
    margins
    (a)
     
      (Dollars in millions, except per share data)  
    Cost of Cloud recurring revenue $ 303.7       78.9 %   $ 11.3     $     $ 1.0     $ 291.4       79.8 %
                                             
    Operating profit $ 104.1       5.9 %   $ 156.6     $ 120.0     $ 29.8     $ 410.5       23.3 %
                                             
    Net income $ 18.1       1.0 %   $ 156.6     $ 120.0     $ 21.1     $ 315.8       17.9 %
    Interest expense, net   40.6                               40.6        
    Income tax expense (c)   19.5                         (35.8 )     55.3        
    Depreciation and amortization   209.8                   120.0             89.8        
    EBITDA $ 288.0           $ 156.6     $     $ 56.9     $ 501.5       28.5 %
                                             
    Net income per share – diluted $ 0.11           $ 0.98     $ 0.75     $ 0.13     $ 1.97        
    (a) Cloud recurring gross margin is defined as total Cloud recurring revenue less cost of Cloud recurring revenue as a percentage of total Cloud recurring revenue. Operating profit margin and net profit margin are determined by calculating the percentage operating profit and net income are of total revenue. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted margins.
    (b) The as adjusted column is a non-GAAP financial measure, adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items. The adjustments to operating profit consist of $19.8 million of restructuring expenses, $9.0 million related to the impact of the fair value adjustment for the DataFuzion contingent consideration, and $1.0 million of fees associated with initiating the receivables securitization program. The adjustments to net income also include $14.2 million of foreign exchange loss, $12.9 million of costs associated with the planned termination of our frozen U.S. pension plan, and a $35.8 million net adjustment for the effect of income taxes related to these items. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted metrics.
    (c) Income tax effects have been calculated based on the statutory tax rates in effect in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions during the period.
       
      Year Ended December 31, 2023  
      As
    reported
        As
    reported
    margins
    (a)
        Share-based
    compensation
        Amortization     Other (b)     As
    adjusted
    (b)
        As
    adjusted
    margins
    (a)
     
      (Dollars in millions, except per share data)  
    Cost of Cloud recurring revenue $ 278.5       77.0 %   $ 15.4     $     $     $ 263.1       78.3 %
                                             
    Operating profit $ 133.1       8.8 %   $ 137.1     $ 60.5     $ 9.1     $ 339.8       22.4 %
                                             
    Net income $ 54.8       3.6 %   $ 137.1     $ 60.5     $ (13.7 )   $ 238.7       15.8 %
    Interest expense, net   36.1                               36.1        
    Income tax expense (c)   41.2                         (22.2 )     63.4        
    Depreciation and amortization   132.5                   60.5             72.0        
    EBITDA $ 264.6           $ 137.1     $     $ 8.5     $ 410.2       27.1 %
                                             
    Net income per share – diluted $ 0.35           $ 0.86     $ 0.38     $ (0.09 )   $ 1.51        
    (a) Cloud recurring gross margin is defined as total Cloud recurring revenue less cost of Cloud recurring revenue as a percentage of total Cloud recurring revenue. Operating profit margin and net profit margin are determined by calculating the percentage operating profit and net income are of total revenue. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted margins.
    (b) The as adjusted column is a non-GAAP financial measure, adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items. The adjustments to operating profit consist of $4.7 million of restructuring expenses, $4.3 million related to the impact of the fair value adjustment for the DataFuzion contingent consideration, and $0.1 million related to the abandonment of certain leased facilities. The adjustments to net income also include $0.6 million of foreign exchange gain and a $22.2 million net adjustment for the effect of income taxes related to these items. Please refer to the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section for additional information on the as adjusted metrics.
    (c) Income tax effects have been calculated based on the statutory tax rates in effect in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions during the period.
       
    Dayforce, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow
    (Unaudited)
     
    The following table reconciles Dayforce’s reported results to free cash flow:
               
      Three Months Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
      (In millions)  
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 81.0     $ 89.9     $ 281.1     $ 219.5  
    Capital expenditures   (26.8 )     (26.1 )     (109.6 )     (114.4 )
    Free cash flow $ 54.2     $ 63.8     $ 171.5     $ 105.1  
                           
    Operating cash flow margin (a)   17.4 %     22.5 %     16.0 %     14.5 %
    Free cash flow margin (b)   11.7 %     16.0 %     9.7 %     6.9 %
                                   

    The following table reconciles Dayforce’s free cash flow guidance:

      Year Ended December 31,
    2025
     
      Low range     High range  
      (In millions)  
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 334     $ 339  
    Capital expenditures   (105 )     (105 )
    Free cash flow $ 229     $ 234  
               
    Operating cash flow margin (a)   17.4 %     17.5 %
    Free cash flow margin (b)   11.9 %     12.1 %
    (a) Operating cash flow margin is determined by calculating the percentage that operating cash flow is of total revenue.
    (b) Free cash flow margin is determined by calculating the percentage that free cash flow is of total revenue.
       

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Dayforce uses certain non-GAAP financial measures in this release including:

    Non-GAAP Financial Measure   GAAP Financial Measure
    EBITDA   Net income
    Adjusted EBITDA   Net income
    Adjusted EBITDA margin   Net profit margin
    Adjusted Cloud recurring gross margin   Cloud recurring gross margin
    Adjusted operating profit   Operating profit
    Adjusted operating profit margin   Operating profit margin
    Adjusted net income   Net income
    Adjusted net profit margin   Net profit margin
    Adjusted diluted net income per share   Diluted net income per share
    Free cash flow   Net cash provided by operating activities
    Free cash flow margin   Operating cash flow margin
    Percentage change in revenue, including total revenue and revenue by solution, on a constant currency basis   Percentage change in revenue, including total revenue and revenue by solution
    Cloud annualized retention rate   No directly comparable GAAP measure
    Dayforce revenue retention rate   No directly comparable GAAP measure
    Dayforce recurring revenue per customer   No directly comparable GAAP measure
         

    Dayforce believes that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to management and investors as supplemental measures to evaluate its overall operating performance including comparison across periods and with competitors. Dayforce’s management team uses these non-GAAP financial measures to assess operating performance because these financial measures exclude the results of decisions that are outside the normal course of its business operations, and are used for internal budgeting and forecasting purposes both for short- and long-term operating plans. Additionally, Adjusted EBITDA is a component of its management incentive plan and Adjusted Cloud recurring gross margin and Adjusted operating profit are components of certain performance based equity awards for its named executive officers. Additionally, Dayforce believes that the non-GAAP financial measure free cash flow is meaningful to investors because it is a measure of liquidity that provides useful information in understanding and evaluating the strength of Dayforce’s liquidity and future ability to generate cash that can be used for strategic opportunities or investing in its business. The exclusion of capital expenditures facilitates comparisons of Dayforce’s liquidity on a period-to-period basis and excludes items that management does not consider to be indicative of Dayforce’s liquidity.

    These non-GAAP financial measures are not required by, defined under, or presented in accordance with, GAAP, and should not be considered as alternatives to Dayforce’s results as reported under GAAP, have important limitations as analytical tools, and its use of these terms may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies in its industry. Dayforce’s presentation of non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed to imply that its future results will be unaffected by similar items to those eliminated in this presentation. Please refer to Dayforce’s full financial results, including further discussion of non-GAAP financial measures, on the Investor Relations portion of its website at investors.dayforce.com.

    Dayforce defines its non-GAAP financial measures as follows:

    • EBITDA is defined as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, and Adjusted EBITDA is EBITDA, as adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, and certain other items.
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin is determined by calculating the percentage Adjusted EBITDA is of total revenue.
    • Adjusted Cloud recurring gross margin is defined as Cloud recurring gross margin, as adjusted to exclude share-based compensation and related employer taxes, and certain other items, as a percentage of total Cloud recurring revenue.
    • Adjusted operating profit is defined as operating profit, as adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items.
    • Adjusted net income is defined as net income, as adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense and related employer taxes, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, and certain other items, all of which are adjusted for the effect of income taxes.
    • Adjusted net profit margin is determined by calculating the percentage Adjusted net income is of total revenue.
    • Adjusted diluted net income per share is calculated by dividing adjusted net income by diluted weighted average common shares outstanding. When adjusted diluted net income per share is positive, diluted weighted average common shares outstanding incorporate the effect of dilutive equity instruments.
    • Free cash flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities, as adjusted to exclude capital expenditures.
    • Free cash flow margin is determined by calculating the percentage that free cash flow is of total revenue.
    • Percentage change in revenue, including total revenue and revenue by solution, on a constant currency basis is calculated by applying the average foreign exchange rate in effect during the comparable prior period.
    • Cloud ARR is calculated by starting with recurring revenue at year end, excluding revenue from Ascender and eloomi, subtracting the once-a-year charges, annualizing the revenue for customers live for less than a full year to reflect the revenue that would have been realized if the customer had been live for a full year, and adding back the once-a-year charges. We have not reconciled Cloud ARR because there is no directly comparable GAAP financial measure.
    • Annual Dayforce revenue retention rate is calculated as a percentage, excluding Ascender and eloomi, where the numerator is the Dayforce ARR for the prior year, less the Dayforce ARR from lost Dayforce customers during that year; and the denominator is the Dayforce ARR for the prior year. We have not reconciled Annual Dayforce revenue retention rate because there is no directly comparable GAAP financial measure.
    • Dayforce recurring revenue per customer is an indicator of the average size of Dayforce recurring revenue customers. To calculate Dayforce recurring revenue per customer, we start with Dayforce recurring revenue on a constant currency basis by applying the same exchange rate to all comparable periods for the trailing twelve months and excludes float revenue, and Ascender, ADAM HCM, and eloomi revenue. This amount is divided by the number of live Dayforce customers at the end of the trailing twelve month period, excluding Ascender, ADAM HCM, and eloomi. We have not reconciled the Dayforce recurring revenue per customer because there is no directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

    Source: Dayforce, Inc.

    For further information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    1-844-829-9499
    investors@dayforce.com

    Public Relations
    1-647-417-2117
    teri.murphy@dayforce.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ESFA Update: 5 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Latest information and actions from the Education and Skills Funding Agency for academies, schools, colleges, local authorities and further education providers.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Details

    Latest for further education

    Article Title
    Action Mid-year funding claim for 2024 to 2025
    Information Changes to the administration of the Care to Learn and 16 to 19 Bursary Fund (defined vulnerable bursary) schemes from the academic year 2025 to 2026
    Information Department for Education recruitment for professional conduct panellists to support the Teaching Regulation Agency
    Information College and local authority accountability agreements and local needs duty
    Your feedback ESFA funding contracts and agreements – redesign

    Latest information for academies

    Article Title
    Information Mid-year funding claim for 2024 to 2025
    Information Changes to the administration of the Care to Learn and 16 to 19 Bursary Fund (defined vulnerable bursary) schemes from the academic year 2025 to 2026
    Information Department for Education recruitment for professional conduct panellists to support the Teaching Regulation Agency
    Events and webinars Risk protection arrangement (RPA)
    Events and webinars Academy finance professionals February power hour – counter fraud

    Latest information for local authorities

    Article Title
    Action Mid-year funding claim for 2024 to 2025
    Information Changes to the administration of the Care to Learn and 16 to 19 Bursary Fund (defined vulnerable bursary) schemes from the academic year 2025 to 2026
    Information Updated high needs funding and local authorities’ schools funding document collection pages
    Information Department for Education recruitment for professional conduct panellists to support the Teaching Regulation Agency
    Information College and local authority accountability agreements and local needs duty
    Your feedback ESFA funding contracts and agreements – redesign
    Events and webinars Risk protection arrangement (RPA)

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 February 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Second consultation on Drax Power Limited permit variation opens

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Environment Agency has opened a second consultation into a permit variation application from Drax Power Limited in Yorkshire.

    The operator first applied for the variation in May 2023 to request permission to incorporate carbon capture at its bioenergy plant near Selby.

    At the time, the Environment Agency held a public consultation to offer people the opportunity to comment on the application.

    During the Environment Agency’s review of this 2023 application, it considered the applicant had not included sufficient information, so it requested a more detailed assessment.

    Drax has now provided the potential substances that could be formed in the carbon capture plant and with a more detailed justification for the substances it considers could be emitted to air.

    A second consultation for the application has now been opened and will run from Tuesday 4 February to Tuesday 4 March, 2025.

    Tim Shaw, Installations Team Leader, said:

    We have now received updated information from the applicant and this can be found in a revised air emissions risk assessment.

    It’s important to hold a second consultation so the public have the opportunity to view the new documents and provide their views on environmental factors they feel are important.

    We are committed to carrying out a detailed and rigorous assessment of this permit variation application.

    Carbon capture

    Carbon capture is the removal of carbon dioxide from waste gases (usually by absorbing the carbon dioxide in a special solvent) and either using it or storing it underground, reducing the amount of emissions into the atmosphere.

    Drax Power Ltd wants to capture the carbon dioxide emitted during electricity generation, to prevent the majority of it from entering the atmosphere.

    The carbon dioxide captured will be transported via a pipeline for permanent storage under the North Sea.

    To capture carbon dioxide from the combustion process, Drax will need to vary its existing environmental permit.

    The Environment Agency assesses applications for environmental permits, or to vary existing environmental permits, under the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR).

    Its role is to assess the application and decide if it meets all requirements under relevant environmental legislation and provides a high level of protection to the environment and human health.

    It will only vary the environmental permit if it is satisfied this would be the case.

    After the consultation has closed, the Environment Agency will review the comments received from the consultation process and take them into account in the determination of the application.

    The documentation can be found on the Environment Agency’s Citizen Space page

    Background

    More information about Drax’s permit application can be found on the application pages on Citizen Space.

    • Responses to the consultation can be made electronically.
    • Information on the website explains how people can view the consultation documents and how they can provide comments. It also explains what the EA can and can’t take into account when deciding on the application.
    • Anyone wishing to comment on the proposals is urged to read the documentation online before responding directly on the website or by email
    • People can respond directly on the website or alternatively by email to pscpublicresponse@environment-agency.gov.uk 
    • Those unable to view the documents or make representation via the consultation website or by email should contact the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deal for Council to take over D&E Coaches completed

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Pictured are L to R – General Manager Gayle McEwan, former owner and Managing Director Donald Mathieson, Council Leader Cllr Raymond Bremner and Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans.

    Yesterday (Tuesday 4 February) the Leader of The Highland Council Cllr Raymond Bremner along with the Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee Cllr Ken Gowans visited the depot of D&E Coaches following the completion of the deal for the council to acquire the business.

    There to meet them was the former owner Donald Mathieson, who started the business nearly 30 years ago with one minibus. Speaking to the media who were invited along to the depot yesterday afternoon he said:

    “We’ve taken the company as far as we can and I’m now ready to retire from the business. Moving forward, we feel that the Council taking on ownership is the best move for the company, and everyone concerned, including our staff and customers.”

    There will however still be a family connection to the business as Donald’s daughter Gayle McEwan is taking on the role of General Manager.

    The Council spends around £25m on school and public transport throughout the region, with well over 300 separate contracts.  The last tendering round saw an increase of £8m in one financial year, which led to the Council setting up an in-house bus team. 

    Council Leader Raymond Bremner said: “I see this deal very much as a positive move forward. D&E operate a significant number of school contracts for the Council, so we now can take ownership and look for opportunities in future tendering rounds to compete more effectively. However, I want to stress that we intend to operate D&E very much as a going concern so it’s business as usual. I wish Gayle all the very best in her role and we look forward to maintaining the legacy and service standards set by Donald and the whole team over the course of many years.”   

    Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “Purchasing D&E Coaches on behalf of Highland Council is a fantastic opportunity and offers us more flexibility moving forward. D&E is a well-established company, and we’re delighted to have reached a deal. We’re looking forward to working with the same team who have a wealth of experience which will be of great benefit to Highland Council.”

    Earlier in the day the Council launched its new shopper service – the “108 Shopper Bus”, which will run every Tuesday and Thursday starting at Torvean Park and Ride. The route will be going through all the housing areas along Sir Walter Scott Drive (Distributor Road) to include Holm Dell, Culduthel Mains, Slackbuie, Miller Street, Boswell Road. It will then pass through the back of Inshes Retail Park and then go through the UHI Campus to the Inverness Shopping Park.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom