NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colombia: Two arrested for live streaming child sexual abuse

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    Authorities have safeguarded victims aged 19 months, 7 and 9.

    LYON, France – Colombia police have safeguarded three children and arrested their mother and aunt, accused of live streaming the children’s sexual abuse for profit.

    Australian authorities first brought the case to INTERPOL’s attention in December 2022 after finding a video depicting child sexual abuse on the Darknet. The video material was uploaded to INTERPOL’s International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database, where specialized officers from around the world could consult and analyse it for clues.

    One month later, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation alerted INTERPOL’s Crimes against Children (CAC) unit to the possible identity of one of the offenders, pinning their likely location as Colombia. The CAC unit confirmed their hypothesis, uncovering a number of clues and prepared a comprehensive victim identification report for Colombian authorities.

    Upon reception and investigation, Colombia’s national police confirmed the location and identity of the children and the two offenders. They found that the mother and aunt had been using specific platforms to produce and sell made-to-order, live sexual abuse video material for ‘customers’ abroad.

    On 22 February, Colombian authorities carried out a coordinated rescue-and-arrest operation, working with child protection services to safeguard the children and ensure they receive medical and psychological care.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said, “This appalling case shows that live streaming child sexual exploitation is not confined to any region, it is global, and as in this case, usually involving very young children.

    “We will continue to work with Colombian investigators to analyse seized devices, identify further victims and review data to find the individuals who were ordering and facilitating the horrific abuse from behind their screens,” concluded Secretary General Stock.

    Today the ICSE database links 68 countries and connection of additional countries is ongoing. Since its launch, the database has assisted in the identification and documentation of more than 33,000 victims and 14,900 offenders worldwide.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Australian support for enhanced INTERPOL database to combat online child abuse

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    18 November 2022

    LYON, France – The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is contributing AUD 815,000 for a significant enhancement to INTERPOL’s International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database.

    The ICSE database is a ground-breaking tool to advance child exploitation investigations through strengthened global information sharing.

    The upgrade, known as ICSE Next Generation, is designed to speed up the process by which investigators identify victims in child exploitation material, through integration of the latest technologies for improved text, audio and video analysis, facial recognition, and artificial intelligence.

    Launched 13 years ago, ICSE currently connects specialist investigators in 68 countries and has so far assisted in the identification of more than 31,000 victims, including 860 victims in Australia.

    On average, around seven victims are identified every day.

    Offenders identified

    In addition, more than 14,000 offenders have been tracked and arrested by law enforcement, including 349 in Australia.

    AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw said the AFP’s partnership with INTERPOL to support the upgrade of the database highlighted the commitment of law enforcement to protecting children around the world, while bringing offenders to justice.

    AFP Commissioner Kershaw and Secretary General Stock announce the boost to the International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database.

    “We know we can’t win this important battle alone. The advancement of this database is a game changer for how law enforcement around the world can work together to protect our society’s most vulnerable – our children,” he said.

    Commissioner Kershaw said child protection investigations would be bolstered with law enforcement agencies avoiding duplication of effort by triaging online child exploitation material multiple times in multiple jurisdictions.

    Target, track and disrupt

    “This specialized tool means our investigators will be faster and more efficient than ever before, allowing us to quickly target, track and disrupt those seeking to harm and exploit children around the world – and most importantly, bring them to justice.

    “The AFP is proud to partner with INTERPOL, along with our state, Commonwealth and international law enforcement counterparts, to combat this insidious crime,” concluded Commissioner Kershaw.

    “The AFP’s decision to provide this funding underlines its strong and unwavering commitment to child protection, as well as its confidence in INTERPOL’s ICSE database which is a vital policing tool.” Jürgen Stock, INTERPOL Secretary General

    “We are seeing a consistent, and worrying, increase in the amount of online child sexual abuse and exploitation material, where every image is evidence of a crime.

    “Only through global cooperation, supported by the latest technologies, can law enforcement effectively work to identify and rescue victims around the world,” concluded Secretary General Stock.

    The AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) and AFP Child Protection Operations frequently contribute to the ICSE database, ensuring that investigators in other countries can benefit from the work undertaken in Australia to help identify victims.

    In May 2022, the ACCCE VIU hosted the third National Victim Identification Taskforce, during which more than 3,500 files were de-conflicted against the ICSE database, with images from 55 newly-identified victims added for potential identification.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: ‘Distance is not a problem’: HSE develops cooperation with think tanks of BRICS countries

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    At the end of September Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEK) HSE held a meeting with representatives of analytical centers from Brazil, India, and Egypt. The participants considered the possibilities of cooperation, including conducting joint surveys and comparative studies, and discussed the formation of common databases and joint publications on foresight and scientific and technical policy. A decision was also made to prepare a draft multilateral agreement on the establishment of the BRICS Foresight Research Association.

    Leonid Gokhberg, First Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics and Director of the ISSEK, welcomed the participants and presented an overview of HSE research activities in areas of possible cooperation, focusing in particular on those conducted by the team of the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge.

    ISSEK comprises 19 research centres and two international laboratories, with over 240 employees, making it the largest research unit of the Higher School of Economics. The key areas of the institute’s activities are statistical measurements and forecasting of development directions in science, technology, innovation, education, the digital economy and creative industries. ISSEK scientists analyse scientific, technical and innovation policies implemented in Russia and around the world, and study the factors of sustainable economic growth, social welfare and competitiveness.

    ISSEK is implementing a number of large-scale research projects. The Doing Science in Russia study analyzes the current state of Russian science and its development prospects. The Russian Cluster Observatory, which studies the innovative and creative development of cities and regions, publishes two ratings: the Innovative Development Rating of Russian Regions and the HSE Global Cities Innovation Index. In the third, recently published edition, the authors examine more than 1,000 agglomerations with the largest number of high technologies and creative leaders from 144 countries. Hundreds of ISSEK research projects use the results of the unique iFORA big data mining system developed by its team.

    Leonid Gokhberg outlined potential areas of cooperation between ISSEK and foreign partners in the framework of joint research, publications and courses in such areas as foresight, the use of big data, scientific and technical policy, the business climate in the field of science and technology, the digital economy, the creative economy, and innovative urban development.

    The Director of the ISSEK also proposed the creation of a BRICS Foresight Research Association, which would promote cooperation in the field of futures research.

    Fernando Rizzo, Director of the Center for Strategic Studies and Management in Science, Technology and Innovation (CGEE, Brazil), introduced the audience to the history and activities of the organization. CGEE was founded in 2001 and has 115 employees. The center supports decision-making processes on topics related to science, technology and innovation. CGEE experts evaluate and monitor public policies, identify promising technologies and competencies, conduct foresight studies, and provide strategic consulting services for decision-making. CGEE includes several research observatories: Information Services for Science, Technology and Innovation; Space Technology Observatory; Science, Technology and Innovation Observatory; Innovation Observatory for Sustainable Cities; Bioeconomy Observatory; Digital Transformation Observatory.

    In 2024, CGEE organized the 5th National Conference on Science, Technology and Innovation, a major event that attracted a total of 30,000 participants from 27 Brazilian states. The conference presented the Brazilian Plan for Artificial Intelligence (BPAI) 2024-2028.

    Dr. Mohamed Ramadan Rezk, Director of the Egyptian Science, Technology and Innovation Observatory (ESTIO, Egypt), began his presentation with the surprising idea that foresight existed as far back as Ancient Egypt, where the future, i.e. life after death, was depicted on bas-reliefs. In its modern sense, foresight research began in Egypt in 1975, when the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations conducted a study on the demographic impact of potential development strategies from 1975 to 1985. ESTIO was established in February 2014 as a subordinate organization of the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT) to develop science, technology and innovation indicators, conduct foresight studies and raise awareness of foresight in Egypt. Later, in 2021, the North African Applied Systems Analysis Center (NAASAC) was established as a collaboration between ASRT, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) in Austria and the National Planning Institute of Egypt. Its activities include developing an online educational program on applied research; organizing joint applied research on issues relevant to decision makers in Egypt, North Africa and the Arab States; and providing advisory services to governments and businesses. ASRT conducts foresight research in areas such as energy, water, the impact of COVID-19 on society, and climate change.

    Dr. Gautam Goswami, Principal Scientist, Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC, India), shared the strengths of his organization. TIFAC is a technology think tank under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. It brings together eminent experts from government agencies, research institutes, universities and industry. TIFAC focuses on areas such as assessing the country’s technology needs and forecasting promising areas of technology development. Since 1996, TIFAC has been publishing a series of reports called “The Future of Technology” (the first and second editions set the forecast horizon for 2020 and 2035; the report “The Future of Technology – 2047” is currently being prepared). The council’s experts also prepare other short- and long-term foresight reports, as well as the Technology Market Research Report, which tracks new technologies, collects patent information, and maintains databases of technologies and experts. TIFAC also provides foresight training to industry professionals, government officials, and academics.

    Iwao Ohashi from Japan, Advisor for Japan and Asia Pacific Countries to the Association of Industrial Parks of Russia, shared his opinion on the prospects for Russia’s technological development under sanctions. He believes that Russia should develop cooperation in technology and innovation with the BRICS countries. Joint foresight studies are also very important, and Iwao Ohashi believes that the creation of the BRICS Foresight Research Association would be a very promising idea. Mr. Ohashi noted that in the near future, China will most likely become a global leader in innovation. At the same time, he emphasized that “we need to make a strategic bet on the creation of Russian innovation centers within the country and in its regions, as well as invite foreign experts to Russia.”

    Following the presentations, ISSEK scientists exchanged ideas for cooperation with foreign participants. Dirk Meissner, Head ofLaboratory of Innovation Economy and academic director of the master’s program “Governance in the field of science, technology and innovation“, mentioned cooperation with colleagues from the University of Campinas in Brazil. “Geographical distance is no longer a problem,” said Dirk Meissner, emphasizing the importance of communication and education online.

    Liliana Proskuryakova, Head of DepartmentLaboratory for Science and Technology Research, noted the issues of health care, energy and water resources as cross-cutting themes in the participants’ speeches. A comprehensive analysis of these basic needs of humanity can determine the priorities of cooperation, in addition, this agenda is also in line with the Sustainable Development Goals that are relevant for our countries. Mikhail Gershman, Director Center for Scientific, Technical, Innovation and Information Policy, head of the project “Making Science in Russia”, invited colleagues to join forces in the framework of comparative cross-country studies of the working conditions of scientists and state scientific and technical policy. Ekaterina Streltsova, director Center for Statistics and Monitoring of Science and Innovation, proposed establishing cooperation to conduct joint research on technological development, including using patent analysis tools.

    Evgeny Kutsenko, Director of the Russian Cluster Observatory, spoke about the project’s scientific plans, including cluster development, unicorn companies and creative industries. The possibilities of strengthening joint projects based on the results of big data analysis were demonstrated by showing the system developed at ISSEKiFORA, expert of the Center for Strategic Analytics and Big Data of the ISSEK Maria Antasheva.

    “I am pleased to meet you. CGEE started collaborating with HSE many years ago. And when Alexander Sokolov suggested intensifying scientific ties, most of the CGEE staff, who already had experience interacting with the Higher School of Economics, knowing the high level of its research, readily supported this idea,” said Fernando Rizzo, Director of CGEE. “At our center, we work in various areas, including sustainable cities, bioeconomy, energy, airspace, agriculture and education. Among the potential areas of our international cooperation, I see training and education in AI and data science, the use of generative AI for research and innovation, joint data infrastructure and the use of predictive modeling in big data analysis.”

    The meeting participants agreed to strengthen international ties and implement projects in areas of mutual interest, including within the framework of the planned multilateral agreement to create the BRICS Foresight Research Association.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/expertise/975578115.html

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £21 million approved to help boost Sheffield City Centre businesses A project aimed at providing more space for people, allowing businesses to expand and for people to shop, eat and spend more time in Sheffield City Centre has been given a major investment boost. 16 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    A project aimed at providing more space for people, allowing businesses to expand and for people to shop, eat and spend more time in Sheffield City Centre has been given a major investment boost.

    South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, together with local leaders, has approved £21million of investment into the Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project.

    The funding will help Sheffield City Council to deliver the project, improving public spaces and connecting key developments like the improvements on Fargate, Heart of the City and The Moor.

    Connecting Sheffield: City Centre will also provide more space for people and will allow businesses to use more outdoor space for people to shop, eat and spend time – subject to licences. It is part of a drive by the council to boost the city centre.

    In addition, the project will provide new, connected walking, wheeling and cycling routes in the city centre which, coupled with changes to make bus journeys more reliable, will give people more choice in how they travel.

    Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said,

    “Sheffield is changing. It’s transforming into an incredible city offering something for everyone whether you’re a resident here or visiting from further afield. Our Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project links up all the key areas in the city centre. From the Heart of the City’s great shops, services, dining, and entertainment to our fantastic shopping experience at The Moor and the new Fargate project as it nears completion. This investment will contribute further to the ongoing transformation of our cleaner, greener, more thriving city centre.

    “By giving you more space in the city centre, and more choice in how you travel, we can reduce congestion on the roads to make bus journeys more reliable. We’re also introducing safer walking, wheeling, and cycling routes that will connect to other parts of the city. The changes we’ve already made to improve reliability of bus journeys mean the Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project will make travelling into the city centre by bus an even more realistic option too.”

    Construction is due to start on the project in January 2025, and the Traffic Regulation Orders to make the required changes to roads are being advertised until Thursday 17 October. To view the orders and comment, visit http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/roads-pavements/traffic-orders

    Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, said: “Building a healthier, wealthier and happier South Yorkshire is central to my ambition as South Yorkshire’s Mayor.

    “This important city centre project will not just give us greater freedom and choice about how we travel and move, but will also support our plans to make South Yorkshire the healthiest region in the country.

    “It is part of the steps we are taking across our region to build new walking and cycling routes over the next three years – creating better places and more opportunities for us all to move more and move differently.”

    Funding was approved by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Board on 8 October and forms part of SYMCA’s £166 million Transforming Cities Fund investment across South Yorkshire.

    You can find more information on the Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project via Have Your Say Sheffield: https://haveyoursay.sheffield.gov.uk/connecting-sheffield-city-centre

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Joseph Síkela – International Partnerships – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Josef Síkela (Mayors and Independents Party, STAN) affiliated to the European People’s Party (EPP), has served as the Czech minister for industry and trade since December 2021. In this position, his focus has been on reducing his country’s reliance on Russian gas, developing the use of renewable energy sources and securing stakes in German and Dutch liquefied natural gas (LNG). Síkela has served in various banks, notably as the head of the Slovak Savings Bank and as board member of the Austrian Erste Group Bank. Born in 1967 in Rokycany, Czechia, Síkela studied foreign trade economics at the Prague University of Economics and Business.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Marta Kos – Enlargement – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Marta Kos is self-employed, working through Kos Consulting and Coaching (2021-present), and a senior advisor at the Brussels consulting firm Kreab. From 2017 to 2021, she was Slovenian Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and Ambassador to Germany and Latvia (2013-2017). As president of the Slovenian women’s association ONA VE (‘she knows’), Kos works to raise the profile of female experts. Kos has been engaged in Slovenia’s political life as a vice-president of the social-liberal Freedom Movement party. Among the positions she held while employed by the government were director of the Public Relations and Media Office, and government spokesperson. Between 2003 and 2013, Kos headed Gustav Käser Training International Slovenia, specialising in leadership and sales training. Until 2003, Kos was vice-president for international relations at the Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Kos earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1989 and, in 2001, a master’s degree in political science from the University of Ljubljana.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Kaja Kallas – High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Kaja Kallas served as the prime minister of Estonia from 2021 to 2024. In 2024, she was awarded the Walther Rathenau Prize in recognition of outstanding lifetime achievement in foreign policy. Having joined the Estonian Reform Party in 2011, Kallas has been its leader since April 2018. From 2011 to 2014, she was a member of the Estonian Parliament (12th Riigikogu) and served as chair of its Economic Affairs Committee (2011). She was also a member of the 14th Riigikogu (2019 to 2021). As a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2018, Kallas belonged to the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE, now Renew Europe) political group. During this term, Kallas was Vice-Chair of Parliament’s Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee. Kallas was born in 1977 in Tallinn. She graduated from the University of Tartu in 1999 with a degree in law and pursued postgraduate studies at the Estonian Business School in 2007. Before entering politics, Kallas worked as an attorney at law. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Raffaele Fitto – Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Raffaele Fitto is an Italian politician, and has been minister for European affairs, Southern Italy, cohesion policy and the national recovery and resilience plan since 2022. A former Member of the European Parliament (from 1999 2000 and 2014 2022), Fitto was co-chair of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group from 2019 to 2022, and was thus a member of the Conference of Presidents. He served on the Committee on Budgetary Control, the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and the Committee on Regional Development. A long-serving Member of the Italian Parliament (Camera dei Deputati), Fitto’s terms of office ran between 2006 and 2014 and from 2022 to the present day. Fitto was Italian minister for regional affairs from 2008 to 2010 and minister for territorial cohesion from 2010 to 2011. During his earlier career, Fitto was President of the Apulia region (2000 2005) and served repeatedly as Councillor for the Apulia region (1990 1994 and 2005 2006). Fitto was Regional Councillor for Tourism for Apulia from 1994 to 1995, and Vice-President of the Regional Council with responsibility for the budget from 1995 to 1999. Born in 1969, Fitto holds a doctorate in law from the University of Bari (1994).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Henna Virkkunen – Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Henna Virkkunen is a Finnish politician and member of the National Coalition Party, which is affiliated with the European People’s Party group in the European Parliament. She has been a Member of the European Parliament since 2014, serving inter alia on the Committees on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), and Transport and Tourism (TRAN). She was also a member of the Committee of Inquiry investigating the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware (PEGA) and the Special Committee on Artificial Intelligence in a Digital Age (AIDA). In Parliament, Virkkunen has worked on various technology and cybersecurity dossiers such as the Digital Services Act, the Cyber-Resilience Act and the Connecting Europe Facility. Before her election to the European Parliament, Virkkunen was a member of the Finnish Parliament (2007-2014) and was part of the Finnish government as minister for education and science, minister for public administration and local government, and transport minister. Born in 1972 in Joutsa, Finland, Virkkunen holds master’s (2001) and bachelor’s degrees (2000) from the University of Jyväskylä. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Stéphane Séjourné – Executive Vice-President for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Before being nominated as Commissioner-designate, Stéphane Séjourné had been serving as French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs since January 2024. In July 2024, he was elected to the French Parliament for the ninth constituency of Hauts-de-Seine (Boulogne-Billancourt). He has also been secretary-general of the Renaissance party since 2022. From 2019 to 2024, Séjourné was a Member of the European Parliament, and President of the Renew Europe group (2021-2024). Before that, he was a political adviser to the President of the French Republic from 2017 to 2019, and an adviser to the Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry and Digital Affairs from 2014 to 2016, responsible for relations with elected representatives. Séjourné was previously a member of the cabinet of the President of the Île-de-France Regional Council (2012-2014). Prior to that, he worked for a federation of grocery and specialised nutrition products from 2011 to 2012. Born in 1985, Séjourné graduated from the University of Poitiers with a double masters in law. He was also an Erasmus student at the University of Granada in international and EU law.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tokio Marine HCC Appoints David Perez to Launch US Excess Casualty Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC), based in Houston, Texas, has today announced the expansion of its specialty product offering with its entry into the Excess Casualty market. David Perez has been appointed as President, Excess Casualty, to lead the launch and build out the new offering. David takes up his new role with immediate effect and will report to Susan Rivera, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TMHCC.

    TMHCC’s entry into this space is timely and will provide insureds vital new capacity as limit retrenchment continues amid challenging loss cost trends. David’s unique understanding of the casualty industry, combined with TMHCC’s underwriting best practices honed over its 50-year history, creates a powerful foundation for profitable growth and market leadership.

    David brings nearly four decades of experience to the new division. He joins from Liberty Mutual where he served as Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Risk Solutions. He has also held senior underwriting positions, across the US and Bermuda, including at Torus Insurance Limited, American International Group, and Starr Excess Liability Insurance Company Ltd.

    Susan Rivera, CEO of TMHCC, said, “TMHCC’s entry into the Excess Casualty market at this pivotal juncture once again demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the needs of insureds and aligning capacity where it is required most. While entering a new market can bring its own set of challenges, TMHCC is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunity the firming of the excess casualty market presents. David brings with him a wealth of experience and will undoubtedly strengthen our deep technical expertise as TMHCC cements its position in the market. It also highlights our commitment to employing the best in the business as we prioritize the development and growth of products that will enable policyholders to enhance their resilience.”

    David Perez, President of Excess Casualty, added, “TMHCC has an exceptional reputation in the specialty insurance sector, and I am excited to launch its presence into the Excess Casualty market. There is a clear opportunity for TMHCC’s unique blend of underwriting acumen, analytics and disciplined limits and cycle management. I am looking forward to working with Susan and the team to build the new offering.”

    About Tokio Marine HCC
    Tokio Marine HCC is a member of the Tokio Marine Group, a premier global company founded in 1879 with a market capitalization of $73 billion as of June 30, 2024. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tokio Marine HCC is a leading specialty insurance group with offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Tokio Marine HCC’s major domestic insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings, ‘A++’ (Superior) from AM Best, and ‘AA-’ (Very Strong) from Fitch Ratings; its major international insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings. Tokio Marine HCC is the marketing name used to describe the affiliated companies under the common ownership of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., a Delaware-incorporated insurance holding company. For more information about Tokio Marine HCC, please visit http://www.tokiomarinehcc.com.

    Contact:
    MHP Group
    tmhcc@mhpgroup.com
    +44 (0)7586 050 758

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Updated plans to protect Pevensey and Eastbourne from flooding

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Efforts include reversing power of the storms as public gets to shape project

    The Environment Agency wants people in Eastbourne and Pevensey to come to drop-in events to hear about plans to protect the area from flooding and coastal erosion

    Moving thousands of tonnes of sand by lorry to fight the forces of nature along the Sussex shore.

    Loosening stormy weather’s grip on how we live and work is behind plans to protect 10,000 homes and businesses in the Eastbourne area.

    Local people now have the chance to see how the Environment Agency will defend the coastline from flooding. Drop-in events are being held in the coming days across Eastbourne and Pevensey, and the plans have also been posted online.    

    The Met Office warns of sea levels rising by at least a metre by the end of the century, so the Environment Agency is laying out proposals to defend 15kms of coast either side of the Eastbourne from flooding and erosion, and wants feedback from the public.

    The Environment Agency estimates some 30,000 cubic square metres of sand and shingle is swept eastwards from Holywell to Cooden Beach every year.  

    Quite literally shifting sands in huge dumper trucks back the other way is a key plank of phase one of proposals to protect 18,000 homes and businesses, transport links and other services. With the sand and shingle back in place, the sea will lose power as it hits the beach.    

    Nick Gray, flood-risk manager for the Environment Agency in Sussex, said:

    “It’s about adapting to the changing climate. We know far more now. Sea levels could rise by 10cm in the next ten years, and around a metre by 2100.

    “Small changes to the beach management that already happens will put us in a better place to the end of the 2040s and beyond as storms get more frequent and intense.

    “Everyone has seen more wet weather and in greater bursts over the past couple of years. The named storms put a greater focus on preparing for the next one.

    “We can make a difference if we all play our part. The public are welcome at the drop-ins held across Eastbourne and Pevensey. They should also sign-up for free flood alerts and warnings at http://www.gov.uk/flood or on Floodline: 0345 988 1188.”

    A football club, community centre and church hall will host events to outline phase one of the 15-year Pevensey Bay to Eastbourne Coastal Management Scheme, a project between the Environment Agency and 4 local councils, East Sussex, Eastbourne, Rother and Wealden. It’s one of the largest coastal flood-risk schemes in the country.  

    The Met Office says sea levels will rise by about a metre by the end of the century, while the Environment Agency calls on everyone to check their flood-risk and learn how to deal with flooding

    Other ideas to protect the area from flooding and coastal erosion include building up the coastline by importing sand and shingle from the sea bed to the beach to widen the coastal squeeze – the gap between the sea and the properties and infrastructure like roads and the prom.

    The Environment Agency also wants to raise the height of the many timber groynes that punctuate the beach to stop the constant movement of sand and shingle from west to east and to hold back floodwater.

    The drop-ins to see and give feedback on the proposals, plus an online presentation of the work, kick off Flood Action Week, between 14 and 20 October, a concerted effort by the Environment Agency to make people recognise their flood-risk.

    Environment Agency staff will be on hand at all three venues to explain the flood-protection scheme. All 3 sessions run from 6pm to 7.30pm.

    • Tuesday 15 October: Eastbourne Borough football club, Priory Lane, Langney BN23 7QH.
    • Tuesday 22 October: Sovereign Harbour Community Centre, The Crumbles, Pevensey Bay Rd, Eastbourne BN23 6JH.
    • Friday 1 November: St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, 2 Collier Rd, Pevensey Bay BN24 6EZ.

    The online presentation of phase one can be found at: https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/solent-and-south-downs/pevensey-to-eastbourne-phase-1-survey, where the public can also give feedback.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What was the impact of new election laws on London’s voters?

    Source: Mayor of London

    How do the Government and Electoral Commission, academics and think tanks now view the impact of changes made before the 2024 Mayor of London and London Assembly elections?

    The Elections Review Working Group will tomorrow hold the final meeting of its review of the delivery of May’s elections, with guests being asked about issues including the introduction of a photo ID requirement, accessibility changes and the change in the Mayoral voting system.

    The Group will also ask guests about the abuse and intimidation of candidates, which the Electoral Commission earlier this year found to have reached “unacceptable” levels. The Commission’s research found 43% of candidates across May elections in England experienced some form of abuse or intimidation, with women standing for election disproportionately affected.

    The Working Group has launched a survey for Londoners to share their experiences of the GLA elections, which is open to anyone who would like to respond.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1 – Electoral Commission and Government (2pm – 3.25pm)

    • Michela Palese, Head of Policy, Electoral Commission
    • Phil Thompson, Head of Research, Electoral Commission
    • Melanie Davidson, Head of Support and Improvement, Electoral Commission
    • Ruth Law, Head of Communications and Engagement, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
    • Peter Stanyon, Chief Executive, Association of Electoral Administrators
       

    Panel 2 – Academics and Think Tanks (3.30pm – 4.30pm)

    • Dr Sofia Collignon, Director, Mile End Institute
    • Professor Tony Travers, London School of Economics 
    • Thea Ridley-Castle, Research and Policy Officer, Electoral Reform Society

    The meeting will take place on Wednesday 16 October from 2pm, in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

    Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

    The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flux tower will see how much carbon gets stored in new saltmarsh

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A new Environment Agency monitoring tower installed in Poole Harbour will answer the mystery of how newly created saltmarshes store carbon.

    How much carbon will a new saltmarsh absorb? The Arne Moor flux tower will find out Credit: Alex Cumming

    The new structure at Arne Moor in Dorset is a flux tower and joins a growing network of towers in saltmarshes across England, ranging from the Blackwater Estuary in Essex to the Ribble Estuary in northwest England.

    Flux towers provide a measure of how much carbon dioxide has been taken up by a saltmarsh and how it changes over time.  

    This tower will be the first to monitor what happens to carbon within a habitat as it changes from dry land to a salty wet intertidal habitat when the existing flood embankment is breached as part of the Moors at Arne project.

    Charting a saltmarsh’s carbon capture from creation

    Dr Ben Green, a senior advisor in the Environment Agency’s Estuaries and Coasts Planning team, said:

    The Arne Moor flux tower is the latest piece in the puzzle to better understand the ability of saltmarshes to store carbon. 

    This is a perfect opportunity for us to chart the benefits of a new saltmarsh from its creation.

    Saltmarshes are not just credited with being excellent carbon sponges, they are also habitat for wildlife and protect people and property from flooding. But the area of saltmarsh in England has been in decline with up to 85% of it lost since the mid 19th century.  

    The flux tower being installed Credit: Kier

    Peter Robertson, senior site manager at RSPB Arne nature reserve on the banks of Poole Harbour, said:

    UK saltmarshes are globally important for wildlife, but they are also vital for our way of life, whether that’s fishing, protecting communities from flooding or storing carbon.  

    We’re really excited that saltmarsh created by the Moors at Arne project will be studied to understand more about these superpower habitats, and hope that this will lead to further protection and restoration efforts for saltmarshes across the UK.

    ‘An exciting and groundbreaking opportunity’

    The flux towers will take continuous measurements of CO2 in the atmosphere and its exchange with the saltmarsh’s surface to see if a site is a carbon sink and captures carbon or if it emits.  

    The saltmarsh flux tower project is a collaboration with the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) and funded by the Defra marine Nature Capital and Ecosystem Assessment (mNCEA) programme. 

    Annette Burden, wetland biogeochemist and Blue Carbon lead for UKCEH, said: 

    This is an exciting and groundbreaking opportunity to see what happens to carbon at a restoration site before, during and after the tide flows back into the site.  

    This has never been measured before, and as such will be fundamental to improving our understanding of the carbon benefit of saltmarsh restoration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Secretly Recording Minor Victim in Shower

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Gregory M. Brooks, 53, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2021, Brooks secretly placed a video camera in a bathroom where he knew that a Minor Victim showered. He positioned the camera to capture naked videos of the Minor Victim entering and exiting the shower. Between February 2021, and August 31, 2023, Brooks received and stored the videos of child pornography captured by the video camera on his cellular telephone.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.

    Sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2025, before Judge Geraci.

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Democratic participation: Open letter to the electoral sector

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    An open letter regarding democratic participation to colleagues in the electoral sector from the Minister for Democracy and Local Growth.

    Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

    Documents

    Letter from Minister Norris to the electoral sector

    PDF, 134 KB, 3 pages

    Letter from Minister Norris to the electoral sector

    HTML

    Details

    This letter from Minister Norris outlines the work being done to deliver on commitments which will transform the way we engage in the democratic process, stressing the importance of working collaboratively with colleagues across the electoral community to bring about these vital changes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MAST Upgrade – helping answer the big questions in fusion physics

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UKAEA and worldwide team tackle fusion physics’ major challenges as MAST Upgrade begins its fourth round of experiments.

    Wide angle of MAST Upgrade machine

    A worldwide team is spearheading a series of ambitious experiments using the UK’s compact tokamak, Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) Upgrade, starting today at UKAEA’s Culham Campus.  

    Over the next 100 days, the UK’s national fusion energy laboratory will work with more than 100 scientists from 37 institutions worldwide on MAST Upgrade’s fourth round of experiments.  

    The scientists aim to conduct over 50 experiments, the largest number ever run by MAST Upgrade in an experimental campaign, to generate up to 1,600 plasma pulses. A “pulse” refers to the duration a plasma is confined within a fusion energy machine’s inner vessel.  

    To create fusion, fusion fuel and a confined environment with high temperatures and pressures are needed. 

    The research findings from MAST Upgrade are essential for advancing global knowledge of plasma physics.  

    MAST Upgrade is a compact fusion machine designed in the shape of a cored apple, in contrast to other ring-shaped tokamaks. It tests plasma science theories with deuterium fuel – an isotope of hydrogen – using real-world experiments.  

    This will be MAST Upgrade’s fourth scientific campaign and will focus on these two areas: 

    1. Maximising the core plasma pressure to determine effects on the plasma’s properties. 

    2. Understanding the methods to control the plasma’s exhaust. 

    MAST Upgrade has played a key role in providing the foundation for the design of the UK’s prototype fusion energy powerplant, Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP), to be sited at West Burton in Nottinghamshire. 

    The experiments will see MAST Upgrade operate at higher temperatures (35 million degrees Celsius from 15 million degrees Celsius), creating conditions closer to those expected in future machines, such as STEP.  

    James Harrison, MAST Upgrade Science Leader at UKAEA, said: “A diverse team of researchers from across the world will be contributing to this effort. This will be the most exciting scientific campaign MAST Upgrade has undertaken to date, with a clear focus on understanding how to confine and stabilise high-performance fusion plasmas while ensuring effective power exhaust.” 

    MAST Upgrade is renowned by the fusion industry for addressing one of fusion’s major challenges: plasma exhaust, the intense heat that escapes from the plasma.  

    Dr Fulvio Militello, Director of Plasma Science and Fusion Operations, added: “Previous results have demonstrated the effectiveness of MAST Upgrade’s innovative Super-X divertor, showing a 10-fold reduction exhaust temperature without impacting the hot core plasma. This campaign aims to build on these impressive results and will explore whether more compact and cost-effective divertors can achieve similar reductions in exhaust temperature.” 

    MAST Upgrade received significant enhancements to its operating system this year, including the addition of a cryoplant – a facility that produces and distributes the cooling power required for the magnets, thermal shields, and cryopumps to reduce the pressure inside the machine’s inner vessel, and raise the plasma’s temperature. The £5 million enhancements were funded by UKAEA and the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council.  

    Equipped with world-class diagnostics, MAST Upgrade can conduct a wide range of measurements supporting an extensive research programme aimed at delivering sustainable fusion energy. 

    “By utilising our world-leading facilities and expertise at UKAEA, we aim to lead the charge in fusion research. MAST Upgrade’s fourth round of experiments will accelerate our scientific progress by deepening the understanding and optimisation of future tokamak designs and fusion powerplants, bringing us one step further to commercial fusion energy,” Dr Militello, concluded.  

    UKAEA will be publishing regular updates from MAST Upgrade’s scientific campaign across its digital channels.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met detectives charge man with murder following death of man in Canning Town stabbing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met detectives charge man with murder following death of man in Canning Town stabbing

    Met detectives from the Specialist Crime Command unit have charged a man with murder following the death of a man that was stabbed at a house in Canning Town just over a week ago.

    Daniel Whybrow, 46 (03.10.78), of Hartington Road, E16, was originally charged with attempted murder on Sunday, 6 October, but the charge has now been reviewed and changed to murder following the death of 50-year-old Mr Raish Ahmed.

    Two other people were also injured in the assault.

    Police were called to the property on Hartington Road shortly after 16:30hrs on Saturday, 5 October, after reports of a stabbing and attended with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service where they found Mr Ahmed with stab wounds.

    A teenage boy was also found with a slash injury, whilst a third male, aged 41, was also assaulted. Both injuries were assessed as not life-threatening.

    Mr Ahmed was taken to hospital for treatment but despite the best efforts of emergency services sadly died in hospital on Monday, 7 October. His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.

    Mr Whybrow was also charged with grievous bodily harm against the teenage boy and threats to kill, plus racially aggravated assault by beating against the 41-year-old male, as well as possession of an offensive weapon.

    He will appear at Central Criminal Court on Monday, 6 January 2025.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the police incident room on 0208 721 4961 or 101, quoting CAD 4781/05OCT or visit here.

    Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada lists Samidoun as a terrorist entity

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 15, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, announced that the Government of Canada has listed Samidoun, also known as the Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network, as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code. The listing is in concert with U.S. Department of the Treasury’s announcement of the designation of Samidoun as a specially designated global terrorist (SDGT) though its Executive Order (E.O.) 13224.

    Samidoun has been listed as a terrorist entity by Germany. Samidoun has close links with and advances the interests of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), which is a listed terrorist entity in Canada, the United States and the European Union.

    As a now-listed entity, the Samidoun meets the definition of a “terrorist group” under Canada’s Criminal Code. The Criminal Code prohibits certain actions in relation to terrorist groups, including those related to terrorist financing, travel and recruitment.  It means, for example, that it is a criminal offence for anyone in Canada and Canadians abroad to knowingly deal with property owned or controlled by a terrorist group, and that it is also an offence to directly or indirectly provide property knowing that it will be used by or benefit a terrorist group.

    Listing can also assist Canadian security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies to combat terrorism. The terrorist listings mechanism plays a key role in countering terrorist financing. 

    Quotes

    “Violent extremism, acts of terrorism or terrorist financing have no place in Canadian society or abroad. The listing of Samidoun as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code sends a strong message that Canada will not tolerate this type of activity, and will do everything in its power to counter the ongoing threat to Canada’s national security and all people in Canada.”

    – The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs

    Quick facts

    • There are several offences in the Criminal Code that address conduct in connection with terrorist groups. For example, the Criminal Code prohibits dealing in any property (including money) owned or controlled by terrorist groups or to provide any financial services (such as services offered by banks and money services business) for the benefit of or at the direction of a terrorist group.

    • With the addition of Samidoun, there are now 78 terrorist entities listed under the Criminal Code.

    • As Canada’s national police service, the RCMP is responsible for preventing, detecting and investigating terrorism-related criminal activities in Canada while respecting personal rights and freedoms. The RCMP investigates criminal activities by those who threaten the safety and security of Canadians. Listing is an important tool that supports criminal investigations and strengthens the RCMP’s ability to prevent and disrupt terrorist activity.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Gabriel Brunet
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs
    819-665-6527
    gabriel.brunet@iga-aig.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Public Safety Canada
    613-991-0657
    media@ps-sp.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: All welcome at Whitstable Harbour Annual Forum

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   All welcome at Whitstable Harbour Annual Forum

    The first Whitstable Harbour Annual Forum will take place at the harbour’s South Quay Shed next month.

    All are welcome to attend the event on Tuesday 7 November between 6pm and 7.30pm. No booking is required.

    It’s a new approach to keeping the town’s residents, business and others with an interest in the harbour updated on developments and activities on the site and on progress with the harbour board’s 10 year strategy.

    There will be presentations followed by opportunities to provide feedback on future policy and strategy for the management of the harbour.

    And there’s a particular focus on the development of a dedicated online presence for the harbour and the production of a destination marketing strategy.

    Chairman of Whitstable Harbour Board, Cllr Chris Cornell, said: “We know how much everyone in Whitstable loves their harbour and have a keen interest in how it develops in the years to come.

    “Our new annual forum offers an update on all facets of life at the harbour and we are genuinely interested to hear the public’s views.

    “It should be a really interesting and engaging 90 minutes or so and we look forward to a strong turnout.”

    Published: 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit debuts at GITEX GLOBAL, shaping the future global tech and policy landscape

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 15, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Government officials, global industry leaders and experts gathered in Dubai for the opening day of the World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit on Monday as conversations began about charting a course for AI Compute-Driven economic transformation.

    GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech event, got underway at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), as topics on ‘Tech Investment Day’ centred around the next-gen semi-conductors market, which is expected to be valued USD $1 trillion by 2030, and the future of data governance. The mega event is under the theme of ‘Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy’.

    The World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit comes at a time where UAE is accelerating its efforts in adopting AI in different sectors. Last year, the country’s AI market was valued (https://apo-opa.co/3zPf3HZ) at USD $3.47 billion. H.E. Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member & Minister of Economy at UAE’s Ministry of Economy, explained the importance of AI and how it is central to the country’s economic future.

    Addressing the audience, he highlighted AI is a major driver for the future and is already impacting our everyday lives whether it is transportation or ordering food but to propel growth even further across different sectors, people and companies need to learn how to enable AI effectively.

    This year’s GITEX GLOBAL has attracted its largest international participation with 40% growth, welcoming new nations to the 44th edition of the showpiece event. Europe has a major presence this week, the biggest in the event’s history with the region’s tech industry projected to grow by 12% by the end of this year.

    Stephane Ouaki, Head of Department at European Innovation Council outlined how the continent is accelerating its tech ecosystem. He said the Council is supporting game-changing innovations, giving entrepreneurs access to opportunities to enhance their knowledge, and learn from other professionals to boost the growth of their businesses which benefits not only economies nationally but also regionally.

    Ignacy Niemczycki, Undersecretary of State Ministry of Economic Development and Technology of Poland, delivered a presentation on how the country is embracing technology. He said: “Our culture is a key pillar in our journey of being a tech leader and we have a stable economy which has been very resilient for the last 30 years.

    “More importantly, there is a real interest in the STEM field – if you ask most people in Poland, their choice would be to become an software engineer and this has created a situation where we have one of the best IT programmers in the world with some great tech entrepreneurs already from Poland.”

    Attendees also heard from Dr. Jaroslaw Kutylowski, the founder and CEO of DeepL a German-leading global language AI company, on how his business utilises large language models (LLMs). He said: “The models that we have been building have all stayed true to our products which has brought us success so far. As the company has been growing, we have been able to invest more into compute technologies and have built a data centre facility in Sweden. However, we need to keep innovating and see what the next step is. If we do not think ahead, we would be in the same position as we are today.”

    Meanwhile, Heman Bekele, who was named TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year for inventing a potential treatment for skin cancer, shared his inspiring story. He explained how the failures that he experienced in life in producing his innovative soap product has made him a stronger individual and passion has a been a key attribute to his career success so far.

    Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) until 18 October, GITEX GLOBAL presents its biggest, most international edition in its 44th year, welcoming over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors alongside governments from more than 180 countries.

    GITEX GLOBAL is seamlessly connecting with world’s largest network of tech events with its stellar list including GITEX EUROPE Berlin, GITEX ASIA Singapore, GITEX AFRICA Morocco, and GITEX NIGERIA. These events are fostering collaboration and driving innovation to shape the tech landscape of tomorrow.

    For more information on GITEX GLOBAL 2024 and to secure your passes, please visit http://www.GITEX.com.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Introduces Legislation to Award Congressional Gold Medals to the “Miracle on Ice” Olympic Hockey Team

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act, which would award 3 Congressional Gold Medals to the members of the 1980 United States Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team for their historic victory over the Soviet Union in the 1980 Winter Olympics. One of the Congressional Gold Medals will be placed on display in Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District at the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota. Joining Congressman Stauber in its introduction are Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-5), and Congressman Bill Keating (MA-9). Congressman Stauber released the following statement:

    “The Miracle on Ice team unified our nation during a time of deep political tension. These young men fearlessly defeated the Soviet Union, which was at the time one of the greatest hockey teams to ever play. Their grit, determination, and pure patriotism inspired the world.

    I am honored to introduce this legislation because 12 players on this team and their legendary coach were Minnesotans. Minnesotans played an integral role in defeating the Soviet Union, and these men should forever be remembered as American hockey heroes.”

    “It is an honor to represent Lake Placid where our 1980 United States Olympic Hockey Team taught our nation how to believe in miracles when they defeated the dominant Soviet Union hockey team during the Cold War. Our North Country community is proud to be home of this historic and inspiring event and as we work to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice,” this legislation honors our Olympic victors for their legendary achievement,” saidCongresswoman Elise Stefanik.

    “As a lifelong hockey fan, I remember watching the “Miracle on Ice” game and the wave of inspiration experienced across the country. With that win, our team and our nation showed the world that democracy will always prevail over tyranny – on and off the ice. These medals are yet another chance to show the world where we stand in the fight for freedom. Despite the immense pressure they faced, their determination was more powerful. Now, their historic win can be honored and celebrated for decades to come.” SaidCongressman Mike Quigley.

    “The 1980 U.S. Men’s Hockey Team showed the world that hard work and determination can overcome even the greatest odds, and their triumph at Lake Placid inspired our nation,” said Congressman Bill Keating. “Their victory remains a timeless symbol of teamwork and unity in the face of adversity, and the Congressional Gold Medal will serve to both recognize their great achievement and inspire the next generation of hockey greats.”

    “We applaud the introduction of the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act and appreciate the work done by Representatives Stauber, Stefanik, Quigley and Keating,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “The 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team is most deserving of receiving the Congressional Gold Medal. Their unlikely run to the gold medal in Lake Placid, which included a historic win over the Soviet Union, inspired our nation at what was a very trying time. We encourage fans to contact their congressional representatives in support of this bill and its passage.”

    “The most special moments in sports actually transcend the playing surface. Truly rare are those that captivate an entire nation and still resound nearly half a century later. The 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team’s stunning victory over the Soviets in Lake Placid, N.Y., and its gold medal-clinching triumph over Finland two days later comprise perhaps the most memorable and impactful achievement in the history of athletics. We at the National Hockey League enthusiastically support the introduction of the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act and look forward to its passage in Congress and eventual signing by the President.” Said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.

    Background – On February 22, 1980, the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. This game is now known as the “Miricle on Ice.” The United States team was comprised of amateur college athletes, while the Soviet Union’s team was comprised of some of the best players to ever play the game. Prior to this game, the Soviet Union had not lost an Olympic game since 1968. The United States had only one returning Olympic athlete.

    Eight years after this game, Congressman Stauber and the Lake Superior State University Division 1 hockey team won the National Championship at the same rink in Lake Placid, New York.

    Congressman Stauber and Congressman Quigley are co-chairs of the Congressional Hockey Caucus.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ASML reports €7.5 billion total net sales and €2.1 billion net income in Q3 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASML reports €7.5 billion total net sales and €2.1 billion net income in Q3 2024
    ASML expects total net sales for 2024 of around €28 billion

    VELDHOVEN, the Netherlands, October 15, 2024 – Today, ASML Holding NV (ASML) has published its 2024 third-quarter results.

    • Q3 total net sales of €7.5 billion, gross margin of 50.8%, net income of €2.1 billion
    • Quarterly net bookings in Q3 of €2.6 billion2 of which €1.4 billion is EUV
    • ASML expects Q4 2024 total net sales between €8.8 billion and €9.2 billion, and a gross margin between 49% and 50%
    • ASML expects 2024 total net sales of around €28 billion
    • ASML expects 2025 total net sales to be between €30 billion and €35 billion, with a gross margin between 51% and 53%
    (Figures in millions of euros unless otherwise indicated) Q2 2024   Q3 2024  
    Total net sales 6,243   7,467  
    …of which Installed Base Management sales1 1,482   1,541  
             
    New lithography systems sold (units) 89   106  
    Used lithography systems sold (units) 11   10  
             
    Net bookings2 5,567   2,633  
             
    Gross profit 3,212   3,793  
    Gross margin (%) 51.5   50.8  
             
    Net income 1,578   2,077  
    EPS (basic; in euros) 4.01   5.28  
             
    End-quarter cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments 5,019   4,985  

    (1) Installed Base Management sales equals our net service and field option sales
    (2) Net bookings include all system sales orders and inflation-related adjustments, for which written authorizations have been accepted.

    Numbers have been rounded for readers’ convenience. A complete summary of US GAAP Consolidated Statements of Operations is published on http://www.asml.com

    CEO statement and outlook
    “Our third-quarter total net sales came in at €7.5 billion, above our guidance, driven by more DUV and Installed Base Management1 sales. The gross margin came in at 50.8%, within guidance.

    “While there continue to be strong developments and upside potential in AI, other market segments are taking longer to recover. It now appears the recovery is more gradual than previously expected. This is expected to continue in 2025, which is leading to customer cautiousness. Regarding Logic, the competitive foundry dynamics have resulted in a slower ramp of new nodes at certain customers, leading to several fab push outs and resulting changes in litho demand timing, in particular EUV. In Memory, we see limited capacity additions, with the focus still on technology transitions supporting the HBM and DDR5 AI-related demand.

    “We expect fourth-quarter total net sales between €8.8 billion and €9.2 billion with a gross margin between 49% and 50% which includes the recognition of the first two High NA systems upon customer acceptance, reflecting progress on imaging, overlay and contrast. ASML expects R&D costs of around €1.1 billion and SG&A costs of around €300 million. We expect full-year 2024 total net sales of around €28 billion. Based on the recent market dynamics as mentioned above, we expect our 2025 total net sales to grow to a range between €30 billion and €35 billion, which is the lower half of the range that we provided at our 2022 Investor Day. We expect a gross margin between 51% and 53%, which is below the range we then provided, mainly related to the delayed timing of EUV demand,” said ASML President and Chief Executive Officer Christophe Fouquet.

       
    Update dividend and share buyback program
    An interim dividend of €1.52 per ordinary share will be made payable on November 7, 2024.

    In the third quarter, we did not purchase any shares under the current 2022-2025 share buyback program.

    Details of the share buyback program as well as transactions pursuant thereto, and details of the dividend are published on ASML’s website (www.asml.com/investors).

    Media Relations contacts Investor Relations contacts
    Monique Mols +31 6 5284 4418 Skip Miller +1 480 235 0934
    Sarah de Crescenzo +1 925 899 8985 Marcel Kemp +31 40 268 6494
    Karen Lo +886 939788635 Peter Cheang +886 3 659 6771

    Quarterly video interview and investor call
    With this press release, ASML has published a video interview in which CFO Roger Dassen discusses the 2024 third-quarter results and outlook for 2024 and 2025. This video and the transcript can be viewed on http://www.asml.com.

    An investor call for both investors and the media will be hosted by CEO Christophe Fouquet and CFO Roger Dassen on October 16, 2024 at 15:00 Central European Time / 09:00 US Eastern Time. Details can be found on our website.

    About ASML
    ASML is a leading supplier to the semiconductor industry. The company provides chipmakers with hardware, software and services to mass produce the patterns of integrated circuits (microchips). Together with its partners, ASML drives the advancement of more affordable, more powerful, more energy-efficient microchips. ASML enables groundbreaking technology to solve some of humanity’s toughest challenges, such as in healthcare, energy use and conservation, mobility and agriculture. ASML is a multinational company headquartered in Veldhoven, the Netherlands, with offices across EMEA, the US and Asia. Every day, ASML’s more than 43,700 employees (FTE) challenge the status quo and push technology to new limits. ASML is traded on Euronext Amsterdam and NASDAQ under the symbol ASML. Discover ASML – our products, technology and career opportunities – at http://www.asml.com.

    US GAAP Financial Reporting
    ASML’s primary accounting standard for quarterly earnings releases and annual reports is US GAAP, the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Quarterly Summary US GAAP consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of cash flows and consolidated balance sheets are available on http://www.asml.com.

    The consolidated balance sheets of ASML Holding N.V. as of September 29, 2024, the related consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows for the quarter and nine months ended September 29, 2024 as presented in this press release are unaudited. 

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

    Forward Looking Statements
    This document and related discussions contain statements that are forward-looking within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements with respect to plans, strategies, expected trends, including trends in the semiconductor industry and end markets and business environment trends, expected demand, bookings, backlog, expected recovery in the semiconductor industry and expected timing thereof including expected industry recovery continuing in 2025, plans to continue to build capacity, outlook and expected financial results, outlook of market segments, including expected results for Q4 2024, including net sales, IBM sales, gross margin, R&D costs, SG&A costs, outlook for full year 2024, including expected full year 2024 total net sales, gross margin and estimated annualized effective tax rate, expectations and modelling with respect to 2025 revenue and gross margin, statements made at our 2022 Investor Day, including revenue and gross margin opportunity for 2025 and 2030, statements with respect to execution of ESG sustainability strategy, our expectation to continue to return significant amounts of cash to shareholders through growing dividends and share buybacks, statements with respect to our share buyback program, including the amount of shares that may be repurchased thereunder and statements with respect to dividends, statements with respect to expected performance and capabilities of our systems and customer plans and other non-historical statements. You can generally identify these statements by the use of words like “may”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “project”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “plan”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “potential”, “intend”, “continue”, “target”, “future”, “progress”, “goal”, “model”, “opportunity” and variations of these words or comparable words. These statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions, plans and projections about our business and our future financial results and readers should not place undue reliance on them. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve a number of substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, customer demand, semiconductor equipment industry capacity, worldwide demand for semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing capacity, lithography tool utilization and semiconductor inventory levels, general trends and consumer confidence in the semiconductor industry, the impact of general economic conditions, including the impact of the current macroeconomic environment on the semiconductor industry, uncertainty around a market recovery including the timing thereof, the impact of inflation, interest rates, wars and geopolitical developments, the impact of pandemics, the performance of our systems, the success of technology advances and the pace of new product development and customer acceptance of and demand for new products, our production capacity and ability to adjust capacity to meet demand, supply chain capacity, timely availability of parts and components, raw materials, critical manufacturing equipment and qualified employees, our ability to produce systems to meet demand, the number and timing of systems ordered, shipped and recognized in revenue, risks relating to fluctuations in net bookings and our ability to convert bookings into sales, the risk of order cancellation or push outs and restrictions on shipments of ordered systems under export controls, risks relating to the trade environment, import/export and national security regulations and orders and their impact on us, including the impact of changes in export regulations and the impact of such regulations on our ability to obtain necessary licenses and to sell our systems and provide services to certain customers, exchange rate fluctuations, changes in tax rates, available liquidity and free cash flow and liquidity requirements, our ability to refinance our indebtedness, available cash and distributable reserves for, and other factors impacting, dividend payments and share repurchases, the number of shares that we repurchase under our share repurchase programs, our ability to enforce patents and protect intellectual property rights and the outcome of intellectual property disputes and litigation, our ability to meet ESG goals and execute our ESG strategy, other factors that may impact ASML’s business or financial results, and other risks indicated in the risk factors included in ASML’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other filings with and submissions to the US Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this document. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this report or to conform such statements to actual results or revised expectations, except as required by law.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘People-powered archaeology’ boosts residents’ wellbeing

    Source: City of York

    A partnership between City of York Council and York Archaeology is helping residents uncover the hidden history of Walmgate, while improving their wellbeing, making connections and gaining skills.

    The award-winning Archaeology on Prescription project is one of the first in the world to apply the social prescribing model to archaeology and heritage.

    Social prescribing connects people to activities, groups and services in their local community and has been shown to benefit those with long-term medical conditions, who need support with mental health, or who are socially isolated.

    The project is taking place on the site of Willow House, a former care home, which sits a stone’s throw from the city’s historic walls.

    Speaking in a new video about the project, Archaeology on Prescription participant, Jean, said:

    “I’d never really thought about archaeology or history before, but having got here, I was hooked and I’ve kept going since.”

    Explaining the personal impact of the programme, Jean explained:

    “When I’m here, I’m concentrating on something, so I haven’t got all sorts of other thoughts going round – I’ve got that little bit of ground.

    “I’ve found something new that I really enjoy doing. It’s no pressure, but we’re doing archaeology.”

    Participants often have never taken part in an archaeological project before but have been referred to the project by local GPs and charities such as Converge, The Hut and Blueberry Academy.

    Once onsite, they can get involved in all aspects of the archaeological process, from carrying out pre-excavation research through maps and census data, to excavating trenches and cataloguing finds.

    Another participant, Jane, speaking as she helped uncover the cellar of a Victorian terraced house, said that the programme had helped her regain her confidence after a period of illness:

    “I was looking for something to do with my time and to meet new people, because I was new to York.

    “Since doing the dig, I’ve found that my confidence that I had while I was here, that I’ve rediscovered, has stayed with me, even when I haven’t been digging.”

    Reflecting on the project, Arran Johnson, Assistant Community Project Manager, said:

    “Alongside the benefits gained through taking part, participants are also carrying out meaningful research, discovering evidence of the area’s development from as far back as prehistory to as recently as the 1970s.

    “The most exciting part for me is that our participants’ discoveries are even beginning to call some accepted theories into question, such as the extent of Roman activity in this area, which seems to be greater than previously thought. 

    “We will continue this project in 2025, continuing to provide social prescribing, alongside broadening access to wider community involvement as part of our mission to make archaeology more accessible and allow everyone to experience the wonder of uncovering the past.”

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture at City of York Council, said:

    “The rich tapestry of York’s long history is something that belongs to all of us.

    It is truly inspiring to see how this project is empowering residents to take an active role in learning more about the people who’ve shaped the city over centuries.

    “The results have been transformative for many of the participants, who have had the opportunity not only to discover a new passion for archaeology, but to make social connections, gain new skills and build their confidence.”

    As well as providing permission to dig on the site, the council has provided £85,000 of financial support to the project through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and has previously provided £120,0000 through the Community Renewal Fund.

    Find out more about the project and its impact by watching the full case study video.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Innovative Essex health projects get cash boost

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 15 October 2024 at 14:30

    Funding from Anglia Ruskin University is helping small firms’ cutting-edge initiatives

    Virtual reality therapy for people suffering from mental health disorders, using AI to manage demand on NHS services, and technology that listens to a child’s cough to assist early diagnoses are among the Essex innovations that have received thousands of pounds of funding from Arise Innovation Hubs – part of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).

    The ABOVE (Arise Beyond Open Innovation for Value and Entrepreneurship) innovation support grants are aimed at assisting small and medium-sized enterprises in Essex working on healthcare solutions through medical technology. Not-for-profit, charitable organisations, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and start-ups are all eligible for support.

    The following eight businesses have been awarded grants of up to £5,000:

    • Aerial Icon Limited, which is pioneering the production of ultra-high-quality aerial 360 videos to deliver innovative virtual reality (VR) therapeutic health interventions for mental health disorders such as anxiety, fear of heights, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The initiative has also received funding from Innovate UK.

    • Elixir AI is working on a project to determine if listening to a child’s cough at the time of GP referral can lead to early diagnosis, and received funding to enhance their software for a larger study with Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals.

    • Japeto, a software agency in Harlow, used their grant to build a dedicated computer rig capable of running Large Language Models (LLMs) at sufficient speed. This project, named ‘The Blue Fairy,’ aims to establish the viability of different LLMs in healthcare chatbot applications.

    • C-Prio Ltd, focusing on automation and AI to meet the growing demand on NHS histopathology services, used its ABOVE grant in the clinical validation phase of their AI models, specifically for acquiring real digital images of colorectal biopsies, enabling rigorous testing and refinement.

    • Tech Balance Limited received grant funding to support the development of a wellbeing app using behavioural science to guide UK university students towards better wellbeing.

    • Guardpack Ltd, a manufacturer of sachets and wipes, used its funding to help develop more environmentally friendly options for its customers.

    • eScent is developing a wearable, context-driven scent intervention to address increasing levels of anxiety and stress. The funding will be used to secure the company’s intellectual property in the USA and commission a design.

    • Southend-based Surgical Holdings will use its grant to complete ecodesign work, leading to patent protection of new products which are sold worldwide.

    The funding for the ABOVE programme has been provided by Essex County Council as part of its 10-year sector strategy to grow life science, digitech, advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors, leading to more opportunities, jobs and growth across Essex.

    Arise Innovation Hubs are also working closely with partners Medilink Midlands, a specialist provider of support to the life science sector, to help SMEs overcome barriers to growth.

    Dr Beverley Vaughan, Director of Arise Innovation Hubs, said:

    “We were delighted to receive so many applications for the first round of ABOVE funding from healthcare innovators across the county.

    “The enterprises that have been supported by these grants are working on projects that have potential to make a real difference to people’s lives.

    “The ABOVE funding has been a vital cog in the development of some of these projects, assisting these small firms with job creation, testing and product design.”

    Melanie Davidson, CEO at Medilink Midlands, added:

    “Developing the partnership with Arise Innovation Hubs, our innovation focused business support programmes have gone from strength to strength, and the ABOVE funding grants allow the eight awarded innovators to further develop and grow their health care solutions within the medtech sector.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Houthis must not drag Yemen into a regional war by attacking Israel: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

    Location:
    United Nations, New York
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    I’ll make three points.

    I want to start by highlighting the pressing humanitarian need across all of Yemen as our briefers have already done. Unimpeded humanitarian access is vital to deliver critical, lifesaving assistance to Yemenis. It is crucial that all humanitarian, UN, and diplomatic staff are free from intimidation and threats in order to operate safely and securely.

    The detention of aid workers by the Houthis has continued for 130 days, and we now understand these detainees may now face a so-called judicial process.

    The use of special political courts will not result in fair outcomes for the detainees. So we call again on the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release those detained and provide an adequate operating environment for humanitarians.

    We call on the international community to stand united in calling for the immediate release of those detained.

    Second, as an import dependent country, commercial imports are critical to the livelihoods of the Yemeni population.

    The import of weapons by the Houthis, in violation of the arms embargo, risks undermining the ability of humanitarian and commercial entities to import goods. This once again demonstrates the Houthis’ clear disregard for the wellbeing of the Yemeni people.

    UNVIM is key to facilitating these vital imports. We urge international donors to work together to provide adequate and predictable funding to strengthen UNVIM’s inspection capacity and ability to prevent the flow of weapons.

    Finally, we call upon the Houthis to avoid dragging Yemen into a regional conflict through its continued attacks against Israel.

    It is vital that we bring an end to this cycle of violence and that the Houthis prioritise the needs of the Yemeni people. I reiterate the UK’s call for urgent regional de-escalation and progress towards sustainable peace in Yemen.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Experts to identify underground objects on Millbay development site

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plans to carry out investigative works at a patch of unused land between Bath Street and Martin Street in Millbay will be carried out on 18 November 2024 to understand what two unknown metal objects underground are.  

    The Council-owned land is in the early stages of development to transform the entire site into new Plymouth Community Homes affordable housing. 

    As part of the ground investigation works, two metal objects have been identified underground. These could be a number of things e.g. reinforced concrete or pieces of track from the old railway station nearby.  

    So that experts can determine what the objects are, all work has stopped within the compound. Whilst the items remain underground, the experts have provided reassurance that the area is very safe.    

    As the items do need to be removed in order for the development work to continue, on the 18 November, experts plan to carry out an ‘uncovering’ to establish what the objects are. During this work there will be no need to evacuate. 

    Whilst it is thought that in all likelihood the items will be old, abandoned equipment, the Council has to prepare for all eventualities. Should the experts find that one or both items are not simply pieces of metal, they will need to assess the objects and determine how best to dispose of them. To do that, there is a small percentage chance that a cordon would need to be put in place. Details of how large the cordon would be, or how long it would be in place, would be determined by experts’ assessment of the items. 

    The clear message to local residents and businesses at the moment is that the area is safe and there is currently no need to avoid the area. We will provide regular updates on the day through the Council website, social media or the Council’s new What’s App channel.  

    Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “The first thing to make clear is that we do not know what is under the ground in Millbay. Bear in mind that this site has previously had commercial premise on it, a brewery, a builder’s yard, a night club, a garage and a car park and there have never been any problems.  

    “All we know is that there are two metal objects and our experts have told us that there is a very strong likelihood that they are probably nothing to worry about.  

    “However, we do need to be prepared for all possibilities. So, we are letting people know in advance so when our experts do further exploratory works – if they find anything ominous they we will need to move quickly.   

    “There will never be a right time to do this work and we know that businesses in the area will have a lot of questions, and Council officers are available to offer support to help them prepare and make any necessary decisions.  

    “We will update residents and businesses throughout this process. But for now, our advice is you are safe and you do not need to do anything or evacuate.”   

    Plymouth Police Commander, Temporary Chief Superintendent Scott Bradley, said: “We have been preparing for this investigative work with the Council and have a clear plan to deal with any eventuality once more is known as to what the objects are. 

    “We have a very close working relationship with the Council and other partners to ensure the matter is dealt with safely and swiftly with as little impact as possible on businesses and residents in the area.” 

    If you are a local business or hotel/bed and breakfast and would like to discuss this further, please contact CommercialSupport@plymouth.gov.uk.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Ress Life Investments A/S: Ress Life Investments A/S publishes Net Asset Value (NAV)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Ress Life Investments
    Nybrogade 12
    DK-1203 Copenhagen K
    Denmark
    CVR nr. 33593163
    http://www.resslifeinvestments.com

    To: Nasdaq Copenhagen
    Date: 30 September 2024

    Corporate Announcement 32/2024

    Ress Life Investments A/S publishes Net Asset Value (NAV).

    Ress Life Investments A/S publishes the Net Asset Value (NAV) per share as of 30 September 2024.

    NAV per share in USD: 2536.65
    NAV per share in EUR: 2265.68

    The performance during September is 0.82% in USD. The year-to-date net performance is 4.08% in USD.

    Assets under management (AUM) was 305.2 million USD.    

    The NAV per share in EUR, 2265.68, is calculated as the USD NAV divided by the EUR/USD exchange rate as of 30 September 2024 which was 1.1196.

    To calculate the present EUR NAV, divide the most recent USD NAV with the current EUR/USD exchange rate.

    Questions related to this announcement can be made to the company’s AIF-manager, Resscapital AB.

    Contact person:
    Gustaf Hagerud
    gustaf.hagerud@resscapital.com
    Tel + 46 8 545 282 27

    Note: The terms for subscription of shares, minimum subscription amount and redemption of shares are provided in the Articles of Association, Information Brochure and in the Key Information Document available on the Company’s website, http://www.resslifeinvestments.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Appointments to the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the appointments of Graham Flack, Douglas Hodson, and Anne Giardini, to the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission.

    October 15, 2024 – Ottawa – Department of Justice Canada

    The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the appointments of Graham Flack, Douglas Hodson, and Anne Giardini, to the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission.

    The Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission, also known as the Quadrennial Commission, is established under the Judges Act (the Act) to examine the adequacy of the salaries and benefits of the federally appointed judiciary. Additional information on the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission is available at quadcom.gc.ca.

    Biographies

    Graham Flack of Ottawa is appointed as the member nominated by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. Mr. Flack received degrees in political science and economics from Dalhousie and Oxford University where he was a Rhodes Scholar. He is a former law clerk of the Supreme Court of Canada and graduated with an LL.B. from Dalhousie University and an LL.M. from Harvard University. Mr. Flack began his career in the Privy Council Office and worked on the Quebec referendum campaign, the Quebec Secession Reference and Clarity Act. Following 9/11 he became Director of Operations and led work on the Canada-US Smart Borders Declaration, as well as Canada’s first National Security Policy. He held senior executive roles at Natural Resources Canada and the Department of Finance where he was Assistant Deputy Minister, International Trade and Finance and worked on the G7 and G20 response to the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. From 2010-2013, he was Associate Deputy Minister then-Acting Deputy Minister at Public Safety Canada. From 2013-14, he was Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet at the Privy Council Office. From 2014-18, he was Deputy Minister of Canadian Heritage. From 2018-2022, he was Deputy Minister of Employment and Social Development Canada. From 2022-2024, he was Secretary of the Treasury Board. Mr. Flack is the founding chair of the Deputy Minister Committee on Innovation and Deputy Minister Champion for the Federal Youth Network and for Dalhousie University.

    Douglas Hodson, K.C., of Saskatoon is appointed as the member nominated by the judiciary. Mr. Hodson attended the University of Saskatchewan and earned a B.Comm. (with honours) in 1981 and a LL.B. (with distinction) in 1984. He was admitted to the Saskatchewan bar in 1985. Mr. Hodson is a partner at MLT Aikins LLP in Saskatoon since 1984. He focuses on commercial litigation and has significant experience in complex arbitrations, transportation law, and shareholder disputes. He has argued significant cases before all levels of court in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario and before the Federal Courts and the Supreme Court of Canada. He was appointed King’s Counsel in 2007. Mr. Hodson is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and a fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America. He is one of the most distinguished community leaders in Saskatoon. His volunteer portfolio is diverse and extensive, and includes active involvement with a number of professional, business and social organizations. His significant contributions to his profession and community have been recognized on numerous occasions.

    Anne Giardini, K.C., of Toronto is appointed Chair following her nomination by the other two members of the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission. Ms. Giardini is a Canadian business executive, journalist, lawyer, and writer. She earned a B.A. from Simon Fraser University and a LL.B. from the University of British Columbia. She also holds an LL.M. from Cambridge University. She was admitted to practise in Ontario, British Columbia, and Washington State. From 1985 to 2020, Ms. Giardini clerked at the Court of Appeal for British Columbia, articled at Bull Housser & Tupper (now Norton Rose), practised at Mawhinney & Kellough (now Dentons) in Vancouver, before moving to Italy to work for a US law firm. In 1994, she joined Weyerhaeuser Company Limited, Canadian subsidiary of Weyerhaeuser Company, an international forest products company with a head office in Washington. She was Canadian vice-president and general counsel from 2006 to 2008 and president from 2008 to 2015. Since 2015, she is a sole corporate director. She was appointed King’s Counsel in 2009. Ms. Giardini is an active volunteer and has served as Chair of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, Vancouver International Writers Festival, UniverCity at SFU, and Simon Fraser University as deputy chair. She is also a supporter of Plan Canada and volunteer for Vancouver YWCA’s Women of Distinction Awards and Young Women in Business. She served as the 11th chancellor of Simon Fraser University from 2014 to 2020. She has been on the boards of Hydro One, mining companies, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc. and other companies. Ms. Giardini was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in January 2013 for her fundraising efforts for Plan Canada’s Because I’m a Girl campaign. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2016 and was appointed an Officer of British Columbia in 2018.

    Chantalle Aubertin
    Deputy Director, Communications
    Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General
    613-992-6568
    Chantalle.Aubertin@justice.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Swaminathan J: Central banks and financial stability

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Distinguished panellists – Prof. Randall S. Kroszner, Professor, University of Chicago and Former Governor, Federal Reserve Board; Ms. Emmanuelle Assouan, Director General, Financial Stability and Operations, Banque de France; Ms. Sarah Breeden, Deputy Governor for Financial Stability, Bank of England; Dr. Sajjid Chinoy, Managing Director and Chief Economist India, JP Morgan; esteemed delegates and colleagues from the Reserve Bank. A very good afternoon to all of you.

    It is an honour to open this discussion on this very important and pertinent topic in today’s financial world – “Central Banks and Financial Stability: Assessing Risks and Building Resilience.”

    The financial sector is the backbone of the economy, enabling efficient allocation of resources, managing risks through various instruments, and ensuring smooth payments and settlements. It performs crucial functions that support investments and drives economic growth. Therefore, the financial sector becomes the cornerstone of a well-functioning economy.

    The financial sector is vulnerable to risks-especially systemic ones that, which if left unchecked, can have far-reaching consequences. As you are aware these systemic risks manifest across two dimensions: time and interconnectedness. On the one hand, financial risks can build up over time, especially in periods of economic euphoria. On the other, the growing interconnections between financial institutions, markets, and the broader economy make the system more open to shocks.

    In today’s world, challenges are more complex and unpredictable than ever. Traditional risks, like credit and liquidity risks, now have new and faster drivers. For example, bank runs that once unfolded over days, giving regulators time to respond, can now occur within hours due to the speed of internet and mobile banking. The increasing reliance on technology also introduces vulnerabilities, such as dependence on third-party service providers and heightened cybersecurity threats, all while customers expect uninterrupted services. Additionally, we face emerging risks, such as climate risk.

    In this increasingly volatile environment, building resilience is crucial to maintaining financial stability. However, resilience is a balancing act-too much emphasis on safeguarding can stifle innovation and growth, while too little can expose the system to significant vulnerabilities. Finding that right balance so that we can have a robust financial system that can weather crises without constraining economic progress is one of the key challenges that we face today.

    Indeed, central banks are much like wicketkeepers in cricket or goalkeepers in football-often unnoticed in success but always in the spotlight during failure. When everything works seamlessly, their efforts remain behind the scenes, often taken for granted. However, when a crisis occurs, they are asked as to how they could allow the ball to slip through their fingers! In addition, Central Bankers are also tasked with preventing further damage and restoring stability quickly.

    Let me offer an analogy: imagine a person teetering on the edge of a cliff, seemingly about to fall, only to be pulled back just in time by a watchful observer. When central banks intervene in such a manner to prevent a potential crisis, those they protect may claim they didn’t need saving at all. This highlights a common paradox-while regulators work tirelessly to maintain stability and avert disasters, their successes often go unnoticed, and their actions are sometimes viewed as unnecessary, intrusive or excessive by those unaware of the risks. Yet it is precisely this proactive oversight that ensures the safety and soundness of the financial system, allowing it to function smoothly even in times of uncertainty.

    Over the years, the role of central banks has significantly evolved. Initially seen as the lender of last resort, today, central banks are equipped with a broad range of tools-regulatory, supervisory, and monetary-to ensure the stability of the financial system. In some countries, central banks do not have supervisory roles, with the supervision being carried out by a separate agency, but a coordinated approach is essential. Governments, central banks, financial regulators, and the industry must all work together to ensure appropriate and timely action is taken to safeguard financial stability.

    In India, the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC), chaired by the Union Finance Minister, along with its sub-committee led by the Governor of the Reserve Bank, has been effectively facilitating discussions and enhanced understanding of risks across the financial sector. Biannually, Reserve Bank publishes Financial Stability Reports that deliver a thorough risk assessment of India’s financial landscape. These reports utilise macro stress tests, sensitivity analyses, network and contagion assessments, and systemic risk surveys to provide valuable insights into potential vulnerabilities that affect the financial sector. Apart from inter-regulatory coordination, RBI also actively engages with the industry through regular engagements/ interactions including conferences with the Boards of supervised entities, periodic meetings with the MDs & CEOs, Heads of Assurance functions as well as interactions with auditors.

    Having discussed the importance of domestic coordination, I would also like to emphasise the significance of global supervisory cooperation. Historically, crises have acted as catalysts for bringing supervisors together to address shared challenges. For instance, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision was formed in the aftermath of the Herstatt Bank failure, highlighting the necessity for a coordinated response to systemic risks. However, we should not wait for crises to play out before strengthening international collaboration. Greater engagement for proactive horizon scanning of potential risks and vulnerabilities, along with discussions on strategies to mitigate and address these challenges, can enhance our collective resilience and crisis preparedness.

    Indeed, as a part of our agenda for the next decade, RBI@100, the Reserve Bank intends to engage more with the central banks of the global south. The Reserve Bank also aims to establish a global model of risk-focused supervision by fostering a strong risk discovery and compliance culture, building a “through-the-cycle” risk assessment framework. Reserve Bank is working to create a comprehensive data analytics ecosystem to support its supervisory functions.

    With these thoughts in mind, I look forward to a rich and insightful panel discussion on how central banks can continue to enhance financial stability and build a resilient global financial system. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Economics –