NewzIntel.com

Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI: Wintrust Financial Corporation Announces First Quarter 2025 Earnings Release Schedule

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROSEMONT, Ill., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wintrust Financial Corporation (“Wintrust”) (Nasdaq: WTFC) today announced it will release first quarter 2025 earnings results after the market closes on Monday, April 21, 2025 and host a conference call on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (CDT).

    For individuals wanting to listen to a simultaneous audio-only web cast, this may be accessed at Webcast Link.

    Individuals interested in participating in the call by addressing questions to management should register for the call at Conference Call Link to receive a dial-in number and unique PIN to access the call seamlessly. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call).

    An accompanying slide presentation will be available on the Company’s web site at http://www.wintrust.com, Investor Relations link.

    A replay of the audio-only webcast and an accompanying slide presentation will subsequently be available at http://www.wintrust.com, Investor Relations, Investor News and Events, Presentations & Conference Calls link.   The text of the first quarter 2025 earnings release will be available at http://www.wintrust.com, Investor Relations, Investor News and Events, Press Releases link.

    About Wintrust

    Wintrust is a financial holding company with approximately $65 billion in assets whose common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Guided by its “Different Approach, Better Results” philosophy, Wintrust offers the sophisticated resources of a large bank while providing a community banking experience to each customer. Wintrust operates more than 200 retail banking locations through 16 community bank subsidiaries in the greater Chicago, southern Wisconsin, west Michigan, northwest Indiana, and southwest Florida market areas. In addition, Wintrust operates various non-bank business units, providing residential mortgage origination, wealth management, commercial and life insurance premium financing, short-term accounts receivable financing/outsourced administrative services to the temporary staffing services industry, and qualified intermediary services for tax-deferred exchanges. For more information, please visit www.wintrust.com.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Investors are cautioned that such statements are predictions and that actual events or results may differ materially. Wintrust’s expected financial results or other plans are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see “Risk Factors” and the forward-looking statement disclosure contained in Wintrust’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and Wintrust undertakes no duty to update the information.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
    Timothy S. Crane, President & Chief Executive Officer
    David A. Dykstra, Vice Chairman & Chief Operating Officer
    (847) 939-9000
    Website address: www.wintrust.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Phoenix man sentenced to prison for alien smuggling resulting in death following ICE Arizona investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SELLS, Ariz. – A Glendale man was sentenced March 11 to 38 months in prison for his role in transporting two illegal aliens in March 2024, one of whom suffered fatal injuries after jumping out of the vehicle while it was moving. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation, assisted by other law enforcement agencies.

    “Smuggling activity brings all aspects of danger especially for those involved in human smuggling,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola. “Whether it is traversing over treacherous desert landscapes or placing your life in the hands of a smuggler, you are sure to face a harrowing journey. Completely avoidable, human smuggling often turns deadly, as in this case. HSI is committed to ending smuggling activity that ends with preventable fatalities.”

    Steven Beltran-Lugo, of Glendale, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens for profit placing in jeopardy the life of any person and resulting in death on Oct. 1, 2024.

    On March 6, 2024, Beltran-Lugo and his co-defendant, Cesar Velazquez-Munoz, picked up two illegal aliens near the border to transport them further into the United States. Beltran-Lugo was riding as a passenger in the front seat of the vehicle and was on the phone with a Phoenix-based smuggling coordinator throughout the event. When law enforcement began to follow the vehicle, the victim aliens were told to get out of the vehicle. One of the victims jumped out of the vehicle while it was still moving at about 45 miles per hour. The driver accelerated as the second victim exited the moving vehicle and hit the pavement, causing a brain hemorrhage and internal bleeding. The victim eventually succumbed to these injuries and passed away at the hospital two days later.

    Cesar Velazquez-Munoz is scheduled to be sentenced March 31.

    The sentencing is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with DHS, has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, District of Arizona, District of New Mexico, and Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; Office of Enforcement Operations; and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 300 U.S. convictions; more than 250 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 31.03.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    31 March 2025 at 22:30 EEST

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 31.03.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 31 March 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:                

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 2,328,727 4.82
    CEUX 1,600,000 4.82
    BATE – –
    AQEU 100,000 4.81
    TQEX 146,020 4.83
    Total 4,174,747 4.82

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 31 March 2025 was EUR 20,131,882. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 213,560,284 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

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

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

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

    Inquiries:

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

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Leads Colleagues in Laying Out Worker-First American Trade Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  As the Trump Administration plans to reshape the nation’s trade policy, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is leading her Midwest colleagues, U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in laying out a vision to prioritize American workers in trade policy, re-establish the United States as a world leader in manufacturing, and strengthen national security. Senator Baldwin has long worked against trade deals that undermine American workers, including opposing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) with China, and other deals that are a race to the bottom. Since 2001, flawed trade policies have contributed to the loss of 4.3 million manufacturing jobs in the U.S. 

    “For too long, the deck has been stacked against workers and has benefited trade cheats like China and the corporate fat cats in board rooms. Workers are the ones who make our economy go around and they are the ones we need to prioritize. Right now, we have a real opportunity to level the playing field for American workers and crack down on trade cheats, grow our Made in America economy, and ensure workers get the pay they deserve to live a good, middle-class life,” said Senator Baldwin.

    “We need trade policies that provide a level playing field for American workers to compete and succeed,” said Senator Peters. “For far too long, American businesses and workers have paid the price of a trade landscape that benefits countries like China who blatantly cheat the system and undercut our businesses without being held accountable. Now is the time to take a real, comprehensive look at our trade policies to ensure we are putting American workers first and preventing good-paying jobs from being shipped overseas.”

    “For 30 years we’ve been outsourcing our supply chains way too far, and too many Michigan workers have suffered because of it,” said Senator Slotkin. “Democrats, especially in the Midwest, need a vision for a 21st century trade policy. To me, that strategy isn’t rocket science. It should strengthen the Middle Class and protect American manufacturing and jobs, provide certainty for American businesses and farmers, and recognize that the U.S. has powerful economic levers to wield against our adversaries.”

    In the letter to President Trump, Baldwin and her colleagues outline the details of a trade agenda that would center workers, stand up to trade cheats like China, and grow the American manufacturing sector, including:

    • Advocating for a Complete Reimagining of Relationship with People’s Republic of China (PRC): The plan calls for revising our trade relationship with China. By allowing China to join the World Trade Organization, the United States opted to treat China like a market economy. China’s non-market practices, rampant abuses of labor and human rights, and government-sponsored trade cheating call for a complete rethinking of our economic relationship, including Permanent Normal Trade Relations.
    • Review & Revise Free Trade Agreements: Baldwin calls for reviewing and revising each of the United States’ 14 free trade agreements with 20 countries, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), to ensure the best outcomes for American workers.
    • Strengthen Trade Enforcement Mechanisms: Baldwin looks to strengthen trade enforcement mechanisms to curb cheating and manipulation by foreign countries. Baldwin identifies bipartisan legislation, such as the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to strengthen trade remedies, Fighting Trade Cheats Act to empower private companies to hold bad actors accountable, and efforts that can be addressed by executive action, like closing the de minimis loophole, which results in lost tariff revenue and the importing of counterfeit products and contraband drugs like fentanyl.
    • Support for Workers Who Lost Jobs Due to Short-Sighted Policies of the Past: Baldwin also calls for the strengthening and reauthorization of the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) to provide critical support for American workers who lose their jobs due to the short-sighted policies of the past, so those workers can access job training benefits and quickly return to the workforce.

    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Mr. President:

    Your Administration has announced that it is undertaking a comprehensive review of our nation’s trade policy, an action that is welcome and long overdue. Free trade and globalization have left us with offshored manufacturing, devastated communities, workers out of a job or in jobs with lower wages, and supply chains overly dependent on our adversaries in too many areas. Our states have suffered disproportionately, and we write to share policy solutions informed by that experience and to urge you to implement a pro-American worker trade policy.

    The current global and domestic economic landscape is the result of deliberate policy choices. Now is the time to break the cycle and boldly set a new standard for how we design, implement, monitor and enforce our trade policies. Presidents of both parties have failed Americans on trade policy, and Congress has validated their mistakes—often, in close votes. Misguided decisions like granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR), which paved the way for China’s accession into the World Trade Organization (WTO), along with the passage of NAFTA and CAFTA, as well as support of the Trans Pacific Partnership, are part of a misguided narrative that free trade and liberalization would improve economic growth and living standards, which for many communities has proven false. Since 2001, flawed trade policies have contributed to the loss of 4.3 million manufacturing jobs here in the U.S. We have fought for a pro-American worker trade policy, and would strongly support reforms that are reasoned, strategic, and durable. Our goal should be a combined pro-U.S. worker trade agenda and proactive industrial policy and strategic use of tariffs that secures supply chains, revitalizes communities, creates good-paying, union jobs and re-establishes the United States as a leader in world manufacturing.

    First and foremost, we must drastically revise our trade relationship with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). By allowing China to join the WTO, the United States opted to treat the PRC like a market economy. Proponents claimed this would bring market reforms. That has proven a naïve and misguided approach. China still embraces a state-directed approach to trade and targets entire sectors and industries for global domination. China’s non-market practices, rampant abuses of labor and human rights, and government-sponsored trade cheating call for a complete rethinking of our economic relationship, including PNTR.

    Each of the United States’ 14 free trade agreements with 20 countries, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), must be reviewed and revised where necessary, in order to ensure the best outcomes for American workers. While your Administration oversaw the negotiations of the USMCA, which contained the strongest labor standards of any free trade agreement thus far, there are urgent issues to be addressed during the upcoming review. The PRC has increasingly located facilities in Mexico to take advantage of proximity to the United States and preferential treatment of goods under USMCA. It has also failed to fundamentally change a core challenge facing American workers: the continued offshoring of good manufacturing jobs because of wage suppression, union busting and weak regulations in Mexico. There are long-standing challenges to the U.S. economy that USMCA’s dispute mechanism has failed to address, such as Canada’s treatment of the United States dairy sector. Separate from USMCA, the United States is part of agreements about government procurement, through the WTO or negotiated separately, that result in a losing deal for Americans. All such agreements must be thoroughly reviewed and recalibrated to level the playing field.

    The ultimate goal of our trade enforcement mechanisms should not be to react to injury, it must be to deter and prevent cheating in the first place. Foreign entities will continue to transship, evade trade remedies, and create new ways to cheat and take advantage of the United States, and stopping problems as they come up in a “whack-a-mole” fashion is a reactive strategy. Strengthening trade enforcement mechanisms will curb cheating and manipulation by foreign countries. There are substantive bipartisan efforts in this area, such as the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to strengthen trade remedies and the Fighting Trade Cheats Act to empower private companies to hold bad actors accountable. Furthermore, there are some bipartisan efforts that can be addressed by executive action, like closing the de minimis loophole, which your Administration acknowledges results in lost tariff revenue and the importation of counterfeit products and contraband drugs like fentanyl. The loophole also puts American manufacturers and retailers at a disadvantage. In addition, critical support for American workers who lose their jobs due to the short-sighted policies of the past, such as Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), must be reauthorized and strengthened as we try to right the ship on trade policy, to allow those workers to access job training benefits and quickly return to the workforce.

    Tariffs are important tools for leveling the playing field when they are enacted in a strategic, deliberate, and durable way, but it can take months and years for supply chains to adjust. The positive impact of tariffs and trade policy must be bolstered by a robust industrial policy to create and sustain good-paying jobs with efforts such as investments, Buy America requirements, tax incentives, and other programs like those included in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. To be successful, we must also keep corporations in check with equitable tax rates and strong antitrust laws to prevent price gouging. Critically, we must empower workers to join unions and earn fair wages to support a middle class lifestyle and be able to save for a safe and secure retirement.

    Lastly, we want to emphasize this proposal is critical to workers and communities in our states, as well as to our national security and emergency preparedness. Re-evaluating American trade policy and securing supply chains will strengthen our national security and better position the United States to defend itself if faced with conflict. During World War II, United States automakers shifted from producing civilian passenger vehicles to producing military equipment and weapons like tanks, engines, and aircraft. More recently, global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine exposed the risks of our fragile supply chains. Now is the time to learn from these lessons and prioritize a trade policy that puts American workers first.

    Thank you for your consideration of this most important issue.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: York County Man Charged With Filing False Income Tax Return

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Waylon Wilcox, age 45, of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, was charged by criminal information on March 28, 2025, with filing false individual income tax returns.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the criminal information charges Wilcox with two counts of making and subscribing false individual income tax returns.  The criminal information alleges that Wilcox engaged in a complex cryptocurrency scheme, wherein he sold his shares for over $7,402,935 in 2021 and $4,899,180 in 2022 and failed to report his gains from the sale of the cryptocurrency on his individual tax returns.

    The information alleges that Wilcox filed a false individual income tax return for tax year 2021, which underreported his income for tax year 2021 by approximately $8,511,238 and reduced Wilcox’s tax then due and owing by approximately $2,180,453.  It is further alleged that Wilcox filed a false individual income tax return for tax year 2022, which underreported Wilcox’s income for tax year 2022 by approximately $4,599,532 and reduced Wilcox’s tax then due and owing by approximately $1,098,623. 

    “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to unraveling complex financial schemes involving virtual currencies and non-fungible token (NFT) transactions designed to conceal taxable income,” said Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “In today’s economic environment, it’s more important than ever that the American people feel confident that everyone is playing by the rules and paying the taxes they owe.” 

    The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams is prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Disclosure of Voting Rights in IDEX Biometrics to Chair, Morten Opstad – 31 March 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    At the close of business on 31 March 2025, Morten Opstad, chair of the board of IDEX Biometrics, held the following voting rights in IDEX, for the extraordinary general meeting on 11 April 2025.

    Total 63,760,705 shares or 7.37% of the share capital and votes, including shares held by Mr. Opstad and close relations.

    Some of the proxies may include voting instructions.

    Contact persons
    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, Tel.: +47 918 00186
    Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel.: +47 950 92322
    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity.  Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

    For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com (http://www.idexbiometrics.com)

    About this notice
    This notice was issued by Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, on 31 March 2024 at 21:15 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. The information shall be disclosed according to section 4‑2 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (STA) and published in accordance with section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund consolidated audited results for 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Management Board of Northern Horizon Capital AS has approved the unaudited financial results of Baltic Horizon Fund (the Fund) for the twelve months of 2024. The financial results remained unchanged compared to the preliminary disclosure on 17 February 2025.

    Executing our strategy
    In 2024, the Fund’s management team made the strategic decision to implement key performance indicators (KPIs) as a means to effectively measure and track performance. This decision stems from the recognition that clear and measurable benchmarks are essential for evaluating progress towards the Fund’s objectives. By defining specific KPIs, the team aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and facilitate decision-making processes.

    The focus of the Fund management team will be on these major objectives:

    • Actual portfolio occupancy of at least 90% by end of 2025;
    • Loan-to-Value target at 50% or lower;
    • To consider disposing of non-strategic assets over the next 12 months;
    • Clear ESG and refurbishment strategy for the next 1-2 years with an aim to reach the portfolio’s NOI potential of 130 EUR/sq.m. by 2027.

    As we recap our goals for 2024, we are pleased to report the following achievements:

    • We have successfully achieved 100% portfolio BREEAM certification.
    • Despite receiving a 3-star GRESB rating in 2024, we have thoroughly analysed the assessment results and developed an action plan to achieve a 4-star GRESB rating in 2025.
    • Although we did not reach our target of 90% portfolio occupancy by the end of 2024, we made significant progress, achieving an 86.5% occupancy rate based on lease signing date with actual occupancy subsequently increasing as tenants move in.
    • We have recently announced our disposal strategy to reduce LTV levels. Some disposal processes have commenced as of February 2025, with the possible closing of transactions planned for later in the year.
    • Looking ahead to 2025, we will continue with the same solid strategy and goals that will stabilize the Fund’s financial position and maximize the potential of its portfolio.

    Outlook
    In 2025 the Fund will focus on flexible and sustainable solutions to meet tenant demands and market conditions. Our key goals are increasing the occupancy of the portfolio and decreasing the LTV by way of repaying part of the bonds.

    The Fund’s management has taken proactive measures to enhance financial stability by reducing leverage through partial bond repayment. This strategy aims to alleviate financial pressure, positioning the Fund for more sustainable financial performance.

    In 2025, we will continue advancing our social and environmental commitments. We achieved 98% green leases across our portfolio, with a target to further increase this share in the coming year.

    Simultaneously, to reinforce its financial position, the Fund is committed to improving its debt service ratio and reducing loan-to-value levels. By focusing on increasing occupancy rates and optimizing property concepts, we aim to enhance asset performance and maximize net operating income. Adaptive leasing strategies, property repositioning, and targeted investments in high-demand segments will remain key priorities. These initiatives are designed to create long-term value for investors while ensuring the Fund remains resilient in a dynamic market environment.

    Baltic Horizon achieves a 100% BREEAM certified portfolio
    During 2024, Baltic Horizon achieved its first BREEAM Excellent certificate, when Meraki business center received its final certification. During 2025 the Fund will focus on renewals of the relevant certifications to maintain 100 % of certification coverage.

    GRESB benchmarking
    In 2024 the Fund received a 3-star GRESB rating. The Fund increased its scoring in the management section from 27 points to 29 points (out of 30) but the score in the performance section decreased from 55 points to 50 points (out of 70) due to lack of data from the properties that were sold during the reporting period and the review of data by an external party. During 2024, the Fund has implemented a GRESB improvement plan and aims to receive 4-stars again in the year 2025.

    Net result and net rental income
    In 2024, the Group recorded a net loss of EUR 16.8 million compared with a net loss of EUR 23.0 million for 2023. The result was mainly driven by the property valuation loss. Earnings per unit for 2024 were negative at EUR 0.13 (2023: negative at EUR 0.19).

    The Group earned consolidated net rental income of EUR 11.6 million in 2024 (2023: 14.6 million). The results for 2023 include two months’ net rental income of the Domus Pro Retail and Office property (EUR 0.3 million) and five months’ net rental income of the Duetto properties (EUR 1.2 million), which were sold in February and May 2023, respectively.

    On an EPRA like-for-like basis, the portfolio net rental income in 2024 was 11.8% lower than in 2023, mainly due to vacancies in office properties in Latvia due to the expiry of the agreement with the main tenant in Upmalas Biroji BC and 100% vacancy of S27, as well as lower rental income in Europa due to the new anchor tenant IKI equipping the premises and opening in March.

    Portfolio properties in the retail segment contributed 53.3% (like-for-like 2023: 43.6%) of net rental income in 2024, followed by the office segment with 41.7% (like-for-like 2023: 50.9%) and the leisure segment with 5.0% (2023: 5.5%).

    Retail assets located in the central business districts (Postimaja, Europa and Galerija Centrs) accounted for 42.2% of total portfolio net rental income in 2024. Total net rental income attributable to neighbourhood shopping centres was 11.1% in 2024.

    In 2024, investment properties in Latvia and Lithuania contributed 44.4% (like-for-like 2023: 41.8%) and 22.8% (like-for-like 2023: 31.1%) of net rental income, respectively, while investment properties in Estonia contributed 32.8% (like-for-like 2023: 27.1%).

    Investment properties
    At the end of 2024, the Baltic Horizon Fund portfolio consisted of 12 cash flow generating investment properties in the Baltic capitals. The fair value of the Fund’s portfolio was EUR 241.2 million at the end of December 2024 (31 December 2023: EUR 250.4 million) and incorporated a total net leasable area of 118.3 thousand sq. m. The change in portfolio value was mainly driven by the changes in exit yields and upward adjustments of the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). During 2024 the Group invested approximately EUR 6.0 million in tenant fit-outs.

    Gross Asset Value (GAV)
    As of 31 December 2024, the Fund’s GAV was EUR 256.0 million (31 December 2023: EUR 261.1 million). The decrease compared to the prior year was mainly related to the negative revaluation of the Fund’s investment properties of approx. EUR 15.6 million and was partly offset by the private placement of new units which took place in September and resulted in a cash increase of approx. EUR 6.29 million.

    Net Asset Value (NAV)
    As of 31 December 2024, the Fund’s NAV was EUR 98.1 million (31 December 2023: EUR 109.5 million). The NAV decrease was mainly due to the revaluation of investment properties. At the end of September 2024 23,927,085 new units were issued resulting in approx. EUR 6.29 million of new equity. As of 31 December 2024, IFRS NAV per unit amounted to EUR 0.6833 (31 December 2023: EUR 0.9156), while EPRA net tangible assets and EPRA net reinstatement value were EUR 0.7267 per unit (31 December 2023: EUR 0.9546). EPRA net disposal value was EUR 0.6797 per unit (31 December 2023: EUR 0.9122).

    Interest-bearing loans and bonds
    As of 31 December 2024, interest-bearing loans and bonds (excluding lease liabilities) were EUR 149.0 million (31 December 2023: EUR 143.5 million). Annual loan amortisation accounted for 1.5% of total debt outstanding. In July 2024, the Fund successfully signed the Meraki loan with Bigbank for a total amount of EUR 10.3 million. A major part of the loan was used to repay short term bonds in the amount of EUR 8.0 million maturing in July 2024. As of 31 December 2024, the Fund’s consolidated cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 10.1 million (31 December 2023: EUR 6.2 million).

    Cash flow
    Cash inflow from core operating activities in 2024 amounted to EUR 9.9 million (2023: cash inflow of EUR 11.4 million). Cash inflow from core operating activities decreased mainly due to the sale of Duetto and Domus Pro properties in H1 2023 and higher vacancies, mostly in S27 and Upmalas Biroji. Cash outflow from investing activities was EUR 7.0 million (2023: cash inflow of EUR 19.9 million) due to investments in existing properties and transaction costs. Cash inflow from financing activities was EUR 1.0 million (2023: cash outflow of EUR 30.5 million). In Q4 2024, the Fund prepaid loans in the amount of EUR 2.7 million and paid regular amortisation and interest on bank loans and bonds.

    Key earnings figures

    EUR ‘000 2024 2023 Change (%)
    Net rental income 11,588 14,617 (20.7%)
    Administrative expenses (2,373) (2,617) (9.3%)
    Net other operating income 18 44 (59.1%)
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (863) (4,047) (78.7%)
    Valuation gains (losses) on investment properties (15,581) (21,876) (28.8%)
    Operating profit (loss) (7,211) (13,879) (48.0%)
    Net financial expenses (10,344) (9,750) 6.1%
    Profit (loss) before tax (17,555) (23,629) (25.7%)
    Income tax 774 656 18.0%
    Net profit (loss) for the period (16,781) (22,973) (27.0%)
           
    Weighted average number of units outstanding (units) 126,303,633 119,635,429 5.6%
    Earnings per unit (EUR) (0.13) (0.19) (31.6%)

     

    Key financial position figures

    EUR ‘000 31.12.2024 31.12.2023 Change (%)
    Investment properties 241,158 250,385 (3.7%)
    Gross asset value (GAV) 256,048 261,138 (1.9%)
           
    Interest-bearing loans and bonds 148,989 143,487 3.8%
    Total liabilities 157,953 151,606 4.2%
           
    IFRS NAV 98,095 109,532 (10.4%)
    EPRA NRV 104,333 114,205 (8.6%)
           
    Number of units outstanding (units) 143,562,514 119,635,429 20.0%
    IFRS NAV per unit (EUR) 0.6833 0.9156 (25.4%)
    EPRA NRV per unit (EUR) 0.7267 0.9546 (23.9%)
           
    Loan-to-Value ratio (%) 61.8% 57.3% –
    Average effective interest rate (%) 6.7% 5.2% –

     

    Overview of the Fund’s investment properties as of 31 December 2024

    Property name Sector Fair value1 NLA Direct property yield Net initial yield Occupancy rate
    (EUR ‘000) (sq. m) 20242 20243
    Vilnius, Lithuania            
    Europa SC Retail 35,946 17,092 2.3% 2.8% 80.6%
    North Star Office 19,548 10,734 6.5% 7.0% 91.8%
    Meraki Office 16,3804 7,833 1.2% 1.5% 86.3%
    Total Vilnius   71,874 35,659 3.0% 3.6% 85.2%
    Riga, Latvia            
    Upmalas Biroji BC Office 19,224 11,203 3.7% 4.2% 64.1%
    Vainodes I Office 15,900 8,128 8.8% 8.8% 100.0%
    S27 Office 11,360 7,303 (0.6%) (0.9%) –
    Sky SC Retail 4,900 3,260 8.6% 8.5% 100.0%
    Galerija Centrs Retail 60,020 19,423 3.2% 4.1% 84.7%
    Total Riga   111,404 49,317 3.7% 4.5% 71.0%
    Tallinn, Estonia            
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Retail 21,800 9,232 3.7% 6.7% 100.0%
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Leisure 13,190 7,869 4.8% 4.3% 97.7%
    Lincona Office 13,100 10,767 6.4% 7.4% 88.5%
    Pirita SC Retail 9,790 5,425 6.7% 9.2% 97.1%
    Total Tallinn   57,880 33,293 4.9% 6.7% 95.3%
    Total active portfolio   241,158 118,269 3.8% 4.7% 82.1%
    1. Based on the latest valuation as of 31 December 2024 and recognised right-of-use assets.
    2. Direct property yield (DPY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the acquisition value and subsequent capital expenditure of the property.
    3. The net initial yield (NIY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the market value of the property.
    4. Meraki value measured at disposal price. Market value according to independent property valuators Newsec is EUR 17,490,000.

    Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income

    EUR ‘000 01.01.2024 01.01.2023
    – 31.12.2024 – 31.12.2023
    Rental income 15,136 17,743
    Service charge income 4,744 6,008
    Cost of rental activities (8,292) (9,134)
    Net rental income 11,588 14,617
         
    Administrative expenses (2,373) (2,617)
    Other operating income (expenses) 18 44
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (863) (4,047)
     Valuation losses on investment properties (15,581) (21,876)
    Operating profit (loss) (7,211) (13,879)
         
    Financial income 196 104
    Financial expenses (10,540) (9,854)
    Net financial expenses (10,344) (9,750)
         
    Profit (loss) before tax (17,555) (23,629)
    Income tax charge 774 656
    Profit (loss) for the period (16,781) (22,973)
         
    Other comprehensive income that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods  
    Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges (1,003) (1,273)
    Income tax relating to net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges 52 123
    Other comprehensive income (expense), net of tax, that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods (951) (1,150)
         
    Total comprehensive income (expense) for the period, net of tax (17,732) (24,123)
         
    Basic earnings per unit (EUR) (0.13) (0.19)
    Diluted earnings per unit (EUR) (0.12) –
             

    Consolidated statement of financial position

    EUR ‘000 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Non-current assets    
    Investment properties 241,158 250,385
    Intangible assets 4 11
    Property, plant and equipment 5 4
    Derivative financial instruments 1 295
    Other non-current assets 1,225 647
    Total non-current assets 242,393 251,342
         
    Current assets    
    Trade and other receivables 2,800 2,591
    Prepayments 802 402
    Derivative financial instruments – 621
    Cash and cash equivalents 10,053 6,182
    Total current assets 13,655 9,796
    Total assets 256,048 261,138
         
    Equity    
    Paid in capital 151,495 145,200
    Cash flow hedge reserve (420) 531
    Retained earnings (52,980) (36,199)
    Total equity 98,095 109,532
         
    Non-current liabilities    
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 98,491 64,158
    Deferred tax liabilities 1,898 2,774
    Other non-current liabilities 1,446 1,079
    Total non-current liabilities 101,835 68,011
         
    Current liabilities    
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 50,736 79,584
    Trade and other payables 4,473 3,343
    Income tax payable 14 6
    Other current liabilities 895 662
    Total current liabilities 56,118 83,595
    Total liabilities 157,953 151,606
    Total equity and liabilities 256,048 261,138

     

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    This announcement contains information that the Management Company is obliged to disclose pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the above distributors, at 22:00 EET on 31 March 2025.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Altamonte Springs Man Pleads Guilty To Stealing COVID Relief Funds

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Orlando, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Joshua Robinson (32, Texas) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Robinson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

    According to the plea agreement, between July 2020 and August 2021, Robinson devised a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by submitting false and fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications. Specifically, Robinson submitted an EIDL application and a PPP application for businesses that he knew he did not own. Robinson obtained $13,100 from the EIDL application and $19,133 from the PPP application. Robinson then fraudulently obtained forgiveness of his PPP loan. 

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General together with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by contacting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal and State Violent Crime Initiative in Oklahoma City Receives National Award

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    OKLAHOMA CITY – On March 27, 2025, the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program recognized a local joint law enforcement initiative with an award for “Investigation Involving a Violent Organization” at the National HIDTA Awards in Tysons Corner, Virginia.

    Last September, federal and local law enforcement combined forces in a two-month targeted initiative called “Operation Sonic Boom,” which was aimed at reducing violent crime in Oklahoma City.  The operation resulted in 50 people being charged in federal and state court with various firearms and drug-related offenses.  In addition to the arrests, law enforcement recovered from the streets:

    • 193 firearms, including:
      • 81 Pistols
      • 4 Revolvers
      • 10 Rifles
      • 6 Shotguns
      • 9 Machineguns, and
      • 83 Machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), including 30 partially completed MCDs
    • Two 3-D printers (used to print MCDs)
    • More than 63 kilograms of drugs, with an approximate street value of almost $750,000, including:
      • 53 kilograms of methamphetamine
      • 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl
      • 5.2 kilograms of cocaine, and
      • 3.8 kilograms of marijuana

    Operation Sonic Boom was led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Other critical partners included the U.S. Marshals Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotic and Dangerous Drugs, and the Texoma HIDTA. 

    “National recognition of this important initiative is yet another example of our commitment to promote public safety in the Western District of Oklahoma, and the ongoing, collaborative efforts by federal and state prosecutors and law enforcement at every level,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “The success of Operation Sonic Boom is the result of the dedicated and coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement to reducing violent crime in Oklahoma.”

    “I could not be prouder of the men and women who participated in Operation Sonic Boom for winning this prestigious National HIDTA Award. However, as they would each tell you, they did not do this for recognition or honors; they did it to help keep Oklahoma safer from violent criminals plaguing our streets,” said ATF Dallas Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “As I said in September, ATF, the United States Attorney’s Office, and HIDTA have doubled down in Oklahoma City. This award is merely the beginning of the work that is yet to be done. Bandits and gangsters beware; we are still here!”

    “The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program exists to build law enforcement partnerships and provide critical funding for important public safety efforts, and the successful outcome of Operation Sonic Boom is a clear example of the value of HIDTA,” said Keith Brown, Executive Director of the Texoma HIDTA.  “I am proud the Office of National Drug Control Policy is recognizing the incredible efforts of the ATF agents and other law enforcement personnel involved in Operation Sonic Boom.”

    Operation Sonic Boom was funded by the Texoma HIDTA, which is made up of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in North Texas and Oklahoma. HIDTA fosters and supports intra-agency cooperation strategies to target the region’s drug-related and violent crime threats to public safety by using funding provided by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, out of the Executive Office of the President of the United States. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Dover — Update: Police seek information regarding home invasion

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division continues to seek the public’s assistance in relation to a home invasion in West Dover.

    On December 13, at approximately 7:35 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of a home invasion on West Dover Rd.

    During the course of the investigation, a light-coloured vehicle of interest that was present at the time of the incident was identified.

    The investigation, led by the General Investigative Section of the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division, continues.

    Anyone with information about the vehicle or this incident is asked to contact police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File #: 24-169864

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Charged with Multiple Drug Charges Following Arrests at Local Nightclub

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Rimon Salim, 37, a naturalized citizen of the United States; Antuan Rhodes, 44, of Nashville, Tennessee; and Jorge Luis, 35, a citizen of Mexico without legal status in the United States, have been arrested and charged in three separate criminal complaints for their involvement in drug-related crimes at two Antioch, Tennessee, nightclubs, announced Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    “The extraordinary number of calls from citizens to police about these establishments justifies law enforcement efforts to hold these individuals accountable for their criminal activity,” said Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire. “Night clubs like these, where illegal activity is rampant, are a blight on our city and we will do what it takes to clean them up for the benefit of the community.”

    “This operation exemplifies the effectiveness of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies who have united to combat a drug trafficking operation,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to working with our partners to keep illegal drugs off our streets and holding those accountable for endangering our communities.”

    According to court documents, Salim owns and operates Miami Club and Paisanos bar and billar. Paisanos operates as a nightclub on the weekends from 6:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. When Paisanos closes, Miami Club opens next door as an “after-party nightclub” from 2:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.

    Between 2020 and 2024, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department has received over 400 calls for service from these clubs and nearby businesses. These calls have been for fights, weapons, shots fired, individuals suffering gunshot wounds, theft, disorderly conduct, and various other crimes.

    Approximately 18 months ago, law enforcement began investigating drug trafficking in these clubs. Undercover agents went inside the clubs and observed drug sales and drug usage. Law enforcement also used informants to purchase drugs from individuals in the nightclubs’ bathrooms. Specifically, between February 2024 and March 2025, Jorge Luis sold informants cocaine in Paisanos’ bathroom on multiple occasions. In addition, between August 2024 and March 2025, Salim, Rhodes, and others sold and provided informants methamphetamine and cocaine in Miami Club on multiple occasions.

    Salim is charged with maintaining a drug-involved premises and distributing controlled substances. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a $500,000 fine for maintaining a drug-involved premises. He faces up to life in federal prison and a $10,000,000 fine for distributing controlled substances.

    Luis and Rhodes are both charged with distributing controlled substances. They face up to 20 years in federal prison and a $1,000,000 fine for each count.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kissimmee Man Indicted For Receipt Of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Christian Harmon (38, Kissimmee) with receipt of child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Harmon faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. 

    According to court documents, on April 7, 2024, Harmon was chatting with another user on an internet-based application. During that chat, Harmon requested child sexual abuse material and received approximately 22 illicit videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as infants.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.          

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.

    This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. eliminates carbon tax

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The B.C. government is cancelling the carbon tax by introducing legislation to drop the rate to $0, effective Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

    “British Columbians are doing everything they can to reduce their emissions. But people shouldn’t have to choose between climate action and being able to afford their bills,” said Premier David Eby. “That’s why we are eliminating the consumer carbon tax, which has become divisive at a time we need to be united. We will help people with costs and fight climate change by ensuring big polluters continue to pay, encouraging industry to innovate and giving British Columbians affordable options to make sustainable choices.”

    The reduction of the tax to $0 is an immediate step to align B.C.’s carbon tax rate with the new federal carbon tax rate. The elimination of the carbon tax means people in British Columbia will no longer be required to pay the consumer carbon tax, taking approximately 17 cents per litre off the cost of fuel and approximately 15 cents per cubic metre for natural gas on their home heating bill.

    The climate action tax credit, developed to help offset the impacts of the consumer carbon tax on people and families, will also be cancelled. The final payment will be distributed in April 2025.

    “The carbon tax has been an important tool in B.C. for over a decade and half, but it has become too politically divisive and a distraction from the important issues we are tackling,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance. “While this is a significant shift for our province, we will offset the impact while focusing on growing the economy during these challenging economic times.”

    Cancelling the tax and the credit will have an estimated impact of $1.99 billion in the coming fiscal year. The Province will restructure programs funded by carbon tax revenue to minimize the impact on B.C.’s budget, while supporting people in British Columbia in achieving climate goals.

    The Province will continue to ensure big polluters pay through the B.C. output-based carbon pricing system. The system supports decarbonization efforts, incentivizing industry to lower their emissions to avoid paying the tax.

    “We remain committed to driving down emissions while making life more affordable,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “We are continuing to invest in practical solutions, such as home heat pump rebates for those who need them most and energy-efficiency upgrades, so people can lower their energy costs and reduce emissions without bearing an extra financial burden.”

    The Province has made notable progress in promoting the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, expanding public charging infrastructure, and enhancing energy efficiency in homes and buildings. These efforts contribute to emission reductions, support economic growth by creating jobs in clean-energy sectors and help lower energy costs for people in British Columbia.

    Quick Facts:

    • B.C.’s carbon tax will be eliminated the same day as the federal carbon pricing requirement.
    • Natural gas retailers will be required to provide credits or refunds to customers who were erroneously charged the carbon tax on or after April 1, 2025.
    • The average amount of carbon tax that would have been paid by families in B.C. is approximately $410 in 2025-26.

    Learn More:

    For more information about B.C. legislation, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/Legislation

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Top Regulated Crypto Cloud Mining Platform in 2025: SpeedHash Offers Free Bitcoin Mining with Daily Payouts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As inflation climbs and fiat currencies lose their purchasing power, more investors in 2025 are shifting toward decentralized assets like Bitcoin. While trading remains popular, a quieter yet highly scalable model is gaining traction: cloud mining. And among all options on the market, one name stands out—SpeedHash.

    Recognized as the most regulated crypto cloud mining platform in the industry, SpeedHash is offering something rare: a free start, daily BTC payouts, and operations powered by green energy. It’s not just mining—it’s passive income redefined.

    Cloud Mining, Without the Complexity

    In the past, mining Bitcoin meant expensive ASIC machines, tech knowledge, and massive power bills. But SpeedHash breaks that mold. Through a simple, user-friendly platform, even beginners can start earning Bitcoin without buying hardware or writing code.

    All you need to do is create an account, and you’ll receive $18 worth of free hashrate to begin mining right away. The system handles everything else—automation, optimization, and payouts.

    Even more impressive, SpeedHash operates entirely on renewable energy sources like wind and solar, making it one of the few platforms that balances profitability and sustainability.

    Why SpeedHash Leads the Pack in 2025

    • Start mining for free with $18 in bonus hashrate
    • Daily payouts directly to your crypto wallet
    • Licensed & regulated in the U.S., Kazakhstan, and Bhutan
    • Green-powered data centers using solar and wind energy
    • Enterprise-grade security with SSL encryption and cold wallets
    • 6% referral bonus program
    • No hardware required – 100% cloud-based and mobile-friendly

    Whether you’re a crypto newcomer or a seasoned investor, SpeedHash provides an efficient, transparent, and low-risk way to earn passive income in Bitcoin.

    2025 Cloud Mining Profit Plans at a Glance

    Investment (USD) Duration (Days) Daily ROI Daily Profit Total Return (USD)
    $200 1 2.5% $5 $205
    $800 2 2.7% $21.6 $843.2
    $1,800 3 3.0% $54 $1,962
    $5,500 1 3.2% $176 $5,676
    $10,000 2 3.5% $350 $10,700
    $18,000 2 3.7% $666 $19,332
    $24,000 3 4.2% $1,008 $27,024
    $40,000 5 4.5% $1,800 $49,000
    $68,000 5 5.2% $3,536 $85,536
    $138,000 3 8.2% $11,316 $171,348

    All returns are paid daily. Users can withdraw anytime or reinvest earnings to boost long-term yield.

    Cloud Mining as a Long-Term Wealth Strategy

    The beauty of SpeedHash’s mining model is its simplicity. You’re not trading coins or chasing market pumps—you’re earning BTC passively, like dividends. The platform takes care of everything: from mining optimization to daily balance updates.

    In SpeedHash’s global community, you’ll find users from all walks of life—students, retirees, digital nomads. Some earn a few dollars a day. Others reinvest earnings and scale up. All of them have one thing in common: they’re making their money work for them in the crypto economy.

    No Speculation, No Stress—Just Steady Crypto Income

    SpeedHash is not about hype. It’s about making Bitcoin mining accessible, compliant, and profitable for everyone. You don’t have to worry about price volatility or market timing. The platform’s fixed-rate mining contracts allow users to focus on returns, not risks.

    In a time when the crypto world is evolving beyond just buying and selling, cloud mining has become a smarter, quieter way to build long-term wealth.

    Final Thoughts: Crypto Mining for Everyone

    SpeedHash is rewriting the narrative around mining. No longer is it reserved for technical elites or big-budget operations. Today, with just a few clicks, anyone can join the Bitcoin economy and start generating real value—responsibly, securely, and with full regulatory backing.

    You don’t need to understand SHA-256.
     You don’t need to build a rig.
     You just need to start.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: WEEX Drives Global Strategy with Dubai Office and TOKEN2049 Spotlight

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, WEEX officially announced the opening of its international office in Dubai’s central financial district, joining top-tier exchanges like Bybit, OKX, and Bitget in establishing a physical presence in the region. As the most dynamic crypto hub in the Middle East, Dubai continues to attract leading platforms. WEEX has also seen rapid growth in global markets, driven by its ongoing advantages in trading security, product liquidity, and user experience.

    The WEEX Dubai international office now houses over 600 employees, making it one of the largest crypto exchange operations in the region. Andrew Weiner, Vice President of WEEX, said: “With WEEX’s rapid growth in the Middle East and global markets, we plan to expand our team further in Dubai over the next one to two years, adding 30 to 50 new hires to better support local operations and service deployment.” As WEEX continues to grow its user base, product offerings, and international influence, Dubai will serve as the central hub for the platform’s global expansion, driving localized operations and team-building efforts to enhance WEEX’s global strength and influence.

    As a global crypto trading platform founded in 2018, WEEX has already served over 6.2 million users across 130+ countries and regions. With a daily trading volume of over $5 billion, WEEX supports more than 1,700 trading pairs, including popular mainstream and emerging tokens. The platform offers spot and derivative trading with leverage up to 400x. Backed by strong liquidity and a precision trading matching system, WEEX also protects users’ assets with a 1,000 BTC Protection Fund. The platform’s innovative copy trading feature has attracted a significant number of professional traders and users, making it one of the most popular tools for precision trading today.

    Meanwhile, WEEX has partnered with global brand ambassador Michael Owen and five regional ambassadors to further promote the concept of Precision Trading. The platform is also launching the “Win With Michael Owen, Sign up & get up to $100 for Free” campaign. New users who register can receive up to $30,000 in USDT rewards and have a chance to win a signed football jersey by watching Michael Owen’s newly released brand video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRB-V2hMhuM

    As a legendary striker, Michael Owen is known for his precision, efficiency, and decisiveness on the field. This relentless pursuit of precision aligns perfectly with WEEX’s core philosophy of Precision Trading. Reflecting on how to make quick, accurate decisions under pressure, Michael Owen said: “I realized early on that being fully prepared for all possible outcomes is key to making the best decision in the moment. Otherwise, hesitation can cause opportunities to slip by.” This “instinctive decision-making,” built through years of practice and experience, helped him master risk management and timing, principles that align perfectly with WEEX’s approach to trading.

    Since the partnership, WEEX has continued refining its precision trading tools and deepening its market strategies, helping users improve decision-making efficiency and enhance risk control. Looking ahead, WEEX will continue to use its Dubai international office as the central hub of its global strategy, focusing on product development, localized services, and regulatory compliance. Through platforms like TOKEN2049, WEEX will further drive the adoption of Precision Trading across broader markets. Michael Owen and the global ambassador team will continue to collaborate with WEEX to help more investors navigate market volatility, capture opportunities, and unlock the full potential of the crypto industry.

    Disclaimer: WEEX does not currently conduct any virtual asset activities in the UAE and has not been licensed by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). WEEX will only engage in virtual asset activities in Dubai upon obtaining the necessary VARA license.

    Comtact:
    Regina O’Keefe
    market@weexglobal.com

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

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6e549160-8964-465f-992c-74b94bb9228f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft celebrates 50 years of employee giving program

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft celebrates 50 years of employee giving program

    Fifty years ago, Microsoft opened its doors and introduced us to a world of technology innovations that touch every part of our lives. We have grown from six buildings and Lake Bill in Redmond to offices in over 190 countries. Hundreds of thousands of people have shipped thousands of products that have made all of us more connected, efficient and innovative.

    Through all the growth, change, and technological progress, there is one common thread that ties our Microsoft employees and their communities together— Microsoft’s Give program. It’s fundamental to who we are as a company. It reflects our values and our commitment to helping every person and organization on the planet do more.

    In 2024, our contributions reached historic milestones, highlighting the shared benefits of our giving program for the nonprofits we support and for Microsoft and its employees, who tell us again and again they derive heartfelt value from our community connections. We’ve logged nearly 6 million volunteer hours and $1.3 billion in lifetime donations to Washington nonprofits.

    Giving is deeply ingrained in our culture

    It is an honor to celebrate the generosity of our employees who passionately give their time and money to support nonprofits they care about in the communities where they live and work.

    • In 2024, our employees worldwide volunteered 1.2 million hours and raised over $255 million to support 36,000 nonprofits around the world.
    • In our first full year of the Change Agent program—where employees volunteer their time to help nonprofits on their digital transformation journey—we had 1,200 employees line up to participate and the demand is growing.
    • Our employees, past and present, have donated over $3 billion since our first Give campaign and provided the equivalent of 1,277 years of volunteering to 36,000 organizations globally.

    Investing in our own backyard​

    Nowhere is this commitment to giving more evident than in Washington, our HQ state, where so many of our employees who live right here in the Puget Sound region are so deeply committed to making a difference. It shows in the numbers!

    • The total donations in 2024 to nonprofits in the state was $88 million, and over 460,000 hours of volunteer time. It’s the highest number of volunteer hours we’ve ever provided in Washington in a single year.
    • We supported 4,900 nonprofits in the state in 2024—another record.
    • Our lifetime giving in Washington state alone has surpassed $1.3 billion and Microsoft employees have logged 6 million volunteer hours.
    • The most inspiring statistic? 80% of our Washington state employees participated in our giving program – sharing their time and their personal resources.

    These numbers tell the story of impact, but it is the personal stories of our local changemakers and the nonprofits they support that tell the real story.

    What really matters

    The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is also celebrating a 50-year anniversary. What started as a regional cancer center has turned into a world-class biomedical research and clinical care institution. Microsoft and our employees have supported the critical work of Fred Hutch since the 1980s.

    Some employees have a very personal reason for their commitment to the organization. La Shanda Hurst lost her father to colon cancer when he was just 43 years old. Her support of the Hutch is rooted in her drive to make a difference. “My overall calling has to do with my life experience, losing my dad so early, and trying to drive impact.” For her, “I’m thinking about supporting causes and making an impact 365 days a year.”

    Her focus on results is echoed by many of our employees. They have shared that volunteering not only allows them to make a tangible difference in their communities but also fosters a strong sense of connection and purpose. One of our employees states the drive for impact beautifully when he said, “When my time is over on this planet, what will I say I really did to make an impact?”

    Committing to long-term impact

    Northwest Harvest is one of the country’s largest independent food banks, collecting and distributing food to more than 400 partner organizations across the state of Washington. It is also one of our top ten giving recipients—in both dollars and volunteer hours—year after year.

    Thomas Reynolds, CEO of Northwest Harvest, talks about the importance of the relationship, “The partnership with Microsoft means that there are literally thousands of people who take action on food justice issues here in Washington State. They provide financial support, their time, and their wisdom.”

    We often talk about the importance of scale. However, critical and complex issues like hunger and food security also require a long-term commitment to effect meaningful and lasting change. The continuity of our employees’ support provides a solid foundation to help the organization reach its goal of cutting hunger in half by 2028, and doing the same for the number of households struggling without enough food on the table.

    Investing in a future for everyone in the digital economy

    We believe economic growth and opportunity must reach every person, organization, community, and country. Even in a state like Washington, home to some of the largest and most influential companies globally, economic opportunities are not available to all.

    To help address the challenge, our Give program has supported the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS) since its inception in 2011. WSOS removes barriers to education and helps historically excluded students create a path to high-demand STEM, health care, and trade careers in Washington state. As a first-generation college student, Douglas Lepar, Microsoft Director of Operations Program Management, experienced the same challenges as WSOS scholars. He also brings years of experience and knowledge of working in the technology field, which he generously shares with scholars through the Skills that Shine mentor program. “I’ve been so impressed and humbled by the students I have seen who, thanks to this incredible program, have managed to juggle all those things while still thriving, growing, and engaging.”

    Looking forward

    I am both grateful and inspired when I look at how Microsoft employees give to create a positive and lasting social impact. There is a tremendous amount of change in the world today, placing significant pressure on nonprofits organizations worldwide. They are grappling with immensely complex situations and are being asked to respond to more crises than ever before. Our changemakers continue to step up as advocates, allies, funders, and volunteers. Their commitment gives me hope that we can rise to today’s challenges and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

    Tags: Give Campaign

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke welcomes EU proposals for cutting red tape and simplifying the obligations on business in relation to corporate sustainability

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    31st March 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has welcomed proposals by the European Commission to introduce significant changes to the requirements for companies to report on corporate sustainability matters. 

    The proposals by the Commission will remove approximately 80% of companies from the scope of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), focusing the sustainability reporting obligations on the largest companies which are more likely to have the biggest impacts on people and the environment. For large companies, who are the main category currently within the scope of the CSRD, the Omnibus proposal would restrict the application of the requirements to only those companies having 1,000 employees, as opposed to 250 employees under the current law. The proposed changes will also ensure that sustainability reporting requirements on large companies do not burden smaller companies in their value chains. Further, the “Stop the Clock” proposal would also postpone by two years the reporting requirements for companies currently within the scope of CSRD and which are required to report for the first time in 2026 or 2027. 

     Minister Burke will shortly be amending the existing Irish legislation governing CSRD to further clarify and reduce the scope of companies covered, with the Minister also focussed on quickly implementing the EU’s ‘Stop the Clock’ proposal together with the changes proposed by the wider Omnibus, once these are adopted at EU level, thereby delivering certainty for business at all levels in Ireland.

    The proposed amendments to the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which was due to come into effect by July 2026, will be postponed by a year and will significantly reduce the compliance requirements on effected businesses.  

    Minister Burke said:

    “While the core principle of the EU’s original corporate sustainability reporting regime was well-founded in the context of the EU’s Green Deal, the level of administrative burden associated with the original CSRD was excessive, both for large companies and especially for small and medium companies.

    I strongly support the simplification and burden reduction agenda that is being led by President von der Leyen at European level, to maximise the competitiveness of businesses in the EU in the evolving global trading environment. These proposed changes will of course significantly help enterprise in Ireland, and most of all our SMEs.

    I will be supporting the Commission’s proposed changes at EU level, and I will be advocating for them to be agreed at the earliest opportunity, to give business the legal certainty that it needs, and so that I can prioritise implementing the changes as soon as possible in Ireland.”

    Notes for Editors 

    The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (EU) 2022/2464 (CSRD) was the EU’s response to the global reframing of company reporting to include environmental, social and governance matters. It entered into force in January 2023 and arises from the European Green Deal and the EU Action Plan for Financing Sustainable Growth. The aim of the CSRD was to harmonise the EU rules for sustainability reporting by companies and to put this on the same footing as financial reporting, giving investors and other stakeholders access to information to assess investment risks arising from climate change and other sustainability issues. 

    The CSRD was transposed, on time, in Ireland on 5 July 2024 by S.I. No. 336/2024 – European Union (Corporate Sustainability Reporting) Regulations 2024. A small number of technical clarificatory amendments were required, and the Minister signed a short amending instrument on 1 October 2024, S.I. 498/2024.

    The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EU) 2024/1760 (CSDDD) places legal obligations on companies within scope to address the adverse environmental and human rights impacts arising from their operations. Companies must conduct risk-based human rights and environmental due diligence to identify actual or potential adverse impacts and prevent / mitigate / minimise the extent of such impacts. Companies are also required to adopt a climate transition plan. The Directive is currently due to be given effect at Member State level by July 2026.

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Law enforcement is attending to Eastern Cape rape cases

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, March 31, 2025

    The Ministry of Police has assured members of the public that law enforcement is actively investigating two incidences involving the rape of minors in the Eastern Cape.

    This comes after the Ministry has taken note of calls on various social media platforms regarding the tragic violation of the two minors in two separate incidences in October and November last year.

    In both incidences, the suspects have been identified and were arrested.

    In its statement on Saturday, the Ministry said it fully understands the concerns of the public and the urgency surrounding these cases. 

    In respect of the first case, a minor known as “Alu” was raped, with the perpetrator being identified as “Siphesihle.” 
    The suspect was arrested and appeared in court in November last year. 

    “The DNA report is being compiled and once done, same will be presented to the Senior State Prosecutor for a decision. In the second case, a minor from Bergview College in the Eastern Cape was raped, with three individuals, including the school Principal, identified as suspects,” said the Ministry.

    It added that all outstanding statements have since been obtained by the Investigating Officer and that DNA tests have also been conducted.

    The Senior State Prosecutor will be consulted in the course of the coming week whereafter, the family will be provided with feedback on the matter.

    “The Ministry wishes to assure the public that law enforcement is actively investigating both matters. The investigations are being handled with the utmost seriousness and priority. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is working diligently to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable.

    “While the Ministry acknowledges the public’s desire for swift action, it is essential to allow the investigation to follow due process in order to ensure fairness, thoroughness and justice,” said the Ministry. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USCIS Assists in Investigation of Postal Worker Found Guilty of Stealing Over $1.6 Million in Checks from the U.S. Mail and Lying to Obtain Citizenship

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Headline: USCIS Assists in Investigation of Postal Worker Found Guilty of Stealing Over $1.6 Million in Checks from the U.S. Mail and Lying to Obtain Citizenship

    U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services assisted in an investigation that resulted in a postal worker being found guilty by a federal jury on charges of mail theft and bank fraud that illegally netted him more than $1.6 million and lying to obtain U.S. citizenship.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Middlesex County Man Charged for Making False Statement About Terrorist Organization Association on U.S. Citizenship Application

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    NEWARK, N.J. – A federal grand jury in the District of New Jersey returned a two-count indictment against a New Jersey man for falsely stating on an application for naturalization that he had never been associated with a terrorist organization, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced. 

    Gafur Abdudzhamilovich Aliev, 44, of Edison, New Jersey, is charged with one count of making a false statement on an application for naturalization and one count of perjury. Aliev is scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor via videoconference. 

    According to the indictment, between in or around January 2018 and in or around January 2020, Aliev was a moderator and/or member of numerous channels on a social media application with encryption features that targeted members, associates, supporters, and potential recruits of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (“ISIS”).  On or about August 7, 2020, Aliev told Individual-1, in substance, that he previously sent money to ISIS for the purchase of weapons, and on or about August 16, 2020, Aliev additionally told Individual-1, in substance, that sending even a small amount of money ($100 to $400) to ISIS was “ok.”  On or about September 28, 2020, Aliev further told Individual-1, in substance, that those who commit jihad in the name of Allah should commit jihad financially and physically and that without financial support, jihad could not be performed, as money was needed to purchase equipment to conduct jihad.

    On or about December 26, 2020, Aliev, under penalty of perjury, falsely stated in his application for naturalization that he had never been a member of, or in any way associated with, a terrorist organization.

    The false statement on a naturalization application count carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  The perjury count carries a maximum potential penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    U.S. Attorney Giordano credited special agents of the FBI and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, deportation officers of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Field Office Director John Tsoukaris, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, and the Edison Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Bryan, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanks U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for its assistance with the case. 

    The government is represented by Joyce M. Malliet, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.

    The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                                          ###

    Defense counsel: Naz Ahmad, Esq.

                               Linda Foster, AFPD, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Wednesday, 2 April 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament 2

    24 Energy-intensive industries     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to the motion for a resolution Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 22 Guidelines for the 2026 budget – Section III
    Andrzej Halicki (A10-0042/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 28 Protocol on the Implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau (2024-2029) (Resolution)
    Eric Sargiacomo (A10-0040/2025)      – Amendments Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 18 Strengthening the security of identity cards of Union citizens and of residence documents issued to Union citizens and their family members exercising their right of free movement
    Malik Azmani (A10-0041/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 40 Implementation of the common foreign and security policy – annual report 2024
    David McAllister (A10-0010/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 39 Implementation of the common security and defence policy – annual report 2024
    Nicolás Pascual de la Parte (A10-0011/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 38 Human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter – annual report 2024
    Isabel Wiseler-Lima (A10-0012/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 49 Prosecution of journalists in Cameroon, notably the cases of Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior, Tsi Conrad     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 50 Execution spree in Iran and the confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 51 Immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament 2

    49 Prosecution of journalists in Cameroon, notably the cases of Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior, Tsi Conrad     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 50 Execution spree in Iran and the confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 51 Immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 20 Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 – Section I – European Parliament
    Matjaž Nemec     – Amendments Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00 47 Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security     – Motion for a resolution Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 14:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: SIRT Concludes Investigation into in Custody Death in Wilkie

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 31, 2025

    On December 6, 2023, the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) was notified of an in-custody death at the Wilkie RCMP Detachment. SIRT’s Civilian Executive Director accepted the notification as within SIRT’s mandate and directed SIRT to investigate. 

    SIRT has completed its investigation into this matter and the Civilian Executive Director’s public report can now be accessed online:

    publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/125884/formats/147330/download.

    SIRT’s mandate is to independently investigate incidents where an individual has died or suffered serious injury arising from the actions of on and off-duty police officers, or while in the custody of police, as well as allegations of sexual assault or interpersonal violence involving police.

    For additional information:
    SIRT Investigates Death at Wilkie RCMP Detachment | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Kerri Ward Davis 
    Justice and Attorney General
    Regina
    Phone: 306-787-8621
    Email: jumedia@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Suzy Appoints Brian Erickson as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Suzy, the leading end-to-end consumer insights platform, today announced the appointment of Brian Erickson as the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This newly created executive role reflects Suzy’s continued momentum and commitment to long-term, strategic growth.

    Brian brings over 25 years of financial and operational leadership experience, most recently serving as CFO of Transfix, a technology-enabled transportation marketplace, where he helped lead the company through a successful sale transaction. Prior to that, he held senior finance roles at DigitalOcean, guiding the company through profitable growth and its successful IPO. His earlier career includes key finance roles at Microsoft and Amazon, where he helped scale their cloud computing businesses.

    At Suzy, Brian will lead the company’s financial strategy with a focus on driving scalable, profitable growth while supporting the innovation and agility that have defined Suzy’s trajectory.

    “Brian’s track record of scaling disruptive tech companies is unmatched,” said Matt Britton, Founder and CEO of Suzy. “This marks a critical new chapter for Suzy as we continue to expand and mature as a business. Brian’s strategic leadership and financial discipline will play a key role in guiding our next phase of growth.”

    “I’m incredibly excited to join Suzy at such a pivotal moment,” said Brian Erickson. “The company’s clear mission, bold innovation, and incredible team are what drew me here. I look forward to building the financial foundation that will fuel Suzy’s continued success.”

    Brian holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from the University of Washington.

    About Suzy
    Founded in 2018, Suzy is changing the way research gets done by integrating quantitative analysis, qualitative analysis, conversational research and high quality audiences into a single connected platform. Suzy enables teams to conduct iterative, efficient research with agency-quality rigor at a fraction of the cost of traditional market research. Suzy has been recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Startup Employers in 2022, Inc. Magazine’s list of Best Workplaces of 2022 & 2023, Inc. Magazine’s Top 5000 list in 2024, GRIT’s Top 50 Most Innovative Supplier in Market Research and a Top 25 Innovator in 2024 by the Insights Association. Suzy has raised over $100 million in venture capital funding from investors that include Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments, Foundry Group, H.I.G. Capital, Rho Ventures, North Atlantic Capital, Tribeca Venture Partners, Triangle Peak Partners, and Kevin Durant’s 35 Ventures. Learn more at www.suzy.com.

    Contact Info:
    Melissa Dunn
    EVP, Marketing & Communications
    Suzy, Inc.
    917-969-8200
    melissa.dunn@suzy.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9554a722-c2cc-4ddc-b490-d5489d6535b4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alma íbúðafélag hf.: Stækkun skuldabréfaflokksins AL260128

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alma íbúðafélag hf. hefur lokið við stækkun á skuldabréfaflokknum AL260128 sem gefinn er út undir útgáfuramma félagsins.

    Skuldabréfaflokkurinn AL260128 er óverðtryggður á föstum vöxtum með einni afborgun höfuðstóls á lokagjalddaga. Flokkurinn er veðtryggður samkvæmt almennu tryggingafyrirkomulagi.

    Seld voru skuldabréf að nafnverði 1.380 m.kr. á ávöxtunarkröfunni 8,59% og verður heildarstærð flokksins því í kjölfar stækkunar 5.920 m.kr.

    Arctica Finance hf. hafði umsjón með sölu skuldabréfanna og töku þeirra til viðskipta.

    Greiðslu- og uppgjörsdagur er föstudagurinn 4. apríl 2025.

    Nánari upplýsingar veitir:

    Ingólfur Árni Gunnarsson, framkvæmdastjóri Ölmu íbúðafélags hf., í tölvupósti, ingolfur@al.is

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further investment in York’s city centre

    Source: City of York

    York’s historic city centre is set to be ready for the next, and future, millennia.

    With funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the council and its partners will reimagine the city centre and develop a ‘city centre spatial plan’ (known as Reimagining York Streets, to tell a new story about the city centre). 

    The plan will identify investment opportunities, development and improvements and will better connect the city centre with change taking place in different locations, such as Coney Street, York Central and the Minster Neighbourhood Plan.

    Reimagining York Streets will align with ‘Our City Centre vision’ which describes an ambitious future for the city centre, with residents and businesses at the heart of it. The vision for ‘a vibrant city centre, which a wide range of people want to spend time in across the day and night, will create the right conditions for responsive businesses to grow and adapt, for city living to develop, and for cultural and social activity to flourish’ will be become a reality through the Reimagining York Streets plan.

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture said:

    “We are incredibly proud of our city centre which is already recognised the world over, bucking trends across the country with more visitors and higher shop occupancy than the national and regional average.  York’s strong and vibrant independent business sector is at the heart of our local economy and this, together with the outstanding festivals and events and beautiful built heritage make the city centre a unique, and much loved, national treasure.

    We are determined to make the city centre the best place it can be for residents and businesses as well as the millions of visitors who are welcomed here every year.

    “This new plan, Reimagining York’s Streets, aims to bring economic benefits which will benefit everyone across the city with more skilled jobs, investment, travel and leisure opportunities.

    “In the coming months we will start in-depth engagement with residents, businesses and visitors to make sure the city centre is an even better place we can all be proud of, and we want to hear as many voices as possible!”

    David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

    “York’s city centre is the heart of our region’s economy, culture, and heritage.

    “I was pleased to support the Reimagining York Streets plan through the Mayoral Investment Fund, investing in the future and ensuring our city centre remains a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

    By working together with the community, we can shape a city centre that is not only beautiful and welcoming but also future-ready.”

    In October 2024 at the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Committee Meeting, £430k funding from the Mayoral Investment Fund was approved to develop a public realm improvement strategy for city centre public spaces, delivery strategy and identified pipeline of capital regeneration projects.

    An officer delegated decision has been made which will start work on developing this strategy. This will include a citywide engagement process to hear from a range of voices as to what they want from the public spaces in York city centre.

    Further announcements will be made in the coming months, including details of how everyone can have their say and help shape this plan.

    To keep up to date with developments, register for the council’s e-newsletter at www.york.gov.uk/EmailUpdates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Social factors help explain worse cardiovascular health among adults in rural vs. urban communities

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Monday, March 31, 2025

    NIH-funded study reveals variables, such as poverty and education, that may underpin higher rates of heart disease and its risk factors.
    What
    A research team funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) uncovered higher rates of heart disease and worse heart health affecting adults living in rural communities compared to urban areas and the factors that likely drive these differences. They found adults living in rural areas were more likely than those living in large cities to have heart disease (7% vs. 4%), high blood pressure (37% vs. 31%), high cholesterol (29% vs. 27%), obesity (41% vs. 30%), and diabetes (11% vs. 10%). Across all age groups, the differences in high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes were largest among adults ages 20–39 living in rural areas vs. cities.
    Investigators reviewed data from more than 27,000 adults who participated in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey to understand geographical differences in rates of heart disease and risk factors for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Since higher rates of heart disease among adults in rural areas compared to cities have been established, they also sought to understand factors driving these variations.
    They found that factors such as levels of income and education, having enough food to eat, and owning a home mostly explained the higher rates of people in rural areas who had high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Prior research has also shown how difficult circumstances, such as living in poverty, can affect cardiovascular health, including increasing inflammation in the body. Additionally, having access to healthcare, which is important for overall health, did not factor into these differences. Lifestyle risk factors for heart disease such as smoking and being less active also didn’t explain these differences, although adults living in rural areas were more likely to smoke and be less active.
    The researchers also found that rates of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease were largest in rural areas compared to cities in the South. Rates of obesity were higher across rural areas throughout the U.S., especially in the Northeast.
    More than 60 million U.S. adults live in rural communities, and heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death. In this study, 1 in 7 adults lived in rural areas (counties of less than 50,000 people), 1 in 2 lived in small or medium-sized cities (counties of 50,000 to less than 1 million people), and 1 in 3 lived in large cities (counties of 1 million or more).
    Identifying factors driving the higher burden of heart disease and risk factors in rural regions remains a critical research priority. The authors note that insights from their study could inform public health efforts and policies to support and improve the cardiovascular health of people — especially younger adults — living in rural areas.
    The study was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) grant R01HL174549.
    Who
    Sean Coady, M.A., Deputy Chief of the Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, NHLBI
    Study
    Liu M, Marinacci LX, Joynt Maddox KE, Wadhera, RK. Cardiovascular Health Among Rural and Urban US Adults—Healthcare, Lifestyle, and Social Factors. JAMA Cardiol. 2025; doi: 10.1001/jamacardio.2025.0538.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Stops Discriminatory Practices Targeting Jewish New Yorkers at Rockland County Car Wash

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her office has stopped Super 4 Seasons, a Rockland County car wash company, from running a discriminatory scam that targeted Jewish customers preparing for Passover. In the days leading up to Passover, many Jewish families clean their homes, cars, and other spaces to remove “chametz,” or leavened products. An Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation found that in the weeks leading up to the holiday, Super 4 Seasons advertised a “Passover Special” cleaning promotion, targeting Jewish customers, that cost more than three times the standard price for the same service. Attorney General James is requiring Super 4 Seasons to immediately stop promoting or offering any discriminatory car wash special and, if the company fails to do so, pay a $75,000 penalty.

    “Targeting Jewish New Yorkers with deceptive pricing around Passover is a clear act of religious discrimination and will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General James. “Every New Yorker, regardless of their faith, deserves to be treated fairly and equally. My office will not hesitate to hold businesses accountable when they exploit families’ religious observance.”

    The OAG opened an investigation into Super 4 Seasons in April 2024 after receiving several complaints that the car wash company was knowingly charging Jewish customers $169 for a service that was otherwise available for just $47. As part of the investigation, OAG conducted undercover testing, interviewed complainants, and reviewed thousands of the company’s sales entries. The OAG found that Super 4 Seasons had promoted similar Passover-specific services dating back to at least 2018 and that in the weeks leading up to Passover, Jewish customers had been routinely denied access to standard pricing and were falsely told that only the high-priced “Passover Packages” were available.

    The OAG investigation also found that Super 4 Seasons persistently posted promotional signs advertising that only “Passover Packages & Up” were available, falsely claiming that standard services were not offered ahead of Passover. When an OAG investigator dressed in traditional Orthodox Jewish clothing inquired about standard pricing, he was told the car wash is “not doing anything except shampoos and Passover cleanings right now.” The car wash employee even told the investigator, “We are doing this just for you guys.”

    However, when another OAG investigator who was not wearing Orthodox Jewish clothing asked Super 4 Seasons for the standard services, he was offered and sold standard-priced services. When he inquired about the promotion, an employee responded that it was “for Jews,” adding that they needed to pay more “because their cars are so dirty.” The OAG recovered sales records for this same period, confirming that regular services had in fact been provided throughout the holiday.

    As a result of the OAG’s investigation, Super 4 Seasons will immediately stop these discriminatory practices, and is barred from promoting or advertising car wash services that allude to special pricing for religious holidays. Super 4 Seasons is also prohibited from charging Jewish customers more than other customers for the same car wash services and is not allowed to change its pricing or limit available services in the two months leading up to and during Passover. If Super 4 Seasons fails to adhere to these terms, it will be required to pay a penalty of up to $75,000.

    Attorney General James recently issued a consumer alert urging Jewish communities to be cautious of illegal and discriminatory practices ahead of Passover. Attorney General James reminds New Yorkers to be vigilant against scams on essential Passover goods and services, including car washes, essential food items, matzah and kosher-for-Passover products, cleaning services, travel, and accommodations. Under New York law, it is illegal to discriminate against someone based on religion. Anyone who is aware of businesses using discriminatory practices or believes that they were charged more for services because of their religion, race, or background is encouraged to file a complaint online or call 1-800-771-7755.

    This matter was handled by Hate Crimes and Bias Prevention Section Chief Rick Sawyer, Assistant Attorney General Rachel Finn, and Assistant Attorney General in Charge of the Westchester Regional Office Andy Aujla, with assistance from Research Analyst Heather-Destiny Konan, under the supervision of Civil Rights Bureau Chief Sandra Park and Deputy Bureau Chief Travis England. The investigation was led by Investigators Liam Cassidy and Andy Rodriguez under the supervision of Supervising Investigator Cynthia Kane. The Investigations Bureau is led by Chief Oliver Pu-Folkes, the Civil Rights Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux, and the Westchester Regional Office is a part of the Division of Regional Affairs led by Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber. All are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Richmond Sexual Predator Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Moises Bojorquez, 29, of Richmond, Indiana, has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a child, distribution of child sexual abuse material, and possession of matter containing child sexual abuse material.

    According to court documents, Bojorquez sexually abused a one-year-old relative, who was in his care and custody.  Bojorquez forced the victim to perform oral sex on him on multiple occasions.  In several instances, Bojorquez live chatted the sexual abuse.  In other instances, Bojorquez recorded the sexual abuse and sent it to a woman via Telegram, an encrypted, cloud-based instant messaging service.

    Bojorquez and the woman engaged in a months-long conversation via Telegram in which they described their shared sexual interest in children.  Bojorquez also shared other child sex abuse material with the same woman via Telegram and with others via email.  Investigators located more than 1,000 images and videos on Bojorquez’s two cell phones, some of which depicted infants or toddlers engaged in sexually explicit conduct and sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.

    “No child should suffer sexual abuse,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This predator cruelly exploited an innocent child to satisfy his criminal sexual desires with other likeminded predators. Thanks to the efforts of law enforcement officers, this defendant will now spend 40 years in federal prison, where he cannot sexually abuse another child.”

    “This case is a sobering reminder of the depths of pravity some individuals will go to exploit the most innocent among us,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to identifying and bringing to justice those who prey on children. We will continue to use every available resource to protect the innocent and disrupt the networks that facilitate these horrific crimes.”

    “The Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force remains vigilant and committed to working with its local and federal partners to protect society’s most vulnerable to sexual exploitation: our children. Caretakers, parents, and others in positions of trust who fail in their duty to protect children but instead seek to sexually exploit them for their own selfish and devious reasons will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted,” said Christopher D. Cecil, Commander of Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

    Homeland Security Investigations and members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, including Indiana State Police, Richmond Police Department, and Plainfield Police Department, investigated this case, with assistance from the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith Wood and Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

    If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina Construction Company to Pay $191,070 to the United States to Resolve False Claims Allegations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Claims Relate to Fraudulent Disaster Recovery Services After Devastating 2016 Flooding in West Virginia

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced today that Thompson Construction Group Inc., of Sumter, South Carolina, has agreed to pay the United States $191,070 to resolve civil allegations that it violated the federal False Claims Act by submitting false claims for payment from federal disaster recovery grant funds and by falsely certifying that homes it had constructed were compliant with contract conditions. 

    On June 26, 2016, portions of central and southern West Virginia experienced extreme levels of rainfall, resulting in historic flooding over a vast swath of the region.  Flood waters rushing across West Virginia’s mountainous landscape damaged or swept away thousands of homes, businesses, bridges and other infrastructure, leaving thousands of West Virginia residents homeless and at least 23 dead. Following a presidential disaster declaration issued in response to the flooding, Congress appropriated funds for disaster recovery in West Virginia to be administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the form of Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds. These funds were made available to fund an array of recovery needs in West Virginia including housing rehabilitation and replacement for low income homeowners.

    Thompson was awarded a series of contracts to reconstruct homes that were damaged or destroyed during the catastrophic flood. Because future flooding and water intrusion was a concern, the contracts included specific requirements for water management including crawl space drainage systems and sump pumps to be installed in homes constructed in a flood plain. These requirements were detailed in pre-bid construction specifications and incorporated into the contracts awarded.

    Thompson completed construction of these homes and submitted invoices certifying compliance with the contract terms and was paid from federal CDBG-DR funds.  Investigators later learned, however, that crawl space drainage systems and sump pumps had not been installed as required, making Thompson’s claims and certifications false.

    The Settlement Agreement announced today requires Thompson to pay $95,535 in restitution and $95,535 in double damages pursuant to the False Claims Act.

    “Numerous West Virginia families devastated by the 2016 flooding relied on Thompson Construction, which received significant taxpayer dollars only to leave these families vulnerable to future flooding,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “I commend HUD-OIG and the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations for conducting the civil investigation, the Affirmative Civil Enforcement-Health Care Fraud Investigative Specialist Tyler E. Japhet in our office for assisting the investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Gregory P. Neil for securing this settlement.”

    “Thompson Construction Group’s actions diverted limited federal taxpayer resources that were intended to help victims rebuild homes that had been damaged by devastating floods and instead used that money to line their pockets.”  said Special Agent-in-Charge Shawn Rice with HUD-OIG. “HUD OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to working with our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and oversight partners to aggressively pursue individuals who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs.”

    “The Commission on Special Investigations is committed to investigating all matters involving the misappropriation and theft of public funds,” said Commission Director Rick Eplin. “Commission investigators spent many days in the field interviewing homeowners and contractors in this matter. In addition, they collected photographic evidence that clearly supported the allegations set forth. We are thankful for the support of our federal partners with HUD-OIG and the United States Attorney’s Office who made a successful resolution of this case possible.”

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

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