Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav inaugurates a day-long conclave – ‘Waste Recycling and Climate Change 2025’

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav inaugurates a day-long conclave – ‘Waste Recycling and Climate Change 2025’

    Industry-wide adoption of Circular Approaches is critical to driving Sustainable Growth and Resource Efficiency: Shri Bhupender Yadav

    Four Key Strategies for a Successful Circular Economy highlighted – Redesigning Products for Circularity; Investment in Advanced Recycling Technologies; Strengthening Supply Chain Collaboration; Consumer Awareness and Behavioral Change

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 3:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav today inaugurated a day-long conclave organized by the Recycling and Environment Industry Association of India (REIAI), on ‘Waste Recycling & Climate Change 2025’.

     

    Addressing the inaugural session, the Union Minister stated, “India generates around 62 million tonnes of waste annually, with plastic, electronic, and hazardous waste growing rapidly. The traditional linear economic model of take, make, and dispose is no longer sustainable. The increasing pressure on landfills, depletion of natural resources, and environmental damage from unchecked waste disposal require urgent action. The circular economy is not just an alternative; it is essential. It marks a fundamental shift in how we produce, consume, and manage materials”. A well-functioning circular economy not only conserves natural resources but also fosters industrial innovation, economic competitiveness, and job creation, he stated.

    Shri Yadav said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is shifting from waste management to harnessing the economic potential of recycling through waste to wealth initiative. “The circular economy has a major role in the future including reducing, reusing, and recycling at every stage, from product design to end-of-life management. Waste should not be treated as a burden but as a resource. Adopting sustainable practices is crucial for achieving economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and social security”, he added.

     

    The Minister further stated that by the year 2050 India’s circular economy is expected to have a market value of $2 trillion and create 10 million jobs. It a big opportunity for start-ups and new recycled product developers. It is important to align this growth with environmental sustainability, drawing inspiration from nature’s efficient recycling systems as nobody recycles like Nature, he added.

    Shri Yadav urged the recycling industry in the country to develop and adopt newer innovative technologies for reducing dependence on natural resources as well as cutting down imports of critical minerals needed for economic growth. “Adopting circular economy principles can bring tremendous economic benefits. This shift towards resource efficiency aligns seamlessly with our national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, enhancing the competitiveness of Indian industries in global markets”, the Minister added.

     

    The Minister informed that the Ministry has been instrumental in formulating policies and regulations, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks, that incentivize recyclers and integrate the informal sector into formal recycling systems. These initiatives aim to streamline waste management and promote eco-friendly production across industries. The Ministry has notified a number of market-based Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations, including those on e-waste, end-of-life vehicles, plastic packaging, waste tyres, waste batteries, used oil. The revenue earned by registered recyclers from sale of EPR certificates is additional profit earned over and above the profit generated from the sale of recycled product, he added.

    Shri Yadav said that the government has laid down the policies but Industry-wide adoption of circular approaches is critical to driving sustainable growth and resource efficiency. The Minister highlighted 4 key strategies in this direction:

    1. Redesigning Products for Circularity: Companies must move beyond single-use models and design products for recyclability. The integration of biodegradable, reusable, and modular components will help extend product life cycles and reduce waste.
    2. Investment in Advanced Recycling Technologies: Adoption of emerging technologies can transform waste management systems, thereby improving recovery rates.
    3. Strengthening Supply Chain Collaboration: Businesses need to collaborate across the value chain to optimize resource utilization, create closed-loop production systems, and build markets for secondary raw materials.
    4. Consumer Awareness and Behavioural Change: Circularity requires active consumer participation. Industries must invest in campaigns to engage consumers, incentivize recycling, and promote sustainable consumption behaviours.

     

    Dr Amandeep Garg, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Chairman, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said, “There is a huge gap and huge potential to work towards waste recycling system, as the role of recycling industry is important cut imports of various critical products needed for economic growth”. Corporate houses should lead the transition to a circular economy by incorporating recyclable designs, promoting sustainability in dealership operations, and enhancing consumer awareness, he added.

    The event witnessed the presence of Dr. Ashok Kumar, President, Recycling and Environment Industry Association of India and subject experts from the industry and about 200 delegates environmental scientists, waste management professionals and policymakers.

    Link to Union Minister’s Address: https://x.com/byadavbjp/status/1891738588506882540?t=DJBoZWZnfkxUliS4sdOkLw&s=08

     

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    VM/GS

    (Release ID: 2104349) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-Qatar Joint Business Forum held to Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India-Qatar Joint Business Forum held to Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    The Forum epitomised the strength of the India-Qatar relationship built on shared interests and mutual respect

    Economic collaboration for a shared future, promoting trade, energy security, technology, and sustainability formed the cornerstone of discussions

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    On the sidelines of the visit of H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Amir of Qatar to India from 17-18 February, Confederation of Indian Industry, in partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) organised the India-Qatar Joint Business Forum on 18th February 2025 in New Delhi. The Joint Business Forum was graced by Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India and H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, State of Qatar, who delivered keynote address at the Business Forum.

    Speaking in the Inaugural session of the Joint Business Forum, Union Minister, Shri Piyush Goyal reaffirmed India’s ambition to become a USD 30-35 trillion economy by 2047, in alignment with the Viksit Bharat vision. He emphasized that while India and Qatar share a long history of successful energy trade, the future of this partnership extends beyond hydrocarbons to cutting-edge sectors like AI, quantum computing, IoT, and semiconductors etc.

    He emphasized that as geopolitical dynamics shift and cybersecurity threats intensify, alongside the challenges of climate change, self-reliance i.e. Atmanirbharta has become a key priority. With each country possessing distinct competitive advantages, he stressed that India and Qatar are in a position to complement each other’s strengths and can be partners in driving innovation and shape the industries of tomorrow. As both nations embark on a transformational transition, this partnership will rest on the pillars of entrepreneurship, technology, and sustainability.

    He further highlighted India’s key reforms in reducing the cost of doing business and enhancing Ease of Doing Business (EoDB), positioning it as an oasis of credibility and consistency for global investors. Inviting Qatar to explore opportunities in India’s dynamic and resilient economy, he emphasized that India’s Vision 2047 and Qatar’s National Vision 2030 will shape a new era of strategic economic cooperation. He also suggested creating a Joint Working Group on sectors of mutual interest and further invited Qatari businesses to explore opportunities in GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tech-City).

    Speaking during the inaugural session, H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, State of Qatar echoed the sentiments and highlighted that the relationship between Qatar and India is not just a transaction, it is a tradition built on mutual respect, shared interests and a commitment to bolster economic cooperation. India-Qatar trade partnership has flourished with India becoming Qatar’s third largest trading partner. He further emphasized that Qatar remains a diverse, dynamic, and investor-friendly destination, warmly inviting Indian investors to explore the vast opportunities within Qatar’s economy and infrastructure.

    Shri Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State of Commerce and Industry, Government of India highlighted India’s dynamic economic growth and innovation-driven ecosystem. He emphasized that India has attracted USD 709 billion in FDI inflows over the last decade, supported by 40,000 compliance reforms. He also emphasised upon India’s leadership in innovation, with over 1,55,000 startups across various industries, ranging from space technology to agriculture.

    He further stated that India Stack is revolutionizing digital access, financial inclusion, and internet democratization. The Qatar National Bank (QNB) – National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) partnership will further enhance digital payments through QR Code-based UPI transactions. The Minister also highlighted the National Manufacturing Mission, which focuses on increasing industrial capability and delivering high-quality products. Additionally, he invited the Qatari delegation to participate in the upcoming Startup Mahakumbh in India, fostering deeper collaboration in the tech and innovation ecosystem.

    H.E. Dr. Ahmad Al-Sayed, Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, State of Qatar, highlighted that India and Qatar are well-positioned to navigate the evolving global trade landscape. He emphasized the importance of enhancing the collaboration between two countries beyond traditional energy sector to explore into emerging industries such as electric vehicles (EVs), manufacturing and other non-oil & gas sectors.

    To support global investors, Qatar has established the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)—a key initiative to attract businesses and facilitate private equity investments. He reiterated that Qatar stands as one of India’s strongest global partners, offering unparalleled access to international markets. Additionally, Qatar Science & Technology Park will serve as a foundation for research and development, while Media City in Qatar aims to attract top media companies, and Qatar Free Zone is designed to drive investment across key sectors.

    With India’s prowess in digitalisation, and Qatar’s ambitious plan for digital transformation, India is in a very unique position to provide technology and scale for digital transformation to Qatar. The discussions highlighted India’s position as a gateway to South Asia and Qatar’s role as a hub for the Middle East. There is high potential for collaboration between India and Qatar in high quality solar grid polysilicon manufacturing, among others, noted panelists.

    The India-Qatar Joint Business Forum convened business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore new avenues of collaboration in relevant sectors. With bilateral trade surpassing USD 15 billion in FY 2023-24, investment flows have increased—ranking among the top three GCC investors in India—but there remains significant untapped potential. To solidify this growing partnership, two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the event:

    • Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Qatar Business Association
    • Invest India and Invest Qatar

    These agreements aim to facilitate business cooperation, enhance investment flows, and foster long-term collaboration in strategic sectors of mutual interest.

    Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, emphasized that the India-Qatar business delegation will serve as a catalyst for stronger partnerships. He welcomed Qatar’s participation in Startup India Mahakumbh 2025, scheduled for April 3-5, 2025, which will serve as a landmark initiative fostering deeper startup collaborations and attracting Qatari investments into India’s technology and innovation ecosystem.

    Mr. Sanjiv Puri, President, CII, highlighted key areas for economic cooperation, including energy security, agriculture, the startup ecosystem, and skill development. He further emphasized Qatar’s crucial role in India’s energy landscape and stated that CII is committed to facilitating partnerships between Indian and Qatari entities as both nations plan their respective renewable energy goals.

    The event was also addressed by H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of Board of Directors, Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry and H.E. Sheikh Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani, Board Member of the Qatari Businessmen Association. The Business forum showcased three panel discussions on investments, logistics and advanced manufacturing and futuristic areas such as AI, innovation, sustainability, etc.

    The India-Qatar Business Forum reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of both nations to advancing trade, investment, and technology collaboration. As India and Qatar strengthen their economic ties, they are set to drive prosperity, innovation, and sustainable growth, unlocking a new chapter in their historic partnership.

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    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2104334) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Government Releases Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants for Rural Local Bodies in Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh

    Source: Government of India

    Union Government Releases Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants for Rural Local Bodies in Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh

    Punjab Gets over Rs. 225 Crores; Chhattisgarh over Rs. 244 crores & Uttarakhand receives over Rs. 93 Crores for strengthening Rural Governance

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 2:32PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Government has released Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants during Financial Year 2024–25 for Rural Local Bodies in Punjab, Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh. These grants provided to the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) / Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) play a crucial role in strengthening grassroot democracy.  For the Rural Local Bodies of Punjab, the 1st installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.225.1707 crores have been released. These funds are for eligible 13144 Gram Panchayats, eligible 146 Block Panchayats and all eligible 22 District Panchayats in the state. While the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants released during Financial Year 2024–25, for Rural Local Bodies in Chhattisgarh are, 2nd installment of Untied Grants of the Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.237.1393 crore along with the withheld amount of 1st installment of Untied Grants for Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.6.9714 crore. These funds are for 11548 eligible Gram Panchayats, all eligible 146 Block Panchayats and all eligible 27 Zila Panchayats of the State.  While for Rural Local Bodies in Uttarakhand, 1st installment of Untied Grants for the Financial Year 2024–25 amounting to Rs.93.9643 crore have been released. These funds are for eligible 7769 Gram Panchayats, all eligible 995 Block Panchayats and all eligible 13 Zila Panchayats of the State.  

    Government of India through Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation) recommends release of Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants to States for Rural Local Bodies which are then released by the Ministry of Finance. The allocated Grants are recommended and released in 2 installments in a Financial Year. The Untied Grants will be utilized by Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)/ Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) for location-specific felt needs, under the Twenty-Nine (29) Subjects enshrined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, except for salaries and other establishment costs. The Tied Grants can be used for the basic services of (a) sanitation and maintenance of ODF status, and this should include management and treatment of household waste, and human excreta and fecal sludge management in particular and (b) supply of drinking water, rainwater harvesting and water recycling.

    For more information, please click : https://panchayat.gov.in/document-category/release-order-of-finance-commission-grants-to-rlbs-issued-by-ministry-of-finance/

    ***

    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2104325) Visitor Counter : 37

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Programme Agreement Signed with Reliance New Energy Battery Limited for 10 GWh capacity under the PLI for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Programme Agreement Signed with Reliance New Energy Battery Limited for 10 GWh capacity under the PLI for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Scheme

    Out of 50 GWh capacity, 40 GWh cumulative capacity has been awarded under the scheme.

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 11:29AM by PIB Delhi

    In a major step forward for India’s advanced battery manufacturing sector, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI), Government of India, signed a Programme Agreement with Reliance New Energy Battery Limited (a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited) under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) on February 17, 2025. This agreement awards Reliance New Energy Battery Limited a 10 GWh ACC capacity, following a competitive global tender process and makes it eligible to receive incentives under India’s ₹ 18,100 crore PLI ACC scheme.

    This signing is another critical milestone in the implementation of the technology agnostic PLI Scheme on the “National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage,” approved by the Cabinet in May 2021 with a total outlay of Rs.18,100 crore aimed at achieving a total manufacturing capacity of 50 GWh. With this signing, a cumulative capacity of 40 GWh has been awarded to four selected beneficiary firms out of 50 GWh capacity. In the first round of bidding conducted in March 2022, three beneficiary firms were allocated a total capacity of 30 GWh, and the Programme Agreements for that round were signed in July 2022.

    During the ceremony, senior officials from MHI emphasized that the PLI ACC Scheme is designed to boost local value addition while ensuring that the cost of battery manufacturing in India remains globally competitive. The scheme allows the beneficiary firm the flexibility to adopt the most suitable technology and associated inputs for establishing state-of-the-art ACC manufacturing facilities, thereby supporting mainly the EV and renewable energy storage sectors.

    In tandem with the PLI ACC scheme, the Union Budget for FY2025-26 introduced several transformative measures aimed at accelerating domestic battery manufacturing and supporting the growth of the e-mobility ecosystem in the country. Notably, the Budget exempted 35 additional Capital Goods for EV battery manufacturing from Basic Customs Duty (BCD), a targeted initiative designed to boost the production of lithium-ion batteries within India. Moreover, its emphasis on reinforcing domestic manufacturing and promoting value addition, further underscores vision of establishing a robust, self-reliant advanced battery ecosystem.

    The Ministry of Heavy Industries remains committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation, fostering a robust domestic supply chain, and attracting significant Foreign Direct Investment—all crucial elements in advancing India’s strategic vision for sustainable development and self-reliance. This initiative of Government of India has acted as a catalyst for Indian cell manufacturers to setup cell manufacturing facilities. Apart from the PLI beneficiary, 10+ companies have already started setting up 100+ GWh additional capacity.

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    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2104281) Visitor Counter : 72

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Qatar future partnership to rest on the pillars of sustainability, technology and entrepreneurship and energy: Union Commerce and Industry Minister, Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India

    India Qatar future partnership to rest on the pillars of sustainability, technology and entrepreneurship and energy: Union Commerce and Industry Minister, Shri Piyush Goyal

    India today provides an oasis of stability, predictability and continuity:Minister Goyal

    MoU signed between Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

    MoU signed between Invest Qatar and Invest India

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 10:40AM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal highlighted that India-Qatar future partnership will rest on the pillars of  sustainability, technology and entrepreneurship and energy. This was stated by the Minister at the inaugural session of the India-Qatar Business Forum in New Delhi today. H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, State of Qatar was the Guest of Honour at the session.

    Shri Goyal noted that the partnership between the two countries rests on the foundation of trust, trade and tradition. The Minister added that the terms of trade are undergoing a change, evolving from energy trade to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, Internet of things (IOT), quantum conducting, semiconductors etc. The entire world is going through a major shift in the context of geopolitical tensions, climate change, cybersecurity threats and  focus on localisation around the world, he noted.

    The Minister stated that India and Qatar complement each other and can work together for prosperity and a better future. Shri Goyal added that together we are set for a transition in terms of trade, investments and highlighted the 2 MoUs signed between Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and another between Invest Qatar and Invest India. The Minister also announced the elevation of the Joint Working Group on trade and commerce to the Ministerial level.

    Shri Goyal quoted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, “Today be it major nations or global platforms, the confidence in India is stronger than ever before”, and urged the business leaders to work together with the same spirit and confidence. The Minister noted that India offers a vibrant economy, a rich demography with young population, reforms in every sphere of business, focus on ease of doing business and quality at the centrepiece of our industrial evolution. India today provides an oasis of stability, predictability and continuity, he added. Shri Goyal also invited companies from Qatar to be a part of India’s journey of growth in investments, manufacturing,renewable energy, expansion of smart cities and infrastructure development. Qatar Vision 2030 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 will  together define a much bigger and brighter future for the people of the two countries, concluded the Minister.

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    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2104278) Visitor Counter : 84

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s keynote address at Institutional Summit at Consensus Hong Kong 2025 (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the keynote address by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Institutional Summit at Consensus Hong Kong 2025 this morning (February 18):
     
    Tira (Managing Director of CoinDesk Events, Ms Tira Grey), Michael (Chairman of Consensus Hong Kong, Mr Michael Lau), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         It is my profound honour to join you today at Consensus Hong Kong 2025 – a landmark event that celebrates innovation, brings together global pioneers in blockchain, Web3, virtual assets, and artificial intelligence, and galvanises the forces driving the future of our financial ecosystem. I welcome you all to a market where vision meets policy, and where transformative ideas are nurtured under a forward-looking policy and regulatory framework.
     
         Today, Hong Kong stands poised on the threshold of a new chapter – one in which traditional finance and digital innovation integrate to create efficiency, transparency, and inclusive growth.
     
         It is no coincidence that Consensus Hong Kong 2025 is taking place in our vibrant city. The Government remains steadfast in our mission to foster an environment where innovation is underpinned by robust regulation, ensuring that our financial markets not only thrive on competitiveness but also maintain the highest standards of investor protection and market integrity.
     
         Today, I wish to share with you my vision for the future, one built upon three defining trends. The first is financial market innovation through tokenisation. Tokenisation is not merely a buzzword – it is a profoundly transformative development that holds the promise of reshaping traditional financial markets. By converting conventional financial instruments and physical assets into digital tokens, we are building bridges between traditional finance and the emerging digital economy. Our regulatory framework has laid a solid foundation for this evolution. Our securities regulator has proactively issued circulars to guide intermediaries engaging in tokenised securities-related activities and expectations for the tokenisation of SFC (Securities and Futures Commission)-authorised investment products.
     
         These measures have provided critical clarity to market participants and investors alike, fostering an environment of trust and informed innovation. We have witnessed encouraging developments that testify to our approach. Consider, for instance, the tokenisation of gold – where physical gold is integrated with blockchain technology to offer investors greater flexibility, fractional ownership, and enhanced security. Similarly, the emergence of tokenised money market funds shows how traditional liquidity management can benefit from digital innovations, enabling more efficient market making alongside expanded secondary market liquidity for institutional investors.
     
         An important initiative to foster tokenisation development is Project Ensemble, a sandbox launched by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This initiative is designed to experiment with the tokenisation of money enabling seamless interbank settlements. By exploring tokenisation across fixed income and investment funds, liquidity management, green and sustainable finance, and trade and supply chain finance, Project Ensemble exemplifies Hong Kong’s commitment to harnessing emerging technology to enhance financial market infrastructure. This experimental Sandbox not only embraces innovation but also ensures that the innovations are implemented with a clear focus on stability and investor protection.
     
         The second trend that will shape our future financial landscape is the integration of Web3 innovations into the real economy. In our ongoing efforts to narrow the gap between digital finance and everyday business operations, the Government has taken decisive steps to develop a regulatory regime for stablecoin issuers. We are actively engaging with the real economy – where businesses that support cross-border payments, international trade, and digital commerce are eager to solve longstanding issues such as high costs, delayed transfers, and the challenges posed by the sometimes unpredictable FX (foreign exchange) markets.
     
         In recognition of these challenges, the regulator has established a Sandbox to obtain feedback and provide clarity to entities interested in issuing fiat-referenced stablecoins. This Sandbox serves not only as an incubator for innovations but also as a platform that bridges industry needs with prudent regulation. We see promising potentials for stablecoins to streamline payment systems, fostering a more efficient and integrated financial landscape that benefits businesses and consumers alike.
     
         Furthermore, the application of tokenisation extends far beyond traditional financial instruments. Already, we observe its impact across various sectors. From financing EV (electric vehicle)-charging infrastructure through tokenised management fee, to facilitating more agile supply chain finance, our digital infrastructure is now robust enough to support longstanding economic practices, albeit with a modern twist. These developments illustrate how the convergence of digital technologies with real-world assets can unlock significant economic value and propel us into a new era of cross-sector collaboration.
     
         The third and perhaps most transformative trend is the integration of AI with blockchain and Web3 technologies. In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, AI represents not just an opportunity but a necessity to enhance our digital infrastructures. Decentralised AI platforms, built on blockchain principles, provide a promising avenue for ensuring data privacy, security, and collaborative innovation.
     
         Decentralised AI has the potential to revolutionise how we manage, train, and deploy machine learning models. By enabling secure data sharing across multiple stakeholders, we create a system in which AI models can be trained collaboratively using diversified databases. This collaborative approach ensures that the resulting models are not only more widely applicable but also benefit from the collective insights of multiple organisations. Moreover, an open-source philosophy in model development promotes transparency, accountability, and a shared economic vision in which the fruits of innovation are accessible to all.
     
         Recognising these immense opportunities, the Government has set forth a policy statement to foster responsible AI innovation in our financial markets. Last October, we issued a detailed statement outlining our vision for the responsible usage of AI, balancing innovation with the imperative for control, transparency, and fairness. In line with our policy, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has embarked on a collaborative initiative, making its InvestLM model available to the financial services industry. This programme offers both advisory and training services – providing options for on-premises deployment as well as application programming interfaces (APIs) and web interfaces that utilise the HKUST’s computing resources.
     
         The transformative trends of tokenisation, real economy adoption, and AI integration can only reach their full potential within a reliable and adaptable regulatory system. Our guiding principle – “same activities, same risks, same regulations” – underscores our commitment to fairness, consistency, and the highest standards of market protection.
     
         We are continuously reviewing and refining our regulatory regime to foster a complete ecosystem for virtual assets. By developing comprehensive frameworks that include virtual asset exchanges, stablecoin issuers, custodians, and over-the-counter trading activities, we pave the way for an interconnected value chain that will underpin Hong Kong’s financial markets.
     
         In closing, I invite all stakeholders here today – from seasoned financial experts to the visionary entrepreneurs shaping tomorrow’s digital economy – to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Consensus Hong Kong 2025 is more than just an event; it is a call to action. It is a recognition that our collective ingenuity, when harnessed under a principled regulatory framework, has the power to drive sustainable progress.
     
         I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Consensus event organisers, our trusted partners at Invest Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and every individual contributing to the success of this event. I wish you a productive and transformative gathering at Consensus Hong Kong 2025, and I look forward to witnessing the many innovations that will shape our shared future.
     
         Thank you.   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: HighPeak Energy, Inc. Announces Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HighPeak Energy, Inc. (“HighPeak” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: HPK) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.04 per share on its common stock to be paid March 25, 2025 to stockholders of record on March 3, 2025.

    About HighPeak Energy, Inc.

    HighPeak Energy, Inc. is a publicly traded independent crude oil and natural gas company, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional crude oil and natural gas reserves in the Midland Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit our website at www.highpeakenergy.com.

    Investor Contact:

    Ryan Hightower
    Vice President, Business Development
    817.850.9204
    rhightower@highpeakenergy.com

    Source: HighPeak Energy, Inc.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: AMMO, Inc. Announces Preferred Stock Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMMO, Inc. (Nasdaq: POWW, POWWP) (“AMMO” or the “Company”) the owner of GunBroker.com, the largest online marketplace serving the firearms and shooting sports industries, and a leading vertically integrated producer of high-performance ammunition and components, today announced that the holders of record of the Company’s 8.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”) as of the close of business on March 1, 2025 will receive a cash dividend equal to $0.546875 per Series A Preferred Stock share. The cash dividend will be paid on March 17, 2025.

    About AMMO, Inc.

    With its corporate offices headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, AMMO designs and manufactures products for a variety of aptitudes, including law enforcement, military, sport shooting and self-defense. The Company was founded in 2016 with a vision to change, innovate and invigorate the complacent munitions industry. AMMO promotes its own branded munitions, including its patented STREAK Visual Ammunition, /stelTH/™ subsonic munitions, and armor piercing rounds for military use. For more information, please visit: www.ammo-inc.com.

    About GunBroker.com

    GunBroker.com is the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting and related products. Aside from merchandise bearing its logo, GunBroker.com currently sells none of the items listed on its website. Third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com is an informative, secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, air guns, archery equipment, knives and swords, firearms accessories and hunting/shooting gear online. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. For more information, please visit: www.gunbroker.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This document contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including, but not limited to, any projections of earnings, revenue or other financial items; any statements of the plans, strategies, goals and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning proposed new products and services or developments thereof; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; any statements or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.

    Forward looking statements may include the words “may,” “could,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue,” “believe,” “expect” or “anticipate” or other similar words, or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements present our estimates and assumptions only as of the date of this report. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the dates on which they are made. We do not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that arise after the dates they are made. You should, however, consult further disclosures and risk factors we include in Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports filed on Form 8-K.

    Investor Contact:
    CoreIR
    Phone: (212) 655-0924
    IR@ammo-inc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Aktsiaselts Infortar Investor Webinar introducing the results of the Q4 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Infortar will organize a webinar for investors on 25 February 2025 at 12:00 (EET) in Estonian and at 14:00 (EET) in English to introduce the fourth quarter 2024 results. The webinar will be attended by the Chairman of the Board of Infortar Ain Hanschmidt, the Managing Director of Infortar Martti Talgre and Investor Relations Manager Kadri Laanvee.

    The webinar will be hosted on the Microsoft Teams platform. Please note that to participate, no prior registration is required, and no reminder of the webinar will be sent. You can either participate by joining from your web browser or via Microsoft Teams application. When using a smart device to join the webinar, you first need to download the Microsoft Teams application from either Play Store or App Store.

    Please join the webinar via the following links:

    25 February 2025 at 12:00 (EET) Estonian webinar

    25 February 2025 at 14:00 (EET) English webinar

    Questions can be sent to investor@infortar.ee before the webinar and via Teams Q/A during the event. The webinar will be recorded and will be available online for everyone on the company’s website at https://infortar.ee/en/reports.

    Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are maritime transport, energy and real estate. Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in Elenger Grupp and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 141,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, and other areas. A total of 110 companies belong to the Infortar group: 101 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Infortar employs 6,228 people.

    Additional information:

    Kadri Laanvee
    Investor Relations Manager
    Phone: +372 5156662
    e-mail: kadri.laanvee@infortar.ee
    www.infortar.ee/en/investor

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Diamondback Energy, Inc. Announces Midland Basin Acquisition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback” or “the Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement to acquire certain subsidiaries of Double Eagle IV Midco, LLC (“Double Eagle”) in exchange for approximately 6.9 million shares of Diamondback common stock and $3 billion of cash, subject to customary adjustments (the “Double Eagle Acquisition”). The cash portion of this transaction is expected to be funded through a combination of cash on hand, borrowings under the Company’s credit facility and/or proceeds from term loans and senior notes offerings.

    As part of this agreement, Diamondback and Double Eagle have also agreed to accelerate development on a portion of Diamondback’s non-core southern Midland Basin acreage. This acceleration is expected to bring forward Net Asset Value (“NAV”) to Diamondback by developing Diamondback’s lower quality acreage at a faster pace than current expectations. As a result, Diamondback expects significant Free Cash Flow growth in 2026 and beyond with minimal capital deployment through this accelerated development plan.

    Diamondback is also committing today to sell at least $1.5 billion of non-core assets to accelerate pro forma debt reduction in order to maintain its strong balance sheet. Diamondback expects to reduce net debt to $10 billion and, long term, maintain leverage of $6 billion to $8 billion.

    “Double Eagle is the most attractive asset remaining in the Midland Basin,” stated Travis Stice, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Diamondback. “With 407 locations adjacent to our core position, this largely undeveloped asset adds high-quality inventory that immediately competes for capital. Additionally, we see value uplift to our existing inventory as acreage overlap allows for meaningful lateral length extensions and infrastructure synergies. We look forward to seamlessly implementing our industry leading cost and operational structure on this differentiated asset.”

    Mr. Stice continued, “The Permian Basin continues to consolidate rapidly. We have worked tirelessly over the last thirteen years to position Diamondback to have the longest duration of high quality, low-breakeven inventory; a position we are solidifying with today’s announcement.  While we are adding a small amount of leverage to complete this trade, we are confident that we can quickly reduce debt both naturally through our consistent and growing Free Cash Flow and through our commitment to sell at least $1.5 billion of non-core assets.”

    Cody Campbell and John Sellers, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Double Eagle, commented, “We are excited to announce our agreement with Diamondback. We believe our team has built a truly standout asset that further increases Diamondback’s high-quality inventory. It was important to us that we maintain the stewardship of this asset going forward not only with a world-class Midland operator but also a group that shares our core values and understands the importance of community impact in West Texas.”

    Asset Highlights: Consolidated Scale in the Midland Basin

    • Approximately 40,000 net acres in the core of the Midland Basin
    • Estimated run-rate production of approximately 27 MBo/d (69% oil)
    • $200 million of capital expenditures anticipated in 2025 at current Midland Basin well costs of $555 to $605 per foot
    • Extends pro forma inventory life in the core of the Midland Basin
    • 68% of the asset is undeveloped with 407 estimated gross (342 net) horizontal locations in primary development targets with an average lateral length of approximately >11,000’
    • 44 gross upside locations primarily located in emerging zones

    Transaction Highlights

    • Valued at approximately 5.2x 2025 EBITDA
    • Enhances expected pro forma 2026 Free Cash Flow per share by 5%+
    • Immediately accretive to all relevant financial metrics including Cash Flow per share, Free Cash Flow per share and NAV per share

    Timing and Approvals

    Diamondback expects the transaction to close on April 1, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approval.

    Advisors

    TPH&Co, the energy business of Perella Weinberg Partners, is serving as financial advisor to Diamondback. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal advisor to Diamondback.

    RBC Capital Markets, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC are acting as financial advisors to Double Eagle. Vinson & Elkins LLP is acting as legal advisor to Double Eagle.

    About Diamondback

    Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, which involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding Diamondback’s: future performance; business strategy; future operations (including drilling plans and capital plans); estimates and projections of production, revenues, losses, costs, expenses, returns, cash flow, and financial position; reserve estimates and its ability to replace or increase reserves; anticipated benefits or other effects of strategic transactions (including the pending drop down transaction with Viper Energy, Inc., the Double Eagle Acquisition and other acquisitions or divestitures); and plans and objectives of management (including plans for future cash flow from operations) are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “model,” “outlook,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions (including the negative of such terms) as they relate to Diamondback are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Although Diamondback believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, they involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond Diamondback’s control. Accordingly, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and Diamondback’s actual outcomes could differ materially from what Diamondback has expressed in its forward-looking statements.

    Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include (but are not limited to) the following: changes in supply and demand levels for oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, and the resulting impact on the price for those commodities; the impact of public health crises, including epidemic or pandemic diseases and any related company or government policies or actions; actions taken by the members of OPEC+ and Russia affecting the production and pricing of oil, as well as other domestic and global political, economic, or diplomatic developments, including any impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war on the global energy markets and geopolitical stability; instability in the financial markets; trade wars; inflationary pressures; higher interest rates and their impact on the cost of capital; regional supply and demand factors, including delays, curtailment delays or interruptions of production, or governmental orders, rules or regulations that impose production limits; federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing, including the effect of existing and future laws and governmental regulations; physical and transition risks relating to climate change; those risks described in Item 1A of Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, and those risks disclosed in its subsequent filings on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, which can be obtained free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

    In light of these factors, the events anticipated by Diamondback’s forward-looking statements may not occur at the time anticipated or at all. Moreover, Diamondback operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. Diamondback cannot predict all risks, nor can it assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements it may make. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release or, if earlier, as of the date they were made. Diamondback does not intend to, and disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by applicable law.

    Diamondback Investor Contact:

    Adam Lawlis
    +1 432.221.7467
    alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More support announced for residents accessing education and training

    Source: City of Coventry

    Our Skills, Employment and Adult Education Service has announced the continuation of the SEGRO Employment Access Fund.

    The Fund helps support residents who need education or training to help them find work. 

    Following a successful pilot of the Fund in 2024, SEGRO has confirmed its continued support throughout 2025.

    There are several funding streams available to support learning through the Adult Education Budget via the West Midlands Combined Authority and the Education & Skills Funding Agency, but the SEGRO Employment Access Fund helps offer financial support to Coventry residents who are not eligible for this funding.

    To date, a wide range of learning opportunities have been accessed including:

    • English for Speakers of Other languages (ESOL)
    • English (Functional Skills qualification)
    • Caring for a Child
    • Mathematics
    • Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools

    The courses are provided by Coventry’s Adult Education Service across the city.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said:

    “The SEGRO Employment Access Fund is a fantastic lifeline for people who are seeking employment but might have a barrier in the way of them becoming employed.

    “The support from SEGRO is vital to helping us make further progress in removing barriers to education and skills for a wide range of Coventry residents.”

    SEGRO is the owner, developer and manager of SEGRO Park Coventry, and is a long-term investor in the area, The Fund forms part of its Coventry Community Investment Plan, a long-term commitment to support the communities around its development. The SEGRO Employment Access Fund, set up in partnership between SEGRO and Coventry City Council’s Skills, Employment & Adult Education Service has already supported 50 Coventry residents in accessing activities and training that they would have otherwise been ineligible for.  

    Dan Holford, Head of National Markets at SEGRO, said:

    “We are proud to support the continuation of the SEGRO Employment Access Fund, which is making a real difference in helping Coventry residents access education and training opportunities. As long-term investors, we are committed to building thriving communities and investing in skills and employment is a key priority for us. By working together with Coventry City Council, we can help remove barriers to learning and empower more people to achieve their potential.”

    Agnieskza, who attended an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course, said:

    “At first, I was scared to speak at work but now I’m trying more. I have more confidence. I think this course will help me find a better job. I was a shift manager at McDonalds in Poland and I would like to get a job in retail as my English language improves.”

    Sehresh, who attended a Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools, said

    “I had good experience; I had all the help I needed to finish this course. My tutor was very helpful and encouraging. My biggest achievement was I got a job straight after finishing my course”. 

    Anyone who would like to find out more about the courses available can find information on the Council website: www.coventrys.gov.uk/adulted

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Makes an Affirmative Injury Determination in the Second Sunset Review Concerning Cold-Rolled Stainless Steel from China and Korea

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    On February 18, 2025, the Trade Remedy Commission of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) made a determination that revocation of antidumping duty order on certain cold-rolled stainless-steel products from China and Korea would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of injury to the domestic industry.

    The subject products in this case are SUS 300 series flat-rolled products of stainless steel, cold-rolled (cold-reduced), whether in coils or sheets. They primarily encompass grades such as SUS301, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, and 321, along with other corresponding specifications. Since August 15, 2013, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) has imposed antidumping duties on these products from China and Korea. This was the second sunset review following the first conducted earlier.

    The conditions for continuing to impose antidumping duties in Sunset Review investigations were determined by the MOF and MOEA since the revocation of the antidumping duties would be likely to the continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury. The MOEA shall notify the MOF of the aforementioned determination of injury by the Trade Remedy Commission, and the MOF shall then decide whether to maintain the antidumping duty order.

    After March 18, 2025, a public version of the injury investigation report, in Chinese, will be available on the International Trade Administration’s website (https://www.trade.gov.tw/).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA – Update on Arbitration Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the announcement by IDEX Biometrics ASA (“IDEX”) on 28 January 2025 regarding the arbitration decision on 27 January 2025 on the dispute between IDEX and Zwipe AS (“Zwipe”), whereby the arbitrator held in favor of IDEX on all counts. The due date for payments by Zwipe was 14 days from the date of the arbitration decision.

    Following such due date, because of Zwipe’s financial situation, as communicated by Zwipe on Euronext Oslo Børs, IDEX has engaged in discussions with Zwipe about a payment plan for the arbitration award. However, such discussions effectively ended when Zwipe on 17 February 2025 announced that it will file for bankruptcy with the Oslo District Court.

    While Zwipe has paid the arbitration costs, Zwipe has made no payment to IDEX in compliance with the arbitration award.

    This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to MAR article 17 and section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange release was published by Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, on 18 February 2025 at 08:50 CET.

    For further information contact:
    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, +47 91800186
    Kristian Flaten, CFO, +47 95092322
    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

    Trademark Statement
    IDEX, IDEX Biometrics and the IDEX logo are trademarks owned by IDEX Biometrics ASA. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We invite you to participate in the qualifying round of the VI Finathlon Forum

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    From February 10 to March 15, 2025, registration and collection of scientific papers of students, postgraduates, young teachers on sustainable development, investments and financial risks under the age of 35 is underway to participate in the remote selection round of the VI Finathlon Forum – the International Scientific and Practical Conference of Young Scientists and Specialists in Sustainable Development, Investments and Financial Risks.

    Over the years, the Forum has become a platform that unites young professionals who focus their efforts on developing and solving problems of sustainable development, investments and financial risks in the economy of Russia and neighboring countries. A unique environment has been created for exchanging opinions, discussions, building cooperation, professional communications and personal development. Leading industry experts take part in the Forum.

    This year, the Forum will include more than 20 thematic sections, which will be attended by more than 400 students, young professionals and teachers from Russia and friendly countries. The works that pass the selection round will take part in the in-person final at the Conference, which will be held in Moscow on April 15, 2025. The finalists’ works will be published in the Forum’s electronic collection in the Russian Science Citation Index.

    The forum was organized by the Department of State Youth Policy and Educational Activities of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation with the support of the Bank of Russia, the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, the Ministry of Transport of Russia, and the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

    Details of the Forum program and registration form are available on the official Finathlon website.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 02/18/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025 – Nykredit Realkredit A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO SECTION 9(4) AND (5) AND SECTION 21(3) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 636 OF 15 MAY 2020

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    Publication of supplement concerning extension of offer period for Nykredit’s recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025

    18 February 2025

    Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025

    In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order1, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion.

    On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order.

    Today, Nykredit published a supplement (the “Supplement”) to the Offer Document, which extends the Offer Period for the Offer. The Supplement has been approved by the Danish FSA on 18 February 2025 in accordance with section 9(4) and section 9(5) of the Danish Takeover Order.

    Under the Offer document, the offer period is set to expire on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET) (the “Initial Offer Period”).

    With the Supplement, Nykredit extends the Initial Offer Period, such that the Offer will expire on 20 March 2025 at 23:59 (CET). Subsequently, any reference to the “Offer Period” in the Offer Document or other documents relating to the Offer will refer to the period commencing on the day of publication of the Offer Document on 8 January 2025 and ending on 20 March 2025 at 23:59 (the “Extended Offer Period”).

    The purpose of the extension is to provide Nykredit with more time to obtain the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority required to complete the Offer. The process to obtain such approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority is proceeding as planned.

    If the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority has not been granted by the expiry of the Extended Offer Period, Nykredit expects to extend the Extended Offer Period further.

    The extension of the Initial Offer Period entails that the expected completion of the Offer and settlement of the Offer Price to the Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have accepted the Offer will be extended correspondingly. Completion is subsequently expected to take place on 28 March 2025.

    At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 32.44 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank, and on 4 February 2025 Nykredit released an announcement to the effect that a preliminary compilation of the acceptances that Nykredit is aware of indicates that the 67 per cent acceptance limit of the Offer has been achieved. The final result of the Offer will be determined on expiry of the Offer Period and published in accordance with section 21(3) of the Danish Takeover Order.

    The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document as amended by the Supplement. The Offer Document and the Supplement are published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.dk/investor-relations/overtagelsestilbud.

    About Spar Nord Bank

    Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

    Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

    The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

    About Nykredit

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

    Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

    Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

    Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

    Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

    Questions and further information

    Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

    Nykredit Bank A/S

    Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

    Sundkrogsgade 25

    2150 Nordhavn
    Denmark

    Telephone: +45 7010 9000

    and

    Carnegie Investment Bank

    Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

    Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

    Overgaden Neden Vandet 9 B

    1414 Copenhagen K
    Denmark

    E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

    For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/.

    This announcement and the Offer Document (with Supplement) are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

    This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document (with Supplement) approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

    Restricted jurisdictions

    The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank Shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

    Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

    Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the Laws of such jurisdiction, including securities Laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

    Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this announcement, the Supplement or the Offer Document to Shareholders outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable Law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

    The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

    The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

    Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

    In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

    In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

    It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

    The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

    NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.


    1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Correction: Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025 – Nykredit Realkredit A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO SECTION 9(4) AND (5) AND SECTION 21(3) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 636 OF 15 MAY 2020

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    Publication of supplement concerning extension of offer period for Nykredit’s recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025

    18 February 2025

    Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 March 2025

    In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order1, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion.

    On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order.

    Today, Nykredit published a supplement (the “Supplement”) to the Offer Document, which extends the Offer Period for the Offer. The Supplement has been approved by the Danish FSA on 18 February 2025 in accordance with section 9(4) and section 9(5) of the Danish Takeover Order.

    Under the Offer document, the offer period is set to expire on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET) (the “Initial Offer Period”).

    With the Supplement, Nykredit extends the Initial Offer Period, such that the Offer will expire on 20 March 2025 at 23:59 (CET). Subsequently, any reference to the “Offer Period” in the Offer Document or other documents relating to the Offer will refer to the period commencing on the day of publication of the Offer Document on 8 January 2025 and ending on 20 March 2025 at 23:59 (the “Extended Offer Period”).

    The purpose of the extension is to provide Nykredit with more time to obtain the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority required to complete the Offer. The process to obtain such approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority is proceeding as planned.

    If the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority has not been granted by the expiry of the Extended Offer Period, Nykredit expects to extend the Extended Offer Period further.

    The extension of the Initial Offer Period entails that the expected completion of the Offer and settlement of the Offer Price to the Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have accepted the Offer will be extended correspondingly. Completion is subsequently expected to take place on 28 March 2025.

    At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 32.44 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank, and on 4 February 2025 Nykredit released an announcement to the effect that a preliminary compilation of the acceptances that Nykredit is aware of indicates that the 67 per cent acceptance limit of the Offer has been achieved. The final result of the Offer will be determined on expiry of the Offer Period and published in accordance with section 21(3) of the Danish Takeover Order.

    The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document as amended by the Supplement. The Offer Document and the Supplement are published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.dk/investor-relations/overtagelsestilbud.

    About Spar Nord Bank

    Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

    Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

    The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

    About Nykredit

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

    Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

    Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

    Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

    Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

    Questions and further information

    Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

    Nykredit Bank A/S

    Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

    Sundkrogsgade 25

    2150 Nordhavn
    Denmark

    Telephone: +45 7010 9000

    and

    Carnegie Investment Bank

    Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

    Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

    Overgaden Neden Vandet 9 B

    1414 Copenhagen K
    Denmark

    E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

    For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/.

    This announcement and the Offer Document (with Supplement) are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

    This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document (with Supplement) approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

    Restricted jurisdictions

    The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank Shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

    Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

    Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the Laws of such jurisdiction, including securities Laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

    Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this announcement, the Supplement or the Offer Document to Shareholders outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable Law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

    The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

    The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

    Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

    In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

    In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

    It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

    The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

    NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.


    1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trump has sent a message on trade: Time to scrap Kiwi tariffs

    Source: ACT Party

    Responding to President Trump’s announcement of a reciprocal tariff regime, ACT Finance spokesperson Todd Stephenson says:

    “ACT has previously argued to scrap our remaining tariffs. President Trump’s announcement makes this urgent.

    “New Zealand charges tariffs on imported products like clothing, makeup, biscuits, gardening tools, railway locomotives, and ambulances. Under Trump’s plan, these tariffs would be reflected in tariffs charged on our exports to the US – unless we choose to ditch the tariffs, in which case Trump’s reciprocal tariffs will be lifted.

    “It’s a no-brainer. By scrapping our remaining tariffs we can spare local exporters from the cost of a reciprocal American regime. At the same time, we’ll be cutting the cost of popular imported goods for Kiwi households and firms.

    “When two countries trade, both are better off. New Zealand has preached the gospel of free trade on the world stage since the 1980s, and it’s time to start practising what we preach.

    “It appears possible that Trump’s plan will impose a reciprocal tariff in response to our GST regime. This would impose a significant cost on companies exporting to the US. Abolishing our remaining tariffs would at least somewhat offset this cost.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI: Full-year 2024 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Media relations:
    Victoire Grux
    Tel.: +33 6 04 52 16 55
    victoire.grux@capgemini.com

    Investor relations:
    Vincent Biraud
    Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 87
    vincent.biraud@capgemini.com

    Full-year 2024 results

    • Revenues of €22,096 million in 2024, down -1.9%
    • Revenue growth at constant exchange rates* of -2.0% for the full year, and -1.1% in Q4
    • Bookings at €23.8 billion with a 1.08 book-to-bill
    • Stable operating margin*, at 13.3% of revenues
    • Net profit, Group share, up +0.5% and basic earnings per share up +1.2%
    • Organic free cash flow0F*of €1,961 million
    • Proposed dividend of €3.40 per share

    Paris, February 18, 2025 – The Board of Directors of Capgemini SE, chaired by Paul Hermelin, convened on February 17 in Paris to review and adopt the accounts1F1 of the Capgemini Group for the year-ended December 31, 2024.

    Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer of the Capgemini Group, said: “Our performance in the fourth quarter is in line with expectations. As anticipated, Manufacturing and France experienced strong headwinds, whereas we saw an improvement in Financial Services and Consumer Goods & Retail, as well as a robust Public Sector.

    The Group demonstrated strong resilience in 2024, maintaining its operating margin and free cash flow generation, thanks to the growth of its high value-added offerings as well as its ecosystem of leading technology partners.

    Client demand continues to be driven by efficiency, operational agility and cost-optimization programs which are driving traction for our Cloud and Data & AI services. The Group is recognized as a global leader in AI by market analysts, reflecting our continued investments. Generative AI supported strong bookings and accounted for around 5% of bookings in Q4. The acquisition of Syniti strengthens the Group’s data-driven digital transformation capabilities.

    Our clients keep showing a strong appetite for technology and recognize the value we bring as their trusted business and technology transformation partner. However, we remain cautious in this uncertain environment, notably around Manufacturing and Europe, and expect H1 2025 constant currency revenue growth to remain in the same range as in Q4 2024. We will continue to demonstrate in 2025 the strength of our positioning and the resilience of our operating model, with growth as a priority.”

    KEY FIGURES

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Change
    Revenues 22,522 22,096 -1.9%
    Operating margin* 2,991 2,934 -1.9%
    as a % of revenues 13.3% 13.3% 0pt
    Operating profit 2,346 2,356 +0.4%
    as a % of revenues 10.4% 10.7% +0.3pts
    Net profit (Group share) 1,663 1,671 +0.5%
    Basic earnings per share (€) 9.70 9.82 +1.2%
    Normalized earnings per share (€)* 12.44 12.23 -1.7%
    Organic free cash flow* 1,963 1,961 -€ 2m
    Net cash / (Net debt)* (2,047) (2,107)  

    In an environment that proved weaker than initially anticipated, Capgemini demonstrated in 2024 the resilience of its operating model and its leadership on AI and Generative AI. Clients focused on driving efficiency, prioritizing operational agility and cost optimization while discretionary spend remained soft. This environment has fueled a strong demand for transformation programs which translated into continued traction for Capgemini’s Cloud, Data & AI services as well as its innovative offerings, most notably in intelligent supply chain, digital core and generative AI projects. This is contributing to the continuous improvement of the portfolio mix toward innovation and enhanced client value creation.

    Capgemini reported revenues of €22,096 million in 2024, down -1.9% year-on-year. Constant currency growth* was -2.0%, at the top end of the outlook as revised in October 2024. Organic growth* (i.e., excluding the impact of currency fluctuations and changes in Group scope) was -2.4%. After bottoming out in Q1, revenue trends gradually improved through the year with a revenue decline limited to -1.1% at constant currency and -1.5% organically in Q4.

    With bookings of €23,821 million in 2024 and €6,806 million in Q4, the Group maintained a strong commercial momentum despite client decision cycles that remain long, achieving a solid book-to-bill of 1.08 for the year, and 1.22 in Q4. When compared to 2023 bookings, this represents, at constant exchange rates, a decrease of -0.5% for the year and an increase of +1.9% in Q4. Generative AI bookings amounted to close to 4% of Group bookings for the year and around 5% for Q4.

    The ongoing shift in Capgemini’s offerings portfolio towards higher value services, coupled with enhanced operational efficiency, generated a 50 basis points increase in gross margin to 27.4% of revenues, reflecting the resilience of its operating model. This enabled the Group to absorb the incremental investment in selling efforts aimed at driving future growth and offset the slight increase in G&A expenses.

    Consequently, the operating margin* was stable at 13.3% of revenues, or €2,934 million, in line with the operating margin target set for 2024.

    Other operating income and expenses was a net expense of €578 million, down €67 million year-on-year. This decrease is mainly attributable to lower restructuring charges, which decreased by €55 million.

    Capgemini’s operating profit was €2,356 million, or 10.7% of revenues, compared with €2,346 million, or 10.4% of revenues in 2023.

    Capgemini reported a net financial income of €13 million in 2024, compared to a net expense of €42 million in 2023, reflecting higher interest income.

    The income tax expense was €681 million, up from €626 million last year. This represents an increase in the effective tax rate from 27.2% in 2023 to 28.8% this year.

    Taking into account the share of profits of associates and non-controlling interests, the Group share in net profit rose by +0.5% year-on-year to €1,671 million. Basic earnings per share increased by +1.2% to €9.82. Normalized earnings per share* was €12.23, compared with €12.44 in 2023.

    Organic free cash flow* generation remained strong at €1,961 million, in line with the 2024 target and the previous year despite lower revenues.

    CAPITAL ALLOCATION & BALANCE SHEET

    In 2024, Capgemini actively redeployed close to €2.0 billion of capital, essentially funded by the organic free cash flow of the year. Capgemini invested €827 million in acquisitions. The Group also paid dividends of €580 million (€3.40 per share) to Capgemini SE shareholders and allocated €972 million to share buybacks: €498 million on its multiyear program and €474 million to neutralize the dilution of the 11th employee share ownership plan (ESOP). This ESOP plan, which proved highly successful and thus contributed to maintaining employee shareholding at around 8% of the share capital, led to a gross capital increase of €415 million.

    In October 2024, the Group also redeemed in full and at maturity its €600 million bond issued in April 2018.

    At December 31, 2024, the Group had cash, cash equivalents and cash management assets of €3.1 billion. After accounting for borrowings of €5.1 billion as well as for derivative instruments, Group net debt* is €2.1 billion, slightly up compared with €2.0 billion at December 31, 2023.

    The Board of Directors decided to recommend the payment of a dividend of €3.40 per share at the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025. The corresponding payout ratio is 35% of net profit (Group share), in line with the Group’s historical distribution policy.

    OPERATIONS BY REGION

    At constant exchange rates, revenues in North America (28% of Group revenues) decreased by -4.1% with improving trends in H2. The Financial Services, Consumer Goods & Retail and Telco, Media & Technology (TMT) sectors were the main drivers of improvement. In contrast, the Manufacturing and Public sectors slowed down in H2. The operating margin increased to 16.5%, from 15.6% in 2023.

    The United Kingdom and Ireland region (12% of Group revenues) remained resilient, posting a -1.0% decline in revenue primarily driven by the contraction of the Consumer Goods & Retail sector. The region’s return to growth in H2 was driven by the recovery in Financial Services and the continued strength in the Energy & Utilities sector. The operating margin reached 19.7% compared with 18.6% in 2023.

    France (20% of Group revenues) revenues decreased by -3.5%, in an environment that led to a visible degradation in H2. This evolution was mostly driven by the contraction of the Manufacturing sector. However, as in most regions, Financial Services visibly improved through the year. The operating margin contracted from 12.6% to 10.2%.

    In the Rest of Europe region (31% of Group revenues), revenues stood at +0.1% with solid Public and Energy & Utilities sectors and Financial Services returning to growth. The Manufacturing sector also negatively weighed on activity in the region. The operating margin was 12.0%, slightly up from 11.7% a year earlier.

    Finally, revenues in the Asia-Pacific and Latin America region (9% of Group revenues) were slightly down
    -0.3% driven by a slower Financial Services sector in Asia-Pacific. However, the Public Sector in Asia-Pacific and the Consumer Goods & Retail sector in Latin America, both enjoyed double-digit growth rates. The operating margin slightly improved to 12.4% compared with 12.2% the year before.

    OPERATIONS BY BUSINESS

    At constant exchange rates, Strategy & Transformation consulting services (9% of Group revenues) reported +3.2% growth in total revenues* in 2024. This continued momentum illustrates the strength of the Group’s positioning as a strategic partner to its clients.

    Applications & Technology services (62% of Group revenues and Capgemini’s core business) reported
    a -2.1% decrease in total revenues.

    Finally, Operations & Engineering services total revenues (29% of Group revenues) decreased -2.1%.

    OPERATIONS IN Q4 2024

    Q4 was the third consecutive quarter of gradual improvement in growth rate. As expected, the Financial Services and Consumer Goods & Retail sectors saw an acceleration and TMT returned to growth. This was offset by the slowdown in Manufacturing.

    Geographically, growth rates improved substantially in North America, but also the United Kingdom and Ireland, Asia-Pacific and Latin America, but slowed down visibly in France.

    Group revenues totaled €5,581 million in Q4 2024, a decline of -1.1% year-on-year at constant exchanges rate and -1.5% organically. This decline in revenue can be solely attributable to -6.1% slowdown in Manufacturing.

    At constant exchange rates, the decline in revenues in the North America region was limited to -1.6%, with the growth in Financial Services, Consumer Good & Retail and TMT, more than offset by the weakness in the Manufacturing and Energy & Utilities sectors. Revenues in the United Kingdom and Ireland region grew +1.5%, supported by the good performance of the Energy & Utilities and Manufacturing sectors and to a lesser extent the growth in Financial Services. In France, the weakness in the Manufacturing, Consumer Goods & Retail and Energy & Utilities sectors led the revenue to decline -5.8%. Revenues in the Rest of Europe region were stable (+0.1%), driven by robust activity in the Public, Energy & Utilities and Financial Services sectors that offset the decline in the Manufacturing sector. Finally, revenues in the Asia-Pacific and Latin America region grew by +4.6% supported by the visible recovery in the Financial Services and Consumer Goods & Retail sectors, more than offsetting the weak Manufacturing and Energy & Utilities sectors.

    HEADCOUNT

    At December 31, 2024, the Group’s total headcount stood at 341,100, slightly up by +0.2% year-on-year and +0.7% compared to the end of September 2024.

    The onshore workforce decreased by -1.1% at 144,200 employees, while the offshore workforce was up by +1.2% to 196,900 employees, i.e., 58% of the total headcount.

    ESG PERFORMANCE

    In 2024, Capgemini demonstrated continued leadership in corporate responsibility by making significant advancements aligned with its ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) policy and commitments.

    From an environmental standpoint, Capgemini set ambitious near-term (2030) and long-term (2040) carbon reduction targets in 2022, including a 90% reduction in all emissions (Scope 1, 2 and 3) by 2040 to reach its “net zero emissions” targets as validated by the SBTi (Science-Based Targets initiative). At the end of 2024, the Group had reduced its absolute emissions (Scope 1, 2 and 3) by 35% compared to 2019. Reflecting the commitment to 100% renewable electricity (RE100) by 2025, Capgemini’s scope 1 and 2 emissions have decreased by 93% since 2019. The share of renewable energy in the Group’s electricity consumption reached 98% last year up from 96% in 2023.

    In human capital development, Capgemini continued to invest in its talent in 2024. The average number of learning hours per employee trained reached 77 hours last year, significantly up notably with the expansion of the generative AI training program.

    The Group also made notable progress in gender balance, nearing its global objective of 40% by 2025. By the end of 2024, women comprised 39.7% of the total workforce, up by almost 1 point year-on-year and almost 7 points since 2019. The proportion of women among executive leadership positions globally reached 29.0%, up by almost 3 points year-on-year and more than 12 points since 2019.

    The scale of impact through digital inclusion initiatives also extended greatly in 2024. Overall, the Group’s various programs and partnerships with leading non-profit organizations benefited almost 3.2 million individuals in 2024.

    In recognition of this continued progress, the Group was confirmed as a constituent of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) Europe and maintained its position on the “A list” in the 2024 CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) assessment.

    OUTLOOK

    The Group’s financial targets for 2025 are:

    • Revenue growth of -2.0% to +2.0% at constant currency;
    • Operating margin of 13.3% to 13.5%;
    • Organic free cash flow of around €1.9 billion.

    CONFERENCE CALL

    Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer, accompanied by Nive Bhagat, Chief Financial Officer, will comment on this publication during a conference call in English to be held today at 8.00 a.m. Paris time (CET). You can follow this conference call live via webcast at the following link. A replay will also be available for a period of one year.

    All documents relating to this publication will be posted on the Capgemini investor website at https://investors.capgemini.com/en/.

    PROVISIONAL CALENDAR

    April 29, 2025        Q1 2025 revenues
    May 7, 2025        Shareholders’ meeting
    July 30, 2025        H1 2025 results
    October 28, 2025        Q3 2025 revenues

    The dividend payment schedule to be submitted to the Shareholders’ Meeting for approval would be:

    May 20, 2025        Ex-dividend date on Euronext Paris
    May 22, 2025        Payment of the dividend

    DISCLAIMER

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Such statements may include projections, estimates, assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and/or expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations and services and product development, as well as statements, regarding future performance or events. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “may”, “would”, “should” or the negatives of these terms and similar expressions. Although Capgemini’s management currently believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties (including, without limitation, risks identified in Capgemini’s Universal Registration Document available on Capgemini’s website), because they relate to future events and depend on future circumstances that may or may not occur and may be different from those anticipated, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Capgemini. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those expressed in, implied by or projected by forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not intended to and do not give any assurances or comfort as to future events or results. Other than as required by applicable law, Capgemini does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement.

    This press release does not contain or constitute an offer of securities for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in securities in France, the United States or any other jurisdiction.

    ABOUT CAPGEMINI

    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

    Get the Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    * *

    *

    APPENDIX3F2

    BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION

    • Strategy & Transformation includes all strategy, innovation and transformation consulting services.
    • Applications & Technology brings together “Application Services” and related activities and notably local technology services.
      • Operations & Engineering encompasses all other Group businesses. These comprise Business Services (including Business Process Outsourcing and transaction services), all Infrastructure and Cloud services, and R&D and Engineering services.

    DEFINITIONS

    Organic growth or like-for-like growth in revenues is the growth rate calculated at constant Group scope and exchange rates. The Group scope and exchange rates used are those for the reported period. Exchange rates for the reported period are also used to calculate growth at constant exchange rates.

    Reconciliation of growth rates Q1
    2024
    Q2
    2024
    Q3
    2024
    Q4
    2024
    FY
    2024
    Organic growth -3.6% -2.3% -2.1% -1.5% -2.4%
    Changes in Group scope +0.3 pts +0.4 pts +0.5 pts +0.4 pts +0.4 pts
    Growth at constant exchange rates -3.3% -1.9% -1.6% -1.1% -2.0%
    Exchange rate fluctuations -0.2 pts +0.4 pts -0.3 pts +0.5 pts +0.1 pts
    Reported growth -3.5% -1.5% -1.9% -0.6% -1.9%

    When determining activity trends by business and in accordance with internal operating performance measures, growth at constant exchange rates is calculated based on total revenues, i.e., before elimination of inter-business billing. The Group considers this to be more representative of activity levels by business. As its businesses change, an increasing number of contracts require a range of business expertise for delivery, leading to a rise in inter-business flows.

    Operating margin is one of the Group’s key performance indicators. It is defined as the difference between revenues and operating costs. It is calculated before “Other operating income and expenses” which include amortization of intangible assets recognized in business combinations, expenses relative to share-based compensation (including social security contributions and employer contributions) and employee share ownership plan, and non-recurring revenues and expenses, notably impairment of goodwill, negative goodwill, capital gains or losses on disposals of consolidated companies or businesses, restructuring costs incurred under a detailed formal plan approved by the Group’s management, the cost of acquiring and integrating companies acquired by the Group, including earn-outs comprising conditions of presence, and the effects of curtailments, settlements and transfers of defined benefit pension plans.

    Normalized net profit is equal to profit for the year (Group share) adjusted for the impact of items recognized in “Other operating income and expense”, net of tax calculated using the effective tax rate. Normalized earnings per share is computed like basic earnings per share, i.e., excluding dilution.

    Organic free cash flow is equal to cash flow from operations less acquisitions of property, plant, equipment and intangible assets (net of disposals) and repayments of lease liabilities, adjusted for cash out relating to the net interest cost.

    Net debt (or net cash) comprises (i) cash and cash equivalents, as presented in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (consisting of short-term investments and cash at bank) less bank overdrafts, and also including (ii) cash management assets (assets presented separately in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position due to their characteristics), less (iii) short- and long-term borrowings. Account is also taken of (iv) the impact of hedging instruments when these relate to borrowings, intercompany loans, and own shares.

    RESULTS BY REGION

      Revenues   Year-on-year growth   Operating margin rate
      2024
    (in millions of euros)
      reported at constant exchange rates   2023 2024
    North America 6,188   -4.2% -4.1%   15.6% 16.5%
    United Kingdom and Ireland 2,753   +1.6% -1.0%   18.6% 19.7%
    France 4,380   -3.5% -3.5%   12.6% 10.2%
    Rest of Europe 6,851   +0.2% +0.1%   11.7% 12.0%
    Asia-Pacific and Latin America 1,924   -2.6% -0.3%   12.2% 12.4%
    TOTAL 22,096   -1.9% -2.0%   13.3% 13.3%

    RESULTS BY BUSINESS

      Total revenues*   Year-on-year growth
      2024
    (% of Group revenues)
      At constant exchange rates in Total revenues* of the business
    Strategy & Transformation 9%   +3.2%
    Applications & Technology 62%   -2.1%
    Operations & Engineering 29%   -2.1%

    SUMMARY INCOME STATEMENT AND OPERATING MARGIN

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Change
    Revenues 22,522 22,096 -1.9%
    Operating expenses (19,531) (19,162)  
    Operating margin 2,991 2,934 -1.9%
    as a % of revenues 13.3% 13.3% 0bp
    Other operating income and expenses (645) (578)  
    Operating profit 2,346 2,356 +0.4%
    as a % of revenues 10.4% 10.7% +30bp
    Net financial expenses (42) 13  
    Income tax income/(expense) (626) (681)  
    Share of profit of associates and joint-ventures (10) (11)  
    (-) Non-controlling interests (5) (6)  
    Profit for the period, Group share 1,663 1,671 +0.5%

    NORMALIZED AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Change
    Average number of shares outstanding 171,350,138 170,201,409 -0.7%
    BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (in euros) 9.70 9.82 +1.2%
    Diluted average number of shares outstanding 177,396,346 176,375,256  
    DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (in euros) 9.37 9.47 +1.1%
           
    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Change
    Profit for the period, Group share 1,663 1,671 +0.5%
    Effective tax rate 27.2% 28.8%  
    (-) Other operating income and expenses, net of tax 469 412  
    Normalized profit for the period 2,132 2,083 -2.3%
    Average number of shares outstanding 171,350,138 170,201,409 -0.7%
    NORMALIZED EARNINGS PER SHARE (in euros) 12.44 12.23 -1.7%

    CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND ORGANIC FREE CASH FLOW

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024
    Net cash from operating activities 2,525 2,526
    Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, net of disposals (254) (310)
    Net interest cost (11) 37
    Repayments of lease liabilities (297) (292)
    ORGANIC FREE CASH FLOW 1,963 1,961
    Other cash flows from (used in) investing and financing activities (2,126) (2,788)
    Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (163) (827)
    Effect of exchange rate fluctuations (115) 97
    Opening cash and cash equivalents 3,795 3,517
    Closing cash and cash equivalents 3,517 2,787

    NET DEBT

    (in millions of euros) December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024
    Cash and cash equivalents 3,536 2,789
    Bank overdrafts (19) (2)
    Cash and cash equivalents 3,517 2,787
    Cash management assets 161 268
    Long-term borrowings (5,071) (4,281)
    Short-term borrowings and bank overdrafts (675) (863)
    (-) Bank overdrafts 19 2
    Borrowings, excluding bank overdrafts (5,727) (5,142)
    Derivative instruments 2 (20)
    NET CASH / (NET DEBT) (2,047) (2,107)

    ESG PERFORMANCE

      Objectives Key Performance Indicators 2019
    (baseline)
    2023 2024 Change vs. 2019 2025 Objective 2030 Objective (vs 2019)
    Environment Be carbon neutral for our own operations no later than 2025 and across our supply chain by 2030, and committed to becoming a net zero business by 2040 Scope 1 & 2 – Absolute emissions (ktCO₂e) 154.1 13.6 11.2 -93%   -80%
    Scope 3 – Employee commuting emissions per headcount (tCO₂e/head) 1.08 0.50 0.55 -49%   -55%
    Scope 3 – Business travel emissions per headcount (tCO₂e/head) 1.26 0.50 0.48 -62%   -55%
    Scope 3 – Purchased goods and services (ktCO₂e) 305.7 352.1 301.5 -1%   -50%
    Transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2025, and electric vehicles by 2030 % of electricity from renewables 28% 96% 98% +70pts 100%  
    Social Increase average learning hours per employee by 5% every year to ensure regular lifelong learning Average Completed Learning Hours per headcount trained during the reporting period 41.9 53.8 77.4 +85%    
    40% of women in our teams by 2025 % of women in the workforce 33.0% 38.8% 39.7% +6.7pts 40%  
    5m beneficiaries supported by our digital inclusion programs by 2030 Cumulated number of beneficiaries since 2018 29,012 4.4m 7.5m     5m
    Governance 30% of women in Group executive leadership positions in 2025 % of women in Group executive leadership positions 16.8% 26.2% 29.0% +12.2pts 30%  
    Maintain over 80% of the workforce with an Ethics score of 7-10 % of the headcount with an Ethics score of 7-10   86% 85%   >80% >80%
    Be recognized as a front leader in data protection and cybersecurity Cyber Rating agencies – CyberVadis score   958 977   940-950
    out of 1,000
    DPO certification   72% 76%   95%  

    Note: in the table above, 2024 data may include some estimates and some historical data points have been restated to ensure comparability.


    1 Audit procedures on the consolidated financial statements have been completed. The auditors are in the process of issuing their report.
    2 Note that in the appendix, certain totals may not equal the sum of amounts due to rounding adjustments.

    Attachments

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  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey Announces Holistic Technology Consolidation for Digital Trust Leadership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey Announces Holistic Technology Consolidation for Digital Trust Leadership

    Geneva, Switzerland, February 18, 2025 –WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, today announces the consolidation of its advanced technologies into a unified ecosystem, aiming to enhance security, interoperability, and innovation. This initiative integrates AI, quantum-resistant cryptography, blockchain, and IoT security to ensure holistic digital trust across industries.

    Specifically, WISeKey is integrating:

    • WISeID is advancing digital identity solutions by incorporating AI-driven behavioral and post-quantum cryptographic algorithms for enhanced authentication. The platform ensures secure and seamless identity verification for individuals, enterprises, and governments, leveraging blockchain and AI to offer a decentralized identity framework resistant to cyber threats.
    • SEALSQ (Nasdaq: LAES) is embedding quantum-resistant chips into WISeKey’s digital identity and IoT security solutions, fortifying data protection. The deployment of post-quantum cryptographic microcontrollers ensures long-term security against emerging quantum threats, positioning SEALSQ at the forefront of semiconductor innovation. Additionally, SEALSQ’s AI-driven predictive security mechanisms enhance threat intelligence, providing real-time responses to cyber vulnerabilities. SEALSQ Quantum Roadmap is designed to invest in quantum related companies expanding its quantum positioning
    • OISTE RootKey is expanding trust models through blockchain-based root-of-trust systems, reinforcing the Company’s role as a global trust anchor. This ensures that digital identities, transactions, and communications remain protected against unauthorized access and cyber fraud, enhancing the overall trustworthiness of WISeKey’s security architecture.
    • WISeSat is securing satellite-based communications with post-quantum cryptographic security, addressing the growing need for secure IoT communications. With an increasing number of IoT devices relying on satellite infrastructure, WISeSat integrates quantum-resistant key exchange mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches in remote and critical infrastructure applications.
    • WISeCoin is transforming blockchain-based financial transactions, ensuring fraud-proof, tokenized markets. The use of AI-driven fraud detection systems, coupled with secure digital identity and data verification, enhances the integrity of financial transactions, reducing risks associated with identity theft and cybercrime in digital finance.
    • SEALCOIN platform is designed to create a secure, decentralized platform for IoT, enabling real-time peer-to-peer transactions and data exchanges through the TIOT token. SEALCOIN platform empowers devices to operate independently and securely in a trusted ecosystem, driving innovation and efficiency.
    • WISeArt is pioneering AI and blockchain technology to authenticate and protect digital and physical art assets, mitigating risks of forgery and fraud. The platform ensures traceability and verification of ownership, allowing for secure art tokenization and digital rights management.
    • WISeAi.IO is the latest addition to WISeKey’s technology stack, revolutionizing AI-driven cybersecurity and identity protection. WISeAi.IO harnesses machine learning models to detect anomalies in real time, predict cyber threats, and automate security protocols. Integrated with WISeID, SEALSQ, and WISeSat, WISeAi.IO enhances cybersecurity resilience by identifying potential threats before they manifest, ensuring proactive security management across WISeKey’s ecosystem.

    WISeKey’s long-term strategy includes substantial investments in AI and Quantum Computing. AI-powered cybersecurity solutions are being developed to predict and prevent cyber threats, while quantum-resistant cryptography is safeguarding digital assets from future quantum computing risks. Self-sovereign digital identity solutions will integrate AI to enhance authentication mechanisms, and blockchain will ensure secure AI model verification to prevent manipulation and breaches.

    To accelerate technology adoption and market leadership, WISeKey has actively pursued strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Specifically, WISeKey has:

    1. Acquired AI-driven cybersecurity technology to enhance its predictive threat detection capabilities.
    2. Collaborated with quantum computing startups to strengthen its expertise in post-quantum security.
    3. Established joint ventures with space technology providers to expand secure satellite-based communications.
    4. Partnered with digital asset firms to enhance blockchain-based identity verification and create a robust, decentralized digital economy.

    Carlos Moreira, Founder and CEO of WISeKey, emphasizing the strategic importance of this consolidation, noted, “By unifying our technologies into a comprehensive digital trust ecosystem, WISeKey is reinforcing its position as a global leader in cybersecurity. The integration of AI, quantum computing, and blockchain ensures we are prepared for the challenges of the digital future. We are delivering future-ready solutions that protect individuals, enterprises, and governments worldwide.”

    SEALSQ, together with WISeKey, boasts a rich portfolio of over 46 patent families encompassing more than 100 fundamental individual patents https://www.sealsq.com/investors/news-releases/sealsq-expands-protection-of-luxury-and-valuable-assets-with-patented-advanced-digital-certification-and-nft-technology.

    For further information, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com 
    WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: CoinShares Announces Q4 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    18thFebruary 2024 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey | CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or “the Group”) (Nasdaq Stockholm: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), a leading global investment company specialising in digital assets, has today published its results for the quarter ending 31st December 2024.  

    Jean-Marie Mognetti, Chief Executive Officer of CoinShares said:

    “Q4 2024 was arguably the most transformative quarter in digital asset history, marked by groundbreaking policy shifts. It was also one of CoinShares’ strongest quarters since inception, with EBITDA reaching £33.6 million (£109.8 million year-to-date), a 37% increase from Q4 2023 and 116% year-on-year growth.

    Over the past three years, we have systematically built a strong foundation, establishing leading platforms in both Europe and the United States. With our infrastructure in place and market position stronger than ever, we are uniquely poised to seize this pivotal moment in digital assets.”

    Q4 2024 financial highlights

    • Q4 revenue, gains and other income of £48.3 million (Q4 2023: £31.6 million)
    • Q4 adjusted EBITDA of £33.6 million (Q4 2023: £24.5 million)
    • Total comprehensive income for Q4 2024 of £46.7 million (Q4 2023: £15.8 million)

    Full Year 2024 financial highlights

    • 2024 revenue, gains and other income of £126.8 million (2023: £76.3 million)
    • 2024 adjusted EBITDA of £109.8 million (2023: £50.9 million)
    • Total comprehensive income for 2024 of £107.5 million (2023: £38.4 million)

    Q4 2024 operational highlights

    • CoinShares’ Asset Management division achieved its strongest quarter to date, with the Physical platform seeing notable growth in Q4. Our Physical Staked Ethereum ETP led inflows with $75 million, while our Physical XRP ETP attracted $31 million in new investments. The CoinShares Physical platform’s total assets increased by 54% to $2.3 billion, with our Physical Bitcoin ETP becoming Europe’s largest. Despite outflows in our XBT platform, strong crypto price appreciation drove AuM up by 30% to $3.74 billion. In the U.S., our CoinShares-Valkyrie business line saw positive net flows of $19 million, led by WGMI with $52 million in inflows, amidst a broader U.S. market that saw $16 billion flow into crypto spot, futures, and equity ETPs. The Asset Management division generated £25.3 million in revenue for the quarter and £87.1 million in revenue for the full year 2024.
    • The Capital Markets and Hedge Fund Solutions division demonstrated robust performance across all business lines in Q4. Our trading team capitalized on market volatility, while liquidity provisioning saw materially higher flows than previous quarters. The lending book remained stable with a focus on credit quality, and staking activities generated consistent yields between 3-3.5%. Together with gains from our Bitcoin treasury position, the division delivered £21.2 million in Q4, bringing the full year 2024 revenue to £57.4 million.

    The performance for Q4 marks one of the Group’s strongest quarter ever and has contributed to 2024 being the second strongest year in the Group’s history after 2021. Full details of the Q4 results, inclusive of financial information on each of the Group’s business units, are included within the full report, available here.

    Proposed Dividend

    The Board of the Company today announces that, subject to finalisation of the Group audit, it has resolved to declare and pay in four equal instalments an annual dividend in relation to the financial year ending 31 December 2024 amounting to £20,000,000, to be paid from the Group’s reserves.

    The annual dividend payment will be made in four quarterly instalments via the Euroclear Sweden settlement system, subject to an assessment by the Board of the financial health and cash requirements of the Group prior to each payment being made. 

    ENDS 

    Download the Swedish Executive Summary here.

    The Annual Report for the Group, inclusive of full audited financials is due to be released on 30th April 2025. 

    ABOUT COINSHARES

    CoinShares is a leading global investment company specialising in digital assets, that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading and securities to a wide array of clients that includes corporations, financial institutions and individuals. Focusing on crypto since 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    This information is information that CoinShares International Limited is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014. The information in this press release has been published through the agency of the contact persons set out below, at 7:00 am CET on 18th February 2025.

    PRESS CONTACT

    CoinShares
    Benoît Pellevoizin
    bpellevoizin@coinshares.com

    M Group Strategic Communications
    Peter Padovano
    press@coinshares.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: African Union Summit: African Development Bank President Highlights a Decade of Economic Transformational Impact

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, delivered a compelling farewell address to Heads of State and Government at the 38th African Union Summit, highlighting a decade of remarkable achievements by the Bank in driving Africa’s economic transformation. Adesina’s participation at the august continental gathering in Addis Ababa ended on a high note as African leaders considered and endorsed four Bank-led initiatives including the drive to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030, measuring Africa’s green wealth as part of its GDP, a $20 billion facility to provide Africa with a financial buffer and a roadmap for the continent to achieve inclusive growth and rapid sustainable development.

    Adesina, who is also the Chairman of the Group’s Boards of Directors, underscored the impact of the Bank’s High 5s Agenda—Light up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa—which has impacted more than half a billion lives across the continent.

    “It has been an unprecedented partnership to advance the goal of the African Union towards achieving Agenda 2063: the Africa we want,” said Adesina who in February 2022, became the first president of the Bank Group to address the AU Summit.

    During the final day of the assembly, several African governments and AU officials paid tribute to Dr. Adesina for his exceptional leadership of the Bank and strong global advocacy for Africa, He ends his tenure as the Bank Group’s president on 1st September 2025.

    The February 15–16 Summit saw the election of Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as Chairperson of the African Union Commission, taking over from Moussa Faki Mahamat. Algeria’s Ambassador, Salma Malika Haddadi, was elected the Commission’s Deputy Chairperson.

    African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who is also the Chairman of the Group’s Boards of Directors, underscored the impact of the Bank’s operations, which have impacted more than half a billion lives over the past decade.

    Reflecting on his tenure at the helm of the African Development Bank, Dr. Adesina said the Bank has transformed 515 million lives, including 231 million women, over the past decade:

    • 127 million people gained access to better services in terms of health.
    • 61 million people gained access to clean water.
    • 33 million people benefited from improved sanitation.
    • 46 million people gained access to ICT services, and
    • 25 million people gained access to electricity.

    He cited the landmark Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania in January, where 48 nations signed the Dar Es Salaam Declaration to adopt bold policies in support of an initiative by the World Bank and the African Development Bank to extend electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030. That meeting, attended by 21 heads of state, secured $48 billion in commitments from the two institutions and an additional $7 billion from other development partners.

    The Addis Ababa Summit endorsed the Dar Es Salaam Energy Declaration, the Baku Declaration by African Heads of State on Measuring the Green Wealth of Africa. The Assembly also adopted the African Financing Stability Mechanism, a groundbreaking initiative by the African Development Bank to provide $20 billion in debt refinancing for African nations alongside  the Strategic Framework on Key Actions to Achieve Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa report which  outlines key actions required to enable Africa to achieve, and sustain an annual growth rate of at least 7% of GDP over the next five decades.

    African Heads of State and Government display copies of the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration at the closing session of the Africa Energy Summit, 28 January 2025.

    On food security, Adesina cited the Bank’s Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT), the Dakar 2 Food Summit that mobilized $72 billion in 2023, and the $1.5 billion Africa Emergency Food Production Facility that was launched in May 2022 to avert a major food and fertilizer crisis triggered by global conflicts.

    “The African Development Bank accelerated food production in Africa. Over 101 million people became food secure. We mobilized $72 billion to implement the food and agriculture delivery compacts across the continent,” he stressed. With the support of the Bank, Ethiopia has achieved self-sufficiency in wheat production within four years and is now a wheat-exporting nation.

    A Decade of Transformative Impact

    With a strong focus on job creation, the Bank has trained 1.7 million youth in digital skills and is rolling out Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks to drive youth-led economic growth. “Our goal is simple: create youth-based wealth across Africa,” Adesina reiterated.

    Additionally, the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative has provided $2.5 billion in financing to over 24,000 women-owned businesses, said Adesina.

    “The African Development Bank accelerated food production in Africa. Over 101 million people became food secure. We mobilized $72 billion to implement the food and agriculture delivery compacts across the continent,” said Dr. Adesina.

    Over the past decade, the African Development Bank has invested over $55 billion in infrastructure, making it the largest multilateral financier of African infrastructure.

    The Bank has also prioritized healthcare, committing $3 billion in quality healthcare infrastructure and another $3 billion for pharmaceutical development, including establishing the Africa Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation.

    Historic Financial Mobilization for Africa

    Under Adesina’s presidency, the Bank achieved its largest-ever capital increase, growing from $93 billion in 2015 to $318 billion currently. The most recent replenishment of the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional window, raised a record $8.9 billion for Africa’s 37 low-income countries, setting the stage for a target of $25 billion for its upcoming 17th replenishment.

    The Africa Investment Forum, a joint effort with eight other partner institutions, has also mobilized over $200 billion in investment commitments, reinforcing Africa as a leading investment destination.

    The Africa Investment Forum, a joint effort with eight other partner institutions, has mobilized over $200 billion in infrastructure investment commitments. (Picture: Africa Investment Forum Founding Partners and other officials during the Opening Session of the Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days, Rabat, 4 December 2024.)

    As he bade farewell, the outgoing Bank chief expressed gratitude to the African Heads of State, the African Union Commission, regional economic communities, and the people of Africa for their unwavering support.

    “As today will be my final attendance of the AU Summit as President of the African Development Bank, I would like to use this opportunity to immensely thank your Excellencies Heads of State and Government for your extraordinary support over the past ten years. I am very grateful for your always being there for the African Development Bank—your Bank. I am very grateful for your kindness, friendship, and partnership as we forged global alliances to advance the continent’s interest around the world,” he said. 

    The 2025 Summit under the theme, Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” drew global political leaders and other dignitaries, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated calls for reform of the international financial architecture.

    Guterres reiterated calls for reform of the international financial architecture, which is hampering the development of many African economies, beset by expensive debt repayments and high borrowing costs, which limits their capacity to invest in education, health and other essential needs.

    Prime Minister Mottley emphasized Africa’s strategic role in shaping global economic trends, particularly highlighting the continent’s control of 40% of the world’s minerals. She stressed the importance of addressing emerging challenges like artificial intelligence, urging African nations to take a proactive role in technological advancement rather than becoming “victims of technology.”

    She also underscored the urgency of removing artificial barriers between Africa and the Caribbean, calling for the elimination of transit visa requirements to boost trade and integration. Mottley echoed demands for reparatory justice, noting that both the Caribbean and Africa began their independence journey with “chronic deficits” in resources, fairness, and opportunity.

    Opening the Summit on Saturday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed urged continued unity among member countries in addressing the challenges.

    Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed urged continued unity in addressing Africa’s challenges

    “In a world marked by rapid change and multiple challenges, we find ourselves at the crossroads of uncertainty and opportunity. This movement calls upon us to strengthen our collective resolve, embrace resilience and foster unity across Africa”, he said.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reporting and monitoring – TEO-led WLN

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 18 February 2025
    Last updated 18 February 2025

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    This page provides information about tertiary education organisations’ (TEOs’) reporting on TEO-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (TEO-led WLN) delivery, and our monitoring of their performance.
    This page provides information about tertiary education organisations’ (TEOs’) reporting on TEO-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (TEO-led WLN) delivery, and our monitoring of their performance.

    For information about Employer-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (EWLN) reporting and monitoring, see Employer-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (EWLN) Fund.
    Reporting
    If you receive TEO-led WLN funding, you must submit:  

    a progress report for the period 1 January to 31 May no later than 10 working days after 31 May; and
    a progress report for the period 1 January to 30 September no later than 10 working days after 30 September; and
    a final report for the period 1 January to 31 December no later than 31 January of the following year. 

    Each progress report and the final report must:

    be submitted in accordance with the template that we will provide to you; and
    relate to the specific delivery commitments outlined in your Investment Plan.

    For details about the information we require you to report, please refer to Data requirements: Other Fund Actuals.
    Templates for the two progress reports and one final report are available for TEOs to complete and submit by the due dates on DXP Ngā Kete. 
    Monitoring
    We monitor TEO performance and practices to understand their performance in the sector, and to inform our decisions about future funding they may receive.
    We monitor a TEO’s:

    achievement of mix of provision (MoP) delivery commitments
    compliance with TEO-led WLN funding conditions for the relevant year
    compliance with legislative requirements, and
    achievement of other expectations that we communicate to TEOs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: How ‘Ne Zha 2’ becomes global box office sensation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    “Ne Zha 2,” the animated blockbuster that has dominated China’s box office, is igniting a global frenzy with its seamless fusion of traditional Chinese mythology and innovative animation storytelling.

    Children look at a poster for “Ne Zha 2” in a theater in Los Angeles County, the United States, Feb. 14, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua)

    The film was officially released in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea on Thursday and hit the big screen in North America the next day, sparking much demand. Additional releases are planned in other countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Egypt, South Africa, Pakistan, Japan and South Korea.

    On social media, #NeZha2 is trending, with fans calling it “visually stunning” and “emotionally powerful.” The film’s IMDb rating stands at 8.3 to date, reflecting its universal appeal.

    How did the animated movie, based on ancient Chinese mythology, become an international box office sensation?

    EXQUISITE ANIMATION PRODUCTION

    “Ne Zha 2” has captivated audiences with its state-of-the-art visual effects — an area once dominated by Hollywood productions.

    By leveraging advanced technologies, such as GPU rendering and artificial intelligence, the film achieves a level of visual sophistication that rivals that of Hollywood films.

    With around 2,000 special effects shots and 10,000 special effects elements, the film’s visual grandeur has blended with traditional Chinese aesthetics, like misty landscapes inspired by traditional ink paintings, creating a visually immersive experience that resonates globally.

    The film’s technical brilliance, as seen in breathtaking sequences, such as the climactic battle at Tianyuan Ding and the transformation of Ne Zha’s physical form, exemplifies the significant advancement of China’s animation industry through the marriage of artistry and technology.

    With contributions from 138 animation studios, “the film showcases the collaborative power of China’s creative ecosystem and heralds an upgrade in both the film industry and its aesthetic standards,” noted Chen Xuguang, director of the Institute of Film, Television and Theatre at Peking University.

    People pose for photos in front of the poster of the Chinese animated feature “Ne Zha 2” at IMAX Sydney in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Ma Ping)

    GLOBAL APPEAL

    Inspired by the 16th-century Chinese mythological novel, “The Investiture of the Gods,” “Ne Zha 2” portrays its protagonist as a rebellious boy-god blending contemporary themes of identity, resilience and social justice, a narrative that has struck a chord with global audiences.

    Emotional appeal is a critical factor. The film’s emotional core — family bonds, friendship, and societal marginalization — transcends cultural barriers. As one U.S. viewer noted, “Ne Zha’s struggle mirrors my own battles against prejudice.”

    Director Yang Yu, known as Jiaozi, has emphasized that the international success of Chinese cinema hinges on the intrinsic charm of the works themselves. “It’s about whether a script, a story and its characters can move audiences worldwide,” he said.

    “Ne Zha 2,” with its universal themes and emotional depth, is a compelling example of how Chinese cinema can achieve this.

    Robert King, a Hollywood producer, praised the film’s success in China and its cultural significance. He said “Ne Zha 2” could become a contender for international awards in multiple categories, including foreign film and animation. “This little rascal Ne Zha will resonate with Hollywood,” he said.

    This photo taken on Feb. 13, 2025 shows a projected poster for the Chinese fantasy feature “Ne Zha 2” at a shopping mall in Sydney, Australia. (Xinhua/Ma Ping)

    WIDE AUDIENCE SUPPORT

    The film, with English subtitles, has been well-received by overseas Chinese communities, whose overwhelming support — evidenced by positive social media comments and demands for more screenings — has been pivotal to its global momentum.

    For many overseas Chinese viewers, “Ne Zha 2” offers a sense of cultural pride and nostalgia, resonating deeply with their cultural identity.

    Angela Yu, from northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province and living in the U.S. for nearly 18 years, said the production was top-notch and the story captivated her every second, noting that “this is the best cure I’ve had in recent years.”

    A lady, who gave her surname as Lai, said that she was deeply moved by the film, crying and laughing while watching it.

    “Compared with the century-old Hollywood, Chinese films started late but have made rapid progress in recent years,” she said.

    It is clear that in many ways, “Ne Zha 2” is more than just a film; it’s a cultural milestone. Its success reflects the dynamism of China’s creative industries, the enduring appeal of its cultural heritage, and the potential for Chinese stories to captivate audiences all over the world.

    Having amassed over 10 billion yuan (about 1.39 billion U.S. dollars) in global total earnings, including presales, “Ne Zha 2” is the first film to gross 1 billion U.S. dollars in a single market and the first non-Hollywood title to join the coveted billion-dollar club.

    With domestic earnings projected to surge past 15 billion yuan, the film stands poised to become the highest-grossing animated movie of all time and one of the five top-grossing films globally.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp Partners with Digital Platformer to Strengthen Security in Digital Identity and Financial Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Trust Stamp and Digital Platformer unite to establish a strategic partnership, delivering an integrated solution that combines Trust Stamp’s advanced identity verification capabilities with Digital Platformer’s cutting-edge decentralized security solutions 

    This joint initiative aims to enhance financial security, identity authentication, and regulatory compliance across multiple industries, ensuring a seamless and privacy-first user experience

    Tokyo, Japan, Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp (Nasdaq: IDAI), the Privacy-First Identity Company™, and Digital Platformer, a leader in decentralized solutions, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on innovative technologies that enhance financial security, identity verification, and privacy protection, with the intention of the parties to enter into a definitive agreement for shared services.

    This planned strategic partnership introduces advanced solutions integrating biometric authentication with decentralized security frameworks, addressing key challenges such as cybersecurity threats, fraud prevention, and regulatory compliance, enhancing trust and efficiency across financial services, digital transactions, and data protection.

    As digital services evolve, organizations face increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity threats, growing concerns over data privacy, and the challenge of balancing security with usability. Traditional authentication methods—such as passwords and centralized credentials—remain vulnerable to breaches, while emerging alternatives like passkeys and device-based authentication can introduce risks related to device compromise, cloud syncing vulnerabilities, and unauthorized access. Additionally, fragmented identity verification processes create barriers to adoption, increasing operational friction and limiting growth opportunities.

    In response to these challenges, Trust Stamp and Digital Platformer aim to introduce a unified solution, leveraging advanced biometric authentication and decentralized technology to streamline onboarding, mitigate fraud risks, and ensure compliance across sectors like finance, healthcare, and government services. The combination of a privacy-first biometric identity verification together with secure authentication mechanisms, offers a forward-looking approach to identity authentication.

    Gareth Genner
    CEO, Trust Stamp
    “This partnership is built on a shared vision to redefine the standards of security and usability in the digital economy. By integrating our cutting-edge tokenized biometric authentication with Digital Platformers advanced solutions, we’re delivering a comprehensive and decentralized platform that not only enhances compliance, but also creates new opportunities for businesses navigating complex regulatory and technological environments.” 

    “The partnership leverages Secure Multiparty Computation (MPC) to securely manage biometric data and private keys in a decentralized manner, enabling rapid, secure, and privacy-focused authentication. By integrating Trust Stamp’s solutions with Digital Platformer’s advanced technology, businesses can enhance identity security and streamline digital services, enhance financial security, while ensuring seamless interoperability with existing platforms. This addresses the shortcomings of existing methods and ensures that only genuine users can access applications and accounts.”

    Ikkei Matsuda
    CEO, Digital Platformer
    “Our partnership with Trust Stamp marks a significant step toward redefining digital identity and financial security. At Digital Platformer, we leverage cutting-edge blockchain technology to establish trustless identity solutions that ensure authenticity, while adding trust to the secure ownership and transactions of digital assets. By integrating diverse services and advancing automated transactions, we foster autonomy in the flow of people, goods, and money, ultimately supporting the formation of a new economic ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide a more secure and efficient authentication and transaction environment across industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, expanding the potential of decentralized technologies.”

    “‘Digital identity authentication is undergoing a significant transformation. As users embrace biometric verification, the shift toward more secure and advanced solutions is accelerating. This collaboration revolutionizes identity and asset management, empowering various industries with secure, efficient interactions that enhance user satisfaction, address cybersecurity risks, and simplify regulatory compliance—all without compromising privacy. Trust Stamp and Digital Platformer are paving the way for a safer, more inclusive digital economy.” 

    Ajmir Safi
    Vice President, Trust Stamp Japan
    “As the digital landscape continues to evolve, security and privacy are more important than ever. Our partnership with Digital Platformer supports the growing need for stronger cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and seamless user experiences. This collaboration sets a new benchmark, and marks a significant step toward providing businesses and consumers with secure, efficient, and future-proof authentication solutions that protect against cyber threats while ensuring ease of use”

    Enquiries

    Trust Stamp                                                             Email: Asafi@truststamp.ai 
    Ajmir Safi

    Digital Platformer                                                   Email: contact@digitalplatformer.co.jp 
    Maki Tateno

    About Trust Stamp
    Trust Stamp the Privacy-First Identity CompanyTM, is a global provider of AI-powered identity services for use in multiple sectors, including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations with advanced biometric identity solutions that reduce fraud, protect personal data privacy, increase operational efficiency, and reach a broader base of users worldwide through its unique data transformation and comparison capabilities.
    Located in nine countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI). The company was founded in 2016 by Gareth Genner and Andrew Gowasack.

    About Digital Platformer
    Digital Platformer, founded in Tokyo in 2020, leverages one of Japan’s most advanced blockchain technologies to provide trustless identity (ID) solutions that ensure authenticity and add trust to the secure ownership and transactions of digital assets. By integrating diverse services and automating transactions, Digital Platformer fosters autonomy in the flow of people, goods, and money, supporting the formation of a new economic ecosystem.

    Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks
    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Firings of FAA Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    02.17.25
    Cantwell Statement on Firings of FAA Employees
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Sen. Maria Cantwell, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released the following statement about reports that FAA safety employees who have served less than one year at the agency, including to technicians working under FAA’s Air Traffic Organization, have been fired as part of the DOGE-led federal workforce cuts:
    “Now is not the time to fire technicians who fix and operate more than 74,000 safety-critical pieces of equipment like radars, navigational aids, and communications technology,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The FAA is already short 800 technicians and these firings inject unnecessary risk into the airspace — in the aftermath of four deadly crashes in the last month. The FAA’s safety workforce needs to be a priority for this Administration.”
    Last year, when Sen. Cantwell served as chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee’s Aviation Subcommittee highlighted FAA’s shortage of at least 800 airway transportation systems specialists – commonly known as technicians –  during a December 2024 hearing on “Air Traffic Control Systems, Personnel, and Safety”. Dave Spero, president of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), the union representing FAA technicians, testified about the importance of closing the shortage and boosting this segment of the FAA workforce in order to keep FAA’s air traffic control systems and equipment safely running. According to the FAA, over 4,000 talented technicians “install, operate, maintain, and repair more than 74,000 pieces of aviation safety equipment located across all of the United States and outlying U.S. territories.”
    During her tenure as chair, Sen. Cantwell sounded the alarm about the staffing shortage of air traffic controllers, need for more FAA safety inspectors, a series of aviation incidents and near-misses on and around runways, and the midair blowout of a door plug in January 2024.
    She led the passage of the FAA Reauthorization Act, signed into law in May 2024, which boosts controller staffing, ensuring a five-year commitment to maximum hiring and training to close the current staffing gap. The law requires upgraded safety technologies – giving controllers better visibility into runway traffic – to be installed at every large and medium airport nationwide. The law also includes stricter safety standards for aircraft operators and plane manufacturers, as well as provisions to boost staffing to put more FAA safety inspectors on factory floors.
    On Feb. 6, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy calling on him to ensure that Elon Musk stays out of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), citing Musk’s clear conflicts of interest.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ breaks into Top Three at Australia’s weekend box office

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Chinese animated film “Ne Zha 2” has entered the top three at Australia’s weekend box office in its debut, according to data from box office reporting company Numero on Monday.

    “Ne Zha 2” took the third spot with 2.35 million Australian dollars (1.50 million U.S. dollars) in the Weekend Total Box Office from Thursday through Sunday, the data showed.

    “Captain America: Brave New World” made it to the top spot, earning 5.31 million Australian dollars in its debut. “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” secured the second position with 4.45 million Australian dollars in opening weekend earnings.

    “Ne Zha 2” was screened in 91 cinemas in its opening weekend in Australia, the largest scale for a Chinese film in the local market in nearly two decades, David Duan, associate director of CMC Pictures, which is the distributor for the film’s overseas release, told Xinhua.

    Currently, in terms of per-screen earnings and occupancy rates, “Ne Zha 2” is outperforming “Captain America: Brave New World,” he said.

    “Ne Zha 2” is the sequel to the 2019 animated blockbuster “Ne Zha.” Both films were inspired by the 16th-century Chinese mythological novel “The Investiture of the Gods.”

    The Chinese animated blockbuster has surpassed Disney’s 2019 “The Lion King” to claim a spot among the 10 highest-grossing films of all time, with global earnings, including presales, exceeding 12.05 billion Chinese yuan (about 1.67 billion U.S. dollars), according to data from Chinese ticketing platform Maoyan as of Monday afternoon. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Meet Flary Finance: A New Unique Opportunity for High Potential Returns in the DeFi Revolution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Photo courtesy of Flary Finance

    ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following Donald Trump’s victory and his administration’s commitment to pro-crypto policies, investors are seeing growth and new opportunities in digital assets. Adding to the momentum, financial titan BlackRock has begun significant investments into crypto-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs), signaling strong potential in the future of digital currencies. While investors are flocking back to top assets, a new player offers substantial potential—Flary Finance.

    The idea behind Flary Finance is simple: combine the features of traditional Web2 lending services while taking advantage of Web3’s unique strengths of decentralization, security, and user autonomy. The result is a carefully crafted outlook on liquidity distribution across multiple blockchains that solves common pain points. It offers fresh solutions to enhance user experience that are accessible to all.

    Flary Finance bridges EVM and non-EVM solutions, allowing users to utilize their tokens across different blockchains without selling. Its intuitive interface caters to users of varying technical proficiencies, making DeFi navigation accessible even for newcomers.

    Flary Finance’s advanced lending and borrowing protocols also empower users to borrow funds while preserving their assets, turning crypto holdings into powerful instruments. With its competitive rates, users keep more of their earnings, with the ultimate cross-chain bridges making asset mobility between networks effortless.

    According to the words of a Crypto whale, these features result in a comprehensive user-centered DeFi experience, where seamless asset management, low fees, and high liquidity come together—all in one place.

    The same investor emphasizes that a good way to assess Flary Finance’s potential is to compare it to a similar DeFi platform, which has a fully diluted market cap of around $5.2 billion, while Flary Finance’s is only $9.92 million.

    The investor explains, “This difference offers a considerable advantage: if Flary reaches this similar DeFi platform’s market cap, early investors could see an impressive 524x return. Even if Flary only reaches half of the FDMC, that would still yield a substantial 262x potential return for early token holders!”

    With its balance of user-focused techniques and technology-driven features, Flary Finance is positioned to capture a large share of the market. As an ultimate aggregator in the DeFi market, the platform is a timely investment for exceptional growth, creating a unique opportunity for investors to join a growing project with significant long-term potential.

    About Flary Finance

    Flary Finance is a pioneering DeFi platform that integrates traditional lending features with blockchain technology, offering a user-friendly and decentralized financial ecosystem. It bridges both EVM and non-EVM solutions to provide a seamless experience across multiple blockchains. With its additional features, it empowers its users with advanced lending and borrowing protocols, competitive rates, and effortless cross-chain asset mobility.

    Details:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlaryFinance
    Telegram: https://t.me/+YJYY0sO_Vh9mMjBk
    Website: https://flary.finance
    Docs: https://flary-finance.gitbook.io

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/95cfd237-6181-439b-a65a-59e634bdee1c

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research Releases In-Depth Analysis on World Liberty Financial (WLFI) and Its Strategic Vision

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Victoria. Mahe, Seychelles, Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart Research, the research arm of BitMart Exchange, has released an extensive report on World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a DeFi initiative backed by members of the Trump family. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of WLFI’s financial strategy, political influence, and long-term investment potential, making it a must-read for investors, policymakers, and cryptocurrency enthusiasts.

    World Liberty Financial (WLFI) 

    I. Project Background

    1. Project Introduction

    WLFI is a DeFi project supported by the Trump family, the President of the United States, and officially launched in September 2022. Its core objective is to promote the widespread adoption of stablecoins, strengthen the dominance of the US dollar in the global financial system, and utilize cryptocurrency technology to fulfill the vision of “Make America Great Again.” WLFI is positioned as a DeFi lending platform, initially operating on the Ethereum network. It leverages mature DeFi protocols (such as Aave v3) to optimize user experience rather than launching entirely new financial tools. 

    On December 13, 2024, the World Liberty Financial community approved its first proposal and successfully deployed an instance of Aave v3. Although WLFI has made initial progress, many of its team co-founders are newcomers, and its long-term feasibility and innovation potential remain to be verified.

    On February 12, 2025, WLFI announced the launch of “Macro Strategy,” aimed at establishing strategic token reserves to support leading cryptocurrency projects such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. This strategy will help WLFI enhance stability, promote growth, and build trust, while collaborating with traditional financial institutions to advance tokenization of assets. WLFI is working with several financial institutions to incorporate their tokenized assets into reserves and provide transparency through public blockchain wallets. Additionally, WLFI will collaborate with partner institutions to conduct marketing and brand promotion activities, showcasing its leadership in financial innovation.

    2. Team Information

    Trump Family Roles

    • Donald J. Trump: Listed as the “Chief Cryptocurrency Advocate,” responsible for promoting the project but not deeply involved in technology or operations.
    • Eric Trump & Donald Trump Jr. & Barron Trump: Serve as “Web3 Ambassadors,” mainly responsible for promoting and publicizing the project.

    Core Co-Founders

    • Chase Herro and Zak Folkman: Both co-lead operations but have controversial backgrounds due to a lack of experience in the crypto industry. Chase Herro has been involved in cannabis sales and promoting controversial tokens; Zak Folkman founded a male dating coaching company.

    Witkoff Family

    • Real estate developer Steven Witkoff and his sons Zach and Alex are closely related to the Trump family. Steven donated $2 million to Trump’s campaign. After Trump’s victory, he was appointed as the Middle East envoy.

    Core Technical Personnel

    • Rich Teo: Head of stablecoins and payments, previously founded the exchange itBit and stablecoin company Paxos, currently serves as CEO of Paxos Asia. Rich is also an advisor for the SocialFi project RepubliK.
    • Corey Caplan: Head of technical strategy, co-founder of the DeFi platform Dolomite, responsible for integrating lending and trading functions.
    • Bogdan Purnavel: Chief Developer, previously worked on Dough Finance.

    Advisory Team

    • Alexei Dulub: Founder of Web3 Antivirus, blockchain security expert, participated in L1/L2 development since 2013.
    • Sandy Peng: Co-founder of Ethereum Layer 2 network Scroll, provides scaling technology support.
    • Justin Sun : As a strategic advisor and largest investor (invested $75 million), promotes ecological cooperation with TRON.

    Source: WLFI official website

    II. Funding Sources and Token Utilization
    WLFI’s funding comes from token sales, raising a total of $455 million as of February 9 (Source: WLFI official website). Of this, the first public sale of 21.3 billion tokens was sold out at $0.015 per token, raising $319 million. In the second public sale, the price was increased to $0.05 per token, raising $136 million by February 7. Currently, WLFI’s total value of purchased crypto assets is estimated at approximately $325.8 million, including important projects like ETH, WBTC, DeFi, and RWA. However, it should be noted that this project does not operate like a fund raising money through WLFI tokens to purchase mainstream project tokens with growth potential; WLFI token holders do not have rights to distribute investment returns. Although WLFI defines itself as a DeFi lending platform, it has not yet begun operations or provided DeFi services, so WLFI tokens currently have no value or usage path

    .

    III. Total Holdings

    As of February 9, 2025, WLFI’s total asset value is estimated at approximately $327million, with on-chain assets valued at around $37.79 million and centralized exchange assets valued at approximately $289 million (if unsold, deposited into Coinbase Prime for fund management and business operations).

    WLFI On-chain Assets (Data Source: ARKM)

    WLFI CoinbasePrime Assets (Data Source: SpotonChain)

    IV. Holding Structure Analysis

    As a crypto project strongly associated with the Trump family, WLFI’s asset allocation strategy has attracted market attention and spawned the concept of “presidential picks.” As of February 2025, ETH occupies a core position in WLFI’s crypto holdings (62.3%), followed by WBTC (16.4%), with remaining funds allocated to DeFi and RWA tracks. Notably, despite the decline in ETH/BTC exchange rates since December 2024, WLFI chose to increase its ETH holdings, highlighting its bet on the underlying infrastructure value of the Ethereum ecosystem. In terms of track selection, WLFI focuses on leading projects: Chainlink (LINK) and Aave (AAVE) in the DeFi field; Ondo Finance (ONDO) and Ethena (ENA) in the RWA track, forming a combination of “established protocols + emerging protocols.” 

    In terms of external cooperation, WLFI has formed a deep connection with Sun Yuchen, founder of TRON. The latter has invested $75 million through an HTX address and become the largest institutional investor. This also explains WLFI’s holdings of TRX and WBTC.

    Regarding fund management, WLFI recently transferred $307.4 million in assets to Coinbase Prime for custody and released 194 thousand stETH for liquidity management. Currently, the project still holds $47.49 million in stablecoin reserves. Future investments may focus on three main directions: (1) supplementing core asset holdings; (2) laying out emerging RWA protocols; (3) covering ecological cooperation costs.

    Detailed Holdings Breakdown:

    1. Ethereum (ETH)
    • ETH:78,610 tokens ($209 million, 63.8%)
    1. DeFi
    • AAVE: 16,585 tokens ($4.091 million, 1.3%)
    • LINK: 219,000 tokens ($4.117 million, 1.3%)
    1. RWA
    • ENA: 4.941 million tokens ($2.47 million, 0.8%)
    • ONDO: 456,000 tokens ($612,000, 0.001%)
    1. Justin Sun-related Assets
    • WBTC: 553 tokens ($53.648 million, 16.4%)
    • TRX: 40.71 million tokens ($9.772 million, 3%)
    1. Other Assets
    • USDC: 37.54million tokens ($37.54 million, 11.5%)
    • USDT: 4.14 million tokens ($4.14 million, 1.3%)
    • MOVE: 3.68 million tokens ($1.98 million, 0.3%)

    Analysis of WLFI Project Logic: Political Empowerment and Financial Ambition

    1.Financialization of Political Resources: A Fundraising Tool for the Trump Family

    From the token economic model of WLFI, it is evident that up to 75% of sales revenue directly belongs to the Trump family. Meanwhile, the project’s legal structure deliberately avoids direct association with Donald Trump himself, but strengthens its political binding attributes through public endorsements by family members (such as Eric Trump). This design essentially transforms Trump’s political influence into quantifiable financial assets, making it a political fundraising tool rather than a true decentralized financial product. The market generally views WLFI as a “bet on the prospects of Trump’s support for cryptocurrency policies.” Previously, investors purchasing this token were essentially indirectly supporting Trump’s campaign activities. This model is similar to Trump’s previous Trump MEME token, both serving as alternative financing channels beyond traditional political donations.

    2.Market Sentiment Manipulation: Dual Operation of Capital and Narrative

    The project can leverage Trump’s political influence to create market sentiment for itself and related projects. For example, after receiving investment from Sun Yuchen, WLFI made significant purchases of TRX and WBTC, with the current holding value at approximately $63.41 million. As of February 9, Sun Yuchen had invested a total of $75 million, with 84.5% of the funds used to purchase tokens related to his investments. Additionally, recently WLFI co-founder Chase Herro announced plans to establish a “strategic reserve” using tokens purchased by WLFI. Although he did not specify the goals or reasons for establishing the token reserve, this topic has been highly regarded since Trump committed during his last presidential campaign to establish a token reserve. Last month, Trump signed an executive order to assess the feasibility of creating a digital asset reserve. Against this backdrop, WLFI’s plan to establish a strategic reserve will undoubtedly strengthen market expectations around the concept of “presidential selection.” By deeply binding WLFI with Trump’s cryptocurrency policies, it can not only create market expectations and attract more capital inflows but also potentially facilitate off-market cooperation between the project party and political capital, thereby further expanding its market influence.

    About BitMart

    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,700+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join theirTelegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere. 

    Risk Warning

    Note: All cryptocurrency investments, including yield products, are highly speculative and involve significant risks. Past performance of products cannot guarantee future results. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile, and before making any investment decisions, you should carefully assess whether it is suitable for trading or holding digital currencies based on your investment objectives, financial situation, and risk tolerance, and consult a professional financial advisor. The information in this article is for reference only and does not constitute any investment, legal, or tax advice. The author and publisher do not assume responsibility for any losses incurred due to the use of this information.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gaza – Less than seven percent of pre-conflict water levels available to Rafah and North Gaza, worsening a health catastrophe – Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

     Nearly 1,700 kilometres of water and sanitation networks have been destroyed
     Big-ticket repairs of networks urgently needed but Israeli government balks in approving supplies
    The resumption of aid into Gaza, including fuel to operate undamaged water and sanitation facilities along with water trucking, has improved the amount of water available to people in some parts of Gaza. But the picture remains extremely bleak and dangerously critical, especially in the North Gaza and Rafah governorates, warned Oxfam today.
    Fifteen months of Israel’s military assault has destroyed 1,675 kilometres of water and sanitation networks. In North Gaza and Rafah governorates, which have suffered the most destruction, less than seven percent of pre-conflict water levels is available to people, heightening the spread of waterborne diseases.
    As fragile ceasefire negotiations hang in the balance, any renewed violence or disruption to fuel and the already inadequate aid would trigger a full-scale public health disaster.
    Carlos Calderon, Oxfam Aotearoa’s Head of Partnerships and Humanitarian said:
    “No human can survive more than a few days without water. In Gaza, over two million people are being forced to drink from unsafe sources, while overflowing sewage networks create a breeding ground for deadly diseases we once conquered. This is a second humanitarian catastrophe in the making. What we do next will define who we are as a society.”
    Clémence Lagouardat, Oxfam’s Humanitarian Coordinator in Gaza said:
    “Now that the bombs have stopped, we have only just begun to grasp the sheer scale of destruction to Gaza’s water and sanitation infrastructure. Most vital water and sanitation networks have been entirely lost or paralyzed, which is creating catastrophic hygiene and health conditions.
    “Our staff and partners have told how people are stopping them in the streets asking for water, and that parents are not drinking to save water for their children. It is heartbreaking to hear about children having to walk for miles for a single jerrycan of water.”
    In the North Gaza governorate, almost all water wells have been destroyed by the Israeli military. Over 700,000 people have returned to find entire neighbourhoods wiped out. For the few whose homes remain standing, water is non-existent due to the destruction of rooftop storage tanks.
    In Rafah, over 90 percent of water wells and reservoirs have been partially or completely damaged, and water production is less than five percent of its capacity before the conflict. Only two out of 35 wells are currently operational.
    Despite efforts to resume water production since the ceasefire, the destruction of Gaza’s water pipelines means that 60 percent of water is leaking into the ground rather than reaching people.
    Oxfam and partners’ initial assessment after the ceasefire found:
    – More than 80 percent of water and sanitation infrastructure across the Gaza Strip has been partially or entirely destroyed, including all six major wastewater treatment plants.
    – 85 percent of the sewage pumping stations (73 out of 84) and networks have been destroyed. Some have been repaired but urgently require fuel to operate.
    – 85 percent of small desalination plants (85 out of 103) have been partially damaged or completely destroyed.
    – 67 percent of the 368 municipal wells have been destroyed. Most of the private small wells cannot function due to lack of fuel or generators.
    The lack of safe water, combined with untreated sewage overflowing in the streets has triggered an explosion of waterborne and infectious diseases. According to the World Health Organisation, 88 percent of environmental samples surveyed across Gaza were found contaminated with polio, signalling an imminent risk of outbreak. Infectious diseases including acute watery diarrhoea and respiratory infections – now the leading causes of death – are also surging, with 46,000 cases, mostly children, being reported each week.
    Chickenpox and skin diseases such as scabies and impetigo are also spreading rapidly, particularly among displaced populations in the Northern Gaza Governorate, where water shortages are most severe.
    Meanwhile, with no waste collection and transport for over 15 months, more than 2,000 tonnes of garbage has been piling up in the streets every day. This toxic combination of open sewage, uncollected waste and contaminated water is creating a perfect storm for a deadly disease outbreak.
    Lagouardat said: “Despite the increase in aid since the ceasefire, Israel continues to severely impair critical items needed to begin repairing the massive structural damage from its airstrikes. This includes desperately needed pipes for repairing water and sanitation networks, equipment like generators to operate wells.”
    Oxfam’s own 85 tonne-shipment of water pipes, fittings and water tanks – worth over $480,000 – had been held up for over six months because it was deemed as dual-use and “oversized” to enter. Israeli authorities only finally approved the shipment this week, although it has yet to enter.
    Lagouardat said: “Hundreds of thousands of displaced people across the Gaza Strip have had to resort to digging makeshift cesspits next to their tents. This daily discharge of approximately 130,000 cubic meters – the equivalent of 52 Olympic pools – of untreated sewage is contaminating the Mediterranean Sea and Gaza’s only aquifer.
    “Rebuilding water and sanitation is vital for Gaza to have a path to normalcy after 15 months of horror. The ceasefire must hold, and fuel and aid must flow so that Palestinians can rebuild their lives. Lasting peace for Palestinians and Israelis can only come through a permanent ceasefire and a just solution.”
    – Oxfam has recent photos and footage of water and sanitation destruction in Gaza and can be downloaded HERE(valid until 14 May 25)
    – According to the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU) as of February 2025, a total of 1675 km out of 4,800 km of Gaza’s water and sanitation networks have been partially or entirely destroyed since October 2023. This includes 350km in North Gaza, 495km in Gaza City, 240 Km in the Middle area, 350km in Khan Younis, and 240km in Rafah respectively.
    – Data on water and sanitation destruction is based on the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU) Rapid Damage Assessment Report, January 2025.
    – Data on cost of infrastructure repair is based on Gaza Municipality Planning and Investment Unit report of December 31, 2024.
    – According to Oxfam’s Water War Crime s report, the Gaza population had access to 82.7 litres per person per day before 7 October 2023. Currently Rafah has less than five percent of that amount; and North Gaza governorates have less than seven percent of that amount, or 5.7 litres per person per day.
    – According to the 10 Feb 2025 WASH Cluster report: only two (out of 35) wells in Rafah are currently operational.
    – Acute watery diarrhoea (AWD) in children under five years old was reported to be 13,179 cases. This accounts for approximately 54% of the total registered cases of AWD. Also, 21 out of 24 Polio environmental surveyed samples across Gaza (88%) were positive. Source: Polio Global Eradication Initiative (WHO & UN) on 1 Feb 2025
     UNOSAT latest data collected on 1 December 2024 identified 60,368 destroyed structures, 20,050 severely damaged structures, 56,292 moderately damaged structures, and 34,102 possibly damaged structures for a total of 170,812 structures. The governorates of North Gaza and Rafah have experienced the highest rise in damage compared to the 6 September 2024 analysis, with around 3,138 new structures damaged in North Gaza and around 3,054 in Rafah. Within North Gaza, Jabalya municipality had the highest number of newly damaged structures, totalling 1,339. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI: Exodus Movement, Inc. Announces Offer to Acquire Banxa Holdings Inc. has Expired

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OMAHA, Neb., Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Exodus Movement, Inc. (NYSE American: EXOD) (“Exodus”), a leading self-custodial cryptocurrency platform, today announced that its previously announced offer for the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) (“Banxa”) has expired without reaching an agreement with Banxa.

    Exodus will remain responsible stewards of capital with a disciplined approach to acquisitions.

    About Exodus

    Exodus is a financial technology leader empowering individuals and businesses with secure, user-friendly crypto software solutions. Since 2015, Exodus has made digital assets accessible to everyone through its multi-asset crypto wallets prioritizing design and ease of use.

    With self-custodial wallets, Exodus puts customers in full control of their funds, enabling them to swap, buy, and sell crypto. Its business solutions include Passkeys Wallet and XO Swap, industry-leading tools for embedded crypto wallets and swap aggregation.

    Exodus is committed to driving the future of accessible and secure finance. Learn more at exodus.com or follow us on X at x.com/exodus.

    Investor Contact
    investors@exodus.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined by the federal securities laws. All forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions and apply only as of the date made. Our expectations, beliefs, and projections are expressed in good faith, and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that our expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “forecast,” as well as variations of such words or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this document include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Exodus’s stewardship of capital and approach to acquisitions. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in “Item 1. Business” and “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of Amendment No. 6 to our Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 27, 2024, as well as in our other reports filed with the SEC from time to time. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by such cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements that have been made to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    Source: Exodus Movement, Inc.

    The MIL Network