Category: Finance

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS YOJANA-GRAMIN (PMAY-G)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:25PM by PIB Delhi

In order to achieve the objective of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016 to provide assistance to 4.95 crore eligible rural households with basic amenities by March 2029. As on 02.02.2025, a cumulative target of 3.79 crore houses have been allotted to States/UTs out of which 3.34 crore houses have been sanctioned and 2.69 crore houses have been completed.

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29” for construction of additional 2 crore houses. Ministry has allocated targets of 84,37,139 houses during 2024-25 to the 18 States viz. Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Out of 84,37,139 houses, target of 46,56,765 houses has been allocated in the months of December,2024 and January 2025 to the 9 States viz Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Out of targets 84,37,139 houses,39,82,764 houses has been sanctioned as on 02.02.2025.

The PMAY-G scheme has had a significant positive impact on rural India by improving access to affordable housing and had played a key role in transforming the rural housing landscape, reducing poverty, improving living standards, and fostering social and economic development in rural India. The scheme of PMAY-G has also been evaluated through various Independent institutes such as National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, NITI Aayog, National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, etc..

PMAY-G is monitored very closely at all levels. There is a special emphasis on quality and timely completion of construction. The details of the monitoring mechanism adopted under the scheme are as follows:-

All data regarding beneficiaries, the progress of construction, and the release of funds, including photographs and inspection reports are placed on AwaasSoft and this forms the basis for follow-up of both the financial and physical progress of the scheme.
The physical progress of construction of a PMAY-G house is monitored through the geo-tagged, time and date-stamped photographs to be uploaded at every stage of construction and upon completion.
National-level Monitors and Officers of the Ministry also visit PMAY-G houses during the field visits to assess the progress, the procedure followed for the selection of beneficiaries, etc.
The Project Management Unit (PMU) at the State level is to undertake the tasks of implementation, monitoring, and quality supervision. Officers at the Block level are to inspect, as far as possible, 10% of the houses at each stage of construction; district-level officers are to inspect 2% of the houses at each stage of construction. Every house sanctioned under PMAY-G is to be tagged a village-level functionary whose task is to follow-up with the beneficiary and facilitate construction.
Social Audit is to be conducted in every Gram Panchayat at least once a year.
Payment of assistance to the beneficiaries, who have been sanctioned houses, is to be made directly into their bank/ post office accounts through the AwaasSoft- PFMS platform electronically. This ensure increased transparency by enabling real-time monitoring of funds disbursed to beneficiaries.
To prevent misuse of funds under PMAY-G, the assistance is provided to the beneficiaries directly into their bank account/ post office account through Aadhaar Payment bridge System/Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in construction stage linked installments. At every fixed stage of construction of the house, the geo-referenced and time-stamped photograph of the house along with beneficiary is also captured.
The progress of different parameters for implementing the scheme is monitored through the Performance Index Dashboard which is helping in planning appropriate intervention in required areas.
There is also a procedure of lodging of complaints on the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) portal (pgportal.gov.in) by the public. The complaints received in the Ministry of Rural Development through CPGRAMS or otherwise are forwarded to the respective State Governments/ Union Territory (Union Territory) Administrations for redressal of the grievance. Apart from this, there are mechanisms like IGRS and CM helpline at the State Level for grievance redressal. The State-wise details of complaints related to misuse of funds are given at Annexure.

Annexure

State-wise details of complaints related to irregularities and misappropriation of fund under PMAY-G from 01.04.2016 to 30.01.2025

State Name	Brought Forward	Received During	Pending During	Disposed During
Andaman And Nicobar Islands	0	0	0	0
Andhra Pradesh	0	2	0	2
Arunachal Pradesh	0	2	0	2
Assam	0	274	0	274
Bihar	0	451	2	449
Chandigarh	0	0	0	0
Chhattisgarh	0	28	1	27
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	0	0	0	0
Daman and Diu	0	0	0	0
Delhi	0	8	0	8
Goa	0	0	0	0
Gujarat	0	8	0	8
Haryana	0	7	1	6
Himachal Pradesh	0	5	2	3
Jammu And Kashmir	0	10	0	10
Jharkhand	0	68	2	66
Karnataka	0	2	0	2
Kerala	0	2	0	2
Ladakh	0	0	0	0
Lakshadweep	0	0	0	0
Madhya Pradesh	0	327	2	325
Maharashtra	0	74	1	73
Manipur	0	1	0	1
Meghalaya	0	1	0	1
Mizoram	0	0	0	0
Nagaland	0	0	0	0
Odisha	0	79	0	79
Puducherry	0	0	0	0
Punjab	0	10	0	10
Rajasthan	0	55	0	55
Sikkim	0	0	0	0
Tamil nadu	0	84	0	84
Telangana	0	3	0	3
Tripura	0	1	0	1
Uttar Pradesh	0	824	3	821
Uttarakhand	0	16	0	16
West Bengal	0	59	0	59
Total	0	2401	14	2387

This information was given by Minister of State Rural Development, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

******

MG/KSR

(Release ID: 2100659) Visitor Counter : 58

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0

Source: Government of India (2)

Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0

Provision of performance linked incentives for Anganwadi workers and helpers for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

Poshan Abhiyaan, an overarching scheme for holistic nourishment was launched on 8^th March 2018 to improve nutritional outcomes for children, adolescents, pregnant women and lactating mothers. Under Poshan Abhiyaan, Incremental Learning Approach (ILA) was incorporated in order to build and strengthen the capacity of Anganwadi workers. Under the 15th Finance Commission, to address the challenge of malnutrition, various components like Anganwadi services, Poshan Abhiyaan and Scheme for Adolescent girls (of 14-18 years in Aspirational Districts and North-Eastern region) have been subsumed under the umbrella Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 (Mission Poshan 2.0).

Under Mission Poshan 2.0, Anganwadi workers (AWWs) have been technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery. IT systems have been leveraged to strengthen and bring about transparency in nutrition delivery support systems at the Anganwadi centres and for dynamic identification of stunting, wasting, under-weight prevalence among children (0-6 years). It has facilitated near real time data collection for Anganwadi Services such as, daily attendance, Early childhood care and Education (ECCE), Provision of Hot Cooked Meal (HCM)/Take Home Ration (THR-not raw ration), Growth Measurement etc. This application is working as a job aid for Anganwadi Worker replacing the need for maintaining physical registers; thereby reducing her workload.

The learning modules on nutrition and early care and education for capacity building of all Anganwadi workers are readily available online on Poshan Tracker.

Further, Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi (PBPB) initiative was launched on 10th May, 2023 for upskilling of all Anganwadi workers to build their capacity to provide early childhood care and nutrition service to children below six years of age. As on date, 31,114 SLMTs (CDPOs, Supervisors and Additional Resource Persons) and 145,481 AWWs have been trained across the country under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi programme.

One of the key program elements of the Mission Poshan 2.0 is incentivizing Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs) monthly for optimal delivery of nutrition and health services and supporting behaviour change. There is a provision of performance linked incentives of Rs 500/- per month and Rs 250/- per month for Anganwadi workers and Anganwadi helpers respectively for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

*****

SS/MS

(Release ID: 2100651) Visitor Counter : 49

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Financial risks to EU taxpayers following Northvolt’s bankruptcy filing – E-002656/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The implementation framework of budgetary guarantees, for instance under the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), requires that partner institutions implementing them (for EFSI, the European Investment Bank) manage and share concomitant risk exposures as part of their own.

Hence, the Commission is in close contact with the banks to ensure that the guarantees concerned are managed as such and in accordance with established terms and risk management frameworks, as well as market practice.

However, it is recognised that the principal expenditure for programmes deploying budgetary guarantees is meant to cover potential losses on some of the supported investments, which without such support would not be financed by the market at reasonable terms while they make an important contribution to EU policy priorities.

That is why budgetary guarantees are provisioned from the outset so that occasional losses do not impinge on the relevant programmes and their capacity to provide substantial leverage in supporting EU policy priorities.

For instance, the InvestEU Programme[1] is on track to mobilise more than EUR 370 billion of investments, comparing with ex ante provisioning of EUR 10.46 billion.

Moreover, the Commission notes, that in the specific case of interest to the Honourable Members, insolvency proceedings have not yet concluded.

[1] https://investeu.europa.eu/index_en
Last updated: 7 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU must act as United States signals retreat from green investments – E-002672/2024(ASW)

Source: European Parliament

The Clean Industrial Deal, announced in the Political Guidelines for 2024-2029, will restate the business case for the decarbonisation of industry in Europe.

Building on the Green Deal Industrial Plan, the Net Zero Industrial and Critical Raw Materials Acts, it will have a particular focus on energy-intensive industries and the net-zero sector.

Some of the measures it will include will aim to lower energy prices, developing lead markets for EU-made decarbonised products, and leveraging circularity for the availability of raw materials.

It will also develop Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships to increase the coordination of EU international engagement to support EU industry.

It should also be noted that the EU already has several funding tools that can attract innovative and low carbon businesses. These include among others the Recovery and Resilience Facility, InvestEU and the Innovation Fund. The Commission will also put forward a new European Competitiveness Fund.

Furthermore, the Commission will engage constructively with the United States (US) Administration as well as with other relevant actors — researchers, the business community, US States and Cities to support the transition to net-zero and present the EU as an attractive and stable place for investments regarding technologies and industries that will underpin the transition.

Last updated: 7 February 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission’s vision and action on e-fuels – E-002820/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Several initiatives that promote the use of e-fuels have already been adopted over recent years. The revised Renewable Energy Directive[1] notably sets targets for the uptake of renewable fuels of non-biological origin in transport and industry.

The RefuelEU Aviation Regulation[2] sets targets for the increased use of sustainable aviation fuels and includes specific targets for e-fuels.

The FuelEU Maritime Regulation[3] sets targets for the use of renewable, low-carbon fuels and clean energy technologies for ships.

‘Zero rating’ these fuels in the Emissions Trading System (ETS) provides them with a significant financial incentive. 20 million ETS allowances have been set aside for covering part or all of the price gap between sustainable aviation fuels and fossil fuels in the aviation sector.

The Innovation Fund already provides support, including around EUR 1 billion for 16 sustainable fuel projects (including e-fuels and biofuels) and EUR 2 billion to 30 projects producing hydrogen as principal product. The transport industry will benefit as potential fuel user of these projects.

The Commission plans to propose an initiative to boost renewable energy, including a 2040 renewable energy target. Getting to the 2035 climate neutrality target for cars will require a technology-neutral approach, in which e-fuels have a role to play, through a targeted amendment of the regulation on CO₂ standards[4] as part of the foreseen review in 2026.

The Commission is aware of the projected scarcity of these fuels and the need for their availability in other sectors without technical alternatives.

To support sustainable transport fuels in the hard-to-abate sectors (aviation and maritime), the Commission will put forward a ‘Sustainable Transport Investment Plan’.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023L2413

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023R2405

[3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/AUTO/?uri=CELEX:32023R1805

[4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02019R0631-20240101
Last updated: 7 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Poland: EIB supports sustainable development of medium-sized cities
Source: European Investment Bank
- EIB loaned over PLN 1 bln (ca. €274 mln) to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów in 2024.
- Talks with other medium-sized Polish cities are under way.
- In Kielce, EIB financing will underpin investment in urban infrastructure, transport and environmental projects.
- EU bank backed sustainable development of Polish cities and regions with €7.89 bln since 2022.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) approved PLN 224 million in financing to support sustainable urban development of Poland’s south-eastern city of Kielce. The first agreement signed with the city under the framework loan covers PLN 112 million and will underpin investment in urban infrastructure and transport, as well as environmental and climate policies.

“Promoting dynamic development of medium-sized cities is one of the EIB’s key lines of action. As the EU’s climate bank, the EIB finances upgrades to and expansion of top-notch urban infrastructure, as well as climate and environmental projects, especially in cohesion regions. Last year, the EIB allocated almost €2.4 billion to sustainable development of regions and cities in Poland,” EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska said during a visit to Kielce. “Thanks to the EIB loan, Kielce will be able to enhance city greeneries, transport network and sports facilities, carrying out investments that bring tangible benefits to inhabitants. Through this partnership with Kielce, and similar ones with Rybnik, Chorzów and Radom, the EIB contributes to improving the quality of life for people in Poland, including those living outside the largest centres.”

Long-term, beneficial financing from the EIB will allow Kielce to co-finance projects that also receive direct grants from the European Union budget, helping with their effective absorption in Poland. An agreement for the second tranche of financing for the city is expected next.

“Kielce will use this funding as the required own contribution to projects co-financed externally. We envisage the modernisation of a central city square, the establishment of a business incubator and major investment in public transport, including a new bus fleet. The city’s total investment plan amounts to PLN 761 mln,” said Kielce Mayor Agata Wojda.

Multibillion-euro support for Polish cities, including medium-sized ones

The EIB has signed 24 financing agreements with cities and municipal companies totalling over €1.7 billion since 2022. Including infrastructure financing and intermediated loans, the bank’s support to sustainable investment of cities and regions has reached €7.89 bln in the last three years. Alongside big cities, beneficiaries have also included the medium-sized ones with between 100,000 and 250,000 inhabitants. Last year, the EIB granted framework loans totalling over PLN 1 billion to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów.

“Working together with the EIB is a real step forward in the continued sustainable development of Chorzów. This EIB loan will help the city make strategic investments in key areas such as urban infrastructure and environmental protection. Used effectively, the funding will help improve quality of life for our city’s inhabitants and make Chorzów more competitive on the regional map,” said Chorzów Mayor Szymon Michałek.

In Radom, EIB funds are being put to use to build nurseries and social housing, create green spaces, promote sustainable urban mobility and improve energy efficiency of public buildings.

Radom Mayor Radosław Witkowski, said: “Partnering with the EIB will provide economic benefits and help our city to keep on developing, which is what our residents expect.”

According to Piotr Kuczera, the mayor of Rybnik, EIB financing is making the city “greener and a nicer place to live.”

Background information

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the EU, and the Capital Markets Union.  

The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024. Nearly two-thirds of which was allocated to tackle the climate crisis and protect the environment. Almost half of the invested funds were allocated in cohesion regions, while €17.2 billion was earmarked specifically for the sustainable development of cities and regions. In Poland, EIB support for economic and territorial cohesion last year amounted to €5 billion, while investments in the development of cities and regions reached almost €2.4 billion. The EIB Group will soon share the full results of its activities in Poland.
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Consumer Products Leader Selects Kneat to Digitize Validation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LIMERICK, Ireland, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX: KSI) (OTCQX: KSIOF), a leader in digitizing and automating validation and quality processes, is pleased to announce that a multinational consumer food and drink producer (“the Company”) has signed a three-year Master Services Agreement (“MSA”) with Kneat to digitize its validation processes.

Headquartered in Europe and operating manufacturing facilities globally, the Company will initially use Kneat for Equipment and Computer System Validation within a specialized health sciences division with over 5,000 employees. The MSA allows the company to scale Kneat to all its affiliate companies and business divisions.

“Today’s announcement highlights that life science applications for Kneat can be found outside traditional life sciences companies, as we bring another consumer products leader into the Kneat community. We are proud to be a part of this Company’s world-class quality effort supporting their pursuit of health, wellness, and nutrition for people around the world.”

– Eddie Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of Kneat

The number of consumer goods companies relying on Kneat has grown over the past several years, as certain products in their portfolios are subject to validation regulatory requirements. Digitizing these processes helps these companies mitigate risk and protect the brands they have been building for years, and positions Kneat to continue adding value to their efforts over the years ahead.

About Kneat

Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. As an industry leader in customer satisfaction, Kneat boasts an excellent record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end-to-end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show up to 40% reduction in documentation cycle times, up to 20% faster speed to market, and a higher compliance standard.

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, certain information presented constitutes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the relationship between Kneat and the customer, Kneat’s business development activities, the use and implementation timelines of Kneat’s software within the customer’s validation processes, the ability and intent of the customer to scale the use of Kneat’s software within the customer’s organization, and the compliance of Kneat’s platform under regulatory audit and inspection. While such forward-looking statements are expressed by Kneat, as stated in this release, in good faith and believed by Kneat to have a reasonable basis, they are subject to important risks and uncertainties. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, given that they involve risks and uncertainties.

Kneat does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any forward-looking statement, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on forward-looking statements is at an investor’s own risk.

For further information:

Katie Keita, Kneat Investor Relations
P: + 1 902-450-2660
E: investors@kneat.com

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Levels Protocol Launches Solana’s First-Ever Changing Token

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — By introducing the first token that changes in real-time as its market capitalisation increases, Levels Protocol is revolutionising cryptocurrency in the Solana Ecosystem. In contrast to conventional digital assets, level tokens automatically update their names, symbols, and metadata on-chain to reflect significant events and promote an engaging, dynamic trading environment.

A Token That Grows Alongside Its Community

Levels Protocol, based on Solana’s fast blockchain, allows tokens to change without requiring manual modification. With each price milestone being a collective accomplishment for token holders, this innovation produces an exciting investment experience.

Users can create changing tokens with the Levels Launchpad dApp, transforming market momentum into a gamified experience where progress is rewarded at every round.

How It Works:

* $0.0001: Token name = “levels”
* $0.001: Token name = “levelsss”
* $0.01: Token name = “levelssssss”
* $0.1: Token name = “levelssssssssss”
* $1: Token name = “levelssssssssssssssss”

An Ecosystem Driven by the Community

The foundation of Levels Protocol is an incentive-driven framework intended to encourage participation and long-term viability.

Promoting Intense Engagement

Every $500 invested earns traders points, which they can use to obtain $LEVELS airdrops and guarantee leaderboard rankings.

Developers vie for rewards ranging from $30,000 to $50,000+, which spurs ongoing innovation.

Platform fees are distributed to stakers, guaranteeing long-term value and usefulness.

A Well-Timed Launch for Long-Term Effects

In order to sustain community participation and enthusiasm, Levels Protocol uses a staggered release strategy, providing new utilities gradually rather than launching with all features at once.

Transforming the Cryptocurrency Trading Industry

Levels Protocol provides a distinctive take on tokenomics by fusing gamification, decentralised technology, and community cooperation. With each milestone reflecting collective progress, its dynamic structure turns static digital assets into community-driven, dynamic entities.

MEDIA DETAILS:
Website: https://levelsprotocol.dev
Person Name: Azul Yager
Webmail: Azulyager@levelsprotocol.dev
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, PO Box 111969, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Levels Protocol. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in cloud mining and related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cd15edb4-2a68-4b03-9cb1-e0d1525cc748

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Net Lease Announces Release Date for Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) (“GNL” or the “Company”) announced today that it will release its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

The Company will host a conference call and audio webcast on Friday, February 28, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET, to discuss the fourth quarter and full year results and provide commentary on business performance. The results will be released before the call which will be conducted by GNL’s management team. A question-and-answer session will follow the prepared remarks.

Dial-in instructions for the conference call and the replay are outlined below. This conference call will also be broadcast live over the Internet and can be accessed by all interested parties through the GNL website, www.globalnetlease.com, in the “Investor Relations” section. To listen to the live call, please go to the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. For those who are not able to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available shortly after the call on the GNL website.

Conference Call Details

Live Call
Dial-In (Toll Free): 1-877-407-0792
International Dial-In: 1-201-689-8263

Conference Replay*
Domestic Dial-In (Toll Free): 1-844-512-2921
International Dial-In: 1-412-317-6671
Conference Replay Number: 13750621

*Available from 2:00 p.m. ET on February 28, 2025 through May 28, 2025.

About Global Net Lease, Inc.

Global Net Lease, Inc. is a publicly traded real estate investment trust listed on the NYSE, which focuses on acquiring and managing a global portfolio of income producing net lease assets across the United States, and Western and Northern Europe. Additional information about GNL can be found on its website at www.globalnetlease.com.

Important Notice

The statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the outcome to be materially different. The words such as “may,” “will,” “seeks,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “predicts,” “plans,” “intends,” “would,” “could,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risks associated with realization of the anticipated benefits of the merger with The Necessity Retail REIT, Inc. and the internalization of the Company’s property management and advisory functions; that any potential future acquisition or disposition by the Company is subject to market conditions and capital availability and may not be identified or completed on favorable terms, or at all. Some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those presented in its forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” sections in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and all of its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as such risks, uncertainties and other important factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s subsequent reports. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by law.

Contacts:
Investor Relations
Email: investorrelations@globalnetlease.com
Phone: (332) 265-2020

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Defiance Launches ORCX, The First 2X Leveraged Single-Stock ETF on Oracle Corporation.

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MIAMI, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs is proud to unveil ORCX, the first 2X long ETF for Oracle Corporation. ORCX seeks to provide 200% long daily targeted exposure to Oracle Corporation (NYSE: ORCL) (the “Underlying Security” or “ORCL”). Defiance’s single-stock ETFs provide leveraged exposure to disruptive companies without the need for a margin account.

“Defiance is excited to launch ORCX, which seeks to provide amplified exposure to Oracle. Oracle’s Stargate initiative is a game-changer, enhancing multi-cloud connectivity and driving seamless data integration across platforms. This innovation enhances Oracle’s position in enterprise AI and cloud infrastructure, presenting a potential growth avenue for investors interested in the evolving tech landscape,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO of Defiance ETFs.

The Fund is not intended to be used by, and is not appropriate for, investors who do not intend to actively monitor and manage their portfolios. The Fund pursues a daily leveraged investment objective, which means that the Fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage because the Fund magnifies the performance of its Underlying Security. The Fund is not suitable for all investors. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage, and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. The Fund is not intended to be used by, and is not appropriate for, investors who do not intend to actively monitor and manage their portfolios. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Security’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Security’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day.

An investment in the ETF is not an investment in Oracle Corporation.

About Defiance ETFs

Founded in 2018, Defiance is at the forefront of ETF innovation. Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs.

Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs empower investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

Important Disclosures

The fund attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to two times (200%) the share price performance of an underlying exchange-traded fund (an “Underlying Security”). The Fund is not intended to be used by, and are not appropriate for, investors who do not intend to actively monitor and manage their portfolios. The Fund is very different from most mutual funds and exchange-traded funds. The Fund may not achieve investment results, before fees and expenses, that correspond to two times (2x) the daily performance of the Underlying Security, and may return substantially less during such periods. During such periods, the Fund’s actual leverage levels may differ substantially from its intended target, both intraday and at the close of trading, potentially resulting in significantly lower returns.

The Fund’s investment adviser will not attempt to position a Fund’s portfolio to ensure that the Fund does not gain or lose more than a maximum percentage of its net asset value on a given trading day. As a consequence, if an Underlying Security’s share price referenced by a Fund decreases by more than 50% on a given trading day, the corresponding Fund’s investors could lose all of their money.

Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”).

The Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other important information about the investment company. Please read carefully before investing. A hard copy of the prospectuses can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or country, may be subject to a higher degree of risk.

Underlying Security Risk. The Fund invests in swap contracts and options that are based on the share price of ORCL. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of ORCL, even though it does not.

Indirect Investment in ORCL Risk. ORCL is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, or the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way and has no obligation to consider your Shares in taking any corporate actions that might affect the value of Shares.

ORCL Trading Risk. The trading price of ORCL may be subject to volatility and could experience wide fluctuations due to various factors. Short sellers may also play a significant role in trading ORCL, potentially affecting the supply and demand dynamics and contributing to market price volatility. Public perception and external factors beyond the company’s control may influence ORCL’s stock price disproportionately.

ORCL Performance Risk. ORCL may fail to meet its publicly announced guidelines or other expectations about its business, which could cause the price of ORCL to decline. ORCL provides guidance regarding its expected financial and business performance, such as projections regarding sales and production, as well as anticipated future revenues, gross margins, profitability and cash flows. Correctly identifying key factors affecting business conditions and predicting future events is inherently an uncertain process, and the guidance ORCL provides may not ultimately be accurate.

Software Industry Risk. The software industry can be significantly affected by intense competition, aggressive pricing, technological innovations, and product obsolescence. Companies in the software industry are subject to significant competitive pressures, such as aggressive pricing, new market entrants, competition for market share, short product cycles due to an accelerated rate of technological developments and the potential for limited earnings and/or falling profit margins.

Operations and Business Risks. ORCL may be unsuccessful in developing and selling new products and services, integrating acquired products and services and enhancing its existing products and services.

Data Security Risks. If ORCL’s security measures for its products and services are compromised and as a result, its data, its customers’ data or its IT systems are accessed improperly, made unavailable, or improperly modified, ORCL’s products and services may be perceived as vulnerable, its brand and reputation could be damaged, the IT services ORCL provides to its customers could be disrupted, and customers may stop using ORCL’s products and services, any of which could reduce ORCL’s revenue and earnings, increase its expenses and expose it to legal claims and regulatory actions.

Intellectual Property Risks. ORCL relies on copyright, trademark, patent and trade secret laws, confidentiality procedures, controls and contractual commitments to protect its intellectual property. Despite ORCL’s efforts, these protections may be limited.

Leverage Risk. The Fund obtains investment exposure in excess of its net assets by utilizing leverage and may lose more money in market conditions that are adverse to its investment objective than a fund that does not utilize leverage. An investment in the Fund is exposed to the risk that a decline in the daily performance of the Underlying Security will be magnified.

High Portfolio Turnover Risk. Daily rebalancing of the Fund’s holdings pursuant to its daily investment objective causes a much greater number of portfolio transactions when compared to most ETFs.

Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil. Markets for securities or financial instruments could be disrupted by a number of events, including, but not limited to, an economic crisis, natural disasters, epidemics/pandemics, new legislation or regulatory changes inside or outside the United States.

Derivatives Risk. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, leverage, imperfect daily correlations with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

Compounding and Market Volatility Risk. The Fund has a daily leveraged investment objective and the Fund’s performance for periods greater than a trading day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which is very likely to differ from two times (200%) the Underlying Security’s performance, before the Fund’s management fee and other expenses.

Fixed Income Securities Risk. When the Fund invests in fixed income securities, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Typically, a rise in interest rates causes a decline in the value of fixed income securities owned by the Fund.

Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security, may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

Diversification does not ensure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

Brokerage Commissions may be charged on trades.

Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC

Contact Information:

David Hanono

833.333.9383
info@defianceetfs.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a2f6854-1043-4edc-8250-60065d17e319

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: PhenixFIN Corporation Announces Fiscal First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NAV per share $80.59

NEW YORK, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PhenixFIN Corporation (NASDAQ: PFX, PFXNZ) (the “Company”), a publicly traded business development company, today announced its financial results for the fiscal first quarter for its year ending September 30, 2025.

Highlights

First quarter total investment income of $6.2 million; net investment income of $1.6 million
Net asset value (NAV) of $162.8 million, or $80.59 per share as of December 31, 2024
Weighted average yield was 13.3% on debt and other income producing investments
On October 1, 2024, the Company completed the merger and reorganization of The National Security Group, Inc. (“NSG”) an Alabama based insurance holding company
On February 6, 2025, the Board declared a special dividend of $1.43 per share to be paid on February 18, 2025, to stockholders of record as of February 17, 2025.

David Lorber, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, stated:

“We have had a great start to fiscal year 2025 as we continue to remain focused on executing our strategic priorities which include growing our platforms, pursuing compelling investment opportunities and increasing NAV per share.”

Selected First Quarter 2025 Financial Results for the Quarter Ended December 31, 2024:

Total investment income was $6.2 million of which $5.9 million was attributable to portfolio interest and dividend income, and $0.3 million was attributable to fee and other income.

Total net expenses were $4.6 million and total net investment income was $1.6 million.

The Company recorded a net realized gain of $1.2 million and a net unrealized loss of $0.3 million.

Portfolio and Investment Activities for the Quarter Ended December 31, 2024:

The fair value of the Company’s investment portfolio totaled $300.1 million and consisted of 43 portfolio companies.

The Company had certain investments in 3 portfolio companies on non-accrual status with a fair market value of $1.5 million.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $7.2 million in cash and cash equivalents, $59.2 million in aggregate principal amount of its 5.25% unsecured notes due 2028 and $84.0 million outstanding under the Credit Facility.

ABOUT PHENIXFIN CORPORATION

PhenixFIN Corporation is a non-diversified, internally managed closed-end management investment company incorporated in Delaware that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. We completed our initial public offering and commenced operations on January 20, 2011. The Company has elected, and intends to qualify annually, to be treated, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Effective January 1, 2021, the Company operates under an internalized management structure.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT AND OTHER DISCLOSURES

This press release contains “forward-looking” statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect current views with respect to future events and financial performance, and the Company may make related oral forward-looking statements on or following the date hereof. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements, including among other things, PhenixFIN’s ability to execute on its strategic initiatives, deliver value to shareholders, increase investment activity, increase net investment income, implement its investment strategy and achieve its investment objective, source and capitalize on investment opportunities, grow its net asset value per share and perform well in the prevailing market environment, the ability of our portfolio companies, including National Security Group, Inc. to perform well and generate income and other factors that are enumerated in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. PhenixFIN Corporation disclaims and does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement in this press release.

Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The press release contains unaudited financial results. For ease of review, we have excluded the word “approximately” when rounding the results. This press release is for informational purposes only and is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell shares of PhenixFIN Corporation’s common stock. There can be no assurance that PhenixFIN Corporation will achieve its investment objective.

For PhenixFIN investor relations, please call 212-859-0390. For media inquiries, please contact info@phenixfc.com.

PHENIXFIN CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Assets and Liabilities

	December 31, 2024 (Unaudited)			September 30, 2024
Assets:
Investments at fair value
Non-controlled, non-affiliated investments (amortized cost of $160,480,488 and $143,179,354 respectively)	$	160,343,098		$	142,233,426
Affiliated investments (amortized cost of $20,564,242 and $20,564,242, respectively)		13,861,599			14,750,785
Controlled investments (amortized cost of $152,223,817 and $97,016,429, respectively)		125,889,697			70,931,647
Total Investments at fair value		300,094,394			227,915,858
Cash and cash equivalents		7,187,110			67,571,559
Receivables:
Interest receivable		1,313,520			1,313,598
Other receivable		16,640			65,838
Dividends receivable		105,804			23,468
Due from Affiliate		1,040,512			90,500
Deferred tax asset		887,099			887,099
Deferred financing costs		625,323			760,680
Other assets		514,630			1,066,323
Prepaid share repurchase		101,115			101,115
Receivable for investments sold		41,897			2,955,775
Total Assets	$	311,928,044		$	302,751,813

Liabilities:
Credit facility and notes payable (net of debt issuance costs of $1,417,816 and $1,510,815, respectively)	$	141,743,682		$	135,723,636
Payable for investments purchased		3,688,247			–
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		2,391,430			5,570,150
Interest and fees payable		1,029,334			768,043
Other liabilities		256,426			294,063
Due to Affiliate		46,995			88,148
Total Liabilities		149,156,114			142,444,040

Commitments and Contingencies (see Note 8)

Net Assets:
Common Shares, $0.001 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; 2,723,709 shares issued; 2,019,778 and 2,019,778 common shares outstanding, respectively		2,020			2,020
Capital in excess of par value		704,909,588			704,909,588
Total distributable earnings (loss)		(542,139,678	)		(544,603,835	)
Total Net Assets		162,771,930			160,307,773
Total Liabilities and Net Assets	$	311,928,044		$	302,751,813

Net Asset Value Per Common Share	$	80.59		$	79.37

PHENIXFIN CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

	For the Three Months Ended December 31,
	2024			2023
Interest Income:
Interest from investments
Non-controlled, non-affiliated investments:
Cash	$	2,824,594		$	2,682,143
Payment in-kind		354,681			90,674
Affiliated investments:
Cash		–			455,692
Payment in-kind		–			–
Controlled investments:
Cash		588,195			286,238
Payment in-kind		–			149,967
Total interest income		3,767,470			3,664,714
Dividend income
Non-controlled, non-affiliated investments		596,298			665,526
Affiliated investments		142,495			–
Controlled investments		1,399,350			1,348,200
Total dividend income		2,138,143			2,013,726
Interest from cash and cash equivalents		227,032			41,108
Fee income (see Note 9)		11,064			2,108
Other income		72,774			22
Total Investment Income		6,216,483			5,721,678

Expenses:
Interest and financing expenses		2,545,811			1,542,061
Salaries and benefits		1,028,617			1,424,992
Professional fees, net		418,013			357,554
Directors fees		204,000			187,500
Insurance expenses		88,421			97,756
Administrator expenses (see Note 6)		84,355			77,852
General and administrative expenses		221,793			325,061
Total expenses		4,591,010			4,012,776
Net Investment Income		1,625,473			1,708,902

Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Net realized gains (losses):
Non-controlled, non-affiliated investments		1,168,670			229,804
Affiliated investments		–			–
Controlled investments		–			–
Total net realized gains (losses)		1,168,670			229,804
Net change in unrealized gains (losses):
Non-controlled, non-affiliated investments		808,538			1,364,243
Affiliated investments		(889,186	)		2,431,263
Controlled investments		(249,338	)		(1,200,373	)
Total net change in unrealized gains (losses)		(329,986	)		2,595,133
Deferred tax benefit (expense)		–			–
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses)		838,684			2,824,937

Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations	$	2,464,157		$	4,533,839

Weighted average basic and diluted earnings per common share	$	1.22		$	2.19
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic and diluted (see Note 11)		2,019,778			2,072,694

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Prairie Operating Co. Announces Acquisition of DJ Basin Assets from Bayswater Exploration and Production for Approximately $600 Million

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Adds ~24,000 net acres in Weld County and ~26 mboepd of oil-weighted (69% liquids) net production
Adds 77.9 MMboe and ~$1.1 Billion in Proved PV-10 value⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾
Attractive valuation, highly accretive across key cash flow metrics
Significantly increases 2025 production, revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance

HOUSTON, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Operating Co. (Nasdaq: PROP) (the “Company,” “Prairie,” “we,” “our” or “us”), today announced it has entered into a definitive purchase and sale agreement to acquire (the “Bayswater Acquisition”) certain assets (the “Bayswater Assets”) from Bayswater Exploration and Production and certain of its affiliated entities (collectively “Bayswater”), a premier operator in the Denver-Julesburg Basin (the “DJ Basin”). The transaction will significantly increase the Company’s operational scale and footprint in the DJ Basin and add highly economic drilling locations.

The purchase price of the acquisition is $602.75 million. The transaction consideration will consist of cash and up to ~5.2 million shares of Prairie common stock. Prairie anticipates funding the cash portion of the consideration, net of expected purchase price adjustments, through a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under the Company’s credit facility, pursuant to which the Company has received commitments to expand its borrowing base to $475 million as of the closing of the Bayswater Acquisition, and proceeds from one or more capital markets transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors. The Company expects to complete the Bayswater Acquisition in February 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, with an economic effective date of December 1, 2024.

“This acquisition delivers compelling strategic and financial advantages and reflects our disciplined, but opportunistic approach to rapidly expand our footprint in the DJ Basin,” said Edward Kovalik, Chairman and CEO of Prairie Operating Co. “Not only will the addition of these high-quality assets be immediately accretive, but they will also accelerate our development plans, enhance operational efficiencies, and drive sustainable, long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Gary Hanna, President of the Company, added, “This acquisition represents a transformative milestone for Prairie Operating Co. by significantly expanding our footprint and production of oil rich assets in the DJ Basin. Upon closing, we will be well-positioned to deliver significant organic production growth in 2025 and beyond.”

Key Prairie Highlights, Pro Forma for the Transaction:

Transformational Increase in Oil-Weighted Production: ~27,500 net BOEPD (69% liquids)
Expanded Footprint / Inventory Life: ~54,000 net acres, including ~600 highly economic drilling locations, providing ~10 years of drilling inventory
Significantly Increases Free Cash Flow: Expected to be immediately accretive to per-share cash flow metrics
Maintains Strong Balance Sheet: Expected leverage ratio of ~1.0x at closing with upsized committed credit facility and ample liquidity
Meaningful Infrastructure Synergies: Leverages existing infrastructure to drive operational efficiencies and reduce development costs
Attractive Valuation Metrics⁽¹⁾: PV-20 of Proved Developed Producing (“PDP”) reserves and $23,500 per net flowing BOE

2025 Updated Guidance

Upon the closing of this acquisition, the combined Company’s 2025 pro forma outlook includes:

Average Daily Production: 29,000 – 31,000 BOEPD
Capital Expenditures (Capex): $300 million – $320 million
Adjusted EBITDA⁽³⁾: Expected to range between $350 million and $370 million

*Based on an active hedging program and an average working interest (“WI”) of 75% or greater.

Estimated Reserve Data

A summary of the estimated reserves and values of our properties (as adjusted to give effect to the Bayswater Acquisition), as of November 30, 2024, and as determined by Cawley, Gillespie & Associates, the Company’s independent Petroleum Reserve Evaluation Firm, using SEC pricing as of November 30, 2024 is set forth below.

	Our Pro Forma Net Reserves
Reserve Category	Oil (MBbl)	NGL (MBbl)	Gas (MMcf)	Total (MBoe)	Liquids (%)		PV-10 ($MM)⁽⁴⁾
Proved Developed Producing (PDP)	23,581	14,810	113,611	57,326	67	%	$860
Proved Developed Not Producing (PDNP)	173	26	216	235	85	%	$5
Proved Undeveloped (PUD)	25,547	8,970	72,088	46,531	74	%	$495
Total Proved	49,301	23,806	185,914	104,093	70	%	$1,360

(3) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. Please see “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

(4) PV-10 is a non-GAAP financial measure. Please see “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

Webcast Access

Date: Friday, February 7, 2025
Time: 10:00am Eastern Time (9:00am Central Time)
Participant Listening: 877-407-9219 / +1 201-689-8852

The webcast may be accessed from the “Press & Media” page of Prairie’s website at: https://www.prairieopco.com/media

To participate via telephone, please register in advance here: https://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=DUzJKsjj

Participants can use Guest dial-in numbers above and be answered by an operator OR click the Call me^TM link for instant telephone access to the event: https://hd.choruscall.com/InComm/?callme=true&passcode=13751732&h=true&info=company&r=true&B=6

The Call me™ link will be made active 15 minutes prior to scheduled start time. Upon registration, all telephone participants will be joined to the conference call in listen only. A replay of the webcast will be archived on the Company’s website for two (2) weeks following the call.

Advisors

Citi is serving as exclusive financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP is serving as legal advisor to Prairie. Citibank N.A. is also leading the committed financing under the Company’s anticipated expanded credit facility, with Latham & Watkins LLP as legal advisor to Citibank N.A.

About Prairie Operating Co.

Prairie Operating Co. is a Houston-based publicly traded independent energy company engaged in the development and acquisition of oil and natural gas resources in the United States. The Company’s assets and operations are concentrated in the oil and liquids-rich regions of the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with a primary focus on the Niobrara and Codell formations. The Company is committed to the responsible development of its oil and natural gas resources and is focused on maximizing returns through consistent growth, capital discipline, and sustainable cash flow generation. More information about the Company can be found at www.prairieopco.com.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures

Adjusted EBITDA

This press release also contains Adjusted EBITDA, which is a financial measure not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA is used by management to evaluate the performance of our business, make operational decisions, and assess our ability to generate cashflows. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA provides investors with helpful information to better understand the underlying performance trends of our business, facilitate period-to-period comparisons, and assess the company’s operating results.

Adjusted EBITDA is derived from Net income and is adjusted for income tax expense, depreciation, depletion, and amortization (DD&A), accretion of asset retirement obligations, non-cash stock-based compensation, and loss on unrealized commodity derivatives. We adjust net income for the items listed above to arrive at Adjusted EBITDA because these amounts can vary substantially between periods and companies within our industry depending upon accounting methods, book values of assets, capital structures, and the method by which assets were acquired. Additionally, the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA does not imply that our operating results will not be affected by unusual or non-recurring items.

Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, including that it excludes certain items that affect our reported financial results. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, GAAP Net income or as an indicator of our operating performance or liquidity. Additionally, our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income, which is the most directly comparable financial measure prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income (in Millions)

PV-10

This press release contains PV-10, which is a financial measure not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. PV-10 is derived from the Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows (“Standardized Measure”), which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for proved reserves. PV-10 is a computation of the Standardized Measure on a pre-tax basis. PV-10 is equal to the Standardized Measure at the applicable date, before deducting future income taxes discounted at 10%. Neither PV-10 nor standardized measure represents an estimate of the fair market value of the applicable crude oil, natural gas and NGLs properties. We believe that the presentation of PV-10 is relevant and useful to our investors as supplemental disclosure to the Standardized Measure, or after-tax amount, because it presents the discounted future net cash flows attributable to our reserves before considering future corporate income taxes and our current tax structure. While the standardized measure is dependent on the unique tax situation of each company, PV-10 is based on prices and discount factors that are consistent for all companies.

The following table reconciles PV-10 to the standard measure of discounted future net cash flows, which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure:

Reconciliation of PV-10 to the Standard Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

Forward-Looking Statements

The information included herein and in any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included herein, are forward-looking statements, including statements about our ability to complete and successfully finance the Bayswater Acquisition, our financial performance following the Bayswater Acquisition, estimates of oil, natural gas and NGLs reserves, estimates of future oil, natural gas and NGLs production, and the Company’s updated guidance set forth in this press release. When used herein, including any oral statements made in connection herewith, the words “could,” “should,” “will,” “may,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” the negative of such terms and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. The Company cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including our ability to satisfy the conditions to closing the Bayswater Acquisition in a timely manner or at all, our ability to successfully finance the Bayswater Acquisition, our ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Acquisition, the possibility that we may be unable to achieve expected free cash flow accretion, production levels, drilling, operational efficiencies and other anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Assets within the expected time-frames or at all, and our ability to successfully integrate the Bayswater Assets . There may be additional risks not currently known by the Company or that the Company currently believes are immaterial that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact the Company’s expectations can be found in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on March 20, 2024, and any subsequently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Current Report on Form 8-K. The Company’s SEC filings are available publicly on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Investor Relations Contact:
Wobbe Ploegsma
info@prairieopco.com
832.274.3449

Tables accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2887d588-6948-4d53-b85e-af27741c6839
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a82a869-eea3-4d69-b087-417457b9dc27

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: “The situation in Russian science looks stable and positive”

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

© Higher School of Economics

On the eve of Russian Science Day, TASS held a press conference dedicated to the results of the third round of the comprehensive study “We do science in Russia” He was conducted Institute for Statistical Research and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEZ) HSE. The authors of the study and experts representing higher education, research institutes and industry spoke about the state of domestic science, the drivers of its development, the dynamics of change and the barriers that need to be overcome.

The first “Making Science in Russia” study was conducted in 2017, the second round took place in 2022, and the third from October to November 2024.

Present and future

As explained by the first vice-rector, director of the HSE ISSEK Leonid Gokhberg, the basis of the study was the results of a survey of the heads of 719 universities and leading scientific organizations, which make up almost the entire core of Russian science. These are “the key players who make the weather in this area and determine its development with their daily practices.”

The assessment was carried out on 87 factors grouped into 8 large blocks, which made it possible to determine the sentiment index in Russian science. In the second step, the researchers identified 47 measures of state scientific and technical policy, assessed their effectiveness on a number of parameters and rated them.

“The situation in Russian science looks stable and positive, there is progress compared to previous rounds of the study,” Leonid Gokhberg noted. For example, assessments related to the institutional conditions of functioning of universities and scientific organizations have improved – first of all, we are talking about increasing awareness of policy measures and regulation of important aspects of their daily life (regulation of state assignments and state purchases, tender procedures, etc.).

Representatives of the scientific sphere assess the prospects for the coming years even more optimistically. Expectations are connected with further increase in the efficiency of scientific research, cooperation with business and stimulation of investment inflow from commercial structures, development of the information base of science.

At the same time, the situation looks different in different sectors. “Universities are feeling the best, and this correlates with the measures of their support that have been launched in recent years and have had a rather positive impact on the development of university science,” Leonid Gokhberg stated.

Financing

The director continued the topic Center for Statistics and Monitoring of Science and Innovation ISSEK Ekaterina Streltsova, touching upon “the most sensitive issue” – funding of science.

This block received the most restrained assessment from the scientific community, but this does not mean that everything is bad. Science is financed from many sources, and the study showed that the situations with different sources differ for different organizations. Key sources of budgetary financing are assessed more restrainedly in general, since they may not be very relevant for non-profit organizations that participated in the survey (for example, grants from Russian scientific foundations).

“We see a significant improvement in the situation for all types of organizations compared to 2022, as budget expenditures on science are steadily increasing. This year, almost 3% of federal budget funds are planned to be allocated to support science, this is the highest figure in the last ten years, and we hope that funding for science will continue to increase,” Ekaterina Streltsova emphasized.

Organizations of all types were skeptical about the provision of funding from state companies and especially from business, and, in her opinion, this is a predictable result given the current structure of funding for Russian science. In recent years, the business sector has provided about 30% of the costs of science, and although this figure has increased compared to 2010, measures are needed to stimulate investment.

Of all the sources of funds, foreign organizations received the lowest ratings. “It was these ratings that influenced the overall score for the entire area and pulled it down, and this is understandable,” says Ekaterina Streltsova. “Foreign resources have never been significant for the development of Russian science; in the last five to six years, the share of these sources in the total volume of expenses has not exceeded 2.5%.”

Personnel and equipment

Ekaterina Streltsova noted that the human resources potential received a positive assessment for most factors: the managers are satisfied with both the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the scientific personnel they work with. Compared to 2022, some values have improved due to the implementation of a whole range of measures. Difficulties are associated with attracting foreign researchers and participation in international projects.

The assessment of material and technical conditions is also quite stable: organizations are generally optimistic about the availability of scientific equipment and consumables, but many note the complication of supplies from abroad. The availability of access to specialized domestic software and Russian AI-based systems is assessed cautiously, but it is in this area that expectations are high and positive.

The weak point remains the commercialization of results – their promotion and implementation in the economy. For example, universities and research organizations are actively involved in patent activities, but their contribution to the development of licensing activities in the domestic market is still limited. Obviously, this is due, among other things, to insufficient dialogue between science and business. “Although the situation has improved somewhat compared to 2022, we see that the intensity of interaction with business in the form of joint laboratories, basic departments, and so on is still assessed rather restrainedly, which, of course, requires further implementation, including of the measures already in force,” concluded Ekaterina Streltsova.

“A most interesting analysis”

The results of the study “Making Science in Russia” were commented on by representatives of science, higher education and industry.

Director of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Grigory Trubnikov noted that HSE scientists conducted “a most interesting analysis.” In his opinion, over three rounds of research, “analytics has taken off,” it has a large audience, and the data can be trusted.

Commenting on the conclusions about science funding, he put forward the hypothesis that the problem is not that it should be increased, say, twofold, but that “science should be done faster” — this is the main request of the scientific community. If we remove the obstacles associated with control, procurement procedures, academic mobility, and foreign restrictions, then the competitiveness of Russian science will increase.

Grigory Trubnikov also noted that in terms of international cooperation, everything depends on the specific organization, and things are going well at his institute in Dubna – cooperation with China, Mexico, Brazil is developing, and this is a noticeable trend in general.

Stanislav Terekhov, head of the laboratory of antibiotic resistance at the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, highly praised the existing measures to support science, including the creation of youth laboratories (his laboratory is one of them). In his opinion, this allows the best personnel to be retained in the country and students and postgraduates to be integrated into laboratory practice, but state support should be supplemented by private initiatives.

Science and Business

Director of the Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology at Sechenov University Vadim Tarasov emphasized the links between science and business in his speech. In his opinion, the Priority 2030 program “gave universities a huge opportunity to be flexible in their interactions with industry,” and now it is necessary to set goals for 10-15 years ahead, understanding what technologies the country needs to ensure sovereignty, and which ones are worth entering foreign markets with.

First Vice President for MTS Technologies, Head of the MTS Basic Department at HSE Pavel Voronin also highly praised the study, calling it very complete and high-quality.

In his opinion, science is the foundation for technology, and “the geopolitical situation requires us to invest more in this fundamental part,” but the economic situation forces many companies in the market to approach finances prudently. When it is necessary to monitor expenses more closely, the first thing that is cut is unpredictable, long-term investments. “From a business point of view, it is important not to get caught in these scissors, to correctly determine priorities and leave a certain share of investments for long-term research,” concluded Pavel Voronin.

Head of the scientific and technical cooperation department of the State Corporation Rosatom Ekaterina Chaban stated that in her corporation “every scientific project is also a business project” and confirmed the researchers’ findings on the successful attraction of young people to science. In the scientific division of Rosatom, out of 2 thousand scientists, 38% are under 35 years old, 48% are under 39 years old, and among the directors of institutes there are scientists and designers under 40 years old. “The corporation does a lot to maintain the influx of young people and retain young personnel,” she explained.

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 –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: BFCM – 2024 Full year results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Results for the year ended December 31, 2024	Press Release
	Strasbourg, February 6, 2025

Results for the year ended December 31, 2024	2024	2023	Change 2024/2023
RECORD NET REVENUE	€12.370bn	€11.808bn	+4.8%
of which retail banking	€8.413bn	€8.410bn	0.0%
of which specialized business lines	€2.916bn	€2.563bn	+13.8%
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES UNDER CONTROL POSITIVE SCISSOR EFFECT	-€6.268bn	-€6.057bn	+3.5%
HIGHER COST OF RISK DUE TO THE ECONOMIC CLIMATE AND INCREASED PROVISIONS	-€1.807bn	-€1.279bn	+41.3%
NET INCOME AT RECORD LEVEL	€3.412bn	€3.345bn	+2.0%

GROWTH IN LENDING¹
Home loans	Equipment loans and leasing	Consumer credit
€120.7bn	€117.2bn	€48.2bn
0.0%	+3.0%	+5.7%

SOLID FINANCIAL STRUCTURE
CET1 Ratio²	Shareholders’ equity
18.8%	€45.20bn

Download the press releas: Press Releases | Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel

Press contact :

Aziz Ridouan: +33(0)6 01 10 31 69 – aziz.ridouan@creditmutuel.fr

Press contact: +33 (0)3 88 14 84 00 – com-alliancefederale@creditmutuel.fr

Investor contact :

Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel – bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

1 Changes in outstandings calculated over 12 months. ² Ratio estimated at December 31, 2024 for Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale which includes BFCM in its scope of consolidation. The integration of earnings into shareholders’ equity is subject to approval by the ECB.

Attachment

Press_release_2024_results_Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Getting involved in National Apprenticeship Week

Source: City of Coventry

Coventry City Council is helping to mark National Apprenticeship Week from 10 February.

Coventry City Council is helping to mark National Apprenticeship Week from 10 February by co-ordinating activities to raise awareness about apprenticeship opportunities in the Council and other organisations in Coventry.

There are currently over 400 apprentices working at the Council undertaking over 50 different types of apprenticeship across all of our service areas.

Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “Apprenticeships are a crucial part of the Council’s recruitment process. They offer opportunities for young people who may be looking at post-16 options other than sixth forms, colleges and university courses.

“We also work with care leavers and young people who may not be in employment or education.

“I’d really encourage parents/carers and teachers and young people to find out more about what the Council can offer.

“Our apprentices make a fantastic contribution to the wide range of services we provide.”

A week of activities is planned, including online apprenticeship information sessions and a schools’ event at Coventry Rugby Club, involving a range of businesses and organisations offering apprenticeships in Coventry.

The Council has apprentices, school apprentices and newly recruited corporate apprentices working in Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Customer Services, Marketing and Events, Electrical Installation, Highways, Horticulture/Gardening, Facilities Services, Finance, IT, Legal, Plumbing/Heating, Vehicle Mechanics and in other services.

Apprenticeships are foundation to a great career and offer a range of opportunities and career pathways. As an apprentice at Coventry City Council, people will gain new knowledge, experiences and qualifications, all whilst earning a salary.

All apprentices at the Council have a dedicated Apprenticeship Officer that works alongside managers and apprentices to provide: pastoral care and mentoring; access to additional learning and development opportunities; and career advice and guidance.

Apprenticeships are a key part of the Council’s plans to train the workforce of the future, so we do all we can do to ensure our apprentices stay with us after completing their apprenticeship.

During the week, there will be activities taking place for both current Council apprentices, celebrating their achievements so far, and for future apprentices to get involved with too.

Get involved

Monday 10 February – Virtual online information sessions for the public, parents/carers and young people

Tuesday 11 February – Schools event at Coventry Rugby Club involving 25 + employers in the city

Thursday 13 February – Video highlights from staff who have benefited from apprenticeships

For details visit coventry.gov.uk/apprenticeships

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: GPTBots.ai Redefines On-Premise AI Excellence with DeepSeek Integration
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HONG KONG, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GPTBots.ai, a leading enterprise AI agent platform, is proud to unveil its enhanced on-premise deployment solutions powered by the integration of the highly acclaimed DeepSeek LLM. This integration empowers enterprises to harness the advanced capabilities of DeepSeek while leveraging GPTBots’ robust, enterprise-grade platform, delivering a secure, flexible, and scalable AI solution tailored to diverse business needs.

As businesses worldwide accelerate their adoption of AI, GPTBots.ai provides a comprehensive platform that combines cutting-edge technology with industry-specific solutions, enabling enterprises to achieve measurable results while maintaining full control over their data and infrastructure.

Cost-Effective AI Deployment for Businesses of All Sizes

DeepSeek’s lightweight architecture, including its MoE (Mixture of Experts) design, significantly reduces the hardware and operational costs associated with AI deployment:
- Optimized Resource Utilization: DeepSeek can operate seamlessly on consumer-grade GPUs (e.g., RTX 4090), eliminating the need for expensive high-end clusters.
- Energy Efficiency: Enhanced inference optimization reduces energy consumption, making it ideal for businesses prioritizing cost control and sustainability.
When deployed through GPTBots, enterprises benefit from streamlined workflows, pre-configured tools, and optimized resource allocation, ensuring a lower total cost of ownership while maintaining high performance.

Transforming On-Premise AI for Industry-Specific Applications

The integration of DeepSeek into GPTBots’ platform delivers significant value across industries, enabling businesses to address unique challenges and unlock new opportunities:
- Retail, E-Commerce, and Gaming: GPTBots revolutionizes customer support by automating inquiries, providing 24/7 multilingual assistance, and enhancing user experiences. A global gaming platform using GPTBots reduced response times by 95% and automated 98% of inquiries, freeing resources for creative tasks.
- Finance: GPTBots streamlines customer service, compliance workflows, and risk analysis, reducing operational costs while improving customer satisfaction and regulatory adherence.
- Energy: GPTBots supports real-time monitoring and data analysis, helping energy companies optimize resource allocation and equipment management. Businesses can leverage GPTBots for equipment failure prediction, energy consumption analysis, and renewable energy management, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
- Government and Enterprises: GPTBots provides intelligent administrative management and public service support for government and enterprise sectors, enhancing service efficiency and decision-making quality. For example, GPTBots can be used for automated government service consultations, policy interpretation, and the intelligent upgrade of public service platforms, driving digital transformation for government and enterprise organizations.
Flexible Deployment for Data Control and Security

GPTBots’ on-premise deployment ensures enterprises maintain full control over their data, aligning with the highest standards of security and operational independence:
- Data Ownership: All data is stored within the enterprise’s infrastructure, ensuring complete autonomy and privacy.
- Advanced Security Protocols: GPTBots provides enterprise-grade SLA guarantees, role-based access control, and encryption, safeguarding sensitive information and critical operations.
This approach is particularly valuable for industries such as finance, healthcare, and legal services, where data privacy and compliance are paramount.

Empowering Enterprises to Embrace AI with Confidence

GPTBots’ integration of DeepSeek is more than just a technological advancement—it’s a commitment to empowering businesses to thrive in the AI-driven era. By combining DeepSeek’s advanced capabilities with GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform, businesses gain access to:
- Customizable Solutions: Tailor AI deployments to specific business needs with GPTBots’ no-code/low-code platform and robust APIs.
- Comprehensive Tool Ecosystem: From LinkedIn and HubSpot integrations to advanced image generation tools, GPTBots provides everything enterprises need to automate workflows and enhance productivity.
- End-to-End Support: From deployment to ongoing optimization, GPTBots offers professional services to ensure long-term success.
“GPTBots is committed to empowering businesses with the tools they need to innovate and grow,” said Jerry Yin, VP of GPTBots.ai. “By integrating DeepSeek into our on-premise deployment solutions, we’re providing a powerful, secure, and flexible AI platform that drives measurable results across industries.”

About GPTBots.ai

GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.

For more information, visit www.gptbots.ai.

Media Contact:
Silvia
Senior Marketing Manager
marketing@gptbots.ai

The MIL Network –
February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s GPTBots.ai Integrates DeepSeek into On-Premise Al Solutions
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that its leading enterprise AI agent platform, GPTBots.ai, has unveiled its enhanced on-premise deployment solutions powered by the integration of the highly acclaimed DeepSeek LLM. This integration empowers enterprises to harness the advanced capabilities of DeepSeek while leveraging GPTBots’ robust, enterprise-grade platform, delivering a secure, flexible, and scalable AI solution tailored to diverse business needs.

As businesses worldwide accelerate their adoption of AI, GPTBots.ai provides a comprehensive platform that combines cutting-edge technology with industry-specific solutions, enabling enterprises to achieve measurable results while maintaining full control over their data and infrastructure.

Cost-Effective AI Deployment for Businesses of All Sizes

DeepSeek’s lightweight architecture, including its MoE (Mixture of Experts) design, significantly reduces the hardware and operational costs associated with AI deployment:
- Optimized Resource Utilization: DeepSeek can operate seamlessly on consumer-grade GPUs (e.g., RTX 4090), eliminating the need for expensive high-end clusters.
- Energy Efficiency: Enhanced inference optimization reduces energy consumption, making it ideal for businesses prioritizing cost control and sustainability.
When deployed through GPTBots, enterprises benefit from streamlined workflows, pre-configured tools, and optimized resource allocation, ensuring a lower total cost of ownership while maintaining high performance.

Transforming On-Premise AI for Industry-Specific Applications

The integration of DeepSeek into GPTBots’ platform delivers significant value across industries, enabling businesses to address unique challenges and unlock new opportunities:
- Retail, E-Commerce, and Gaming: GPTBots revolutionizes customer support by automating inquiries, providing 24/7 multilingual assistance, and enhancing user experiences. A global gaming platform using GPTBots reduced response times by 95% and automated 98% of inquiries, freeing resources for creative tasks.
- Finance: GPTBots streamlines customer service, compliance workflows, and risk analysis, reducing operational costs while improving customer satisfaction and regulatory adherence.
- Energy: GPTBots supports real-time monitoring and data analysis, helping energy companies optimize resource allocation and equipment management. Businesses can leverage GPTBots for equipment failure prediction, energy consumption analysis, and renewable energy management, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
- Government and Enterprises: GPTBots provides intelligent administrative management and public service support for government and enterprise sectors, enhancing service efficiency and decision-making quality. For example, GPTBots can be used for automated government service consultations, policy interpretation, and the intelligent upgrade of public service platforms, driving digital transformation for government and enterprise organizations.
Flexible Deployment for Data Control and Security

GPTBots’ on-premise deployment ensures enterprises maintain full control over their data, aligning with the highest standards of security and operational independence:
- Data Ownership: All data is stored within the enterprise’s infrastructure, ensuring complete autonomy and privacy.
- Advanced Security Protocols: GPTBots provides enterprise-grade SLA guarantees, role-based access control, and encryption, safeguarding sensitive information and critical operations.
This approach is particularly valuable for industries such as finance, healthcare, and legal services, where data privacy and compliance are paramount.

Empowering Enterprises to Embrace AI with Confidence

GPTBots’ integration of DeepSeek is more than just a technological advancement—it’s a commitment to empowering businesses to thrive in the AI-driven era. By combining DeepSeek’s advanced capabilities with GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform, businesses gain access to:
- Customizable Solutions: Tailor AI deployments to specific business needs with GPTBots’ no-code/low-code platform and robust APIs.
- Comprehensive Tool Ecosystem: From LinkedIn and HubSpot integrations to advanced image generation tools, GPTBots provides everything enterprises need to automate workflows and enhance productivity.
- End-to-End Support: From deployment to ongoing optimization, GPTBots offers professional services to ensure long-term success.
“GPTBots is committed to empowering businesses with the tools they need to innovate and grow,” said Jerry Yin, VP of GPTBots.ai. “By integrating DeepSeek into our on-premise deployment solutions, we’re providing a powerful, secure, and flexible AI platform that drives measurable results across industries.”

About GPTBots.ai

GPTBots.ai is a complementary general-purpose LLM AI bot featuring private data input and continuous fine-tuning, which can replace ‘rule-based’ chatbots, improve user experience, and reduce costs. GPTBots.ai aims to provide users with an end-to-end business platform that can seamlessly integrate robots into existing applications and workflows via plug-ins. GPTBots.ai also allow users to have great access to, and more efficiently and effectively using, AIGC to improve overall corporate productivity and output quality.

To know more, please visit https://www.gptbots.ai.

About Aurora Mobile Limited

Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

Aurora Mobile Limited

E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

Christensen

In China

Ms. Xiaoyan Su

Phone: +86-10-5900-1548

E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

In U.S.

Ms. Linda Bergkamp

Phone: +1-480-614-3004

Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

The MIL Network –
February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: BYDFi Lists Berachain Token (BERA), Supporting BERA/USDT Spot and Perpetual Contracts Trading
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SINGAPORE, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BYDFi officially listed the BERA/USDT spot trading pair and launched BERA/USDT perpetual contracts with up to 75x leverage. Users can now participate in the 8,100 USDT reward campaign – for more details, please visit the BYDFi website or refer to the official announcements.

Berachain: The Innovative Blockchain Powering $BERA

As the native token of the Berachain blockchain, $BERA derives its value not only from market demand but also from the strong foundational support of the Berachain ecosystem. Berachain is an EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain built on the Cosmos SDK. It utilizes an innovative Proof-of-Liquidity (PoL) consensus mechanism, which differs from traditional Proof-of-Stake (PoS) systems. By linking validator rewards to application demand and liquidity contributions, PoL creates a dynamic incentive structure that prevents token devaluation and liquidity depletion. This groundbreaking economic model fosters mutual value creation between the blockchain and applications built on it, ensuring sustainable growth.

On April 20, 2023, Berachain successfully raised $42 million in a Series A funding round led by Polychain Capital. Furthermore, ahead of its mainnet launch, Berachain’s liquidity pre-deposit application, Boyco, attracted over $3 billion within one week, demonstrating strong market interest and adoption.

$BERA: The Key Asset of Berachain

$BERA, as the native token of Berachain, is primarily used to pay network transaction fees (gas) and can be staked to cover validator activation costs

Market Performance:
- Within just 24 hours of launch, $BERA’s market capitalization surged past $1.5 billion
- As of the time of writing, $BERA is priced at $7.9191
- 24-hour trading volume reached $2.187 billion, marking a 2,291.00% increase from the previous day
With the continuous expansion of the Berachain ecosystem, the demand for $BERA is expected to grow, driving its market value even higher.

How to Trade $BERA on BYDFi

One-Click Buy & Sell
Users can purchase BERA easily through BYDFi’s “Convert” feature, using credit/debit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or wallet balances.

Leverage Trading
- Supports BERA/USDT cross-margin and isolated-margin trading
- Leverage options: 1x to 75x
- VIP trading fee discounts—for more details, visit the BYDFi official website
About BYDFi

Founded in 2020, BYDFi is recognized by Forbes as a top 10 global crypto exchange, serving over 1,000,000 users. The platform holds MSB licenses in multiple regions and is a member of South Korea’s CODE VASP Alliance. Laying great stress on compliance and development, BYDFi has always guarded the legal rights of all its global users. To protect user assets, BYDFi stores all funds in offline multi-signature wallets with at least a 1:1 reserve ratio and publishes regular proof-of-reserves (PoR) reports for transparency. BYDFi offers 24/7 live customer support, providing efficient and professional assistance in every step of a trader’s journey. BUIDL Your Dream Finance.
- Website: https://www.bydfi.com
- Support Email: CS@bydfi.com
- Business Partnerships: BD@bydfi.com
- Media Inquiries: media@bydfi.com
Twitter( X )| LinkedIn| Facebook | Telegram| YouTube

The MIL Network –
February 7, 2025

MIL-OSI: 3/2025・Trifork Group AG – Share-based Incentive Program 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company announcement no. 3 / 2025
Schindellegi, Switzerland – 7 February 2025

Share-based Incentive Program 2025

Trifork Group AG (“Trifork”) has granted restricted share units (“RSUs”) under the existing employee long-term share-based incentive program (“ELTIP”) approved by the Board of Directors in 2021.
The first ELTIP 2025 (“ELTIP 2025a”) is covering the grant in January 2025 to certain employees of the Trifork Group.

The ELTIP 2025a is based on RSUs and employees participating in the ELTIP 2025a may, subject to certain terms and conditions, be allocated RSUs by converting salary supplements or bonuses. RSUs granted will be subject to graded vesting over a three-year period.

Further details about the ELTIP 2025a are stated below:

Participants	Certain employees of the Trifork Group in selected jurisdictions. Total 51 employees.
Number of RSUs	Based on the number of employees participating in the ELTIP 2025a, a total of 33,549 RSUs will be allocated. The number of RSUs is calculated by converting the amount of salary supplements or bonuses and applying the weighted average share price for shares of the last three trading days of 2024.
Granting	RSUs comprised by the ELTIP 2025a are granted in January 2025.
Vesting	RSUs will vest over a three-year period with 1/3 of the RSUs vesting each year. Vesting is not conditional upon the achievement of any financial or non-financial targets but is conditional upon the participating employee remaining employed with the Trifork Group throughout the vesting period or becoming a good leaver during the vesting period as well as the participating employee having complied in all respects with the terms and conditions of the ELTIP 2025a.
Objective	Attraction and retention of employees in selected jurisdictions.
Conversion	Once vested and not lapsed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the ELTIP 2025a, each RSU will entitle the holder to receive one Trifork share.
Conditions	RSUs are granted based on the conversion of individual supplement salaries or bonus amounts for each participating employee. The ELTIP 2025a is subject to customary conditions.
Allocation & theoretical value	The allocation is based on the weighted average share price of the last 3 trading days of 2024 (DKK 75.08). Dividing the converting salary by this amount results in the number of RSUs to be granted. The converting total amounts to DKK 2,518,858.92 (EUR 338,556) and 33,549 RSUs. The theoretical value for the RSUs is the market price of the Trifork share at grant date minus the expected dividends for the portions vesting after one, two, and three years.

For further information, please contact

Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director & Head of IR
frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17

About Trifork

Trifork is a pioneering global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative solutions. With 1,278 professionals across 76 business units in 15 countries, Trifork delivers expertise in inspiring, building, and running advanced software solutions across diverse sectors, including public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. Trifork Labs, the Group’s R&D hub, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic and high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is a publicly listed company on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

Attachment

CA_03_25_RSU

The MIL Network –

February 7, 2025

MIL-OSI: Ress Life Investments A/S publishes financial calendar
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Ress Life Investments A/S
Nybrogade 12
DK-1203 Copenhagen K
Denmark
CVR nr. 33593163
www.resslifeinvestments.com
To: Nasdaq Copenhagen
Date: 7 February 2025

Corporate Announcement 05/2025

Ress Life Investments A/S publishes financial calendar

The current financial year runs from 1 January to 31 December.

Financial Calendar

19th March 2025 Annual Report ending 31 December 2024

16th April 2025 Annual General Meeting

9th September 2025 Interim financial statement for the period from 1 January 2025 through 30 June 2025

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

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

Attachment
- Ress Life Investments AS – Company Announcement financial calendar 2025
The MIL Network –
February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Beijing sub-center boosts green development

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

Over the past year, Beijing’s sub-center has advanced green development in various sectors including ecology, architecture, transportation, industry, and energy.
Located in Tongzhou district of the city, the municipal administrative center covers an area of approximately 155 square kilometers and was planned and constructed to adjust the city’s spatial layout.
In February 2024, China’s State Council approved a guideline on building a national demonstration zone of green development in the sub-center.
Green ecology has since showed visible progress. “Tongzhou district provides suitable wintering habitats for tens of thousands of water birds each year and has become a key area for bird biodiversity conservation,” said Lyu Xiaofei, deputy director general of the Tongzhou District Ecology and Environment Bureau.
From November 2023 to November 2024, a total of 289 bird species were recorded in Tongzhou district, Lyu said.
Green development has also been integrated into all aspects of architectural design. The headquarters of Beijing Investment Group, a landmark building in the sub-center, was completed last year. The building maximizes the use of renewable energy, with a rooftop solar power installation capacity of 413.5 kW and an annual power generation of approximately 400,000 kWh. Its hybrid energy system, primarily powered by ground-source heat pumps, is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1,220 metric tons per year.
Last year, Tongzhou district launched eight new bus routes and adjusted 13 existing ones, ensuring a bus stop every 500 meters in urban areas. This is part of the efforts of the district to boost green transportation.
Currently, the sub-center is leveraging green energy technologies to drive the energy transition, replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy.

MIL OSI China News –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues a GBP 25 million tap under its MTN programme

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Municipality Finance Plc
Stock exchange release
7 February 2025 at 10:00 am (EET)

Municipality Finance issues a GBP 25 million tap under its MTN programme

On 10 February 2025 Municipality Finance Plc issues a new tranche in an amount of GBP 25 million to an existing benchmark issued on 4 October 2023. With the new tranche, the aggregate nominal amount of the benchmark is GBP 275 million. The maturity date of the benchmark is 2 January 2026. The benchmark bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.000 % per annum.

The new tranche is issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

MuniFin has applied for the new tranche to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 10 February 2025. The existing notes in the series are admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange.

NatWest Markets N.V. acts as the Dealer for the issue of the new tranche.

MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

Further information:

Joakim Holmström
Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
tel. +358 50 444 3638

MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the Republic of Finland. The Group’s balance sheet totals over EUR 50 billion.

MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. Our customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, joint county authorities, corporate entities under the control of the above-mentioned organisations, and affordable social housing. Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

Important Information

The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

The MIL Network –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues GBP 14,6 million notes under its MTN programme

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Municipality Finance Plc
Stock exchange release
7 February 2025 at 10:00 am (EET)

Municipality Finance issues GBP 14,6 million notes under its MTN programme

Municipality Finance Plc issues GBP 14,6 million notes on 10 February 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 10 February 2026. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.30% per annum.

The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 10 February 2025.

Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

Further information:

Joakim Holmström
Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
tel. +358 50 444 3638

MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The company is owned by Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the Republic of Finland.
The Group’s balance sheet totals over EUR 50 billion.

MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

Important Information

The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

The MIL Network –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Danske Bank A/S initiates share buy-back programme
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company announcement no 6 2025 Danske Bank
Bernstorffsgade 40
DK-1577 København V
Tel. + 45 45 14 14 00

7 February 2025

Page 1 of 1

Danske Bank A/S initiates share buy-back programme

In line with the distribution plan announced in the press release regarding the annual report for 2024 published on 7 February 2025, the Board of Directors of Danske Bank A/S (“Danske Bank”) has resolved to utilise the authorisation granted by the Annual General Meeting on 21 March 2024 to repurchase shares by initiating a share buy-back programme of up to DKK 5 billion (the “Programme”).

The purpose of the Programme is to reduce the share capital of Danske Bank.

The Programme will be implemented in accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (the “Market Abuse Regulation”) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016 (together with the Market Abuse Regulation, the “Safe Harbour Rules”).

The Programme will be conducted in the period from 10 February 2025 to 30 January 2026, at the latest. Danske Bank may, however, at any time suspend or terminate the Programme.

The following additional conditions apply to the Programme:
- Share repurchases will only take place on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S.
- The Programme will be managed by an independent lead manager, which, under a separate agreement with Danske Bank, will make its trading decisions regarding the timing of the share repurchases independently of, and without influence by Danske Bank, within the timeframe set out in this announcement.
- The maximum amount allocated to the Programme is DKK 5 billion.
- The maximum number of shares that may be acquired under the Programme is 45,000,000 shares.
- Shares acquired under the Programme may not be purchased at a price exceeding the higher of (i) the share price of the last independent transaction on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S, and (ii) the highest independent bid on the shares on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S. The shares may not be acquired at a price deviating more than 10% from the price quoted on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S at the time of acquisition.
- Purchases on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S made on one single purchase day may not exceed 25% of the average daily trading volume of the shares during the 20 preceding trading days before the purchase day.
Information about shares acquired under the Programme will be published weekly on Danske Bank’s website www.danskebank.com and via company announcements. Danske Bank will also on its website and via company announcement publish information about any subsequent changes to the Programme should such occur, including any termination of the Programme.

Danske Bank

Contacts: Helga Heyn, Head of Media Relations, tel. +45 45 14 14 00
Claus Ingar Jensen, Head of Group Investor Relations, tel. +45 25 42 43 70

Attachment
- Danske Bank AS initiates share buy-back programme
The MIL Network –
February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Child Abuse – Northern Region

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a man with child abuse in a remote Northern Territory community.

It is alleged the 19-year-old man sexually assaulted a young relative on Tuesday 4 February 2025.

Detectives from the Child Abuse Taskforce, Criminal Investigation Branch and general duties arrested the man on Wednesday 5 February 2025.

He has now been charged with Sexual intercourse with a child under 10, and remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on 10 February 2025.

In respect of victims privacy, no further information will be provided.

MIL OSI News –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: APAC VC funding: Deals volume falls across most of funding sizes in 2024, reveals GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

APAC VC funding: Deals volume falls across most of funding sizes in 2024, reveals GlobalData

Posted in Business Fundamentals

A total of 3,724 venture capital (VC) funding deals with disclosed funding value were announced in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region during 2024. This represents a year-on-year (YoY) decline of 6.9% compared to the previous year, with a fall in deals volume in most of the VC funding size ranges, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Be it low-value deals* or high-value deals**, the decline in deals volume was witnessed across most of the funding size ranges in the region during the year. In fact, there was a double-digit decline in high-value VC deals volume. Meanwhile, VC deals valued over $500 million saw some marginal improvement in volume.”

An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database reveals that the number of high-value VC deals declined by 24.1% from 112 in 2023 to 85 deals in 2024, whereas the volume of low-value VC deals fell by 2% from 2,604 in 2023 to 2,553 in 2024. Meanwhile, mid-size VC funding deals (valued >$10 million and ≤$100 million) volume declined by 15.3% from 1,282 deals in 2023 to 1,086 deals in 2024.

Low-value deals continued to dominate and account for the largest chunk of deals volume in 2024. These deals accounted for a 68.5% share of the total number of VC deals with disclosed funding value announced in the APAC region last year.

High-value VC deals accounted for a 2.3% share of the total number of VC deals with disclosed funding value announced in the region, while the share of mid-size VC funding deals stood at 29.2%.

*Investment value less than or equal to $10 million

**Investment value more than $100 million

MIL OSI Economics –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on 3AW drive with Jacqui Felgate

Source: Ministers for Social Services

7 February 2025

E&OE TRANSCRIPT

Topics: NDIS; NDIS fraud; Investment in Saver Plus.

JACQUI FELGATE, HOST: I do want to touch base now, though, on the NDIS, because I think it’s a really important issue and it’s one that a lot of victims in this case and a lot of people with disabilities and special needs that needed help under the last system didn’t get it. It’s now in the hands of Amanda Rishworth, who’s the new Minister for the NDIS following the retirement of Labor MP Bill Shorten. So, for the first time on 3AW, she joins me now. Minister, really appreciate your time.

AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Great to be with you.

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, what it means in practical terms is that if someone has a permanent and significant disability, what they can do is go to see a planner at the NDIS and they will make an assessment and give you funding to buy in a whole range of individualised supports. So, that might be therapy supports like physiotherapy, it might be personal care or nursing. It might be equipment like a wheelchair. Previously to the NDIS, people just used to get allocated a wheelchair or told to go to a certain place and that’s where they could get their physiotherapy. When the NDIS came in, you got funding in which the person with the disability could go and then find a provider and spend the money they were allocated to get that service. So, it provided a lot more control for people with disability. It has changed so many people’s lives, but it’s very individualistic, so it is what you need as an individual. And so it is quite complex at times and can be difficult to navigate, but it really has changed so many people’s lives because it’s provided an individualised support for people that need it.

JACQUI FELGATE: So, when you say complex, we do know the system has been fraught with problems to the point of alleged fraud as well. Last year, when we spoke to a lot of, particularly parents of young children, they felt like their funding had been reduced or cut unnecessarily. Are you going through all of those cases on an individual basis and can you reassure people that those who really need it are going to get the funding?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Firstly, I would say that as Minister, the NDIS review process happens independently for me. But I can say and give your listeners reassurance, there haven’t been any changes around the rules in which young children are assessed. What there has been a change to is a list of what’s in and can be funded by the NDIS and what’s out of that list. And that was about making sure that the NDIS funds were actually used appropriately. There are a lot of things that were on that list that, you know, salt therapy was one of these things. There’s no evidence for that. But when it comes to children, there have been no changes around access and what can be funded under the scheme. There’s an individualised assessment to that and that’s really important. But there haven’t been any changes to what can be funded.

JACQUI FELGATE: And what about the rorts and the fraud? How can you guarantee that that won’t happen in the future?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Look, some of the cases, particularly service providers that have been acting appallingly, was really shocking. So, we have, as under the previous Minister, set up what was called the Fraud Fusion Task Force, which actually brought together intel from a range of agencies, the AFP, the NDIA and a whole range of structures to deal with fraud. And so that continues do its work to make sure it’s identifying dodgy actors in this and hold them to account. And we have a number of ongoing investigations and referrals for prosecution. But some of the other work that’s been really important to make sure that this money gets used wisely is making sure people understand what can be funded and what can’t be, particularly service providers. They need to understand and give the right advice. So, the other element I’m really keen on is driving up quality. So, this isn’t just bad actors in the scheme, this is actually making sure that every participant, when they spend their NDIS money, get a high quality service, that there’s appropriate safeguards and protections in place as well.

JACQUI FELGATE: So, how do you think it got to that point, though, where we heard the most ridiculous examples and we heard the most desperate examples of people who really needed help but couldn’t get it? And then the rorts, like how did it allow over all these years, how did that get to that point, Minister?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, people just weren’t paying attention. I mean, ultimately you heard stories the…

JACQUI FELGATE: The former Minister wasn’t paying attention?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: The former government wasn’t paying attention. I mean, when Minister Shorten came into this portfolio, he identified very quickly that there had been no checks and balances, that there hadn’t been proper oversight over this scheme. It had been left just to meander and there hadn’t been the appropriate protections put in place. So, Minister Shorten himself identified this very quickly and has stood up a whole range of oversight mechanisms to look at this. So, it really was the previous government…

JACQUI FELGATE: You can’t always blame the previous government, though, you have been in power for nearly four years.

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, you know about the challenges because we’ve identified them. You know about these cases that have happened over the last two years because they haven’t got away with it. I mean, that’s ultimately why, you know about these circumstances, why we’ve seen some of the articles in the paper, is because we have now got the oversight mechanisms to identify them and take them to court. So, we do need to maintain vigilance on this. It is critically important, but it’s also important that people don’t get dodgy service and there is quality services out there as well.

JACQUI FELGATE: Okay, so what’s the Saver Plus program and how’s that going to make a difference?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: The Saver Plus program is separate from the NDIS. This is a really important program where people that may be wanting to get a bit more financial capability to have matched savings with the ANZ Bank. We have just funded this program. It’s been going for 21 years. We’ve now extended their funding for another five years. It’s funded through the Brotherhood of St Laurence and really does support people become financially resilient and support them for really good saving habits. So, it’s a really good program. And I’m really pleased that today we’ve announced extra funding for that.

JACQUI FELGATE: Amanda Rishworth is the Minister for Social Services and the NDIS. Really appreciate your time, Minister.

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Thank you.

MIL OSI News –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Sebastopol Community Hub starting to come to life
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

A project that will transform Sebastopol and become a vital part of community life has reached a major construction milestone.

The concrete slab of the Sebastopol Community Hub is about to be poured, as significant progress continues to be made towards the community-shaping project.

It is expected the structural steel framing will be complete in autumn as the designs start to become reality.

The community hub will provide a vital facility for Sebastopol and surrounding suburbs and has extensive financial support from all three tiers of government.

The collaborative project is jointly funded by the City of Ballarat (up to $5 million), the Federal Government ($4.5 million) via the Investing in Our Communities program and the State Government ($4.5 million) via the Building Blocks Capacity program.

The Sebastopol Community Hub will include:
- Three 22-place kindergarten rooms
- A main hall with a 150-person capacity
- Three meeting rooms with varying capacities ranging from 12-50 people
- Maternal child health consulting rooms
- A community kitchen
- A kindergarten play space and an undercover play area
- On-site carparking
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves joined Federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King and Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison for an inspection of the early stages of the works on Friday.

Significant progress has been made since the previous site tour in June 2024, with the project on track for completion in early 2026.

Cr Hargreaves said it was an exciting stage for the project at the corner of Vickers and Beverin streets.

“We are extremely proud to have both Federal and State support for this project and to see it starting to come to life is incredible,” she said.

“This is going to be a transformational project for the Sebastopol area that will provide an enormous boost to community life for a wide range of people.”

Federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King said the facility would provide a boost for a range of generations.

“It’s so exciting to see this important project taking shape,” she said.

“The new Sebastopol Community Hub will be a place of learning and social connection for both kinder kids and senior citizens.

“It will be a special, multi-generational facility and that will serve our community for generations to come.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the facility would benefit the entire community.

“By investing $4.5 million into the Sebastopol Community Hub through our Building Blocks Capacity program, we are not only creating new kindergarten rooms and places – but contributing funds for a much-needed purpose built space for the whole community,” she said.

MIL OSI News –
February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Questions U.S. Trade Representative Nominee Jamieson Greer at Senate Finance Committee Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, today spoke with United States Trade Representative (USTR) nominee Jamieson Greer about the need to move away from China on trade and unlock new export markets for long term stability.

During the hearing, Grassley emphasized the importance of reducing or eliminating Brazil’s tariff on American ethanol. Grassley also questioned Greer about USTR’s cooperation with the Department of Commerce on trade matters.

Video and excerpts of his questions follow.

[embedded content]

VIDEO

Brazilian Tariffs on American Ethanol:

“Brazil is a leading competitor with the United States on agriculture. One example is that Brazil has displaced the United States as the world leader in soybean production.

“Another issue with Brazil that I brought up to your predecessor, Ms. Tai, is the drastically unfair advantage Brazil has on ethanol. U.S. exporters face an 18% tariff on ethanol going to Brazil. However, Brazilian ethanol enjoys nearly duty-free access to the U.S. market.

“I hope you will address this trade imbalance with Brazil that Ambassador Tai wasn’t successful in doing: taking action to reduce or eliminate this harmful tariff on American ethanol.”

The Role of USTR and the Department of Commerce:

“Now that you and Mr. Lutnick have been nominees for several weeks, I’d like to know exactly how much authority do you have on trade matters relative to Mr. Lutnick and other cabinet members?”

Moving Away from China and Unlocking New Markets:

“I’d like to make a statement and see if you agree:

“While I think it is important to hold China to its obligations under the Phase 1 Agreement, I also fear it may keep us reliant on the Chinese markets. So, we need to be looking around the world at other markets.

“We need to balance our short-term profitability with long term stability.

“I have for a long time voiced my own concerns about unfair trade practices by China, and I hope that you and President Trump are successful in holding China accountable on issues including fentanyl, intellectual property theft and government subsidization of industries.

“That said, I believe we must pursue freer trade with other countries to create new markets so that we can move away from China without losing even more global market share of our commodities to Brazil and other countries.

“The free trade agreements that were negotiated under George W. Bush have resulted in large trade surpluses in key industries like agriculture and manufacturing. I think we need more free trade, and I know that President Trump is more interested in bilateral agreements than multi-state agreements.

“I think if we look away from Brazil and South Korea and Japan and China and [the European Union] as being problem countries for us on trade issues. But there’s so many other countries where, if we have these agreements — and I use George W. Bush as an example and his negotiator Allen Johnson — about 13 countries, probably six or seven different agreements with countries you don’t even think much about being significant in world trade, we’ve increased tremendously with these free trade agreements, our surpluses with those countries in trade.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Housing sector likely to see better days ahead

Source: China State Council Information Office

The positive buying sentiment in the new-home market across major Chinese cities has greatly boosted confidence and expectations for a strong sales season in March and April, said industry experts on Thursday after digesting the home transaction data of the Spring Festival holiday.

The Chinese New Year holiday started on Jan 28 and wrapped up on Tuesday. According to official data, the 28 major Chinese cities monitored by the China Index Academy reported an 8 percent growth in daily new-home transaction space year-on-year.

More specifically, Guangzhou, Guangdong province witnessed a 47 percent year-on-year surge in new home trades during the Spring Festival holiday, with Beijing recording a moderate growth of 5 percent. Strong growth was also seen in second-tier cities including Nanjing, Jiangsu province; Nanchang, Jiangxi province; and Wuhan, Hubei province.

“It is expected that transaction volume of both new and pre-owned homes in these cities would welcome an evident rebound after the holiday,” said Li Yifeng, deputy director of research at the China Index Academy.

“The overall housing market saw stable performance during this year’s Chinese New Year, despite the fact that the holiday is a conventional low season for home transactions. As a result, a significant rebound is highly expected after the holiday,” Li said.

The positive feedback in the market — coupled with factors like warm weather, year-end bonuses, stable work and life, and promotions launched by developers — is likely to persuade more potential homebuyers to make purchases, Beijing Business Today reported.

“The increase in the number of visits is encouraging, which indicates the previous policies are taking effect and homebuying demand is still strong,” said Cao Xiaoning, a real estate agent for a residential project in Beijing’s Shijingshan district developed by China Overseas Land and Investment Ltd, a unit of Beijing-based China State Construction Engineering Corp.

Yan Yuejin, deputy head of the Shanghai-based E-House China R&D Institute, said the improved performance over the holiday shows the real estate market adjustment has bottomed out and is headed for a course of stabilization.

“Currently, the property market is fully adjusting itself, and we expect homebuyers to become more optimistic regarding the sector’s outlook, and an early spring warming may be around the corner,” Yan said.

Both new and pre-owned homes reported positive growth before the Chinese New Year holiday in January. In the 30 cities China Index Academy surveyed, new home traded space grew 4 percent year-on-year between Jan 1 and Jan 27, and the 20 key cities’ existing home trade volume surged 19 percent from a year ago during the same period.

“With people returning to work after the holiday, their homebuying plans are also getting back on the right track. Therefore, a home transaction rebound is due in the near term,” Li said.

Li added that considering the low base of the first quarter in 2024, new home traded volume is likely to be stable in the first quarter, and home prices in the secondary market will hopefully become stabilized.

“But the market is still in need of policy support for its sustained stabilization,” said Li.

MIL OSI China News –

February 7, 2025

Category: Finance

Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0Provision of performance linked incentives for Anganwadi workers and helpers for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres

Present and future

Financing

Personnel and equipment

“A most interesting analysis”

Science and Business

Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0

Provision of performance linked incentives for Anganwadi workers and helpers for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres