Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director Wray Visits FBI Offices in Burlington, Bedford, and Providence

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

    Wray discussed the region’s biggest challenges and emphasized that a continued focus on partnerships was critical to staying ahead of the threat

    FBI Director Christopher Wray speaks with law enforcement partners during a meeting at the FBI Boston Division’s Bedford Resident Agency in New Hampshire during an October 2024 visit to New England.

    This week, FBI Director Christopher Wray visited the Burlington, Vermont; Bedford, New Hampshire; and Providence, Rhode Island, resident agencies. He met with employees, U.S. attorneys, and a number of key law enforcement, private sector, and community partners from across the region.

    During these partner meetings, Director Wray talked about the Bureau’s work in the region and reaffirmed our commitment to supporting our state and local partners on issues such as violent crime, election security, threats to critical infrastructure, national security at the northern border, and emerging challenges, such as the impact of artificial intelligence on elder fraud and scams.

    “As a country and as a profession, we’re dealing with all sorts of challenges,” Director Wray said. “But our partnerships—with law enforcement, the private sector, and the communities we serve—give me confidence that we can stay ahead of the threats out there.”

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Perry County Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Prison for Soliciting Pornography From Hundreds of Minors While Pretending to be Teen Girl on Snapchat

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

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Junction City, Ohio, man was sentenced in federal court in Columbus today to 276 months in prison for sexually exploiting minors and possessing child pornography.

    Since 2018, Clay Thomas Wolfe, 28, solicited child pornography from more than 300 victims via the mobile application Snapchat. Approximately 100 exploitation victims who provided sexual content to Wolfe have been identified by law enforcement as minors thus far from across multiple states including Ohio, Pennsylvania and Kentucky.

    Wolfe pretended on Snapchat to be a 15-year-old female named “Ally” who lived in Ohio and used this persona to solicit child pornography from primarily middle school and high school aged boys. Wolfe’s Snapchat account also contained sexually explicit photographs and videos of minor males as young as 10 and 11 years old.

    The investigation was initiated in April 2022, when law enforcement officials in Pennsylvania learned that a sixth-grade student was sharing a nude photograph of a classmate that he had received from Wolfe while Wolfe was pretending to be “Ally.”

    As part of his online persona, Wolfe sent the male victims photos and videos of pubescent female’s naked breasts and genitalia that he found on adult pornography sites or public social media accounts.   He would use that content to entice the minors he chatted with to send content of their own including image and video files of primarily minor males, some as young as twelve-years-old, engaged in sexually explicit conduct such as bestiality, masturbation, and sexual acts including oral and anal penetration.  Wolfe would also extort the victims by threatening to send the nude images of his victims to their friends and family unless they sent him additional images.

    In total, Wolfe received approximately 850 images and 570 videos depicting child pornography.

    Wolfe was arrested and charged federally in June 2023 and pleaded guilty in April 2024.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. U.S. Attorney Parker and Special Agent in Charge Iatarola commended the cooperation of the Perry County Sheriff’s Office and Perry County Prosecutor. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Jennifer M. Rausch and are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Guggenheim Investments Announces November 2024 Closed-End Fund Distributions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Guggenheim Investments today announced that certain closed-end funds have declared their distributions. The table below summarizes the distribution schedule for each closed-end fund (collectively, the “Funds” and each, a “Fund”).

    The following dates apply to the distributions:

    Record Date  November 15, 2024
    Ex-Dividend Date November 15, 2024
    Payable Date  November 29, 2024
    Distribution Schedule
    NYSE
    Ticker
    Closed-End Fund Name Distribution
    Per Share
    Change from Previous
    Distribution
    Frequency
    AVK Advent Convertible and Income Fund $0.1172   Monthly
    GBAB Guggenheim Taxable Municipal Bond & Investment Grade Debt Trust $0.12573   Monthly
    GOF Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund $0.1821   Monthly
    GUG Guggenheim Active Allocation Fund $0.11875   Monthly

    A portion of this distribution is estimated to be a return of capital rather than income. Final determination of the character of distributions will be made at year-end. The Section 19(a) notice referenced below provides more information and can be found at www.guggenheiminvestments.com.

    You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund’s Distribution Policy.

    Past performance is not indicative of future performance. As of this announcement, the sources of each fund distribution are estimates. Distributions may be paid from sources of income other than ordinary income, such as short-term capital gains, long-term capital gains or return of capital. Unless otherwise noted, the distributions above are not anticipated to include a return of capital. If a distribution consists of something other than ordinary income, a Section 19(a) notice detailing the anticipated source(s) of the distribution will be made available. The Section 19(a) notice will be posted to a Fund’s website and to the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation so that brokers can distribute such notices to Shareholders of the Fund. Section 19(a) notices are provided for informational purposes only and not for tax reporting purposes. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions will be made after the end of the year. This information is not legal or tax advice. Consult a professional regarding your specific legal or tax matters.

    About Guggenheim Investments

    Guggenheim Investments is the global asset management and investment advisory division of Guggenheim Partners, LLC (“Guggenheim”), with more than $249 billion* in assets under management across fixed income, equity, and alternative strategies. We focus on the return and risk needs of insurance companies, corporate and public pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations, consultants, wealth managers, and high-net-worth investors. Our 235+ investment professionals perform rigorous research to understand market trends and identify undervalued opportunities in areas that are often complex and underfollowed. This approach to investment management has enabled us to deliver innovative strategies providing diversification opportunities and attractive long-term results.

    Guggenheim Investments includes Guggenheim Funds Investment Advisors, LLC (“GFIA”), Guggenheim Partners Investment Management, LLC (“GPIM”) and Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC (“GFD”). GFIA serves as Investment Adviser for GBAB, GOF and GUG. GPIM serves as Investment Sub-Adviser for GBAB, GOF and GUG. GFD serves as servicing agent for AVK. The Investment Adviser for AVK is Advent Capital Management, LLC and is not affiliated with Guggenheim.

    *Assets under management are as of 09.30.2024 and include leverage of $14.8bn. Guggenheim Investments represents the following affiliated investment management businesses of Guggenheim Partners, LLC: Guggenheim Partners Investment Management, LLC, Security Investors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC, Guggenheim Funds Investment Advisors, LLC, Guggenheim Corporate Funding, LLC, Guggenheim Partners Europe Limited, Guggenheim Partners Japan Limited, and GS GAMMA Advisors, LLC.

    This information does not represent an offer to sell securities of the Funds and it is not soliciting an offer to buy securities of the Funds. There can be no assurance that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives. Investments in the Funds involve operating expenses and fees. The net asset value of the Funds will fluctuate with the value of the underlying securities. It is important to note that closed-end funds trade on their market value, not net asset value, and closed-end funds often trade at a discount to their net asset value. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. An investment in closed-end funds is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire amount that you invest. Some general risks and considerations associated with investing in a closed-end fund may include: Investment and Market Risk; Lower Grade Securities Risk; Equity Securities Risk; Foreign Securities Risk; Interest Rate Risk; Illiquidity Risk; Derivative Risk; Management Risk; Anti-Takeover Provisions; Market Disruption Risk and Leverage Risk. See www.guggenheiminvestments.com/cef for a detailed discussion of Fund-specific risks.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of any investment before they invest. For this and more information, visit www.guggenheiminvestments.com or contact a securities representative or Guggenheim Funds Distributors, LLC 227 West Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60606, 800-345-7999.

    Analyst Inquiries
    William T. Korver
    cefs@guggenheiminvestments.com

    Not FDIC-Insured | Not Bank-Guaranteed | May Lose Value
    Member FINRA/SIPC (11/24) 63024

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Cornerstone Funds Announce Continuing Monthly Distributions and Reset Distribution Amounts for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund, Inc. (NYSE American: CLM) (CUSIP: 21924B302) and Cornerstone Total Return Fund, Inc. (NYSE American: CRF) (CUSIP: 21924U300), (individually the “Fund” or, collectively, the “Funds”), each a closed-end management investment company, announced that in keeping with each Fund’s previously adopted monthly distribution policy, each Fund is declaring the following distributions, which have been reset for the calendar year 2025.

      Record Date Payable Date Per Share
    CLM January 15, 2025 January 31, 2025 $0.1224
    CLM February 14, 2025 February 28, 2025 $0.1224
    CLM March 14, 2025 March 31, 2025 $0.1224
    CRF January 15, 2025 January 31, 2025 $0.1168
    CRF February 14, 2025 February 28, 2025 $0.1168
    CRF March 14, 2025 March 31, 2025 $0.1168
       

    Each Fund’s distribution policy provides for the resetting of the monthly distribution amount per share (“Distribution Amount”) annually, based on each Fund’s net asset value on the last business day of October and the annualized distribution percentage approved by the respective Board of Directors (individually the “Board”, or collectively, the “Boards”). Each Board previously announced the distribution percentage for the calendar year 2025 would remain unchanged from the current year at 21% of the net asset value of each Fund.

    Each Board believes each Fund’s distribution policy maintains a stable, high rate of distribution. These distributions are not tied to each Fund’s investment income or capital gains and do not represent yield or investment return on each Fund’s portfolio. The Distribution Amount from one calendar year to the next will increase or decrease based on the change in each Fund’s net asset value. The terms of each distribution policy are reviewed and approved at least annually by each Fund’s Board and may be modified at their discretion for the benefit of each Fund and its stockholders.

    Each Fund’s Board remains convinced its stockholders are well served by a policy of regular distributions which increase liquidity and provide flexibility to individual stockholders in managing their investment in each Fund. Stockholders have the option of reinvesting these distributions in additional shares of their Fund or receiving them in cash. Stockholders may consider reinvesting their regular distributions through their Fund’s dividend reinvestment plan, which may at times provide additional benefit to stockholders who participate in their Fund’s plan. Stockholders should carefully read the description of the dividend reinvestment plan contained in each Fund’s report to stockholders.

    Under each Fund’s distribution policy, each Fund may distribute to stockholders each month a minimum fixed percentage per year of the net asset value or market price per share of its common stock or at least a minimum fixed dollar amount per year. In determining to adopt this policy, the Board of each Fund sought to make regular monthly distributions throughout the year. Under each policy, each Fund’s distributions will consist either of (1) earnings, (2) capital gains, or (3) return-of-capital, or some combination of one or more of these categories. A return-of-capital is the return of a portion of the stockholder’s original investment.

    Given the current economic environment and the composition of each Fund’s portfolio, a portion of each Fund’s distributions made during the current calendar year is expected to consist of a return of the stockholder’s capital. Accordingly, these distributions should not be confused with yield or investment return on each Fund’s portfolio. The final composition of the distributions for 2024 cannot be determined until after the end of the year and is subject to change depending on market conditions during the year and the magnitude of income and realized gains for the year.

    In any given year, there can be no guarantee each Fund’s investment returns will exceed the amount of the net distributions. To the extent the amount of distributions paid to stockholders in cash exceeds the total net investment returns of the Fund, the assets of a Fund will decline. If the total net investment returns exceed the amount of cash distributions, the assets of a Fund will increase. Distributions designated as return-of-capital are not taxed as ordinary income dividends and are referred to as tax-free dividends or nontaxable distributions. A return-of-capital distribution reduces the cost basis of a stockholder’s shares in the Fund. Stockholders can expect to receive tax-reporting information for 2024 distributions by the middle of February 2025 indicating the exact composition per share of the distributions received during the calendar year. Stockholders should consult their tax advisor for proper tax treatment of each Fund’s distributions.

    Volatility in the world economy helps to create what Cornerstone Advisors, LLC (the “Adviser”) views as significant opportunities through investments in closed-end funds. In addition to holding closed-end funds which invest substantially all of their assets in equity securities, the Adviser may also choose to take advantage of situations in funds which invest in fixed income or other investment categories. Closed-end funds, with their broadly diversified holdings, enhance diversification within each Fund’s portfolio.

    Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but the total return on such investments at the investment company level is reduced by the operating expenses and fees of such other investment companies, including advisory fees. To the extent each Fund invests its assets in investment company securities, those assets will be subject to the risks of the purchased investment company’s portfolio securities, and a stockholder in the Fund will bear not only their proportionate share of the expenses of a Fund, but also, indirectly the expenses of the purchased investment company. There can be no assurance the investment objective of any investment company in which a Fund invests will be achieved.

    Under the managed distribution policy, each Fund makes monthly distributions to stockholders at a rate which may include periodic distributions of its net income and net capital gains (“Net Earnings”), or from return-of-capital. If, for any fiscal year where total cash distributions exceeded Net Earnings (the “Excess”), the Excess would decrease each Fund’s total assets and, as a result, would have the likely effect of increasing each Fund’s expense ratio. There is a risk the total Net Earnings from each Fund’s portfolio would not be great enough to offset the amount of cash distributions paid to Fund stockholders. If this were to occur, a Fund’s assets would be depleted, and there is no guarantee a Fund would be able to replace the assets. In addition, in order to make such distributions, a Fund may have to sell a portion of its investment portfolio at a time when independent investment judgment might not dictate such action. Furthermore, such assets used to make distributions will not be available for investment pursuant to the Fund’s investment objective.

    Each Fund’s Board has previously approved a share repurchase program. The share repurchase program authorizes management to make open market purchases, from time to time. Such purchases may be made opportunistically at certain discounts to net asset value per share when management reasonably believes such repurchases may enhance stockholder value. There is no assurance each Fund will purchase any shares or the share repurchase program will have an impact on the liquidity or value of the respective Fund or the Fund’s shares. To the extent each Fund engages in share repurchase activity, such activity will be disclosed in each Fund’s stockholder reports for the relevant fiscal period.

    Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund, Inc. and Cornerstone Total Return Fund, Inc. are traded on the NYSE American LLC under the trading symbols “CLM” and “CRF”, respectively. For more information regarding each Fund please visit www.cornerstonestrategicvaluefund.com and www.cornerstonetotalreturnfund.com.

    Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. An investment in a Fund is subject to certain risks, including market risk. In general, shares of closed-end funds often trade at a discount from their net asset value and at the time of sale may be trading on the exchange at a price which is more or less than the original purchase price or the net asset value. A stockholder should carefully consider a Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Please read a Fund’s disclosure documents before investing.

    In addition to historical information, this release contains forward-looking statements, which may concern, among other things, domestic and foreign markets, industry and economic trends and developments and government regulation and their potential impact on a Fund’s investment portfolio. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the factors set forth in each Fund’s disclosure documents, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and actual trends, developments and regulations in the future, and their impact on the Fund could be materially different from those projected, anticipated or implied. Each Fund has no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    1 November 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 1 November 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,068,314 4.35
    CEUX 231,330 4.35
    BATE
    AQEU
    TQEX
    Total 1,299,644 4.35

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 1 November 2024 was EUR 5,655,401. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 180,839,724 treasury shares.

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

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

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

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

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

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

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: PIMCO Closed-End Funds Declare Monthly Common Share Distributions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Boards of Trustees/Directors of the PIMCO closed-end funds below (each, a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”) have declared a monthly distribution for each Fund’s common shares as summarized below. The distributions are payable on December 2, 2024 to shareholders of record on November 12, 2024, with an ex-dividend date of November 12, 2024.

        Monthly Distribution 
    Per Share
    Fund NYSE Symbol Amount Change From
    Previous
    Month
    Percentage
    Change From
    Previous
    Month
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PCN) $0.112500
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE: PTY) $0.118800
    PIMCO Global StocksPLUS® & Income Fund (NYSE: PGP) $0.069000
    PIMCO High Income Fund (NYSE: PHK) $0.048000
    PIMCO Strategic Income Fund, Inc. (NYSE: RCS) $0.051000
    PCM Fund, Inc. (NYSE: PCM) $0.080000
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PFL) $0.081400
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II (NYSE: PFN) $0.071800
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Fund (NYSE: PDI) $0.220500
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund (NYSE: PDO) $0.127900
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PMF) $0.042000
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PCQ) $0.036000
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PNF) $0.033500
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PML) $0.039500
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PCK) $0.021500
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PNI) $0.029500
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PMX) $0.033000
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PZC) $0.029500
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PYN) $0.024800
    PIMCO Access Income Fund (NYSE: PAXS) $0.149400
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PDX) $0.113300
             

    Fund Distribution Information as of September 30, 2024:

    Fund NYSE Symbol Current
    Amount
    Annualized
    current
    distribution
    rate expressed
    as a
    percentage of
    NAV as of
    09/30/2024
    Annualized
    current
    distribution rate
    expressed as a
    percentage of
    Market Price as
    of 09/30/2024
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PCN) $0.112500 11.28% 9.51%
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE: PTY) $0.118800 12.15% 9.91%
    PIMCO Global StocksPLUS® & Income Fund (NYSE: PGP) $0.069000 10.26% 9.87%
    PIMCO High Income Fund (NYSE: PHK) $0.048000 12.13% 11.52%
    PIMCO Strategic Income Fund, Inc. (NYSE: RCS) $0.051000 13.48% 7.96%
    PCM Fund, Inc. (NYSE: PCM) $0.080000 14.95% 12.02%
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PFL) $0.081400 11.88% 11.40%
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II (NYSE: PFN) $0.071800 11.90% 11.31%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Fund (NYSE: PDI) $0.220500 15.20% 13.05%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund (NYSE: PDO) $0.127900 11.52% 10.87%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PMF) $0.042000 5.19% 4.88%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PCQ) $0.036000 4.02% 4.34%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PNF) $0.033500 4.50% 4.84%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PML) $0.039500 5.26% 5.05%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PCK) $0.021500 3.74% 4.11%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PNI) $0.029500 4.10% 4.49%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PMX) $0.033000 4.76% 4.79%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PZC) $0.029500 4.45% 4.72%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PYN) $0.024800 4.33% 4.72%
    PIMCO Access Income Fund (NYSE: PAXS) $0.149400 11.48% 10.78%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PDX) $0.113300 5.31% 5.76%
             

    Distribution rates are not performance and are calculated by annualizing the current distribution per share announced in this press release and dividing by the NAV or Market Price, as applicable, as of the reported date. A Fund’s distribution rate may be affected by numerous factors, including changes in realized and projected market returns, Fund performance, and other factors. There can be no assurance that a change in market conditions or other factors will not result in a change in a Fund’s distribution rate at a future time. Distributions may be comprised of ordinary income, net capital gains, and/or a return of capital (“ROC”) of your investment in a Fund. Because the distribution rate may include a ROC, it should not be confused with yield or performance.

    Average Annual Total Returns Based on NAV and Market Price (“MKT”) of Common Shares as of
    September 30, 2024:

    Fund NYSE
    Symbol
    Inception
    Date
      1 Year 5 Year 10 Year Since
    Inception
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PCN) 12/21/2001 NAV 23.51% 7.45% 8.44% 10.85%
    MKT 29.84% 4.85% 9.27% 10.72%
    PIMCO Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE: PTY) 12/27/2002 NAV 26.15% 8.88% 9.91% 12.73%
    MKT 22.38% 5.99% 9.70% 12.33%
    PIMCO Global StocksPLUS® & Income Fund (NYSE: PGP) 5/31/2005 NAV 35.45% 7.99% 8.40% 10.74%
    MKT 41.62% 4.07% 1.98% 7.19%
    PIMCO High Income Fund (NYSE: PHK) 4/30/2003 NAV 23.03% 6.67% 8.67% 10.56%
    MKT 28.03% 2.60% 3.68% 7.94%
    PIMCO Strategic Income Fund, Inc. (NYSE: RCS) 2/24/1994 NAV 25.91% 3.96% 5.11% 7.70%
    MKT 60.73% 6.94% 8.09% 8.86%
    PCM Fund, Inc. (NYSE: PCM) 9/2/1993 NAV 17.12% 3.21% 6.11% 8.30%
    MKT 1.89% 3.96% 7.48% 8.30%
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PFL) 8/29/2003 NAV 22.55% 6.24% 6.95% 6.86%
    MKT 26.23% 5.41% 7.52% 6.71%
    PIMCO Income Strategy Fund II (NYSE: PFN) 10/29/2004 NAV 22.66% 5.75% 6.94% 6.14%
    MKT 30.66% 5.10% 7.79% 6.12%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Fund (NYSE: PDI) 5/30/2012 NAV 22.25% 4.97% 7.38% 11.00%
    MKT 35.83% 3.89% 9.31% 11.54%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund (NYSE: PDO) 1/29/2021 NAV 25.12% 1.34%
    MKT 34.18% 2.67%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PMF) 6/29/2001 NAV 19.11% -1.09% 3.02% 5.32%
    MKT 29.67% -2.20% 2.93% 4.95%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PCQ) 6/29/2001 NAV 19.49% -0.36% 3.28% 5.38%
    MKT 25.03% -8.48% 1.74% 4.43%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund (NYSE: PNF) 6/29/2001 NAV 17.33% -1.72% 2.44% 3.86%
    MKT 21.18% -6.10% 1.74% 3.31%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PML) 6/28/2002 NAV 18.92% -0.82% 3.28% 4.56%
    MKT 29.12% -4.55% 3.84% 4.40%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PCK) 6/28/2002 NAV 20.62% -1.04% 3.17% 3.57%
    MKT 30.76% -3.83% 1.55% 2.60%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PNI) 6/28/2002 NAV 17.66% -1.62% 2.65% 3.94%
    MKT 28.89% -3.53% 1.69% 3.25%
    PIMCO Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PMX) 10/31/2002 NAV 19.57% -1.18% 3.35% 4.33%
    MKT 34.49% -3.45% 3.28% 3.91%
    PIMCO California Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PZC) 10/31/2002 NAV 19.28% -0.32% 3.30% 3.76%
    MKT 14.90% -3.22% 2.14% 3.12%
    PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund III (NYSE: PYN) 10/31/2002 NAV 18.13% -1.41% 2.27% 2.65%
    MKT 24.76% -3.61% 1.28% 2.02%
    PIMCO Access Income Fund (NYSE: PAXS) 1/31/2022 NAV 21.95% 2.53%
    MKT 34.98% 5.21%
    PIMCO Dynamic Income Strategy Fund (NYSE: PDX) 02/01/2019 NAV 21.12% 14.33% 11.89%
    MKT 25.42% 15.21% 11.52%

    Performance for periods of more than one year is annualized.

    Past performance is not a guarantee or a reliable indicator of future results. There can be no assurance that a Fund or any investment strategy will achieve its investment objectives or structure its investment portfolio as anticipated. An investment in a Fund involves risk, including loss of principal. Investment return and the value of shares will fluctuate. Shares may be worth more or less than original purchase price. Due to market volatility, current performance may be lower or higher than average annual returns shown. Returns are calculated by determining the percentage change in net asset value (“NAV”) or market price (as applicable) of the Fund’s common shares in the specific period. The calculation assumes that all dividends and distributions, if any, have been reinvested. NAV and market price returns do not reflect broker sales charges or commissions in connection with the purchase or sales of Fund shares and includes the effect of any expense reductions. Returns for a period of less than one year are not annualized. Returns for a period of more than one year represent the average annual return. Performance at market price will differ from results at NAV. Although market price returns typically reflect investment results over time, during shorter periods returns at market price can also be influenced by factors such as changing views about a Fund, market conditions, supply and demand for a Fund’s shares or changes in Fund dividends and distributions.

    Additional Information

    Distributions from PMF, PML, PMX, PCQ, PCK, PZC, PNF, PNI and PYN are generally exempt from regular federal income taxes (i.e., excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes but not necessarily exempt from the federal alternative minimum tax). In addition, distributions from PCQ, PCK and PZC are also generally exempt from California state income taxes, and distributions from PNF, PNI and PYN are generally exempt from New York State and city income taxes. There can be no assurance that all distributions paid by these Funds will be exempt from federal income taxes or applicable state or local income taxes.

    Distributions may include ordinary income, net capital gains and/or a return of capital. Generally, a return of capital occurs when the amount distributed by a Fund includes a portion of (or is comprised entirely of) your investment in the Fund in addition to (or rather than) your pro-rata portion of the Fund’s net income or capital gains. A Fund’s distributions in any period may be more or less than the net return earned by the Fund on its investments, and therefore should not be used as a measure of performance or confused with “yield” or “income.” A return of capital is not taxable; rather it reduces a shareholder’s tax basis in his or her shares of a Fund.

    If a Fund estimates that a portion of a distribution may be comprised of amounts from sources other than net investment income, as determined in accordance with its internal accounting records and related accounting practices, the Fund will notify shareholders of the estimated composition of such distribution through a Section 19 Notice. For these purposes, a Fund estimates the source or sources from which a distribution is paid, to the close of the period as of which it is paid, in reference to its internal accounting records and related accounting practices. If, based on such accounting records and practices, it is estimated that a particular distribution does not include capital gains or paid-in surplus or other capital sources, a Section 19 Notice generally would not be issued. It is important to note that differences exist between a Fund’s daily internal accounting records and practices, the Fund’s financial statements presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and recordkeeping practices under income tax regulations. For instance, a Fund’s internal accounting records and practices may take into account, among other factors, tax-related characteristics of certain sources of distributions that differ from treatment under U.S. GAAP. Examples of such differences may include, among others, the treatment of paydowns on mortgage-backed securities purchased at a discount and periodic payments under interest rate swap contracts. Accordingly, among other consequences, it is possible that a Fund may not issue a Section 19 Notice in situations where the Fund’s financial statements prepared later and in accordance with U.S. GAAP and/or the final tax character of those distributions might later report that the sources of those distributions included capital gains and/or a return of capital. Please visit www.pimco.com for the most recent Section 19 Notice, if applicable, and most recent shareholder reports for additional information regarding the estimated composition of distributions. Final determination of a distribution’s tax character will be provided to shareholders when such information is available.

    The tax treatment and characterization of a Fund’s distributions may vary significantly from time to time because of the varied nature of the Fund’s investments. For example, a Fund may enter into opposite sides of multiple interest rate swaps or other derivatives with respect to the same underlying reference instrument (e.g., a 10-year U.S. treasury) that have different effective dates with respect to interest accrual time periods for the principal purpose of generating distributable gains (characterized as ordinary income for tax purposes) that are not part of the Fund’s duration or yield curve management strategies. In such a “paired swap transaction”, the Fund would generally enter into one or more interest rate swap agreements whereby the Fund agrees to make regular payments starting at the time the Fund enters into the agreements equal to a floating interest rate in return for payments equal to a fixed interest rate (the “initial leg”). The Fund would also enter into one or more interest rate swap agreements on the same underlying instrument, but take the opposite position (i.e., in this example, the Fund would make regular payments equal to a fixed interest rate in return for receiving payments equal to a floating interest rate) with respect to a contract whereby the payment obligations do not commence until a date following the commencement of the initial leg (the “forward leg”).

    A Fund may engage in investment strategies, including those that employ the use of derivatives, to, among other things, seek to generate current, distributable income, even if such strategies could potentially result in declines in the Fund’s NAV. A Fund’s income and gain-generating strategies, including certain derivatives strategies, may generate current income and gains taxable as ordinary income sufficient to support monthly distributions even in situations when the Fund has experienced a decline in net assets due to, for example, adverse changes in the broad U.S. or non-U.S. equity markets or the Fund’s debt investments, or arising from its use of derivatives. Because some or all of these transactions may generate capital losses without corresponding offsetting capital gains, portions of a Fund’s distributions recognized as ordinary income for tax purposes (such as from paired swap transactions) may be economically similar to a taxable return of capital when considered together with such capital losses. The tax treatment of certain derivatives in which a Fund invests may be unclear and thus subject to recharacterization. Any recharacterization of payments made or received by a Fund pursuant to derivatives potentially could affect the amount, timing or character of Fund distributions. In addition, the tax treatment of such investment strategies may be changed by regulation or otherwise.

    The common shares of the Funds trade on the New York Stock Exchange. As with any stock, the price of a Fund’s common shares will fluctuate with market conditions and other factors. If you sell your common shares of a Fund, the price received may be more or less than your original investment. Shares of closed-end investment management companies, such as the Funds, frequently trade at a discount from their net asset value and may trade at a price that is less than the initial offering price and/or the net asset value of such shares. Further, if a Fund’s shares trade at a price that is more than the initial offering price and/or the net asset value of such shares, including at a substantial premium and/or for an extended period of time, there is no assurance that any such premium will be sustained for any period of time and will not decrease, or that the shares will not trade at a discount to net asset value thereafter.

    The Funds’ daily New York Stock Exchange closing market prices, net asset values per share, as well as other information, including updated portfolio statistics and performance are available at pimco.com/closedendfunds or by calling the Funds’ shareholder servicing agent at (844) 33-PIMCO. Updated portfolio holdings information about a Fund will be available approximately 15 calendar days after such Fund’s most recent fiscal quarter end, and will remain accessible until such Fund files a shareholder report or a publicly available Form N-PORT for the period that includes the date of the information.

    A Fund’s shares do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and are not guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other insured depository institution, and are not insured by the FDIC, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency. You may lose money by investing in a Fund. Certain risks associated with investing in a Fund are summarized below.

    An investor should consider, among other things, a Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. A Fund’s annual report contains (or will contain) this and other information about the Fund.

    A word about risk:
    Investing in the bond market is subject to risks, including market, interest rate, issuer, credit, inflation risk, and liquidity risk. The value of most bonds and bond strategies are impacted by changes in interest rates. Bonds and bond strategies with longer durations tend to be more sensitive and volatile than those with shorter durations; bond prices generally fall as interest rates rise, and low interest rate environments increase this risk. Reductions in bond counterparty capacity may contribute to decreased market liquidity and increased price volatility. Bond investments may be worth more or less than the original cost when redeemed. Mortgage and asset-backed securities may be sensitive to changes in interest rates, subject to early repayment risk, and their value may fluctuate in response to the market’s perception of issuer creditworthiness; while generally supported by some form of government or private guarantee there is no assurance that private guarantors will meet their obligations. Investing in foreign-denominated and/or -domiciled securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations, and economic and political risks, which may be enhanced in emerging markets. Corporate debt securities are subject to the risk of the issuer’s inability to meet principal and interest payments on the obligation and may also be subject to price volatility due to factors such as interest rate sensitivity, market perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and general market liquidity. Bank loans are often less liquid than other types of debt instruments and general market and financial conditions may affect the prepayment of bank loans, and as such the prepayments cannot be predicted with accuracy. There is no assurance that the liquidation of any collateral from a secured bank loan would satisfy the borrower’s obligation, or that such collateral could be liquidated. Contingent Convertible (“Coco”) Bonds are bonds that are converted into equity of the issuing company if a pre-specified trigger occurs. Co-cos are subject to a different type of risk from traditional bonds and may result in a partial or total loss of value or may be converted into shares of the issuing company which may also have suffered a loss in value. Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs) may involve a high degree of risk and are intended for sale to qualified investors only. Investors may lose some or all of the investment and there may be periods where no cash flow distributions are received. CLOs are exposed to risks such as credit, default, liquidity, management, volatility, interest rate, and credit risk. Convertible securities may be called before intended, which may have an adverse effect on investment objectives. Floating rate loans are not traded on an exchange and are subject to significant credit, valuation and liquidity risk. A Fund may invest without limit in below investment grade debt securities (commonly referred to as “high yield” securities or “junk bonds”), including securities of stressed and distressed issuers. High-yield, lower-rated, securities involve greater risk than higher-rated securities; portfolios that invest in them may be subject to greater levels of credit and liquidity risk than portfolios that do not. Real estate investment trusts (or REITs) are subject to risk, such as poor performance by the manager, adverse changes to tax laws or failure to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income. Investments in residential/commercial mortgage loans and commercial real estate debt are subject to risks that include prepayment, delinquency, foreclosure, risks of loss, servicing risks and adverse regulatory developments, which risks may be heightened in the case of non-performing loans. Investing in distressed loans and bankrupt companies is speculative and the repayment of default obligations contains significant uncertainties. Distressed and Defaulted Securities involve substantial risks, including the risk of default. Such investments may be in default at the time of investment. In addition, these securities may fluctuate more in price, and are typically less liquid. Commodities contain heightened risk, including market, political, regulatory and natural conditions, and may not be appropriate for all investors. Many energy sector master limited partnerships (or MLPs) and other companies in which PDX may invest operate natural gas, natural gas liquids, crude oil, refined products, coal, or other facilities within the energy sector and will be susceptible to adverse economic, environmental, or regulatory occurrences affecting the sector including sharp decreases in crude oil or natural gas prices. Energy Sector Risk. PDX will be concentrated in the energy sector, and will therefore be susceptible to adverse economic, environmental, or regulatory occurrences affecting that sector. Private credit involves an investment in non-publicly traded securities which may be subject to illiquidity risk. Portfolios that invest in private credit may be leveraged and may engage in speculative investment practices that increase the risk of investment loss. A Fund will also have exposure to such risks through its investments in mortgage and asset-backed securities, which are highly complex instruments that may be sensitive to changes in interest rates and subject to early repayment risk. Income from municipal bonds is exempt from federal income tax and may be subject to state and local taxes and at times the alternative minimum tax; a strategy concentrating in a single or limited number of states is subject to greater risk of adverse economic conditions and regulatory changes. Structured products such as collateralized debt obligations are also highly complex instruments, typically involving a high degree of risk; use of these instruments may involve derivative instruments that could lose more than the principal amount invested. Sovereign securities are generally backed by the issuing government, obligations of U.S. Government agencies and authorities are supported by varying degrees but are generally not backed by the full faith of the U.S. Government; portfolios that invest in such securities are not guaranteed and will fluctuate in value. Concentration of assets in one or a few sectors may entail greater risk than a fully diversified portfolio and should be considered as only part of a diversified portfolio. Investing in foreign-denominated and/or -domiciled securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations, and economic and political risks, which may be enhanced in emerging markets. Leveraging transactions, including borrowing, typically will cause a portfolio to be more volatile than if the portfolio had not been leveraged.  Leveraging transactions typically involve expenses, which could exceed the rate of return on investments purchased by a fund with such leverage and reduce fund returns.  The use of leverage may cause a portfolio to liquidate positions when it may not be advantageous to do so.  Leveraging transactions may increase a fund’s duration and sensitivity to interest rate movements. Derivatives may involve certain costs and risks, such as liquidity, interest rate, market, credit, management and the risk that a position could not be closed when most advantageous. Investing in derivatives could lose more than the amount invested. Each of PDO, PNF and PYN is non-diversified, which means that it may invest its assets in a smaller number of issuers than a diversified Fund.

    Limited Term Risk. With respect to PDX, PDO and PAXS (each, for purposes of this paragraph only, a “Limited Term Fund”), unless the limited term provision of a Limited Term Fund’s Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust (the “Declaration of Trust”) is amended by shareholders in accordance with the Declaration of Trust, or unless a Limited Term Fund completes a tender offer, as of a date within twelve months preceding the Dissolution Date (as defined below), to all common shareholders to purchase 100% of the then outstanding common shares of such Limited Term Fund at a price equal to the NAV per common share on the expiration date of the tender offer (an “Eligible Tender Offer”), and converts to perpetual existence, such Limited Term Fund will terminate. PDX will terminate on or about January 29, 2031; PDO will terminate on or about January 27, 2033; and PAXS will terminate on or about January 27, 2034 (each such termination date, a “Dissolution Date”). No Limited Term Fund is a “target term” fund whose investment objective is to return its original net asset value on the Dissolution Date or in an Eligible Tender Offer. Because the assets of each Limited Term Fund will be liquidated in connection with the dissolution, such Limited Term Fund will incur transaction costs in connection with dispositions of portfolio securities. The Limited Term Funds do not limit their investments to securities having a maturity date prior to the applicable Dissolution Date and may be required to sell portfolio securities when they otherwise would not, including at times when market conditions are not favorable, which may cause such Limited Term Fund to lose money. In particular, a Limited Term Fund’s portfolio may still have large exposures to illiquid securities as its Dissolution Date approaches, and losses due to portfolio liquidation may be significant. Beginning one year before the applicable Dissolution Date (the “Wind-Down Period”), a Limited Term Fund may begin liquidating all or a portion of its portfolio, and may deviate from its investment strategy and may not achieve its investment objectives. As a result, during the Wind-Down Period, a Limited Term Fund’s distributions may decrease, and such distributions may include a return of capital. A Limited Term Fund’s investment objectives and policies are not designed to seek to return investors’ original investment upon termination of such Limited Term Fund, and investors may receive more or less than their original investment upon termination of such Limited Term Fund. As the assets of a Limited Term Fund will be liquidated in connection with its termination, such Limited Term Fund may be required to sell portfolio securities when it otherwise would not, including at times when market conditions are not favorable, which may cause such Limited Term Fund to lose money.

    Closed-end funds, unlike open-end funds, are not continuously offered. After the initial public offering, shares are sold on the open market through a stock exchange. Closed-end funds may be leveraged and carry various risks depending upon the underlying assets owned by a fund. Investment policies, management fees and other matters of interest to prospective investors may be found in each closed-end fund annual and semi-annual report. For additional information, please contact your investment professional or call 1-844-337-4626.

    About PIMCO

    PIMCO was founded in 1971 in Newport Beach, California and is one of the world’s premier fixed income investment managers. Today we have offices across the globe and 3,000+ professionals united by a single purpose: creating opportunities for investors in every environment. PIMCO is owned by Allianz S.E., a leading global diversified financial services provider.

    Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements. These statements may involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including the performance of financial markets, the investment performance of PIMCO’s sponsored investment products and separately managed accounts, general economic conditions, future acquisitions, competitive conditions and government regulations, including changes in tax laws. Readers should carefully consider such factors. Further, such forward-looking statements speak only on the date at which such statements are made. PIMCO undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statement.

    This material has been distributed for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy or investment product. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form, or referred to in any other publication, without express written permission. PIMCO is a trademark of Allianz Asset Management of America LLC in the United States and throughout the world. PIMCO Investments LLC, 1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019, is a company of PIMCO. ©2024, PIMCO.

    For information on PIMCO Closed-End Funds:
    Financial Advisors: (800) 628-1237
    Shareholders: (844) 337-4626 or (844) 33-PIMCO
    PIMCO Media Relations: (212) 597-1054

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Orca Energy Group Inc. Announces an Operational Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — November 1, 2024: Orca Energy Group Inc. (“Orca” or the “Company“) and includes its subsidiaries and affiliates, including PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Limited (“PAET“) and Pan African Energy Corporation (Mauritius) (“PAEM“) (TSX-V: ORC.A, ORC.B) announces an operational update.

    Unless otherwise stated, all amounts referred to herein are expressed in United States dollars (“$”).

    Songas Update

    On October 30, 2024, PAET was advised by Songas Limited (“Songas”) that the Interim Power Purchase Agreement (“PPA”) will expire on October 31, 2024. At midnight on October 31, 2024, Songas shutdown the Songas Power Plan and it is unknown how long this will be in force. In the event that a new PPA is not entered into, there is a risk the Songas Power plant will shutdown indefinitely. This would adversely impact demand for production volumes from the Songo Songo gas field. At this time, it is unknown if a new PPA will be entered into.

    Production guidance for the annual average Additional Gas (as defined below) sales is now forecast to be 65 – 68 MMcfd (100% conventional natural gas). This range incorporates the exclusion of all volumes previously forecast to be supplied to Songas for November and December, and certain volumes lifted but disputed by a major industrial customer as a consequence of the position taken by the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (“TPDC“) and Government of Tanzania in relation to the cessation of Protected Gas (as detailed and defined below). The Songo Songo gas field continues to operate as normal.

    Following cessation of Protected Gas on July 31, 2024, despite the absence of a contract to do so, Songas continued to lift volumes of gas in August and September, at an average rate of 17.8 MMcfd. On September 23, 2024, the Company was notified by Songas that it acknowledges it had lifted this volume, but due to TPDC’s refusal to approve a Gas Sales Agreement for this Additional Gas, they would elect to pay only 19.5% of such volumes. This accords with the payment arrangements for Complex Additional Gas under the contracted payment terms for Protected Gas which ended on July 31, 2024. Payment was made on this basis by Songas on October 10, 2024, in the amount equivalent to USD $410,000, representing 19.5% of the total invoiced amount of USD $2.1 million.

    Only Additional Gas attracted a Processing and Transportation (“P&T“) tariff up to July 31, 2024, (when Protected Gas was active), while Protected Gas did not. In contradiction of their position regarding payment above, Songas has invoiced PAET for the P&T tariff consistent with all gas volumes shipped to Songas during August as being AG. This amount has been fully accounted for and paid by PAET in accordance with the terms of the current agreements.

    Operations

    During Q3-2024, the Company successfully completed a production and saturation logging program in three wells. Initial results indicate that the wells and field are performing in line with expectations, with final interpretation of results continuing in order to update longer term reservoir management plans.

    The workover program on SS-7 has completed a complex mobilization to Songo Songo Island, and the operational well intervention phase has commenced. Operations, including further logging, are expected to last for approximately three weeks. The objective of the work is to restore the mechanical integrity of the well to shutoff water production in order to restart production from the southern compartment of the gas field. On conclusion of the intervention, SS-7 is forecast to return to production in November 2024. The total expected project cost has increased to $22.0 million from $16.6 million primarily as a result of vendor logistical delays and more recently weather delays during both the mobilization from the Mombasa to Songo Songo Island and positioning the barges and jackup platform on the offshore SS-7 well.

    Commercial

    In August 2024, the Company issued a notice of dispute (“Notice of Dispute”), in respect of an investment treaty claim against the Government of Tanzania for breach of the Agreement on Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investment between the Government of the Republic of Mauritius and the Government of Tanzania, and a contractual dispute against the Government of Tanzania and TPDC, for breaches of the: (i) PSA, and (ii) GA (as defined herein). Initial meetings with both the Advisory and Coordinating Committees were held during the week of October 14, 2024, without any resolution on the key issues in dispute. The matters have now been referred to relevant entity’s chief executive officers in accordance with the dispute resolution process. These meetings have been proposed for November or December. Further updates on this matter will be made as appropriate.  

    PAET has continued to supply gas to Tanzania Portland Cement PLC (“TPCPLC”) during August 2024 and September 2024. As a consequence of the position taken by TPDC, PAET was unable to invoice TPCPLC for volumes anticipated to have been supplied under the Supplementary Gas Agreement (“SGA“). The SGA had been agreed to by TPCPLC and was due to commence on August 1, 2024, but TPDC refused to approve the agreement. Therefore, PAET has invoiced all volumes lifted as Additional Gas under the Gas Sales Agreement which was established in 2008. It is not known if TPCPLC will pay all or any element of these invoices. As of the date of hereof, the August invoice for $2.64 million was outstanding, with the September invoice of $2.75 million being due on November 5, 2024. The Company will provide further updates in due course on this matter.

    Financial

    • The Company exited September 30, 2024, with cash and cash equivalents of $101.7 million (June 30, 2024: $97.2 million) and no change to long-term debt of $25.1 million (June 30, 2024: $25.1 million). Cash held in hard currencies (USD, Euro, GBP, CDN) was $93.2 million at September 30, 2024 (June 30, 2024: $86.1 million).
    • Following the extension to the Portfolio Gas Supply Agreement (“PGSA”) with the Tanzania Electricity Supply Company Limited (“TANESCO”) between PAET, TPDC and TANESCO, TANESCO has taken delivery of approximately   26.7 MMcfd in September 2024. As of September 30, 2024, the receivable from TANESCO was $8.1 million, and the TANESCO long-term receivable was $22.0 million.

    Orca Energy Group Inc.

    Orca Energy Group Inc. is an international public company engaged in natural gas development and supply in Tanzania through its subsidiary, PAET. Orca trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbols ORC.B and ORC.A.

    The principal asset of Orca is its indirect interest in the PSA with TPDC and the Government of Tanzania in the United Republic of Tanzania. This PSA covers the production and marketing of certain conventional natural gas from the Songo Songo license offshore Tanzania. The PSA defines the gas produced from the Field as “Protected Gas” and “Additional Gas”. The Protected Gas is owned by TPDC and prior to July 31, 2024 was sold under the Gas Agreement (“GA”) between the Government of Tanzania, TPDC, Songas and PEAT, to Songas and TPCPLC. Protected Gas production ceased on July 31, 2024, and accordingly all gas is to be sold as Additional Gas. PAET continues to act in the best interests of its Tanzanian stakeholders and make natural gas available to Songas for power, so that the country can continue to benefit from a reliable power supply. The Company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting the Tanzanian economy, following 20 years of continued investment in the country. However, as detailed in recent announcements, and as set out in the GA, the supply of Protected Gas ceased on July 31, 2024, with all gas now being produced from the Songo Songo gas field, being designated as Additional Gas. PAET’s position is that it is entitled to compensation at commercial rates for any such gas supplied as Additional Gas and for which it has not received payment as a result of the position taken by TPDC. This is subject to ongoing dispute with TPDC, with TPDC asserting that Protected Gas continued after July 31, 2024.

    Songas is the owner of the infrastructure that enables the gas to be processed and delivered to Dar es Salaam, which includes a gas processing plant on Songo Songo Island.

    For further information please contact:

    Jay Lyons
    ir@orcaenergygroup.com

    Lisa Mitchell
    ir@orcaenergygroup.com

    For media enquiries:

    Celicourt (PR)
    Jimmy Lea
    Mark Antelme
    Orca@celicourt.uk
    +44 (0)20 7770 6424

    Forward-Looking Information

    This press release contains forward-looking statements or information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this press release, which address activities, events or developments that Orca expects or anticipates to occur in the future, are forward-looking statements.

    Forward-looking statements often contain terms such as may, will, should, anticipate, expect, continue, estimate, believe, project, forecast, plan, intend, target, outlook, focus, could and similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

    More particularly, this press release contains, without limitation, forward-looking statements pertaining to the following: the Company’s expectation that PAET will receive payment in respect of Protected Gas supplied after July 31, 2024; expectations that SS-7 will return to production in November 2024; expectations around entering into a new PPA; expectations in respect of the Songas Power plant; expectations that an indefinite shutdown of the Songas Power plant will adversely impact demand for production volumes from the Songo Songo gas filed; expectation that forecasted Additional Gas will decrease; expectations in respect to the results of the production and saturation logging program; expectations that the PPA will be replaced; the concern that if the Protected Gas is not resolved, the Company will be required to reduce costs and ensure capital expenditure projects on the Songo Songo gas field are in line with contracts and economic returns; expectations that the SGA will be entered into and the terms abided by; the expectations regarding future revenues of the Company; expectations as to the resolution of the Notice of Dispute; the Company’s plans to provide updates on the Notice of Dispute and TPCPLC invoice; and expectations that Songas will pay the balance of the invoice in respect to Additional Gas. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, future actions, future payments, levels of activity, access to resources, results of negotiation, results from arbitration, amount of damages or costs incurred by the Company relating to negotiations and/or arbitration, since such expectations are inherently subject to significant business, economic, operational, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies.

    These forward-looking statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company’s control, and many factors could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by the Company, including, but not limited to: uncertainties involving the Notice of Dispute; uncertainties involving the SGA; uncertainties involving the completion of the SS-7 workplan; various uncertainties involved in the extension of the Songo Songo license; risk that timing is not as anticipated with respect to SS-7, including timing of return to production; risk that meetings related to the Notice of Dispute are not held on the anticipated timing; risk the PPA will not be replaced; risk of decreased demand for production volumes from the Songo Songo gas field; risk that Orca does not receive payment of TPCPLC invoices; risk Orca has to make the P&T tariff payments to Songas; risk the Songas Power plant will shutdown indefinitely; risk that Songas receivables increases; negative effect on the Company’s rights under the PSA and other agreements relating to its business in Tanzania; changes in laws and regulations; impact of local content regulations and variances in the interpretation and enforcement of such regulations; uncertainty regarding results through negotiations and/or exercise of legally available remedies; failure to successfully negotiate agreements; risks of non-payment by recipients of natural gas supplied by the Company; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, or regulations and/or changes in the administration of laws, policies, and practices, expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Tanzania; lack of certainty with respect to foreign legal systems, corruption, and other factors that are inconsistent with the rule of law; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; timing of receipt of, or failure to comply with, necessary permits and approvals; and potential damage to the Company’s reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Company’s dealings with the Government of Tanzania, TPDC and TANESCO, whether true or not. Therefore, the Company’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Company will derive therefrom. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

    Such forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions made by the Company in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors the Company believes are appropriate in the circumstances, including, but not limited to: the Company’s relationship with TPDC and the Government of Tanzania; the current status of negotiations in respect of the SGA, GA and PSA; the current status of actions involved in the Notice of Dispute; accurate assessment by the Company of the merits of its rights and obligations in relation to TPDC and the Government of Tanzania and other stakeholders in the Songo Songo gas field; receipt of required regulatory approvals; the Company’s ability to maintain strong commercial relationships with the Government of Tanzania and other state and parastatal organizations and other stakeholders in the Songo Songo gas field; the current and future administration in Tanzania continues to honor the terms of the PSA and the Company’s other principal agreements; the Company’s relationship with TPCPLC; anticipated operations and timing with respect to SS-7; Orca’s operations continue as anticipated, including in respect of production results; and other matters.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Visits Public Housing Development to Discuss Weatherization, Highlights Weatherization Installer Apprenticeship

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Berlin, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visited a multi-unit public housing development undergoing weatherization installations to improve energy efficiency and lower monthly costs. During a tour of the complex, Shaheen discussed the benefits of weatherization with residents, as well as participants in the Tri-County Community Action Program’s Registered Apprenticeship for weatherization installers, which is the first of its kind in New Hampshire. As a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Shaheen helped secure $3.5 billion for weatherization assistance nationwide, including more than $18 million for New Hampshire. You can find photos from the event here.
    “Weatherizing homes is one of the best things we can do to reduce monthly energy costs, all while making progress toward our climate goals and keeping Granite Staters safe from extreme temperatures,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have secured funding for New Hampshire’s weatherization efforts through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that is supporting this new apprenticeship program to expand the weatherization workforce. I’ll keep working in Congress to find ways to upgrade our infrastructure while saving money for Granite State households.”
    Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) funding helps homes become more energy efficient through measures like installing insulation, updating heating and cooling systems and updating electrical appliances. For every dollar invested by WAP, $4.50 is generated in combined energy savings and non-energy benefits such as improved health and job creation, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In addition to saving families money, energy efficient homes also help cut down on our carbon footprint, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. If you think you may be eligible for WAP funding, apply through your local Community Action Agency at CAPNH.org and check out Senator Shaheen’s recently updated Federal Energy Guide for more ways Granite Staters can save money on their utility bills.
    As a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Shaheen helped secure $3.5 billion in additional funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program, including $18 million for New Hampshire. Shaheen has long-championed the  Weatherization Assistance Program to lower energy costs for low-income families in New Hampshire, as well as the State Energy Program, which assists states with the development of energy efficiency renewable projects. Last year, Shaheen helped introduce the Weatherization Assistance Program Improvements Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen the Weatherization Assistance Program and increase the number of homes the program is able to serve. Shaheen also introduced the bipartisan Investing in State Energy Act, legislation to ensure that annual funding for weatherization and the State Energy Program is released to states as quickly as possible.
    In response to a shortage of weatherization installers in New Hampshire, Tri-County Community Action Program (TCCAP) launched an apprenticeship program to train new workers in the field. TCCAP’s program is supported by Training and Technical Assistance funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is the first program of its kind in New Hampshire.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CBIC and formations under it actively engage in Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    CBIC and formations under it actively engage in Special Campaign 4.0

    433 public grievances, 80 public grievance appeals, and five MP references

    27,656 physical files eliminated out of 49,667 reviewed files

    819 cleanliness events organised across CBIC office premises in States and public areas

    Rs. 3.80 lakh (approx) generated from the disposal of 17,121 kg scrap, freeing 16,706 square feet of additional office space

    73 kg drugs, 49 lakhs foreign cigarettes, and other contraband worth Rs. 460 crore destroyed by Delhi Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate and Customs (Airport and General) Commissionerate jointly

    82.72 lakh sticks smuggled cigarettes worh Rs. 5.5 crore destroyed by Customs Commissionerate (Prev.), Vijayawada

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 7:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, actively engaged in the Special Campaign 4.0 from 2nd-31st October, 2024, with special focus on Swachhata.

    The initiatives during this period focused on instilling the principles of cleanliness while also addressing important backlogs in key work areas. The campaign prioritised addressing public complaints to enhance service delivery and responsiveness. Efforts were made to declutter and optimise office environments by removing outdated and unnecessary items including the clearance of seized contraband, such as narcotic substances and foreign-origin cigarettes, ensuring that these items were disposed of in compliance with legal regulations.

    This year, CBIC also marked the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission through the spirited celebration of ‘Swachhata Hi Seva 2024, under the theme ‘Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign’. This initiative emphasised large-scale awareness and public participation in maintaining cleanliness, specifically targeting Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) across the country. With active involvement from CBIC officers, staff and field offices, the campaign fostered a collaborative environment that significantly enhanced its impact.

    The concerted efforts of CBIC formations resulted in the achievement of several key milestones as follows:

    • Resolution of 433 public grievances, 80 public grievance appeals, and five MP references.
    • Elimination of 27,656 physical files out of 49,667 files reviewed.
    • Review and closure of 1,501 e-files out of 36,237 assessed
    • 819 cleanliness events organised across office premises and public areas.
    • Generation of approximately Rs. 3.80 lakh from the disposal of 17,121 kg scrap, freeing 16,706 square feet of additional office space.
    • Destruction of 73 kg of drugs, 49 lakhs foreign cigarettes, and other contraband worth Rs. 460 crore by Delhi Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate and Customs (Airport and General) Commissionerate jointly, besides Customs Commissionerate (Prev.), Vijayawada disposed of 82.72 lakh sticks of smuggled cigarettes valued at Rs. 5.5 crore as part of the ongoing battle against illicit imports.

    Several best practices were implemented across various Customs and GST offices to promote sustainability and employee welfare. A Bio-Gas Plant was set up in the Customs Colony in Vapi, turning waste into wealth.

    The CGST Faridabad Commissionerate transformed two abandoned rooms filled with old records and furniture into a cafeteria and a crèche within its premises. The CGST Jaipur Zone planted 11,000 saplings of over 100 native species using an innovative afforestation method that utilized organic waste and only 30% of the usual water requirement. The CGST Gurugram Audit Commissionerate reclaimed office space to develop a crèche for employee welfare. Additionally, efforts to ensure cleanliness extended to Valappu Beach in Cochin, where more than 400 officers, including 100 students, volunteered. The campaign also led to the cleaning of office premises and the repair and painting of old furniture, which were subsequently donated to Jila Parishad Hindi Ucha Primary School and Primary School, Umrer, Nagpur, with these initiatives being effectively showcased on social media platforms.

    Around 200 posts were shared on ‘X’ and other social media platforms through CBIC’s official handle and field offices, significantly amplifying the Swachhata message. Efforts will persist in building on these practices and ensuring their sustainability throughout the year.

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2070219) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sh. Ashok K. K. Meena Assumes Charge as Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 4:55PM by PIB Delhi

     

    Sh. Ashok Kumar Kaluram Meena, IAS (Odisha: 1993), assumed the charge as Secretary in the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, on 31.10.2024 at CGO Complex, New Delhi. Sh. Meena holds a B. Tech in Computer Science from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and M.A. in Economics from Annamalai University. He has done Master of International Development Policy (M.I.D.P) in Public Finance from Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy.

    Having more than 2 months transition period as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at DDWS, Sh. Meena embarks on his new stint as the Secretary of DDWS, Ministry of Jal Shakti. Prior to this, he served as Chairman &  MD of Food Corporation of India from 29th August 2022 to 16th August 2024.

    Sh. Meena was in central deputation from 20th April 2011 to 2nd August 2014, where he served in capacity of Joint Secretary, in the Ministry of Defence and Director (Vigilance), in the department of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions.

    During his earlier central deputation tenure, from 3rd May 2001 to 31st July 2005, he served as Deputy Secretary in the Department of Commerce and Industry and other positions at Centre.

    Sh. Meena has served in various capacities in the State of Odisha including Principal Secretary, Finance, Panchayati Raj and Rural development etc.

    ****

    DSK

    (Release ID: 2070164) Visitor Counter : 42

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, successfully concludes Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, successfully concludes Special Campaign 4.0

    Special Campaign 4.0 demonstrated commitment to cleanliness and efficiency for DFS and its affiliated organisations across the country

    100% disposal of Public Grievances and Appeals achieved

    More than 38,500 sites cleaned; Cleanliness drive frees up 11 lakh square feet space; PSBs and other financial institutions under DFS monetise Rs. 4.50 crore through scrap disposal

    Under the citizen centric initiatives, financial literacy camps organised in more than 510 locations

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, and its affiliated organisations successfully completed the one month-long Special Campaign 4.0 with special focus on minimising pendency, and institutionalising Swachhata from 2nd-31st October 2024.

    The DFS launched the Special Campaign 4.0 with special impetus on better space management, customer centric initiatives, making the environment clean and green, record management and disposal of scrap.

    All the organisations of DFS, Public Sector Banks (PSBs), Public Sector Insurance Companies and other Public Sector Financial Institutions like NABARD, SIDBI, EXIM Bank, NHB, IIFCL etc. actively participated in the Special Campaign 4.0.

    The DFS achieved 100% disposal of all identified Public Grievances, Public Appeals, PMO references and MP References. 11.79 lakh square feet of space has freed and revenue of Rs. 4.50 crore has been earned through scrap disposal. The campaign was conducted in more than 38,500 sites across the country.

    Twelve Public Sector Banks and 43 Regional Rural Banks organised Pension Grievances Weeks. In the camps, apart from the grievances registered & redressed, pensioners were also educated regarding submission of online life certificate and door step banking facilities.  In more than 52,208 branches across the country approx. 1.45 lakhs pensioners were contacted.   

    Various videos and static contents were posted on Social media platforms by PSBs and RRBs to spread awareness towards Cyber Security. Safety tips and practices were shared through these educational posts to combat against cyber related frauds.

    Highlights & achievements of the Department and its organisations:

    1. Cleanliness Campaigns/Sites/Offices Cleaned: 38,577
    2. Space Freed: 11,79,219.00 sq. ft.
    3. Revenue Earned from Scrap Disposal: Rs. 4,54,53,508.00
    4. Disposal of Public Grievances: 9,725
    5. Disposal of Public Grievances Appeals: 2,378

    The DFS sensitised its all organisations to use the opportunity of Special Campaign 4.0 to enhance customer interface and to undertake citizen centric initiatives. The organisations of DFS, being in the financial services sector, were conveyed to undertake the activities like Financial Literacy campaigns, Registration/Updation of Nomination in bank accounts, Activating Dormant Accounts, Renewal of Locker Agreements, Disposal of Pending Claims etc. The achievements during the Campaign on these parameters are as follows:

    1. Financial Literacy Camps organised: More than 510 locations across the country.
    2. Number of Dormant Accounts Activated- 79.97 lakh.
    3. Number of Accounts in which Nomination Updated: 29.02 lakh.
    4. Number of Locker Agreements Renewed- 1.10 lakh.
    5. LIC of India settled 12.77 lakh unclaimed policies and settled claims of more than 10,742 cr.

    All the activities undertaken by organisations were regularly posted on various social media platforms. More than 1,000 posts were made during the campaign. As part of the initiative, customers of various organisations, staff members, senior management & head of organisations also gave feedback about the initiatives during the campaign on various social media platforms.

    Link of social media posts on Cyber Security & Fraud:

     

    Link of Testimonial Videos are as follows:

     

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2070163) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Resident Pleads Guilty to Helping Russia’s Defense Sector Evade U.S. Export Controls

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

    Defendant Facilitated Russia’s Acquisition of Millions of Dollars of U.S.-Made Dual-Use Electronics Used in Radar, Surveillance, and Military Research and Development

    Vadim Yermolenko, 43, a dual U.S.-Russian national and resident of New Jersey, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Export Control Reform Act, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States for his role in a transnational procurement and money laundering network that sought to acquire sensitive dual-use electronics for Russian military and intelligence services.

    “This defendant joins the nearly two dozen other criminals that our Task Force KleptoCapture has brought to justice in American courtrooms over the past two and a half years for enabling Russia’s military aggression,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This defendant admitted to playing a central role in a now-disrupted scheme with Russian intelligence services to smuggle sniper rifle ammunition and U.S. military grade equipment into Russia. The Justice Department will never stop working to aggressively disrupt and prosecute both the criminal networks and the individuals responsible for bolstering the Russian war machine.”

    “The illegal export of sensitive, dual-use technologies in support of Russia’s war effort poses a significant threat to the United States and its allies and must not be tolerated,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The defendant in this case played a key role in exporting U.S. technology that in the hands of our adversaries could pose great danger to our national security. The FBI and its partners will continue to focus on protecting strategic innovation at home and hold accountable anyone who facilitates illegal transfers to hostile nations like Russia.”

    “To facilitate the Russian war machine, the defendant played a critical role in exporting sensitive, dual-use technologies to Russia, facilitating shipping and the movement of millions of dollars through U.S. financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. “This plea highlights my Office and our law enforcement partners continued commitment to use all tools available to prosecute those who unlawfully procure U.S. technology to send to Russia.”

    According to court documents, the defendant was affiliated with Serniya Engineering and Sertal LLC, Moscow-based companies that operate under the direction of Russian intelligence services to procure advanced electronics and sophisticated testing equipment for Russia’s military industrial complex and research and development sector. Serniya and Sertal operated a vast network of shell companies and bank accounts throughout the world, including the United States, that were used in furtherance of the scheme to conceal the involvement of the Russian government and the true Russian end users of U.S.-origin equipment.

    The defendant and his co-conspirators unlawfully purchased and exported highly sensitive, export controlled electronic components, some of which can be used in the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons, quantum computing and other military applications. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) levied sanctions and imposed additional export restrictions on Serniya, Sertal, and several individuals and companies used in the scheme, calling them “instrumental to the Russian Federation’s war machine.”

    Sertal was licensed to conduct highly sensitive and classified procurement activities by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), Russia’s principal security agency and the main successor agency to the Soviet Union’s KGB. The Serniya network’s Russian clients included State Corporation Rostec, the state-owned defense conglomerate; State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom (Rosatom); the Ministry of Defense; the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR); and various components of the FSB, including the Department of Military Counterintelligence and the Directorate for Scientific and Technological Intelligence, commonly known as “Directorate T.”

    To carry out the scheme, the defendant helped set up numerous shell companies and dozens of bank accounts in the U.S. to illicitly move money and export-controlled goods. During the period charged in the indictment, more than $12 million passed through accounts owned or controlled by the defendant. These funds were used in part to purchase sensitive equipment used in radar, surveillance and military research and development. In one instance, money from one of the defendant’s accounts was used to purchase export-controlled sniper bullets, which were intercepted in Estonia before they could be smuggled into Russia.

    Co-defendant Alexey Brayman previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and is awaiting sentence. The case against co-defendant Vadim Konoshchenok, a suspected FSB operative, was dismissed after Konoshchenok was removed from the United States as part of a prisoner exchange negotiated between the United States and Russia. Defendant Nikolaos Bogonikolos’ case remains pending. Defendants Boris Livshits, Alexey Ippolitov, Svetlana Skvortsova, and Yevgeniy Grinin remain at large.        

    The FBI, BIS, and IRS are investigating the case.

    The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and Estonian authorities provided valuable assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Artie McConnell, Andrew D. Reich, and Matthew Skurnik for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

    Today’s actions were coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture and the Justice and Commerce Departments’ Disruptive Technology Strike Force. Task Force KleptoCapture is an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export restrictions and economic countermeasures that the United States has imposed, along with its allies and partners, in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Video: Investing in America: Western Winds of Change

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Investing in America: The Power of Western Winds centers on Carbon County, Wyoming, a historic coal community that is building one of the largest wind farms and transmission systems in the United States. These projects will create over 1,500 jobs for union workers.

    In June 2023, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland visited Carbon County to celebrate the groundbreaking of the TransWest Express Transmission Project, which will carry clean energy from the Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Wind Energy Project across the American West.

    Western Winds of Change is the latest video in DOE’s new clean energy jobs series. It follows three more videos highlighting workers across the United States.



    https://youtu.be/ihuMvTllqc8?si=UjI1dxBiiy5UAC1h

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fohncu9LQLY

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI: Lumine Group Inc. Announces Results for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lumine Group Inc. (“Lumine Group” or “the Company”) (TSXV:LMN) announces financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. All amounts referred to in this press release are in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

    The following press release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, which can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Additional information about Lumine Group is also available on SEDAR+ and on Lumine Group’s website www.luminegroup.com.

    Q3 2024 Headlines:

    • Revenue grew 35% to $177.3 million compared to $131.3 million in the same quarter prior year (including -9% organic growth after adjusting for foreign exchange impacts).
    • The Company generated operating income of $60.7 million during the quarter, a 35% increase from $45.1 million in the same quarter prior year.
    • The Company generated a net income of $18.3 million during the quarter, from net loss of $178.6 million in the same quarter prior year.
    • Cash flows from operations (“CFO”) decreased $25.7 million to $18.8 million compared to $44.5 million in Q3 2023, representing a decrease of 58%.
    • Free cash flow available to shareholders (“FCFA2S”) decreased $29.2 million to $10.4 million compared to $39.6 million in Q3 2023, representing a decrease of 74%.

    Year-to-Date Q3 2024 Headlines:

    • Revenue grew 35% to $481.3 million compared to $356.6 million in the same nine-month period prior year (including -8% organic growth after adjusting for foreign exchange impacts).
    • The Company generated operating income of $141.7 million in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, an increase of 37% from $103.1 million in the same period prior year.
    • An expense of $317.4 million was incurred in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, up to the Mandatory Conversion Date, $298.7 million is related to the mark to market adjustments on the fair value of the Preferred and Special Securities and $18.7 million is related to the dividend payable. Fair value of the preferred and special securities is primarily dependent on the price movement of the Company’s Subordinate Voting Shares.
    • The Company generated a net loss of $288.3 million during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, from net loss of $1,319.3 million in the same period prior year. The net loss is primarily related to the redeemable preferred and special securities expense.
    • CFO decreased $18.0 million to $63.9 million compared to $81.9 million in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023, representing a decrease of 22%.
    • FCFA2S decreased $26.6 million to $42 million compared to $68.6 million in the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023, representing a decrease of 39%.

    Total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2024 is $177.3 million, an increase of 35%, or $46.0 million, compared to $131.3 million for the comparable period in 2023. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, total revenue was $481.3 million, an increase of 35%, or $124.7 million, compared to $356.6 million for the comparable period in 2023. The increase for the three and nine months compared to the same period in the prior year is attributable to revenues from prior year and current year acquisitions. The Company experienced organic growth of -8% and -8%, respectively for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 or -9% and -8% after adjusting for the impact of changes in the valuation of the US dollar against most major currencies in which the Company transacts business. For acquired companies, organic growth is calculated as the difference between actual revenues achieved by each business in the financial period following acquisition, compared to the estimated revenues they achieved in the corresponding financial period preceding the date of acquisition by the Company. Organic growth is not a standardized financial measure and might not be comparable to measures disclosed by other issuers.

    Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $60.7 million, an increase of 35%, or $15.6 million, compared to $45.1 million for the same period in 2023. Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $141.7 million, an increase of 37%, or $38.6 million, compared to $103.1 million for the same period in 2023. The increase for the three and nine-month periods is primarily attributable to prior year acquisitions. Operating income is not a standardized financial measure and might not be comparable to measures disclosed by other issuers. See “Non-IFRS Measures”.

    Net Income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $18.3 million compared to net loss of $178.6 million for the same period in 2023. Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $288.3 million compared to net loss of $1,319.3 million for the same period in 2023. The decrease in net loss for the three and nine month periods is primarily attributable to the Mandatory Conversion of Preferred and Special Securities on March 25, 2024 such that no further preferred and special securities expense was booked in the current quarter.

    For the three months ended September 30, 2024, CFO decreased $25.7 million to $18.8 million compared to $44.5 million for the same period in 2023 representing a decrease of 58%. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, CFO decreased $18.0 million to $63.9 million compared to $81.9 million for the same period in 2023 representing a decrease of 22%. The decrease in CFO in the three and nine month periods is primarily attributable to the impact of changes in non-cash operating assets and liabilities exclusive of effects of business combinations.

    For the three months ended September 30, 2024, FCFA2S decreased $29.2 million to $10.4 million compared to $39.6 million for the same period in 2023 representing a decrease of 74%. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, FCFA2S decreased $26.6 million to $42.0 million compared to $68.6 million for the same period in 2023 representing a decrease of 39%. The decrease in the three and nine month periods is driven by lower CFO compared to the same periods in 2023. FCFA2S is a non-IFRS Measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures”.

    Non-IFRS Measures

    Operating income (loss) refers to income (loss) before income taxes, amortization of intangible assets, redeemable Preferred and Special Share expense, and finance and other expenses (income). We believe that operating income is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of the profitability of the Company related to its core operations. Operating income (loss) is not a recognized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, readers are cautioned that operating income (loss) should not be construed as an alternative to net income (loss).

    The following table reconciles operating income to net income:

      Three months ended
    September 30,
    Nine months ended
    September 30,
      2024 2023   2024   2023  
    Net income (loss) 18.3 (178.6 ) (288.3 ) (1,319.3 )
    Adjusted for:        
    Amortization of intangible assets 29.6 21.4   81.6   57.7  
    Redeemable preferred and special securities expense 194.8   317.4   1,346.0  
    Finance and other expense (income) 8.9 3.7   18.9   10.0  
    Income tax expense (recovery) 3.9 3.8   12.1   8.8  
    Operating income (loss) 60.7 45.1   141.7   103.1  

    Free cash flow available to shareholders ‘‘FCFA2S’’ refers to net cash flows from operating activities less interest paid on lease obligations, interest paid on bank debt, transaction costs on bank debt, repayments of lease obligations, dividends paid to redeemable preferred and special securities holders, and property and equipment purchased. The Company believes that FCFA2S is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of the uncommitted cash flow that is available to shareholders if Lumine Group does not make any acquisitions, or investments, and does not repay any debts. While the Company could use the FCFA2S to pay dividends or repurchase shares, the Company’s objective is to invest all of its FCFA2S in acquisitions which meet the Company’s hurdle rate.

    FCFA2S is not a recognized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, readers are cautioned that FCFA2S should not be construed as an alternative to net cash flows from operating activities.

    The following table reconciles FCFA2S to net cash flows from operating activities:

      Three months ended
    September 30,
    Nine months ended
    September 30,
      2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Net cash flows from operating activities: 18.8   44.5   63.9   81.9  
    Adjusted for:        
    Interest paid on lease obligations (0.1 ) (0.2 ) (0.4 ) (0.5 )
    Interest paid on other facilities (5.7 ) (2.8 ) (13.3 ) (6.4 )
    Credit facility transaction costs (0.0 ) 0.0   (1.9 ) (1.8 )
    Payment of lease obligations (1.6 ) (1.4 ) (4.6 ) (3.8 )
    Property and equipment purchased (1.1 ) (0.4 ) (1.7 ) (0.8 )
    Free cash flow available to shareholders 10.4   39.6   42.0   68.6  


    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements herein may be “forward looking” statements that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Lumine Group or the industry to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to vary significantly from the results discussed in the forward looking statements. These forward looking statements reflect current assumptions and expectations regarding future events and operating performance and are made as of the date hereof and Lumine Group assumes no obligation, except as required by law, to update any forward looking statements to reflect new events or circumstances.

    About Lumine Group Inc.

    Lumine Group acquires, strengthens, and grows, vertical market software businesses in the communications and media industry. Learn more at www.luminegroup.com.  

    For further information:

    David Nyland
    Chief Executive Officer
    Lumine Group
    investors@luminegroup.com
    +1-437-353-4910

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position
    (In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited

      September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
         
    Assets    
         
    Current assets:    
    Cash $ 180,357   $ 146,509  
    Accounts receivable, net   142,741     104,955  
    Unbilled revenue, net   49,551     39,858  
    Inventories   521     521  
    Other assets   40,727     44,862  
        413,897     336,705  
         
    Non-current assets:    
    Property and equipment   7,243     4,164  
    Right of use assets   7,716     11,973  
    Deferred income taxes   10,400     6,197  
    Other assets   12,939     13,063  
    Intangible assets and goodwill   826,041     763,793  
        864,339     799,190  
         
    Total assets $ 1,278,236   $ 1,135,895  
         
    Liabilities and Equity    
         
    Current liabilities:    
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 101,136   $ 97,533  
    Due to related parties, net   1,807     2,380  
    Current portion of bank debt   2,248     3,071  
    Deferred revenue   86,890     91,726  
    Acquisition holdback payables   656     19  
    Lease obligations   5,128     6,358  
    Income taxes payable   12,978     12,436  
    Preferred and Special Securities       4,469,996  
        210,843     4,683,519  
         
    Non-current liabilities:    
    Deferred income taxes   109,985     124,659  
    Bank debt   286,457     149,636  
    Lease obligations   3,583     6,921  
    Other liabilities   7,767     13,127  
        407,792     294,343  
         
    Total liabilities   618,635     4,977,862  
         
    Equity:    
    Capital stock   490,669      
    Contributed surplus   185,142     (1,015,661 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (3,814 )   (6,296 )
    Retained earnings (deficit)   (12,396 )   (2,820,010 )
        659,601     (3,841,967 )
         
    Total liabilities and equity $ 1,278,236   $ 1,135,895  


    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Income (Loss)

    (In thousands of USD, except per share amounts. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited

      Three months ended September 30, Nine months ended September 30,
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
     
    Revenue                  
    License $ 12,798   $ 11,247   $ 36,205   $ 32,990  
    Professional services   32,780     23,061     86,622     63,328  
    Hardware and other   6,589     5,651     11,332     14,987  
    Maintenance and other recurring   125,167     91,342     347,099     245,262  
        177,334     131,301     481,258     356,567  
    Expenses        
    Staff   89,929     61,871     250,662     181,775  
    Hardware   3,657     3,374     6,595     9,825  
    Third party license, maintenance and professional services   8,575     7,783     28,981     20,568  
    Occupancy   2,246     1,064     4,117     2,630  
    Travel, telecommunications, supplies, software and equipment   4,152     5,218     23,660     15,104  
    Professional fees   2,637     2,060     11,124     12,292  
    Other, net   3,011     2,754     7,467     5,443  
    Depreciation   2,473     2,120     6,925     5,825  
    Amortization of intangible assets   29,616     21,351     81,648     57,668  
        146,296     107,595     421,179     311,130  
             
    Redeemable Preferred and Special Securities expense       194,817     317,362     1,346,020  
    Finance and other expenses (income), net   8,898     3,703     18,868     9,960  
        8,898     198,520     336,230     1,355,980  
             
    Income (loss) before income taxes   22,140     (174,814 )   (276,151 )   (1,310,543 )
             
    Current income tax expense (recovery)   13,572     12,651     31,127     30,813  
    Deferred income tax expense (recovery)   (9,710 )   (8,815 )   (18,982 )   (22,042 )
    Income tax expense (recovery)   3,862     3,836     12,145     8,771  
             
    Net income (loss) $ 18,278   $ (178,650 ) $ (288,296 ) $ (1,319,314 )
                     
    Weighted average shares outstanding:                    
    Basic       256,620,389     74,040,058     199,991,663     71,967,707  
    Diluted       256,620,389     253,104,970     255,529,839     242,370,504  
                         
    Earnings per share:                    
    Basic and diluted     $ 0.07   $ (2.41 ) $ (1.44 )   (18.33 )
     


    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

    (In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited

      Three months ended September 30, Nine months ended September 30,
        2024   2023     2024     2023  
             
    Net income (loss) $ 18,278 $ (178,650 ) $ (288,296 ) $ (1,319,314 )
             
    Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to net income (loss):        
             
    Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other   7,082   (4,657 )   2,482     (4,968 )
             
    Other comprehensive (loss) income for the year, net of income tax   7,082   (4,657 )   2,482     (4,968 )
             
    Total comprehensive income (loss) for the year $ 25,360 $ (183,307 ) $ (285,814 ) $ (1,324,282 )


    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Changes in Equity

    (In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited

    Nine months ended September 30, 2024          
      Capital stock Contributed surplus Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Retained earnings (deficit) Total equity
               
    Balance at January 1, 2024 $ $ (1,015,661 ) $ (6,296 ) $ (2,820,010 ) $ (3,841,967 )
               
    Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period:          
    Net income (loss)             (288,296 )   (288,296 )
               
    Other comprehensive income (loss):          
    Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other         2,482         2,482  
    Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the period         2,482         2,482  
               
    Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period         2,482     (288,296 )   (285,814 )
               
    Settlement of Preferred and Special Share Dividends in Subordinate Voting Shares   87,368               87,368  
    Mandatory Conversion of Special and Preferred Shares   403,301   1,200,803         3,095,910     4,700,014  
    Balance at September 30, 2024 $ 490,669 $ 185,142   $ (3,814 ) $ (12,396 ) $ 659,601  


    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Changes in Equity

    (In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited
    Nine months ended September 30, 2023
      Capital stock Contributed surplus Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Retained earnings (deficit) Total equity
               
    Balance at January 1, 2023 $ $ 162,692   $ (8,912 ) $   $ 153,780  
               
    Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period:          
    Net income (loss)             (1,319,314 )   (1,319,314 )
               
    Other comprehensive income (loss):          
    Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other         (4,968 )       (4,968 )
               
    Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the period         (4,968 )       (4,968 )
               
    Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period         (4,968 )   (1,319,314 )   (1,324,282 )
               
    Transactions with Parent, recorded directly in equity          
    Capital contributions by Parent     22,451             22,451  
    Amalgamation with Lumine Group (Holdings) Inc.     (1,200,804 )           (1,200,804 )
    Special Share conversion             5,110     5,110  
               
    Balance at September 30, 2023 $ $ (1,015,661 ) $ (13,880 ) $ (1,314,204 ) $ (2,343,746 )


    Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows

    (In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

    Unaudited      
      Three months ended September 30, Nine months ended September 30,
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
             
    Cash flows from (used in) operating activities:        
    Net income (loss) $ 18,278   $ (178,650 ) $ (288,296 ) $ (1,319,314 )
    Adjustments for:        
    Depreciation   2,473     2,120     6,925     5,825  
    Amortization of intangible assets   29,616     21,351     81,648     57,668  
    Contingent consideration adjustments   (1,357 )   58     (399 )   (2,420 )
    Preferred and Special Securities expense (income)       194,817     317,362     1,346,020  
    Finance and other expenses (income)   8,898     3,703     18,868     9,960  
    Income tax expense (recovery)   3,862     3,836     12,145     8,771  
    Change in non-cash operating assets and liabilities exclusive of effects of business combinations   (34,300 )   5,822     (68,428 )   (4,565 )
    Income taxes (paid) received   (8,641 )   (8,565 )   (15,957 )   (20,077 )
    Net cash flows from (used in) operating activities   18,829     44,492     63,868     81,868  
             
    Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:        
    Interest paid on lease obligations   (105 )   (205 )   (388 )   (464 )
    Interest paid on bank debt   (5,702 )   (2,823 )   (13,304 )   (6,414 )
    Cash transferred from (to) Parent   345     (2,121 )   (1,645 )   (13,957 )
    Proceeds from issuance of bank debt   15,000         155,500     175,000  
    Repayments of bank debt   (17,976 )   (50,244 )   (18,464 )   (50,897 )
    Transaction costs on bank debt   (25 )       (1,874 )   (1,771 )
    Payments of lease obligations   (1,560 )   (1,419 )   (4,594 )   (3,784 )
    Issuance of Preferred Shares to Parent               181,484  
    Dividends paid       (12 )       (24 )
    Net cash flows from (used in) in financing activities   (10,023 )   (56,823 )   115,231     279,173  
             
    Cash flows from (used in) investing activities:        
    Acquisition of businesses           (144,325 )   (314,760 )
    Cash obtained with acquired businesses               33,965  
    Post-acquisition settlement receipts (payments), net   5,685     (264 )   4,706     (2,933 )
    Property and equipment purchased   (1,058 )   (408 )   (1,689 )   (829 )
    Other investing activities   (720 )   72     (984 )   (584 )
    Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities   3,907     (600 )   (142,292 )   (285,142 )
             
             
    Effect of foreign currency on cash and cash equivalents   72     (1,827 )   (2,959 )   (1,839 )
             
    Increase (decrease) in cash   12,785     (14,758 )   33,848     74,060  
             
    Cash, beginning of period   167,572     155,903     146,509     67,085  
             
    Cash, end of period $ 180,357   $ 141,145   $ 180,357   $ 141,145  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments L.P. Announces Changes to Internal Group Capital Structure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments L.P. (TSXV: PVF.UN, PVF.PR.U) (the “Partnership”), Partners Value Investments Inc. (TSXV: PVF.WT, PVF.PR.V) (“PVII”) and Partners Value Split Corp. (TSX: PVS.PR.G, PVS.PR.H, PVS.PR.I, PVS.PR.J, PVS.PR.K, PVS.PR.L) (“PV Split” and together with the Partnership and PVII, the “PVI Group”) together announce the completion of a share capital reorganization involving a change in how the Partnership owns its interest in PVII and how PVII owns its interest in PV Split.

    Pursuant to the reorganization, among other things, PVII amended its articles to: (a) redesignate the voting common shares held by the Partnership (“Common Shares”) as Class A restricted voting shares, which have substantially the same terms as the Common Shares but are entitled to elect 50% of the directors of PVII; and (b) create Class B restricted voting shares (“Class B Shares”), which are not entitled to dividends, are redeemable for a nominal amount and are entitled to elect 50% of the directors of PVII. A new trust, Partners Value Holding Trust, subscribed for Class B Shares and is the sole owner of PVII shares of that class. As a result, the Partnership no longer controls PVII, but has retained 100% of its economic interest in PVII.

    A similar change has been made to the articles of PV Split. As a result of the transaction, PVII now owns 100% of the Class A restricted shares of PV Split, which have substantially the same terms as the voting shares of PV Split but are entitled to elect 50% of the directors of PV Split and a new trust, Partners Value Split Holding Trust, holds 100% of the new Class B restricted voting shares of PV Split, which are not entitled to dividends, are redeemable for a nominal amount and are entitled to elect 50% of the directors of PV Split. As a result, PVII no longer controls PV Split, but has retained 100% of its economic interest in PV Split.

    After these changes, which have no impact on the publicly-traded units of the Partnership, it is expected that PVII and PV Split will both continue to be considered mutual fund corporations for tax purposes under current law and following the implementation of proposed amendments to the Income Tax Act (Canada) relating to mutual fund corporations.

    For additional information, please contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca or 416-643-7621.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or include words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “intends”, “targets”, “projects”, “forecasts”, “seeks”, “likely” or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “would” and “could”. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements relating to and regarding the qualification of PVII and PV Split as mutual fund corporations and the economic impact of the proposed transaction on the PVI Group. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of presenting information about current expectations and plans of management of the PVI Group relating to the future, and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Although management believes that these forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the PVI Group, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievement the PVI Group to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: changes to the qualification of PVII or PV Split as “mutual fund corporations” under the Income Tax Act (Canada); changes in in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws; the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; operational and reputational risks; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts and the outbreak of disease including epidemics and pandemics; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the PVI Group’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The PVI Group cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the PVI Group’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the PVI Group undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Prairie Operating Co. Announces Board Resignation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Texas, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Operating Co. (Nasdaq: PROP) (the “Company” or “Prairie”) today announces that Paul L. Kessler has resigned as a member of Prairie’s Board of Directors, effective October 30, 2024. Mr. Kessler, citing time constraints posed by scheduling and professional commitments, played a key role in structuring the Company and creating value for the resulting entity.

    “We are saddened to lose Paul as a valued member of Prairie’s Board of Directors” stated Edward Kovalik, Chairman and CEO of the Company. “While we appreciate that Paul has numerous outside commitments, his unwavering commitment, insight and dedication to the Company will be missed.”

    Mr. Kessler continued, “It has been my pleasure to serve alongside you through the structuring phase of the Company. I offer my best wishes to the Company for its continued success.”

    As the Company continues its drilling and acquisition growth strategy in the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, Prairie’s Nomination and Governance Committee intends to begin the process of identifying and interviewing independent candidates, with a focus on technical basin knowledge, to fill the vacancy.

    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.

    Forward-Looking Statement

    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. 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. 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 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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID Provides More Than $26 Million to Global Financing Facility to Support Health Workers and Strengthen Primary Health Care

    Source: USAID

    The United States, through USAID, announced it provided an additional $26.7 million to the Global Financing Facility (GFF) in a continued push to support health workers and advance primary health care. The announcement will be highlighted on the sidelines of next week’s GFF 19th Investors’ Group meeting and Trust Fund Committee meeting in Abuja, Nigeria. This funding will strengthen country and global efforts to increase access to resilient, responsive, and sustainable primary health care and health workforces. 

    With these newly-announced funds, USAID has provided more than $30 million to the GFF since 2023, securing a seat on the GFF Trust Fund Committee. This position enables USAID to contribute to the GFF’s strategic priorities and participate in the oversight and approval of grants. To date, the GFF has committed more than $1.4 billion from its Multi-Donor Trust Fund, linked to over $11 billion in World Bank  financing.

    The GFF is a multi-stakeholder global partnership that currently supports 36 low- and middle-income countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America with the highest maternal, newborn, and child mortality burdens and significant gaps in financing. By working closely with partner country governments and the World Bank, the GFF incentivizes national investment in primary health system capacity to improve the health of women, children, and adolescents. To date, every one dollar of GFF grant financing has brought in an additional seven dollars in the World Bank Group funds for country health investments. A key component of the GFF is also providing technical assistance and financing to develop national strategies to improve the health of women, children, and adolescents. 

    This partnership between USAID and the GFF will enhance governments’ capacity to leverage support across partners, align investments around national priorities, and strengthen primary health care. Countries with health systems anchored in a strong health workforce are proven to deliver better results, expand service coverage, and lower maternal and child mortality from a variety of causes. By partnering with the GFF, USAID is working with country partners to strengthen health systems to effectively reduce inequities in life expectancy and build resilience against health threats. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint ODNI, FBI, and CISA Statement on Russian Election Influence Efforts

    News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the following statement:

    “The IC assesses that Russian influence actors manufactured a recent video that falsely depicted individuals claiming to be from Haiti and voting illegally in multiple counties in Georgia. This judgment is based on information available to the IC and prior activities of other Russian influence actors, including videos and other disinformation activities. The Georgia Secretary of State has already refuted the video’s claims as false.

    Russian influence actors also manufactured a video falsely accusing an individual associated with the Democratic presidential ticket of taking a bribe from a U.S. entertainer.

    This Russian activity is part of Moscow’s broader effort to raise unfounded questions about the integrity of the US election and stoke divisions among Americans, as detailed in prior ODNI election updates. In the lead up to election day and in the weeks and months after, the IC expects Russia to create and release additional media content that seeks to undermine trust in the integrity of the election and divide Americans.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Cat Killing Investigation Underway at Ke’ehi Small Boat Harbor, Oct. 31, 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-Cat Killing Investigation Underway at Ke’ehi Small Boat Harbor, Oct. 31, 2024

    Posted on Nov 1, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NEWS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Oct. 31, 2024

    CAT KILLING INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY AT KE‘EHI SMALL BOAT HARBOR

     

    (HONOLULU) – The first horrifying discovery was made on Oct. 17, when staff from the DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) found the body of a feral cat, that appeared to be decapitated, floating near one of the Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor piers.

    Then, on Oct. 29, the bodies of another seven cats were found at Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor with injuries that appeared to be non-natural. Now, an investigation is underway by the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) to try and identify the perpetrator(s) of what DOBOR Administrator Meghan Statts calls, “cruel and inhumane behavior,” and is clearly against the law.

    Also, against the law at Ke‘ehi and all state small boat harbors is the feeding of animals, including feral cats. Signs are posted across the harbor, yet people are often observed feeding cats. Many of the deceased cats were found next to piles of food that had been spread on the ground or pavement.

    “We try to educate people as best as we can. The reason DOBOR implemented rules prohibiting feeding of feral animals is that cats are known to spread the disease toxoplasmosis, which can be deadly for critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals. Boat harbors are not appropriate places for cat colonies and while the feeding may be well-intentioned, people need to realize they could be contributing to the deaths of one of Hawai‘i’s iconic marine mammals,” Statts said.

    DOCARE officers are conducting regular patrols of the Ke‘ehi harbor. Anyone with information on these incidents is encouraged to report anonymously on the DLNRTip app or by calling the DOCARE hotline at 643-DLNR (3-5-6-7).

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor (Oct. 31, 2024):

    (Transcription and shot sheet attached)

    Photographs – Deceased cats and Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor (Oct. 31, 2024):

    Media Contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    808-587-0396

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington Resident Pleads Guilty to Pandemic Loan Fraud

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    Walter Holt III, 35, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about March 12 and May 27, 2021, Holt prepared and submitted falsified Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) COVID-19 relief loan applications for Charleroi, Pennsylvania, borrowers, for which he took a fee.

    Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for January 31, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Holt.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: No Oil Sightings Arising From Oil-Related Incidents; Precautionary Measures To Stand Down From Today

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    JOINT NEWS RELEASE BETWEEN NEA, BCA, JTC, MPA, NPARKS, PUB, SDC, SFA AND SL

    Singapore, 30 October 2024 – The clean-up of Shell’s leaked slop in the channel between Pulau Bukom and Bukom Kechil, including the cleaning of the oil-stained rock bunds and infrastructure, has been completed.

    2.             There have been no other oil sightings at sea and ashore since 20 October 2024 when Shell first reported the leak.

    3.            There are also no oil sightings arising from the separate oil overflow bunkering incident on 28 October off Changi.

    4.            All the seaward oil response assets deployed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) for both incidents will stand down today.

    5.           The containment and absorbent booms that were installed by government agencies at various locations as a precautionary measure since 20 October, will be removed progressively. 

    6.            Investigations by the National Environment Agency and MPA into the leaked slop incident at Pulau Bukom are ongoing. MPA will also be investigating the Changi oil overflow bunkering incident.

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS concludes Riyadh trip

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan completed the final day of his visit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, yesterday by participating in several events at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) with his delegation.

    Speaking at a themed session at the conference, Mr Chan highlighted that Hong Kong is actively developing as an international centre for green tech and green finance, contributing to the future of the New Silk Road.

    Also during the FII, Mr Chan witnessed the signing of co-operation agreements between a number of Hong Kong organisations and enterprises with their Saudi counterparts.

    Among such agreements are a memorandum of understanding between the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund to jointly establish a new investment fund of up to US$ 1 billion and a pact between the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the FII Institute to join the institute’s investment ecosystem.

    Earlier in the day, the Financial Secretary attended the listing ceremony of the SAB Invest Hang Seng Hong Kong Exchange Traded Fund at the Saudi Exchange.

    The product, developed in collaboration with Saudi Awwal Bank’s subsidiary, SAB Invest, provides Middle East investors with opportunities to invest in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

    After concluding his visit, Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong last night and is scheduled to arrive in the city this afternoon.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: 39/2024・Trifork Group AG – Interim report for the quarter ending 30 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Trifork Group AG
    Company announcement no. 39/2024
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 1 November 2024
    Interim Financial Report for the third quarter ending 30 September 2024

    Trifork Group reports -0.8% revenue growth in the core business, adjusts full year-outlook, and targets around EURm 10 in annual cost savings to improve margins

    CEO Jørn Larsen comments on the third quarter:
    “2024 has proven to be one of Trifork’s most challenging years. The private sector business environment for many of the services we provide remained difficult and unpredictable through the third quarter, but we cannot only blame the market. Some of our units have struggled to secure new customers or new engagements with existing customers. This will be fixed, based on the ways of working of our well-performing units.

    We underestimated the negative margin impact from persistently lower-than-expected revenue growth throughout the year. In response, we will now extend our cost savings program with the aim to reduce overall annual cost by around EURm 10. We will introduce a 10% cut in selected management remuneration led by myself and our CFO, make further rightsizing in low-performing units, and reduce other costs until we see an improved market situation. Reducing our workforce in certain units is a necessary but difficult decision that weighs heavily on me and our business unit leaders and we will work closely together to make the right decisions. We do not know when a market improvement will materialize, but with a broader customer network and pipeline than ever before, we are prepared to capitalize when it does, at which time we aim to return to double-digit growth with a double-digit EBIT margin.

    These challenges in parts of the organization are offset by many positive developments too. Our Public sector business, accounting for 39% of revenue, is back on track with healthy growth and a robust pipeline. Our strategic focus on the U.S. market is also yielding results, with solid growth and a promising pipeline for 2025. US revenue increased by 56% in Q3 and 29% in the first nine months compared to the same periods in 2023. Additionally, our Run business is building momentum for recurring revenue growth, and our new office in Oman is off to a strong start, powered by our proprietary platforms. Finally, our most valuable companies in Trifork Labs are performing very well.”

    Third quarter 2024

    • Trifork Group
      • In Q3 2024, Trifork Group revenue amounted to EURm 47.1, a net decline of -1.8% from Q3 2023, the combined result of an inorganic growth of 4.9% and an organic decrease of 6.8%. In the quarter, Trifork had EURm 0.5 less revenue from the more volatile and non-core hardware and third-party licenses compared to Q3 2023. Adjusted for this, Group revenue growth was -0.8% in Q3 2024.
      • Trifork Group adjusted EBITDA amounted to EURm 5.3, corresponding to 11.3% margin. No special items were recorded.
      • Trifork Group EBIT amounted to EURm 1.1, corresponding to 2.4% EBIT margin.
      • Trifork Group net income amounted to EURm 1.6.
    • Trifork Segment
      • In Q3 2024, adjusted EBITDA in the Trifork Segment amounted to EURm 5.8 (Q3 2023: EURm 7.0). The adjusted EBITDA margin was 12.3% (Q3 2023: 14.5%).
      • Sub-segments
        • Inspire revenue increased by 11.6% to EURm 0.8 and realized an adjusted EBITDA of EURm -0.6 (Q3 2023: EURm -0.9).
        • Build revenue declined by -2.9% to EURm 34.5 and realized an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11.3% (Q3 2023: 18.5%).
        • Run revenue increased by 2.2% to EURm 11.7. Adjusted for volatile and non-core hardware and third-party licenses, revenue growth was 8.4%. The adjusted EBITDA margin was 33.5% (Q3 2023: 23.2%).
    • Trifork Labs
      • In Q3 2024, fair value adjustment of Trifork Labs investments was EURm 1.7. The book value of all minority investments was EURm 75.4 at the end of the quarter. EBT from Trifork Labs was EURm 2.1 in the quarter.

    The financial outlook for 2024 is adjusted as follows:

    • Revenue is expected in the range of EURm 205-208 (previously EURm 215-220) equal to -1.4 to 0.0% growth. The revised revenue guidance is explained by lower revenue expectations in the fourth quarter, including around EURm 7 (license and hardware sales) in revenue on already agreed engagements now delayed to 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDA in Trifork Segment is expected in the range of EURm 25-27 (previously EURm 31-34). The revised guidance on adjusted EBITDA in Trifork Segment is explained by the lower revenue outlook and the additional costs of reorganizations in Q3 and Q4.
    • EBIT in Trifork Group is expected in the range of EURm 8-10 (previously EURm 14-17).
    • As the planned transaction in our managed security services is not yet to be closed, we have excluded any potential effect from its potential deconsolidation in the guidance. We expect a positive effect between EURm 3-5 on unadjusted EBITDA and EBIT when the process is completed.

    Main events in the third quarter of 2024

    • Inspire
      Q3 is seasonally a quarter with low conference activity. Hence, the conference activities in the quarter were primarily focused on preparing for GOTO Copenhagen and GOTO Chicago in October. The online GOTO universe continued to grow in with 1.9 million combined views on YouTube and Instagram in Q3, and 74.6 million views in total. At the end of the quarter, we had 1.0 million subscribers. We are continuously sharpening our planning of events and have optimized our cost structure through the year. The improved earnings momentum continued in Q3, and in the first three quarters Inspire improved EBITDA with EURm 0.8 compared to the same period last year.
    • Build
      Build revenue declined by 2.9% compared to the same quarter last year. The weakness came primarily from the private sector, which accounted for 61% of revenue. Corporates continued to take a cautious approach to IT spending in light of the global economic uncertainty, geopolitical uncertainty, and higher interest rates compared to previous years. The continued low activity from private sector customers has been particularly visible in UK, whereas our private sector engagements in the US displayed comparatively better performance. Danish public revenue grew 15% in Q3 compared to the same quarter last year. After a soft start to the year with disruptions to existing customer engagements, our Danish Public business has gained momentum with several key wins and ramp-up of delivery on existing framework agreements won in previous quarters and years. Public wins in Q3 included The IT and Development Agency at the Danish Ministry of Taxation as well as The Danish Business Authority.
    • Run
      Revenue in Run increased by 2.2% in Q3 compared to the same quarter last year. Our Cloud Operations business has built a solid sales pipeline supported by our new Contain cloud product offering. This is driven by both public and private customers. As announced in Q2, our managed services security business is in discussion with potential strategic partners in order to accelerate growth and market share. Our Splunk services gained momentum in Q3 with key customer wins and a new product offering for SME’s compliance with NIS2 cyber regulation.
    • Trifork Labs
      In Q3, Trifork Labs completed no new investments or exits. One Labs company completed an internal financing round. Activities in the quarter primarily included reviewing investment proposals from new investors in individual Labs companies. The most valuable companies in Trifork Labs are performing to a satisfactory degree. Dividends of EURm 0.2 were received in the quarter.

    Results presentation

    Trifork will host a results presentation and Q&A session with CEO Jørn Larsen and CFO Kristian Wulf-Andersen today, 1 November 2024 at 11:00 CET in a live webcast that can be accessed via the following link, or via the investor website:

    https://trifork.zoom.us/j/96731822513?pwd=NW1HUxyhyL8sUfP7pCpymC9vOsDpNe.1

    A recording will be made available on our investor website. More information can be found at https://investor.trifork.com/events/.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investors
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director & Head of Investor Relations
    frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 7317

    Media
    Peter Rørsgaard, CCO Fintech & Head of Press Relations
    pro@trifork.com, +45 2042 2494

    About Trifork Group
    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.        

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  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 31 October 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 1 November 2024 at 8:30 am EET

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 31 October 2024

    On 31 October 2024, Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3, LEI 743700UF3RL386WIDA22) has acquired its own A shares (ISIN code FI4000552500) as follows:                

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
      3,765 40.77 AQEU        
      38,357 40.77 CEUX
      792 40.80 TQEX
      49,634 40.77 XHEL
    TOTAL 92,548 40.77  

    *rounded to two decimals                

    On 17 June 2024, Sampo announced a share buyback programme of up to a maximum of EUR 400 million in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052. On 16 September 2024, the Board of Directors of Sampo plc resolved to increase the share buyback programme to EUR 475 million. The programme, which started on 18 June 2024, is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024.

    After the disclosed transactions, the company owns in total 9,780,640 Sampo A shares representing 1.78 per cent of the total number of shares in Sampo plc, taking the issuance of shares on 16 September 2024 into account.

    Details of each transaction are included as an appendix of this announcement.

    On behalf of Sampo plc,
    Morgan Stanley

    For further information, please contact:

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

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

    Attachment

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to identify man in connection with murder of Jason Diallo

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four years on from a fatal shooting in Ilford, detectives are releasing footage of a man they would like to identify.

    An investigation was launched on 1 November 2020 when officers were called to Balfour Road, Ilford at 22:14hrs following reports of a disturbance.

    Officers arrived at the scene and located Jason Diallo, 30 with multiple injuries. He sadly died at the scene.

    A witness told officers that they had seen Jason cycling along the road, when he was knocked off his bike by a car. Two occupants of the car got out and shot Jason in the head before driving away.

    Fifteen minutes after Jason Diallo was shot, at 22:29hrs, police were called to a shooting around five miles away in Garvary Road, E16. A 27-year-old man was found with a gunshot injury to his shoulder.

    He was taken to hospital with gunshot wounds which were determined not to be life-threatening. When providing a statement to officers, he told them he had been followed by three men driving a car who began shooting at him.

    A complex investigation was launched within Specialist Crime North and two men were convicted and sentenced for their involvement.

    On Tuesday, 14 June 2022, Mushin Mohamed, 28 (06.04.1996) of Leytonstone Road, E15 was found guilty of murder and attempted murder at the Old Bailey and sentenced to life in prison to serve a minimum of 35 years.

    Tyrelle Joseph, 24 (16.09.2000) of Banks Way, E12 was found guilty of assisting an offender and jailed for seven years after being identified as someone who had helped Mohamed and the unidentified suspects leave the scene.

    Enquiries have remained ongoing to identify two more suspects believed to be involved in the shootings that night.

    Investigating officers are now in a position to release this footage of a man they would like to speak with in connection with this investigation and a financial reward for information is available.

    The Metropolitan Police Service is offering a substantial reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of the person responsible for the murder of Jason Diallo and the non-fatal shooting of a 27-year-old man on 1 November 2020.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Allen, the senior investigating officer, said:

    “We have continued our momentum behind this investigation to ensure that those responsible for killing Jason Diallo and seriously injuring another man are held accountable.

    “Our enquiries have found no evidence to suggest that Jason Diallo or the attempted murder victim were known to one another or those convicted, suggesting that this was a completely unprovoked and violent incident.

    “Jason Diallo was described by his family as a devoted father of two who had the softest heart. Our thoughts have remained with his family and friends throughout a difficult four years and we are determined that they see justice.

    “We are now in a position to release an image of this man, who we would like to speak with in connection with this ongoing investigation.

    “If you know who he is or have any information which could help us, please get in contact.”

    Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting Operation Shenley. You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Investigation Results on Quality Irregularities by the External Investigation Committee and Endeavors Taken at PID

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Investigation Results on Quality Irregularities by the External Investigation Committee and Endeavors Taken at PID

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE Announces Appointment of Oak Group as Guernsey Adminstrator

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    NBPE Announces Appointment of Oak Group as Guernsey Adminstrator

    1 November 2024

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.3bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces the appointment of Oak Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited as NBPE’s Guernsey Administrator and Company Secretary. The appointment is with effect from 1 November 2024.

    Effective as of 1 November 2024, NBPE’s registered address will be changed to:

    NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    Oak House,
    Hirzel Street,
    St Peter Port,
    Guernsey
    GY1 2NP

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations         +44 (0) 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason                              NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com 

    Kaso Legg Communications   +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman                        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security. NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $509 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. The PRI identified the firm as part of the Leader’s Group, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms for excellence in environmental, social and governance practices. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last ten years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of September 30, 2024.

    1Based on net asset value.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Aktsiaselts Infortar subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas acquires a 100% shareholding in EWE Polska

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktsiaselts Infortar subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas acquires a 100% shareholding in EWE Polska

    AS Eesti Gaas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aktsiaselts Infortar (Infortar) and the German energy group EWE AG have entered into an agreement on the 31st of October 2024, under which EWE AG will sell 100% of the shares of its wholly owned subsidiary EWE Polska sp. z o.o. (EWE Polska) which operates in Poland. EWE Polska has two wholly owned subsidiaries, EWE Energia sp. z o.o. and EWE Przesył sp. z o.o. (altogether EWE Polska group).
    Chairman of the Management Board of Infortar Ain Hanschmidt:
    “Our ambition is to expand beyond the Baltic-Finnish region into Central and Western Europe, implementing our proven model and experience as a gas supplier and network operator Poland, thereby delivering the best service to consumers. The acquisition of an energy company in Poland provides us with the necessary momentum in this large and important growing gas market, while also ensuring an additional steady cash flow for the company’s shareholders.”

    The fields of activity of EWE Polska group include a natural gas distribution network in Western Poland and all business lines of energy sales (including gas and electricity sales).

    The completion of the transaction requires approval from the Polish Competition Authority (Polish: Urząd Ochrony Konkurencji i Konsumentów), as well as corporate approval by the EWE AG Supervisory Board (German: Aufsichtsrat).

    The acquisition of shares in EWE Polska constitutes a significant transaction under Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange Rules and Regulations. Therefore, the Stock Exchange Release includes comprehensive information on the transaction’s circumstances and EWE Polska’s financial results.

    EWE Polska is the second-largest privately-owned network operator in Poland. The company operates a natural gas distribution network of 2,316 km in western Poland, mainly around Poznan, serving over 25,000 clients. In addition to infrastructure management, the company sells natural gas and electricity, with energy sales totaling 1.2 TWh last year.

    The aim of the transaction is to significantly expand Infortar’s energy business in the Polish market, with the impact on the Infortar’s consolidation group being adding estimated revenues of more than 100 million euros.
    The acquisition of EWE Polska group increases our market presence in this large and important growing gas market, while also ensuring steady cash flow from regulated assets to our shareholders.

          1.   Terms of payment of purchase price for the shares of EWE Polska
    The purchase price for shares of EWE Polska is 120 000 000 euros payable as monetary payment.
    The purchase price will be paid at the completion of the transaction after being adjusted based on accrued interest and occurred leakage (if any).

          2.   EWE Polska’s financial results
    EWE Polska group total revenues in year 2023 amounted to 141.1 mEUR (2022: 133.2 mEUR and 2021: 76.4 mEUR) which is 6% higher than the year before and 85% higher than in year 2021. In 2023, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) was -2.2 mEUR, compared to 15.6 mEUR in 2022 and 15.0 mEUR in 2021. In 2023, the consolidated net profit was -3.7 mEUR, compared to net profit of 10.5 m EUR and 10.0 mEUR in years 2022 and 2021 respectively.

    EWE Polska group total assets in 2023 were 170.0 mEUR (2022: 182.4 mEUR and 2021: 156.5mEUR) including total fixed assets 115.8 mEUR that is 68% from total assets (2022: 63% and 2021: 69%). Total current assets in 2023 were 54.2 mEUR, including cash and equivalents 22.9 m EUR. In 2022 respective numbers were 66.7 mEUR and 20.7 mEUR. In 2021 the numbers were 48.1 mEUR and 16.2 mEUR.

    Total Equity in 2023 was 115.5 mEUR (in 2022 total equity was 121.5 mEUR and in 2021 114.6 mEUR).
    For more detailed information, please see appendix.

    Based on the additional information provided to Infortar, there have been no adverse changes in the business operations of the EWE Polska group since the close of the 2023 financial year. Unaudited consolidated figures for the first eight months of 2024 have been presented to Infortar, showing consolidated sales of 74.6 mEUR (2023 8 months: 94.2 mEUR), an EBITDA of 15.2 mEUR (2023 8 months: 5.9 mEUR), and a net profit of 12.3 mEUR (2023 8 months: -2.6 mEUR).

          3.   Overview of the loans undertaken by EWE Polska
    EWE Polska group has no outstanding loans in its consolidated balance sheet.

          4.   The structure of shareholders of EWE Polska
    EWE Polska is 100% owned by EWE AG. Upon completion of the transaction 100% of EWE Polska shares will be acquired by Infortar’s wholly owned subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas.

          5.   Information on significant court or arbitration proceedings involving EWE Polska
    According to information provided to Infortar, the companies within the EWE Polska group are not engaged in any significant court or arbitration proceedings. While certain legal proceedings related to their regular business activities are ongoing, Infortar has grounds to believe that the outcomes of these proceedings are unlikely to have a material impact on the business activities of EWE Polska group companies.

          6.   Information on valid contracts between Infortar and EWE Polska
    Currently there are no valid contracts between Infortar and EWE Polska group.

          7.   The composition of managing bodies of EWE Polska
    The Management Board of EWE Polska currently consists of Mr. Krzysztof Noga and Ms. Agnieszka Bielewicz. The Supervisory Board has not been formed.

    The contemplated transaction is not a transaction between related parties and the members of the Supervisory Board and the Management Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar have no personal interest in the transaction in any other way.

    Aktsiaselts Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are energy, maritime transport, and real estate. Aktsiaselts Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in AS Eesti Gaas and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 113,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Aktsiaselts Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, taxi business and other areas. A total of 104 companies belong to the Aktsiaselts Infortar group: 95 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Aktsiaselts Infortar employs 6,625 people.

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

    Appendix Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Statements of EWE Polska group

    BALANCE SHEET      
    Amounts in millions of euros
    FX rate of 4.35 has been used for conversion
    31.12.2021 31.12.2022 31.12.2023
    Cash and equivalents 16,2 20,7 22,9
    Derivatives 14,3 16,3 6,0
    Receivables 14,7 24,7 15,1
    Inventories 2,5 4,8 4,3
    Other current assets 0,4 0,3 6,0
    Total current assets 48,1 66,7 54,2
    Total fixed assets 108,5 115,7 115,8
    TOTAL ASSETS 156,5 182,4 170,0
           
    Trade payables 14,4 23,0 16,0
    Derivatives 8,8 9,9 7,3
    Tax Liabilities 1,3 2,1 3,4
    Advances Received 1,8 7,1 6,2
    Connection fees 0,1 0,1 0,1
    Other current liabilities 2,6 3,4 6,4
    Total current liabilities 29,0 45,6 39,5
    Derivatives 0,0 0,2 0,2
    Other non-current liabilities 1,5 3,3 2,8
    Connection fees 11,4 11,8 12,1
    Total long-term liabilities 12,9 15,3 15,1
    Total Equity 114,6 121,5 115,5
    of which share capital 105,1 104,9 105,8
    TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 156,5 182,4 170,0
    PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENT    
    Amounts in millions of euros 2021 2022 2023
    Sales revenues 76,0 132,9 139,3
    Other revenues 0,4 0,3 1,7
    TOTAL REVENUES 76,4 133,2 141,1
    Cost of goods sold -55,1 -104,3 -117,4
    Staff costs -4,6 -5,7 -6,4
    Other operating costs -6,5 -7,6 -8,1
    Other costs -1,9 -1,1 -1,4
    Derivatives 6,6 1,2 -9,9
    EBITDA 15,0 15,6 -2,2
    Depreciation and Amortisation -2,5 -2,6 -3,1
    EBIT 12,5 13,0 -5,2
    Financial costs and revenues 0,1 0,5 0,7
    Income tax -2,6 -3,0 0,8
    NET PROFIT 10,0 10,5 -3,7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: HSBC Bank PLC: Post Stabilisation Notice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Aercap Sukuk Limited

     Post Stabilisation Notice

    HSBC (contact: syndexecution@noexternalmail.hsbc.com) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Issuer: Aercap Sukuk Limited
    Obligor (if any): International Lease Finance Corporation
    Initial Guarantors (if any): AerCap Holdings N.V., AerCap Global Aviation Trust, AerCap Aviation Solutions B.V., AerCap Ireland Limited, AerCap Ireland Capital Designated Activity Company and AerCap U.S. Global Aviation LLC
    Aggregate nominal amount: USD 500,000,000                   
    Description: 4.50% due 3rd October 2029     
    Offer price: 99.338                                        
    Stabilising Manager: HSBC Bank plc
       

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction

    This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

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  • MIL-OSI: Offentliggørelse af prospekter, Investeringsforeningen Maj Invest

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    I forlængelse af gårsdagens børsmeddelelse vedrørende foreningens indgåelse af en ny hoveddistributionsaftale med Fondsmæglerselskabet Maj Invest A/S, offentliggøres hermed opdaterede prospekter for alle foreningens afdelinger.

    Prospekterne er blevet opdateret med nye estimerede løbende omkostningssatser samt en ændring i honoraret for Fondsmæglerselskabet Maj Invest A/S’ varetagelse af opgaven som hoveddistributør. 

    Prospekterne er vedhæftet denne meddelelse og kan ligeledes tilgås via foreningens hjemmeside.

    For eventuelle spørgsmål kontakt Lise Bøgelund Jensen, direktør i foreningens investeringsforvaltningsselskab, på telefon 33 28 28 28.

    Med venlig hilsen 

    Investeringsforeningen Maj Invest

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