Category: Finance

MIL-OSI Security: Dundurn — Saskatchewan RCMP SERT lays charges after human trafficking investigation
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Saskatchewan RCMP’s Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU), part of the Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT), and Saskatoon RCMP Detachment has laid multiple charges against an adult male following a human trafficking investigation that began in Dundurn, SK.

On October 23, 2024 at approximately 5:15 a.m., Saskatoon RCMP were called to a business in Dundurn for a report of kidnapping.

Officers responded and located an adult female from Ontario at the business. Initial investigation determined she was being held against her will. Officers contacted HTCEU investigators, who began a human trafficking investigation. HTCEU investigators determined the woman had been forcibly taken from Toronto and that human trafficking had occurred in various locations in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

As a result of investigation, 51-year-old Pierre Andre Bouchard of Chambly, QC, is charged with:
- one count, trafficking in persons, Section 279.01, Criminal Code;
- one count, trafficking in persons – material benefit, Section 279.02(1), Criminal Code;
- one count, forcible confinement, Section 279(2), Criminal Code;
- one count, sexual assault, Section 271, Criminal Code;
- one count, sexual assault with other weapon, Section 272(1)(a), Criminal Code;
- one count, material benefit from sexual services, Section 286.2(1), Criminal Code;
- one count, obtaining sexual services for consideration, Section 286.1(1), Criminal Code;
- two counts, procuring, Section 286.3(1), Criminal Code;
- one count, uttering threats against a person, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code;
- one count, assault with weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
- one count, fail to comply probation order, Section 733.1(1), Criminal Code;
- one count, identity theft, 402.2(1), Criminal Code; and
- one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.
Bouchard was arrested by Saskatoon Police Service on October 23, 2024. He appeared in Saskatoon Provincial Court on October 24, 2024 and made his second court appearance in Saskatoon on October 28, 2024. Bouchard was remanded into custody for his next court appearance in Saskatoon on November 5, 2024.

Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatoon Detachment, Yorkton Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team, Saskatoon General Investigation Section, Saskatoon Police Services’ VICE Unit and Victim Services, Regina Police Service’s VICE Unit, Toronto Police Service and Brandon Police Service assisted in this continuing investigation, along with additional community partners.

If you have information about this or any other incident of human trafficking, or if you or someone you know may be a victim of it, call 310-RCMP.

How to recognize and report human trafficking

“Human trafficking affects communities of all sizes, not just urban centres. It’s a reality that exists in big cities and small towns, including those here at home in Saskatchewan,” says Insp. Jeff Smoliak, RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) senior investigative officer.

“It’s also a crime that has no borders, which is why the Saskatchewan RCMP works interjurisdictionally to investigate these complex files and works closely with municipal police agencies and partners across the country.”

Saskatchewan RCMP reminds the public that anyone can be a target for human trafficking. Victims may be trafficked by someone they know: a former or current partner, family member, friend, or trustworthy person. Recruiting tactics can be subtle; often victims don’t even know they’re being trafficked.

Traffickers may approach potential victims by:
- pretending to be a potential love interest, friend or support person;
- connecting over social media or in person;
- offering gifts or money;
- introducing drugs or alcohol; or
- threatening potential victims’ loved ones if they don’t comply.
Additional information on recognizing human trafficking can be found here.

In addition to contacting the RCMP, the public can also contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. This hotline is confidential, available 24/7 and offers services in more than 200 languages. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Background

The Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) consists of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Crime Reduction Team (CRT), Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST), Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), the Offender Management Unit, and Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU). SERT helps the Saskatchewan RCMP continue to fulfil its mandate as the province’s police force – keeping our communities safe.

The Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU) is a specialized unit that conducts enforcement activities related to human trafficking, facilitates victim support, and educates partners and stakeholders.

MIL Security OSI –
January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Precision Drilling Announces 2024 Third Quarter Unaudited Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This news release contains “forward-looking information and statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. For a full disclosure of the forward-looking information and statements and the risks to which they are subject, see the “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements” later in this news release. This news release contains references to certain Financial Measures and Ratios, including Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before income taxes, loss (gain) on investments and other assets, gain on repurchase of unsecured senior notes, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals and depreciation and amortization), Funds Provided by (Used in) Operations, Net Capital Spending, Working Capital and Total Long-term Financial Liabilities. These terms do not have standardized meanings prescribed under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. See “Financial Measures and Ratios” later in this news release.

Precision Drilling Corporation (“Precision” or the “Company”) (TSX:PD; NYSE:PDS) delivered strong third quarter financial results, demonstrating the resilience of the business and its robust cash flow potential. Year to date, Precision has already achieved the low end of its debt reduction target range and is well on track to allocate 25% to 35% of its free cash flow to share buybacks in 2024.

Financial Highlights

Revenue was $477 million and exceeded the $447 million realized in the third quarter of 2023 as activity increased in Canada and internationally, which more than offset lower activity in the U.S.
Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾ was $142 million, including a share-based compensation recovery of $0.2 million. In 2023, third quarter Adjusted EBITDA was $115 million and included share-based compensation charges of $31 million.
Net earnings was $39 million or $2.77 per share, nearly doubling the $20 million or $1.45 per share in 2023.
Completion and Production Services revenue increased 27% over the same period last year to $73 million, while Adjusted EBITDA rose 40% to $20 million, reflecting the successful integration of the CWC Energy Services (CWC) acquisition in late 2023.
Internationally, revenue increased 21% over the third quarter of last year as the Company realized US$35 million of contract drilling revenue versus US$29 million in 2023. Revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was negatively impacted by fewer rig moves and planned rig recertifications that accounted for 44 non-billable utilization days.
Debt reduction during the quarter was $49 million and total $152 million year to date. Share repurchases during the quarter were $17 million and total $50 million year to date.
Increased our 2024 planned capital expenditures from $195 million to $210 million to fund multiple contracted rig upgrades and the strategic purchase of drill pipe for use in 2025.

Operational Highlights

Canada’s activity increased 25%, averaging 72 active drilling rigs versus 57 in the third quarter of 2023. Our Super Triple and Super Single rigs are in high demand and approaching full utilization.
Canadian revenue per utilization day was $32,325 and comparable to the $32,224 in the same period last year.
U.S. activity averaged 35 drilling rigs compared to 41 for the third quarter of 2023.
U.S. revenue per utilization day was US$32,949 versus US$35,135 in the same quarter last year.
International activity increased 33% compared to the third quarter of 2023, with eight drilling rigs fully contracted this year following rig reactivations in 2023. International revenue per utilization day was US$47,223 compared to US$51,570 in the third quarter of 2023 due to fewer rig moves and planned rig recertifications completed in 2024.
Service rig operating hours increased 34% over the same quarter last year totaling 62,835 hours driven by the CWC acquisition.
Formed a strategic Joint Partnership (Partnership) with Indigenous partners to provide well servicing operations in northeast British Columbia.

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

“Precision’s international and Canadian businesses led our third quarter results, with revenue, Adjusted EBITDA, and net income all improving over the same period last year, demonstrating the resilience of our High Performance, High Value strategy and geographic exposure. Our cash flow conversion this quarter enabled us to repay debt, buy back shares, and continue to invest in our Super Series fleet. We have already achieved the low end of our debt repayment target range for this year and expect to be less than a year away from meeting our long-term target of a Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio⁽¹⁾ of less than one time.

“Canadian fundamentals for heavy oil, condensate, and LNG remain strong due to the additional takeaway capacity. The Trans Mountain oil pipeline expansion is driving higher and stable returns for producers, who are accelerating heavy oil and condensate targeted drilling plans, while Canada’s first LNG project is expected to stabilize natural gas pricing and further stimulate activity in the Montney in 2025. As the leading provider of high-quality and reliable services in Canada, demand for our Super Series fleet remains high. Today, we have 75 rigs operating, with our Super Triple and Super Single rigs nearly fully utilized. We expect strong customer demand and utilization to continue well beyond 2025.

“In the U.S., our rig count has been range-bound for the last several months, with 35 rigs operating today. Volatile commodity prices, customer consolidation, and budget exhaustion are all headwinds that we expect will continue to suppress activity for the remainder of the year. We are encouraged by recent momentum in our contract book with seven new contracts secured for oil and natural gas drilling projects that are expected to begin late this year for 2025 drilling programs. Looking ahead, we anticipate that the next wave of additional Gulf Coast LNG export facilities, coal plant retirements, and a build-out of AI data centers should drive further natural gas drilling and support sustained natural gas demand.

“Precision’s international operations provide a stable foundation for earnings and cash flow as our rigs are under long-term contracts that extend into 2028. Our well servicing business further complements our stability as we remain the premier well service provider in Canada where demand continues to outpace manned service rigs. In 2023, we repositioned these businesses with rig reactivations and our CWC acquisition and as a result, each business is on track to increase its 2024 Adjusted EBITDA by approximately 50% over the prior year.

“I am proud of the discipline Precision continues to show throughout the organization and we remain focused on our strategic priorities, which include generating free cash flow, improving capital returns to shareholders, and delivering operational excellence. With robust Canadian market fundamentals, an improving long-term outlook for the U.S., and a focused strategy, I am confident we will continue to drive higher total shareholder returns. I would like to thank our team for executing at the highest operating levels and generating strong financial performance and value for our customers,” stated Kevin Neveu, Precision’s President and CEO.

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

SELECT FINANCIAL AND OPERATING INFORMATION

Financial Highlights

	For the three months ended September 30,								For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)		2024		2023		% Change				2024		2023		% Change
Revenue		477,155		446,754			6.8			1,434,157		1,430,983			0.2
Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾		142,425		114,575			24.3			400,695		459,887			(12.9	)
Net earnings		39,183		19,792			98.0			96,400		142,522			(32.4	)
Cash provided by operations		79,674		88,500			(10.0	)		319,292		330,316			(3.3	)
Funds provided by operations⁽¹⁾		113,322		91,608			23.7			342,837		388,220			(11.7	)

Cash used in investing activities		38,852		34,278			13.3			141,032		157,157			(10.3	)
Capital spending by spend category⁽¹⁾
Expansion and upgrade		7,709		13,479			(42.8	)		30,501		39,439			(22.7	)
Maintenance and infrastructure		56,139		38,914			44.3			127,297		108,463			17.4
Proceeds on sale		(5,647	)	(6,698	)		(15.7	)		(21,825	)	(20,724	)		5.3
Net capital spending⁽¹⁾		58,201		45,695			27.4			135,973		127,178			6.9

Net earnings per share:
Basic		2.77		1.45			91.0			6.74		10.45			(35.5	)
Diluted		2.31		1.45			59.3			6.73		9.84			(31.6	)
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic		14,142		13,607			3.9			14,312		13,643			4.9
Diluted		14,890		13,610			9.4			14,317		14,858			(3.6	)

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

Operating Highlights

	For the three months ended September 30,							For the nine months ended September 30,
	2024		2023		% Change			2024		2023		% Change
Contract drilling rig fleet		214		224		(4.5	)		214		224		(4.5	)
Drilling rig utilization days:
U.S.		3,196		3,815		(16.2	)		9,885		13,823		(28.5	)
Canada		6,586		5,284		24.6			17,667		15,247		15.9
International		736		554		32.9			2,192		1,439		52.3
Revenue per utilization day:
U.S. (US$)		32,949		35,135		(6.2	)		33,011		35,216		(6.3	)
Canada (Cdn$)		32,325		32,224		0.3			34,497		32,583		5.9
International (US$)		47,223		51,570		(8.4	)		51,761		51,306		0.9
Operating costs per utilization day:
U.S. (US$)		22,207		21,655		2.5			22,113		20,217		9.4
Canada (Cdn$)		19,448		18,311		6.2			20,196		19,239		5.0

Service rig fleet		165		121		36.4			165		121		36.4
Service rig operating hours		62,835		46,894		34.0			194,390		144,944		34.1

Drilling Activity

	Average for the quarter ended 2023								Average for the quarter ended 2024
	Mar. 31		June 30		Sept. 30		Dec. 31			Mar. 31		June 30		Sept. 30
Average Precision active rig count⁽¹⁾:
U.S.		60		51		41		45			38		36		35
Canada		69		42		57		64			73		49		72
International		5		5		6		8			8		8		8
Total		134		98		104		117			119		93		115

^{(1) Average number of drilling rigs working or moving.}

Financial Position

(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except ratios)	September 30, 2024		December 31, 2023⁽²⁾
Working capital⁽¹⁾		166,473		136,872
Cash		24,304		54,182
Long-term debt		787,008		914,830
Total long-term financial liabilities⁽¹⁾		858,765		995,849
Total assets		2,887,996		3,019,035
Long-term debt to long-term debt plus equity ratio ⁽¹⁾		0.32		0.37

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}^{(2) Comparative period figures were restated due to a change in accounting policy. See “CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICY.”}

Summary for the three months ended September 30, 2024:

Revenue increased to $477 million compared with $447 million in the third quarter of 2023 as a result of higher Canadian and international activity, partially offset by lower U.S. activity, day rates and lower idle but contract rig revenue.
Adjusted EBITDA was $142 million as compared with $115 million in 2023, primarily due to increased Canadian and international results and lower share-based compensation. Please refer to “Other Items” later in this news release for additional information on share-based compensation.
Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue was 30% as compared with 26% in 2023.
Generated cash from operations of $80 million, reduced debt by $49 million, repurchased $17 million of shares, and ended the quarter with $24 million of cash and more than $500 million of available liquidity.
Revenue per utilization day, excluding the impact of idle but contracted rigs was US$32,949 compared with US$33,543 in 2023, a decrease of 2%. Sequentially, revenue per utilization day, excluding idle but contracted rigs, was largely consistent with the second quarter of 2024. U.S. revenue per utilization day was US$32,949 compared with US$35,135 in 2023. The decrease was primarily the result of lower fleet average day rates and idle but contracted rig revenue, partially offset by higher recoverable costs. We did not recognize revenue from idle but contracted rigs in the quarter as compared with US$6 million in 2023.
U.S. operating costs per utilization day increased to US$22,207 compared with US$21,655 in 2023. The increase is mainly due to higher recoverable costs and fixed costs being spread over fewer activity days, partially offset by lower repairs and maintenance. Sequentially, operating costs per utilization day were largely consistent with the second quarter of 2024.
Canadian revenue per utilization day was $32,325, largely consistent with the $32,224 realized in 2023. Sequentially, revenue per utilization day decreased $3,750 due to our rig mix, partially offset by higher fleet-wide average day rates.
Canadian operating costs per utilization day increased to $19,448, compared with $18,311 in 2023, resulting from higher repairs and maintenance and rig reactivation costs. Sequentially, daily operating costs decreased $2,204 due to lower labour expenses due to rig mix, recoverable expenses and repairs and maintenance.
Internationally, third quarter revenue increased 21% over 2023 as we realized revenue of US$35 million versus US$29 million in the prior year. Our higher revenue was primarily the result of a 33% increase in activity, partially offset by lower average revenue per utilization day. International revenue per utilization day was US$47,223 compared with US$51,570 in 2023 due to fewer rig moves and planned rig recertifications that accounted for 44 non-billable utilization days.
Completion and Production Services revenue was $73 million, an increase of $16 million from 2023, as our third quarter service rig operating hours increased 34%.
General and administrative expenses were $23 million as compared with $44 million in 2023 primarily due to lower share-based compensation charges.
Net finance charges were $17 million, a decrease of $3 million compared with 2023 as a result of lower interest expense on our outstanding debt balance.
Capital expenditures were $64 million compared with $52 million in 2023 and by spend category included $8 million for expansion and upgrades and $56 million for the maintenance of existing assets, infrastructure, and intangible assets.
Increased expected capital spending in 2024 to $210 million, an increase of $15 million, due to the strategic purchase of drill pipe before new import tariffs take effect and additional customer-backed upgrades.
Income tax expense for the quarter was $14 million as compared with $8 million in 2023. During the third quarter, we continue to not recognize deferred tax assets on certain international operating losses.
Reduced debt by $49 million from the redemption of US$33 million of 2026 unsecured senior notes and US$3 million repayment of our U.S. Real Estate Credit Facility.
Renewed our Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) and repurchased $17 million of common shares during the third quarter.

Summary for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:

Revenue for the first nine months of 2024 was $1,434 million, consistent 2023.
Adjusted EBITDA for the period was $401 million as compared with $460 million in 2023. Our lower Adjusted EBITDA was primarily attributed to decreased U.S. drilling results and higher share-based compensation, partially offset by the strengthening of Canadian and international results.
Cash provided by operations was $319 million as compared with $330 million in 2023. Funds provided by operations were $343 million, a decrease of $45 million from the comparative period.
General and administrative costs were $97 million, an increase of $14 million from 2023 primarily due to higher share-based compensation charges.
Net finance charges were $53 million, $10 million lower than 2023 due to our lower interest expense on our outstanding debt balance.
Capital expenditures were $158 million in 2024, an increase of $10 million from 2023. Capital spending by spend category included $31 million for expansion and upgrades and $127 million for the maintenance of existing assets, infrastructure, and intangible assets.
Reduced debt by $152 million from the redemption of US$89 million of 2026 unsecured senior notes and $31 million repayment of our Canadian and U.S. Real Estate Credit Facilities.
Repurchased $50 million of common shares under our NCIB.

STRATEGY

Precision’s vision is to be globally recognized as the High Performance, High Value provider of land drilling services. Our strategic priorities for 2024 are focused on increasing our capital returns to shareholders by delivering best-in-class service and generating free cash flow.

Precision’s 2024 strategic priorities and the progress made during the third quarter are as follows:

Concentrate organizational efforts on leveraging our scale and generating free cash flow.
- Generated cash from operations of $80 million, bringing our year to date total to $319 million.
- Increased utilization of our Super Single and Double rigs in the third quarter, driving Canadian drilling activity up 25% year over year.
- Increased our third quarter Completion and Production Services operating hours and Adjusted EBITDA 34% and 40%, respectively, year over year. Achieved our $20 million annual synergies target from the CWC acquisition, which closed in November 2023.
- Internationally, we realized US$35 million of contract drilling revenue versus US$29 million in 2023. Revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was negatively impacted by fewer rig moves and planned rig recertifications that accounted for 44 non-billable utilization days.
Reduce debt by between $150 million and $200 million and allocate 25% to 35% of free cash flow before debt repayments for share repurchases.
- Reduced debt by redeeming US$33 million of our 2026 unsecured senior notes and repaying US$3 million of our U.S. Real Estate Credit Facility. For the first nine months of the year, we have reduced debt by $152 million and already achieved the low end of our debt repayment target range.
- Returned $17 million of capital to shareholders through share repurchases. Year to date we allocated $50 million of our free cash flow to share buybacks, which represents over 25% of free cash flow for the first nine months of the year and within our annual target range of 25% to 35%.
- Remain firmly committed to our long-term debt reduction target of $600 million between 2022 and 2026 ($410 million achieved as of September 30, 2024), while moving direct shareholder capital returns towards 50% of free cash flow.
Continue to deliver operational excellence in drilling and service rig operations to strengthen our competitive position and extend market penetration of our Alpha™ and EverGreen™ products.
- Increased our Canadian drilling rig utilization days and well servicing rig operating hours over the third quarter of 2023, maintaining our position as the leading provider of high-quality and reliable services in Canada.
- Nearly doubled our EverGreen™ revenue from the third quarter of 2023.
- Continued to expand our EverGreen™ product offering on our Super Single rigs with hydrogen injection systems. EverGreenHydrogen™ reduces diesel consumption resulting in lower operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions for our customers.

OUTLOOK

The long-term outlook for global energy demand remains positive with rising demand for all types of energy including oil and natural gas driven by economic growth, increasing demand from third-world regions, and emerging energy sources of power demand. Oil prices are constructive, and producers remain disciplined with their production plans while geopolitical issues continue to threaten supply. In Canada, the recent commissioning of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and the startup of LNG Canada projected in 2025 are expected to provide significant tidewater access for Canadian crude oil and natural gas, supporting additional Canadian drilling activity. In the U.S., the next wave of LNG projects is expected to add approximately 11 bcf/d of export capacity from 2025 to 2028, supporting additional U.S. natural gas drilling activity. Coal retirements and a build-out of AI data centers could provide further support for natural gas drilling.

In Canada, we currently have 75 rigs operating and expect this activity level to continue until spring breakup, except for the traditional slowdown over Christmas. Our Canadian drilling activity continues to outpace 2023 due to increased heavy oil drilling activity and strong Montney activity driven by robust condensate demand and pricing. Since the startup of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion in May, customer activity in heavy oil targeted areas has exceeded expectations, resulting in near full utilization of our Super Single fleet. Customers are benefiting from improved commodity pricing and a weak Canadian dollar. Our Super Triple fleet, the preferred rig for Montney drilling, is also nearly fully utilized and with the expected startup of LNG Canada in mid-2025, demand could exceed supply.

In recent years, the Canadian market has witnessed stronger second quarter drilling activity due to the higher percentage of wells drilled on pads in both the Montney and in heavy oil developments. Once a pad-equipped drilling rig is mobilized to site, it can walk from well to well and avoid spring break up road restrictions. We expect this higher activity trend to continue in the second quarter of 2025.

In the U.S., we currently have 35 rigs operating as drilling activity remains constrained by volatile commodity prices, customer consolidation and budget exhaustion. We view these headwinds as short-term in nature, which will continue to suppress activity for the remainder of the year and into 2025. However, looking further ahead, we expect that a new budget cycle, the next wave of Gulf Coast LNG export facilities, and new sources of domestic power demand should begin to stimulate drilling.

Internationally, we expect to have eight rigs running for the remainder of 2024, representing an approximate 40% increase in activity compared to 2023. All eight rigs are contracted through 2025 as well. We continue to bid our remaining idle rigs within the region and remain optimistic about our ability to secure additional rig activations.

As the premier well service provider in Canada, the outlook for this business remains positive. We expect the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and LNG Canada to drive more service-related activity, while increased regulatory spending requirements are expected to result in more abandonment work. Customer demand should remain strong, and with continued labor constraints, we expect firm pricing into the foreseeable future.

We believe cost inflation is largely behind us and will continue to look for opportunities to lower costs.

Contracts

The following chart outlines the average number of drilling rigs under term contract by quarter as at October 29, 2024. For those quarters ending after September 30, 2024, this chart represents the minimum number of term contracts from which we will earn revenue. We expect the actual number of contracted rigs to vary in future periods as we sign additional term contracts.

As at October 29, 2024	Average for the quarter ended 2023								Average		Average for the quarter ended 2024								Average
	Mar. 31		June 30		Sept. 30		Dec. 31		2023		Mar. 31		June 30		Sept. 30		Dec. 31		2024
Average rigs under term contract:
U.S.		40		37		32		28		34		20		17		17		16		18
Canada		19		23		23		23		22		24		22		23		24		23
International		4		5		7		7		6		8		8		8		8		8
Total		63		65		62		58		62		52		47		48		48		49

SEGMENTED FINANCIAL RESULTS

Precision’s operations are reported in two segments: Contract Drilling Services, which includes our drilling rig, oilfield supply and manufacturing divisions; and Completion and Production Services, which includes our service rig, rental and camp and catering divisions.

	For the three months ended September 30,									For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2024		2023			% Change				2024		2023			% Change
Revenue:
Contract Drilling Services		406,155			390,728			3.9			1,215,125			1,257,762			(3.4	)
Completion and Production Services		73,074			57,573			26.9			225,987			178,257			26.8
Inter-segment eliminations		(2,074	)		(1,547	)		34.1			(6,955	)		(5,036	)		38.1
		477,155			446,754			6.8			1,434,157			1,430,983			0.2
Adjusted EBITDA:⁽¹⁾
Contract Drilling Services		133,235			131,701			1.2			406,662			468,302			(13.2	)
Completion and Production Services		19,741			14,118			39.8			50,786			39,031			30.1
Corporate and Other		(10,551	)		(31,244	)		(66.2	)		(56,753	)		(47,446	)		19.6
		142,425			114,575			24.3			400,695			459,887			(12.9	)

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

SEGMENT REVIEW OF CONTRACT DRILLING SERVICES

	For the three months ended September 30,								For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except where noted)		2024		2023		% Change				2024		2023		% Change
Revenue		406,155		390,728			3.9			1,215,125		1,257,762			(3.4	)
Expenses:
Operating		262,933		247,937			6.0			776,210		759,750			2.2
General and administrative		9,987		11,090			(9.9	)		32,253		29,710			8.6
Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾		133,235		131,701			1.2			406,662		468,302			(13.2	)
Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue⁽¹⁾		32.8	%	33.7	%					33.5	%	37.2	%

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

United States onshore drilling statistics:⁽¹⁾	2024				2023
	Precision		Industry⁽²⁾		Precision		Industry⁽²⁾
Average number of active land rigs for quarters ended:
March 31		38		602		60		744
June 30		36		583		51		700
September 30		35		565		41		631
Year to date average		36		583		51		692

^{(1) United States lower 48 operations only.}
^{(2) Baker Hughes rig counts.}

Canadian onshore drilling statistics:⁽¹⁾	2024				2023
	Precision		Industry⁽²⁾		Precision		Industry⁽²⁾
Average number of active land rigs for quarters ended:
March 31		73		208		69		221
June 30		49		134		42		117
September 30		72		207		57		188
Year to date average		65		183		56		175

^{(1) Canadian operations only.}
^{(2) Baker Hughes rig counts.}

SEGMENT REVIEW OF COMPLETION AND PRODUCTION SERVICES

	For the three months ended September 30,							For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except where noted)		2024		2023		% Change			2024		2023
Revenue		73,074		57,573			26.9		225,987		178,257		26.8
Expenses:
Operating		50,608		41,612			21.6		167,128		133,325		25.4
General and administrative		2,725		1,843			47.9		8,073		5,901		36.8
Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾		19,741		14,118			39.8		50,786		39,031		30.1
Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue⁽¹⁾		27.0	%	24.5	%				22.5	%	21.9	%
Well servicing statistics:
Number of service rigs (end of period)		165		121			36.4		165		121		36.4
Service rig operating hours		62,835		46,894			34.0		194,390		144,944		34.1
Service rig operating hour utilization		41	%	42	%				43	%	44	%

^{(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”}

OTHER ITEMS

Share-based Incentive Compensation Plans

We have several cash and equity-settled share-based incentive plans for non-management directors, officers, and other eligible employees. Our accounting policies for each share-based incentive plan can be found in our 2023 Annual Report.

A summary of expense amounts under these plans during the reporting periods are as follows:

	For the three months ended September 30,					For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	2024			2023		2024		2023
Cash settled share-based incentive plans		(1,626	)		30,105		28,810		20,091
Equity settled share-based incentive plans		1,440			701		3,517		1,834
Total share-based incentive compensation plan expense		(186	)		30,806		32,327		21,925

Allocated:
Operating		221			7,692		8,159		6,732
General and Administrative		(407	)		23,114		24,168		15,193
		(186	)		30,806		32,327		21,925

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES

Because of the nature of our business, we are required to make judgements and estimates in preparing our Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements that could materially affect the amounts recognized. Our judgements and estimates are based on our past experiences and assumptions we believe are reasonable in the circumstances. The critical judgements and estimates used in preparing the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements are described in our 2023 Annual Report.

EVALUATION OF CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on their evaluation as at September 30, 2024, Precision’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)), are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Corporation in reports that are filed or submitted to Canadian and U.S. securities authorities is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Canadian and U.S. securities laws. In addition, as at September 30, 2024, there were no changes in the internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) that occurred during the three months ended September 30, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting. Management will continue to periodically evaluate the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting and will make any modifications from time to time as deemed necessary.

Based on their inherent limitations, disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements, and even those controls determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We reference certain additional Non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Non-GAAP) measures that are not defined terms under IFRS Accounting Standards to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors.

Adjusted EBITDA

We believe Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before income taxes, loss (gain) on investments and other assets, gain on repurchase of unsecured senior notes, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals and depreciation and amortization), as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings and our reportable operating segment disclosures, is a useful measure because it gives an indication of the results from our principal business activities prior to consideration of how our activities are financed and the impact of foreign exchange, taxation and depreciation and amortization charges.

The most directly comparable financial measure is net earnings.

	For the three months ended September 30,					For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2024		2023			2024		2023
Adjusted EBITDA by segment:
Contract Drilling Services		133,235		131,701			406,662		468,302
Completion and Production Services		19,741		14,118			50,786		39,031
Corporate and Other		(10,551	)	(31,244	)		(56,753	)	(47,446	)
Adjusted EBITDA		142,425		114,575			400,695		459,887
Depreciation and amortization		75,073		73,192			227,104		218,823
Gain on asset disposals		(3,323	)	(2,438	)		(14,235	)	(15,586	)
Foreign exchange		849		363			772		(894	)
Finance charges		16,914		19,618			53,472		63,946
Gain on repurchase of unsecured notes		—		(37	)		—		(137	)
Loss (gain) on investments and other assets		(150	)	(3,813	)		(330	)	6,075
Incomes taxes		13,879		7,898			37,512		45,138
Net earnings		39,183		19,792			96,400		142,522

Funds Provided by (Used in) Operations

We believe funds provided by (used in) operations, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, is a useful measure because it provides an indication of the funds our principal business activities generate prior to consideration of working capital changes, which is primarily made up of highly liquid balances.

The most directly comparable financial measure is cash provided by (used in) operations.

Net Capital Spending

We believe net capital spending is a useful measure as it provides an indication of our primary investment activities.

The most directly comparable financial measure is cash provided by (used in) investing activities.

Net capital spending is calculated as follows:

	For the three months ended September 30,					For the nine months ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2024		2023			2024		2023
Capital spending by spend category
Expansion and upgrade		7,709		13,479			30,501		39,439
Maintenance, infrastructure and intangibles		56,139		38,914			127,297		108,463
		63,848		52,393			157,798		147,902
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment		(5,647	)	(6,698	)		(21,825	)	(20,724	)
Net capital spending		58,201		45,695			135,973		127,178
Business acquisitions		—		—			—		28,000
Proceeds from sale of investments and other assets		—		(10,013	)		(3,623	)	(10,013	)
Purchase of investments and other assets		7		3,211			7		5,282
Receipt of finance lease payments		(207	)	(64	)		(591	)	(64	)
Changes in non-cash working capital balances		(19,149	)	(4,551	)		9,266		6,774
Cash used in investing activities		38,852		34,278			141,032		157,157

Working Capital

We define working capital as current assets less current liabilities, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Working capital is calculated as follows:

	September 30,		December 31,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2024		2023
Current assets		472,557		510,881
Current liabilities		306,084		374,009
Working capital		166,473		136,872

Total Long-term Financial Liabilities

We define total long-term financial liabilities as total non-current liabilities less deferred tax liabilities, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Total long-term financial liabilities is calculated as follows:

	September 30,		December 31,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2024		2023
Total non-current liabilities		920,812		1,069,364
Deferred tax liabilities		62,047		73,515
Total long-term financial liabilities		858,765		995,849

Non-GAAP Ratios
We reference certain additional Non-GAAP ratios that are not defined terms under IFRS to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors.
*Adjusted EBITDA % of Revenue*	We believe Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of consolidated revenue, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings, provides an indication of our profitability from our principal business activities prior to consideration of how our activities are financed and the impact of foreign exchange, taxation and depreciation and amortization charges.
*Long-term debt to long-term debt plus equity*	We believe that long-term debt (as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) to long-term debt plus equity (total shareholders’ equity as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) provides an indication of our debt leverage.
*Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA*	We believe that the Net Debt (long-term debt less cash, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) to Adjusted EBITDA ratio provides an indication of the number of years it would take for us to repay our debt obligations.
Supplementary Financial Measures
We reference certain supplementary financial measures that are not defined terms under IFRS to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors.
*Capital Spending by Spend Category*	We provide additional disclosure to better depict the nature of our capital spending. Our capital spending is categorized as expansion and upgrade, maintenance and infrastructure, or intangibles.

CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICY

Precision adopted Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current and Non-current Liabilities with Covenants – Amendments to IAS 1, as issued in 2020 and 2022. These amendments apply retrospectively for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2024 and clarify requirements for determining whether a liability should be classified as current or non-current. Due to this change in accounting policy, there was a retrospective impact on the comparative Statement of Financial Position pertaining to the Corporation’s Deferred Share Unit (DSU) plan for non-management directors which are redeemable in cash or for an equal number of common shares upon the director’s retirement. In the case of a director retiring, the director’s respective DSU liability would become payable and the Corporation would not have the right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months. As such, the liability is impacted by the revised policy. The following changes were made to the Statement of Financial Position:

As at January 1, 2023, accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased by $12 million and non-current share-based compensation liability decreased by $12 million.
As at December 31, 2023, accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased by $8 million and non-current share-based compensation liability decreased by $8 million.

The Corporation’s other liabilities were not impacted by the amendments. The change in accounting policy will also be reflected in the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ending December 31, 2024.

JOINT PARTNERSHIP

On September 26, 2024, Precision formed a strategic Partnership with two Indigenous partners to provide well servicing operations in northeast British Columbia. Precision contributed $4 million in assets to the Partnership. Precision holds a controlling interest in the Partnership and the portions of the net earnings and equity not attributable to Precision’s controlling interest are shown separately as Non-Controlling Interests (NCI) in the consolidated statements of net earnings and consolidated statements of financial position.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this release, including statements that contain words such as “could”, “should”, “can”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “may”, “continue”, “project”, “potential” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, “forward-looking information and statements”).

In particular, forward-looking information and statements include, but are not limited to, the following:

our strategic priorities for 2024;
our capital expenditures, free cash flow allocation and debt reduction plans for 2024 through to 2026;
anticipated activity levels, demand for our drilling rigs, day rates and daily operating margins in 2024;
the average number of term contracts in place for 2024;
customer adoption of Alpha™ technologies and EverGreen™ suite of environmental solutions;
timing and amount of synergies realized from acquired drilling and well servicing assets;
potential commercial opportunities and rig contract renewals; and
our future debt reduction plans.

These forward-looking information and statements are based on certain assumptions and analysis made by Precision in light of our experience and our perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. These include, among other things:

our ability to react to customer spending plans as a result of changes in oil and natural gas prices;
the status of current negotiations with our customers and vendors;
customer focus on safety performance;
existing term contracts are neither renewed nor terminated prematurely;
our ability to deliver rigs to customers on a timely basis;
the impact of an increase/decrease in capital spending; and
the general stability of the economic and political environments in the jurisdictions where we operate.

Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information and statements. Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to:

volatility in the price and demand for oil and natural gas;
fluctuations in the level of oil and natural gas exploration and development activities;
fluctuations in the demand for contract drilling, well servicing and ancillary oilfield services;
our customers’ inability to obtain adequate credit or financing to support their drilling and production activity;
changes in drilling and well servicing technology, which could reduce demand for certain rigs or put us at a competitive advantage;
shortages, delays and interruptions in the delivery of equipment supplies and other key inputs;
liquidity of the capital markets to fund customer drilling programs;
availability of cash flow, debt and equity sources to fund our capital and operating requirements, as needed;
the impact of weather and seasonal conditions on operations and facilities;
competitive operating risks inherent in contract drilling, well servicing and ancillary oilfield services;
ability to improve our rig technology to improve drilling efficiency;
general economic, market or business conditions;
the availability of qualified personnel and management;
a decline in our safety performance which could result in lower demand for our services;
changes in laws or regulations, including changes in environmental laws and regulations such as increased regulation of hydraulic fracturing or restrictions on the burning of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, which could have an adverse impact on the demand for oil and natural gas;
terrorism, social, civil and political unrest in the foreign jurisdictions where we operate;
fluctuations in foreign exchange, interest rates and tax rates; and
other unforeseen conditions which could impact the use of services supplied by Precision and Precision’s ability to respond to such conditions.

Readers are cautioned that the forgoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect our business, operations or financial results are included in reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including but not limited to Precision’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which may be accessed on Precision’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca or under Precision’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov. The forward-looking information and statements contained in this release are made as of the date hereof and Precision 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, except as required by law.

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (UNAUDITED)

(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	September 30, 2024			December 31, 2023⁽¹⁾			January 1, 2023⁽¹⁾
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash	$	24,304		$	54,182		$	21,587
Accounts receivable		401,652			421,427			413,925
Inventory		41,398			35,272			35,158
Assets held for sale		5,203			—			—
Total current assets		472,557			510,881			470,670
Non-current assets:
Income tax recoverable		696			682			1,602
Deferred tax assets		27,767			73,662			455
Property, plant and equipment		2,296,079			2,338,088			2,303,338
Intangibles		15,566			17,310			19,575
Right-of-use assets		63,708			63,438			60,032
Finance lease receivables		4,938			5,003			—
Investments and other assets		6,685			9,971			20,451
Total non-current assets		2,415,439			2,508,154			2,405,453
Total assets	$	2,887,996		$	3,019,035		$	2,876,123

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	282,810		$	350,749		$	404,350
Income taxes payable		3,059			3,026			2,991
Current portion of lease obligations		19,263			17,386			12,698
Current portion of long-term debt		952			2,848			2,287
Total current liabilities		306,084			374,009			422,326

Non-current liabilities:
Share-based compensation		10,339			16,755			47,836
Provisions and other		7,408			7,140			7,538
Lease obligations		54,010			57,124			52,978
Long-term debt		787,008			914,830			1,085,970
Deferred tax liabilities		62,047			73,515			28,946
Total non-current liabilities		920,812			1,069,364			1,223,268
Equity:
Shareholders’ capital		2,337,079			2,365,129			2,299,533
Contributed surplus		76,656			75,086			72,555
Deficit		(915,629	)		(1,012,029	)		(1,301,273	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income		158,602			147,476			159,714
Total equity attributable to shareholders		1,656,708			1,575,662			1,230,529
Non-controlling interest		4,392			—			—
Total equity		1,661,100			1,575,662			1,230,529
Total liabilities and equity	$	2,887,996		$	3,019,035		$	2,876,123

^{(1) Comparative period figures were restated due to a change in accounting policy. See “CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICY.”}

^{(2) See “JOINT PARTNERSHIP” for additional information.}

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET EARNINGS (LOSS) (UNAUDITED)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)	2024			2023			2024			2023


Revenue	$	477,155		$	446,754		$	1,434,157		$	1,430,983
Expenses:
Operating		311,467			288,002			936,383			888,039
General and administrative		23,263			44,177			97,079			83,057
Earnings before income taxes, loss (gain) on investments and other assets, gain on repurchase of unsecured senior notes, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals, and depreciation and amortization		142,425			114,575			400,695			459,887
Depreciation and amortization		75,073			73,192			227,104			218,823
Gain on asset disposals		(3,323	)		(2,438	)		(14,235	)		(15,586	)
Foreign exchange		849			363			772			(894	)
Finance charges		16,914			19,618			53,472			63,946
Gain on repurchase of unsecured senior notes		—			(37	)		—			(137	)
Loss (gain) on investments and other assets		(150	)		(3,813	)		(330	)		6,075
Earnings before income taxes		53,062			27,690			133,912			187,660
Income taxes:
Current		2,297			2,047			4,659			4,008
Deferred		11,582			5,851			32,853			41,130
		13,879			7,898			37,512			45,138
Net earnings	$	39,183		$	19,792		$	96,400		$	142,522
Net earnings per share attributable to shareholders:
Basic	$	2.77		$	1.45		$	6.74		$	10.45
Diluted	$	2.31		$	1.45		$	6.73		$	9.84

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	2024			2023			2024			2023
Net earnings	$	39,183		$	19,792		$	96,400		$	142,522
Unrealized gain (loss) on translation of assets and liabilities of operations denominated in foreign currency		(16,104	)		39,180			30,409			3,322
Foreign exchange gain (loss) on net investment hedge with U.S. denominated debt		9,536			(24,616	)		(19,283	)		(1,484	)
Comprehensive income	$	32,615		$	34,356		$	107,526		$	144,360

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	2024			2023			2024			2023
Cash provided by (used in):
Operations:
Net earnings	$	39,183		$	19,792		$	96,400		$	142,522
Adjustments for:
Long-term compensation plans		2,620			11,577			14,490			9,200
Depreciation and amortization		75,073			73,192			227,104			218,823
Gain on asset disposals		(3,323	)		(2,438	)		(14,235	)		(15,586	)
Foreign exchange		815			1,275			965			(13	)
Finance charges		16,914			19,618			53,472			63,946
Income taxes		13,879			7,898			37,512			45,138
Other		27			—			120			(220	)
Loss (gain) on investments and other assets		(150	)		(3,813	)		(330	)		6,075
Gain on repurchase of unsecured senior notes		—			(37	)		—			(137	)
Income taxes paid		(508	)		(187	)		(4,842	)		(2,395	)
Income taxes recovered		58			4			58			7
Interest paid		(31,692	)		(35,500	)		(69,435	)		(79,702	)
Interest received		426			227			1,558			562
Funds provided by operations		113,322			91,608			342,837			388,220
Changes in non-cash working capital balances		(33,648	)		(3,108	)		(23,545	)		(57,904	)
Cash provided by operations		79,674			88,500			319,292			330,316

Investments:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment		(63,797	)		(51,546	)		(157,747	)		(146,378	)
Purchase of intangibles		(51	)		(847	)		(51	)		(1,524	)
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment		5,647			6,698			21,825			20,724
Proceeds from sale of investments and other assets		—			10,013			3,623			10,013
Business acquisitions		—			—			—			(28,000	)
Purchase of investments and other assets		(7	)		(3,211	)		(7	)		(5,282	)
Receipt of finance lease payments		207			64			591			64
Changes in non-cash working capital balances		19,149			4,551			(9,266	)		(6,774	)
Cash used in investing activities		(38,852	)		(34,278	)		(141,032	)		(157,157	)

Financing:
Issuance of long-term debt		10,900			23,600			10,900			162,649
Repayments of long-term debt		(59,658	)		(49,517	)		(162,506	)		(288,538	)
Repurchase of share capital		(16,891	)		—			(50,465	)		(12,951	)
Issuance of common shares from the exercise of options		495			—			686			—
Debt amendment fees		—			—			(1,317	)		—
Lease payments		(3,586	)		(2,410	)		(10,005	)		(6,413	)
Funding from non-controlling interest		4,392			—			4,392			—
Cash used in financing activities		(64,348	)		(28,327	)		(208,315	)		(145,253	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash		(403	)		251			177			(428	)
Increase (decrease) in cash		(23,929	)		26,146			(29,878	)		27,478
Cash, beginning of period		48,233			22,919			54,182			21,587
Cash, end of period	$	24,304		$	49,065		$	24,304		$	49,065

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED)

	Attributable to shareholders of the Corporation
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	Shareholders’ Capital			Contributed Surplus			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Deficit			Total			Non- controlling interest		Total Equity
Balance at January 1, 2024	$	2,365,129		$	75,086		$	147,476	$	(1,012,029	)	$	1,575,662		$	—	$	1,575,662
Net earnings for the period		—			—			—		96,400			96,400			—		96,400
Other comprehensive income for the period		—			—			11,126		—			11,126			—		11,126
Share options exercised		978			(292	)		—		—			686			—		686
Settlement of Executive Performance and Restricted Share Units		21,846			(1,479	)		—		—			20,367			—		20,367
Share repurchases		(51,050	)		—			—		—			(51,050	)		—		(51,050	)
Redemption of non-management directors share units		176			(176	)		—		—			—			—		–
Share-based compensation expense		—			3,517			—		—			3,517			—		3,517
Funding from non-controlling interest		—			—			—		—			—			4,392		4,392
Balance at September 30, 2024	$	2,337,079		$	76,656		$	158,602	$	(915,629	)	$	1,656,708		$	4,392	$	1,661,100

	Attributable to shareholders of the Corporation
(Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars)	Shareholders’ Capital			Contributed Surplus		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Deficit			Total			Non- controlling interest		Total Equity
Balance at January 1, 2023	$	2,299,533		$	72,555	$	159,714	$	(1,301,273	)	$	1,230,529		$	—	$	1,230,529
Net earnings for the period		—			—		—		142,522			142,522			—		142,522
Other comprehensive income for the period		—			—		1,838		—			1,838			—		1,838
Settlement of Executive Performance and Restricted Share Units		19,206			—		—		—			19,206			—		19,206
Share repurchases		(12,951	)		—		—		—			(12,951	)		—		(12,951	)
Redemption of non-management directors share units		757			—		—		—			757			—		757
Share-based compensation expense		—			1,834		—		—			1,834			—		1,834
Balance at September 30, 2023	$	2,306,545		$	74,389	$	161,552	$	(1,158,751	)	$	1,383,735		$	—	$	1,383,735

2024 THIRD QUARTER RESULTS CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

Precision Drilling Corporation has scheduled a conference call and webcast to begin promptly at 11:00 a.m. MT (1:00 p.m. ET) on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

To participate in the conference call please register at the URL link below. Once registered, you will receive a dial-in number and a unique PIN, which will allow you to ask questions.

https://register.vevent.com/register/BI4cb3a3db88084e66ad528ebb2bdb81e4

The call will also be webcast and can be accessed through the link below. A replay of the webcast call will be available on Precision’s website for 12 months.

https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/mov2xb4k

About Precision

Precision is a leading provider of safe and environmentally responsible High Performance, High Value services to the energy industry, offering customers access to an extensive fleet of Super Series drilling rigs. Precision has commercialized an industry-leading digital technology portfolio known as Alpha™ that utilizes advanced automation software and analytics to generate efficient, predictable, and repeatable results for energy customers. Our drilling services are enhanced by our EverGreen™ suite of environmental solutions, which bolsters our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. Additionally, Precision offers well service rigs, camps and rental equipment all backed by a comprehensive mix of technical support services and skilled, experienced personnel.

Precision is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “PD” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “PDS”.

Additional Information

For further information, please contact:

Lavonne Zdunich, CPA, CA
Vice President, Investor Relations
403.716.4500

800, 525 – 8th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 1G1
Website: www.precisiondrilling.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Senators Peters and Stabenow Announce Michigan Will Receive Nearly $134 Million to Upgrade Water Infrastructure

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced Michigan will receive $133,663,000 in federal funding to upgrade Michigan’s outdated water infrastructure and keep communities safe. This funding will support local projects to improve wastewater management systems, protect freshwater resources, and deliver safe drinking water to homes, schools, and businesses. This investment comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that the senators helped enact. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made the largest investment in water infrastructure in American history.
“This robust investment will help our state make great strides in upgrading Michigan’s outdated water infrastructure, addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS, and safeguarding our state’s unmatched freshwater resources,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to play a role in passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made these upgrades possible, and I’m glad that this support will go to the communities in our state who need it most. We must continue working to ensure that every Michigander has access to safe drinking water.”
“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act continues to deliver for Michigan,” said Senator Stabenow. “This new investment will improve our water systems, clean up pollution, keep our drinking water safe, fix old pipes, and more. Step-by-step, this law is making our state a safer, better place for families to live.”
“Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.
These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds for Michigan – specifically $106,994,000 in Clean Water General Supplemental funding, $9,236,000 in Clean Water Emerging Contaminant funding, and $17,433,000 in Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant funding – will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF). The State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. These critical programs help communities minimize pollution, invest in clean infrastructure projects, address emerging contaminants like PFAS, and implement systems to provide clean drinking water to residents.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Blackwells Capital Calls on Brancous to End its Alarmist Attacks on Braemar

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Brancous’ misleading accusations are not constructive and could negatively impact the Company’s business

Blackwells encourages all Braemar shareholders to support the enhanced Board and management team

NEW YORK, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blackwells Capital LLC (“Blackwells”), a shareholder of Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (“Braemar” or the “Company”) (NYSE: BHR), today released a letter to its fellow Braemar shareholders:

The full text of the letter follows:

Dear Fellow Braemar Shareholders,

Over the past months, Blackwells Capital, in its capacity as an engaged shareholder of Braemar Hotels & Resorts (“Braemar” or the “Company”), exchanged views with the board of directors (the “Board”) and management of Braemar. Blackwells’ concerns were heard by Braemar, and Blackwells was pleased to enter into a constructive agreement with the Company, reflective of its confidence in the Board and management team to drive value for all shareholders.

Recently, another shareholder, Brancous LP1 (“Brancous”) has issued several public letters to Braemar. While Brancous is free to have its say as a shareholder of the Company, we believe its accusations and inferences are increasingly alarmist in nature, and without merit. Left uncorrected, Blackwells is concerned these accusations could have a negative impact on Braemar’s business.

Brancous’ latest letter dated October 22, 2024 appears to be a regurgitation of false claims made by a disgruntled hotel union. We believe it is irresponsible to peddle such misinformation, and, in particular, highlight the recklessness of stating that a lawsuit was filed against Braemar when no such thing happened.

Contrary to Brancous’ misstatements, Ashford Inc has stated publicly that Braemar has received an official private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service regarding its structure and operating relationship with Remington Hospitality, providing assurance of its proper REIT compliance. We question Brancous’ claim that “No other REIT operates in this manner,” and believe that it demonstrates a lack of knowledge of the REIT space.

Further, Brancous’ missives about the Braemar Board ignore the recent appointment of Jay Shah. Mr. Shah is a seasoned hospitality and real estate executive and joined the Board as an independent director. Blackwells believes that Mr. Shah brings an infusion of skills, experience and fresh expertise to Braemar. Blackwells strenuously objects to Brancous’ attacks which oddly single out Braemar independent director, Stefani Carter. Blackwells has had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Carter and believes she is an effective and independent fiduciary for shareholders, with an esteemed professional background.

Brancous closes its October 22, 2024 letter noting that “BHR has incredible potential…” Blackwells agrees with that assessment wholeheartedly. Brancous’ hyperbolic attacks, however, are not constructive, and could unjustly hurt the Company and its prospects.

Blackwells calls on Brancous and all shareholders to join us in voting in favor of the enhanced Board and management team as they unlock value for all shareholders.

Sincerely,

Jason Aintabi
Chief Investment Officer
Blackwells Capital

About Blackwells Capital

Blackwells is a multi-strategy alternative asset management firm that invests in public and private markets globally. Our public markets portfolio focuses on currencies, equities, credit and commodities. When necessary, we engage with public company boards to drive value for all stakeholders. Our private markets portfolio includes investments in space, clean energy, infrastructure, real estate and technology. Further information is available at www.blackwellscap.com.

Media
Gagnier Communications
Dan Gagnier & Riyaz Lalani
646-569-5897
blackwells@gagnierfc.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Urgently Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release Date and Conference Call; Participation in Upcoming Investor Conferences
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VIENNA, Va., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Urgent.ly, Inc. (Nasdaq: ULY) (“Urgently”), a U.S.-based leading provider of digital roadside and mobility assistance technology and services, today announced the date for the release of its third quarter 2024 financial results and its participation in upcoming investor conferences.

Third Quarter 2024 Earnings

Urgently will host a conference call on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024. Financial results will be issued in a press release prior to the call.

Those wishing to participate via webcast should access the call through Urgently’s Investor Relations website at https://investors.geturgently.com. Those wishing to participate via telephone may dial in at 1-844-481-2521 (USA) or 1-412-317-0549 (International). The replay will be available via webcast through Urgently’s Investor Relations website.

Upcoming Investor Conferences

During the fourth quarter of 2024, Matt Booth, Chief Executive Officer of Urgently, and Tim Huffmyer, Chief Financial Officer of Urgently, will participate in the following upcoming investor conferences:
- The Sidoti Micro-Cap Virtual Investor Conference on November 13-14, 2024. Management is scheduled to present at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, November 14, and will host one-on-one and small group investor meetings throughout both days.
- The Micro-Cap Investor Summit Virtual Conference on November 21, 2024. Management will host a presentation and hold one-on-one and small group meetings with investors during the conference.
A live webcast and archived replay of conference presentations will be available on the Urgently Investor Relations website at https://investors.geturgently.com/.

About Urgently

Urgently is focused on helping everyone move safely, without disruption, by safeguarding drivers, promptly assisting their journey, and employing technology to proactively avert possible issues. The company’s digitally native software platform combines location-based services, real-time data, AI and machine-to-machine communication to power roadside assistance solutions for leading brands across automotive, insurance, telematics and other transportation-focused verticals. Urgently fulfills the demand for connected roadside assistance services, enabling its partners to deliver exceptional user experiences that drive high customer satisfaction and loyalty, by delivering innovative, transparent and exceptional connected mobility assistance experiences on a global scale. For more information, visit www.geturgently.com.

Contacts:
For Press: media@geturgently.com
For Investor Relations: investorrelations@geturgently.com

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Balgonie — White Butte RCMP asks members of the public for assistance identifying semi

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On October 12, 2024, White Butte RCMP received a report of a chemical spill on Highway #46.

Investigation determined a semi hauling a belly dump style of trailer left a business on the Service Road in Balgonie. While driving south on Highway #46, then continuing on to Highway #1 toward Winnipeg, the semi spilled fertilizer it was hauling. The semi did not stop at the scene of the spill.

The Balgonie Fire Department, Ministry of Highways, Ministry of Environment and Regina Bypass responded to – and are managing – the spill and clean-up, and were responsible for the closure of the highway that resulted from the spill. Any questions on these matters can be directed to the appropriate agency.

White Butte RCMP is now investigating whether there is a criminal element to the spill, including gathering information about the vehicle driver’s failure to stop after the spill and determining whether the resulting cost of clean-up constitutes mischief.

The vehicle and driver have not been identified at this time.

White Butte RCMP is asking members of the public for assistance. If you saw the semi spilling fertilizer on Highway #46 between 5:15 and 5:45 a.m. on October 12, or if you potentially captured security or dashcam footage of it, contact White Butte RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP.

Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News 10/24/2024 Blackburn, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and three of their Senate colleagues introduced the PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program:
“For more than 15 years, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has helped law enforcement agencies protect innocent children from sexual predators who wish to exploit them online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize this critical program to combat technology-facilitated crimes against children.”
“For decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played an invaluable role in helping federal, state, and local law enforcement work together to fight child exploitation and put vicious predators behind bars,” said Senator Cornyn. “By extending and modernizing this program, our legislation would ensure these Task Forces can continue to protect our next generation in an increasingly digital world.”
“We must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Protecting such victims is urgent and imperative—and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.”

BACKGROUND:

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.
Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

THE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT:

The PROTECT Our Children Act would:
Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;
Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;
Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;
Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations; and
Reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization.

ENDORSEMENTS:

The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC).

CO-SPONSORS:

This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Representatives Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.).

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand, Schumer Announce Port Authority Of NY/NJ To Receive Over $347 Million From Program Gillibrand Helped Create, Including $344 Million To Deploy Zero-Emission Equipment And Upgrade Green Energy Infrastructure

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) to receive an anticipated $344,138,135 through EPA’s Clean Ports Program for its proposed project, Catalyzing Change: Zero-Emissions NY-NJ Port Projects for a Greener Future. This project will support the installation of zero-emission equipment and promote good-paying and union jobs at the Port of New York and New Jersey. The grant is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the most substantial climate change and clean energy legislation in history. Senator Gillibrand was an original cosponsor and champion of the standalone legislation (the Climate Smart Ports Act) to create the Clean Ports Program, and she helped secure its enactment as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
According to the EPA, PANYNJ’s proposed project “includes the deployment of electric cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks with supporting charging infrastructure, including through a ZE Equipment for Ports (ZEEP) Voucher Incentive Program and Green Drayage Accelerator (GDA) program. PANYNJ commits to reducing the number of polluting vehicles at the port by scrapping a portion of the existing fleet. The project also includes the installation of vessel shore power infrastructure. As part of this project, PANYNJ will implement a comprehensive community engagement plan and train workers to operate and maintain new equipment and infrastructure.”
In addition to the over $344 million grant for the zero-emission technology deployment project, EPA selected PANYNJ to receive $3,000,000 to support a proposed climate and air quality project, which is also through EPA’s Clean Ports Program.
“I fought hard to secure $3 billion via the Inflation Reduction Act for the EPA to fund a new program for zero-emission port equipment and to modernize infrastructure as well as climate and air quality planning at ports across the country,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to announce more than $344 million—the second largest award in the country—for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to deploy zero-emission equipment, install charging equipment, and train workers for new green jobs. This substantial federal investment will help transform Port Liberty NY on Staten Island by replacing harmful diesel-powered equipment with zero-emission electric infrastructure.”
“This over $347 million investment in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will lay the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable future,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will promote the use of zero-emission equipment and clean power, as well as train workers for the green energy jobs of the future. I am proud to have helped secure the creation of the transformative Clean Ports Program in the Inflation Reduction Act and am thrilled about today’s historic investment. Not only are we improving air quality and combating climate change, but we’re creating good-paying jobs and putting New York and the United States in position to lead in global clean energy.”
The selection of the PANYNJ projects was announced as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, which today announced nearly $3 billion of investments in Clean Ports.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Sunrun Announces Appointment of John Trinta to its Board of Directors

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sunrun (Nasdaq: RUN), the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, today announced the appointment of John Trinta, former CEO of Deloitte Financial Advisory Services, as a member of the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) and Audit Committee of the Board. Mr. Trinta brings nearly 40 years of expertise in tax and accounting, paired with a proven track record in driving strategic growth and leading organizations to new heights.

“It is with great excitement that I introduce John as the newest member of our Board. Having spent nearly four decades at Deloitte, he brings exceptional expertise in finance, accounting, and tax—critical skills as we navigate today’s complexities and continue to position ourselves as a market leader in the clean energy sector,” said Sunrun CEO Mary Powell. “Beyond his technical strengths, John’s leadership, strategic mindset, and ability to inspire teams set him apart. I’m confident that his insights will be a value add as we continue to execute on our margin-focused and disciplined growth strategy.”

Mr. Trinta is a seasoned finance professional with a distinguished career in finance, accounting, and tax. From June 1998 to May 2020, Mr. Trinta held several executive positions at Deloitte, including as the CEO of Deloitte Financial Advisory Services, Deputy CEO of Advisory Services, Partner in Charge of Americas Financial Advisory Services, and Deputy National Managing Partner in Tax Services. He also served on Deloitte’s U.S. and Functional Global Board of Directors from 2003 to 2005. During his time at Deloitte, Mr. Trinta spearheaded Deloitte’s merger of Financial Advisory and Risk practices and co-led Deloitte’s purchase and integration of various tax and advisory businesses.

“I am excited to join Mary and the Sunrun Board as the Company continues to innovate and differentiate itself within the market by focusing on creating cleaner, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions for its customers,” said Mr.Trinta. “I look forward to sharing my financial, accounting, and tax expertise with the entire Sunrun team and contributing to the mission of connecting people to the cleanest energy on earth.”

Mr. Trinta holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting from California State University, Chico, and a Master of Science degree in Taxation from Golden Gate University.

About Sunrun
Sunrun Inc. (Nasdaq: RUN) revolutionized the solar industry in 2007 by removing financial barriers and democratizing access to locally-generated, renewable energy. Today, Sunrun is the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, offering residential solar and storage with no upfront costs. Sunrun’s innovative products and solutions can connect homes to the cleanest energy on earth, providing them with energy security, predictability, and peace of mind. Sunrun also manages energy services that benefit communities, utilities, and the electric grid while enhancing customer value. Discover more at www.sunrun.com.

Media Contact
Wyatt Semanek
Director, Corporate Communications
press@sunrun.com

Investor & Analyst Contact
Patrick Jobin
SVP, Deputy CFO & Investor Relations Officer
investors@sunrun.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fatal traffic accident in Kwai Chung

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Fatal traffic accident in Kwai Chung
Fatal traffic accident in Kwai Chung
************************************

Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident happened in Kwai Chung last night (October 29) in which a woman died. At around 10.30pm yesterday, a taxi driven by a 66-year-old man was travelling along Kwai Chung Road towards Tsuen Wan. Upon approaching 997-999 Kwai Chung Road, the taxi reportedly knocked down the 75-year-old woman who was crossing the road. Sustaining multiple injuries, the woman was rushed to Princess Margaret Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 0.25am today (October 30). The taxi driver was arrested for dangerous driving causing death and is being detained for enquiries. Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories South is underway. Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 1300.

Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 6:59

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Six Charged in Scheme to Defraud the Federal Government

Source: US State of Vermont

Six defendants have been charged for their roles in schemes to rig bids, defraud the government and pay bribes and kickbacks in connection with the sale of IT products and services to federal government purchasers, which resulted in overcharges of millions of dollars to the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense (DoD).

On Oct. 9 and Oct. 16, a federal grand jury in Baltimore returned indictments against two defendants. Four other defendants were also charged. These are the first charges in the Justice Department’s ongoing investigation into IT manufacturers, distributors and resellers who sell products and services to government purchasers, including to the intelligence community.

“Antitrust crimes can undermine competition for products and services that are vital to our national security,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “When fraudsters siphon taxpayer funds, the Antitrust Division and its Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF) partners across the government will hold accountable those who collude to subvert competition, line their pockets with federal procurement dollars and compromise the integrity of our intelligence community programs.”

“This office and our partners will use all available resources to hold accountable those who would undermine and distort the government’s procurement of goods and services, especially those related to our cybersecurity infrastructure,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland.

“This investigation demonstrates the vital need to protect the DoD procurement process, particularly within the Intelligence Community,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard of the DoD Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “The Defense Criminal Investigative Service is committed to identifying fraudsters who abuse public trust and enrich themselves through criminal schemes.”

“There is no place for fraudsters and crooks scheming to manipulate the government bidding process for personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “The FBI remains steadfastly committed to identifying, investigating and bringing to justice those conspiring to enrich themselves by cheating taxpayers.”

“Investigating complex fraud schemes is a top priority of ours,” said National Security Agency Acting Inspector General Kevin Gerrity. “I commend our team, our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department for their work protecting the integrity of federal contracting.”

“Each part of the government must do its part to detect and prosecute instances of waste, fraud and abuse, and CIA’s Office of Inspector General was pleased to join its law enforcement partners in investigating this egregious case,” said CIA Inspector General Robin C. Ashton.

United States v. Victor Marquez

Victor M. Marquez, a Maryland resident and owner of two IT companies with significant government contracts, was charged in a four-count indictment with wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud and major fraud against the United States for rigging bids and inflating the amount of money obtained from valuable IT contracts.

Antwann C.K. Rawls, an employee of one of Marquez’s companies, and Scott A. Reefe, an IT sales executive, have been charged for their respective roles in the conspiracy.

As alleged in the indictment, Marquez, Rawls, Reefe and their co-conspirators used their positions of trust to learn sensitive, confidential procurement information, including procurement budgets for large U.S. government IT contracts. The co-conspirators used that inside information to craft bids at artificially determined, non-competitive and non-independent prices, ensuring Marquez’s company would win the procurement.

According to court documents, the co-conspirators shared their bids in advance of submitting them to the government, with one co-conspirator emailing that he would submit a “high price third bid.” Marquez and his co-conspirators submitted their collusive bids despite knowing the government sought independent, competitive bids for the valuable contracts, and despite Marquez’s certification of independent bidding.

If convicted, Marquez faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for each conspiracy and wire fraud count and 10 years in prison for the major fraud charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States v. Breal L. Madison Jr.

Breal L. Madison Jr., a Maryland resident, was charged in a 13-count indictment with conspiracy, bribery of a public official, mail fraud and money laundering for orchestrating a years-long scheme to defraud his employer and the United States out of over $7 million in connection with the sale of IT products to various government agencies.

Brandon Scott Glisson, an IT contractor providing IT services to the U.S. government, and Glisson’s supervisor, Lawrence A. Eady, a former senior government employee, have also been charged for their respective roles in the scheme.

According to court documents, through multiple misrepresentations, Madison and his co-conspirators conspired to steal money from Madison’s employer and government agencies, illegally siphoning over $9 million in stolen proceeds to Madison’s shell company, Trident Technology Solutions, and another shell company. They used the money to purchase luxury items and to pay approximately $630,000 in bribes to Eady in exchange for Eady’s ensuring the purchase of additional products sold by Madison.

Madison used his ill-gotten gains to buy a Vanquish VQ58 yacht, 2020 Lamborghini Huracan and multiple other vehicles, all of which the United States seeks to forfeit in the indictment.

If convicted, Madison faces maximum penalties of five years in prison for the conspiracy count, 15 years in prison for each bribery count, 20 years in prison for each mail fraud count and 10 years for each money laundering count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The DCIS, the FBI Baltimore Field Office, CIA Office of Inspector General and NSA Office of Inspector General investigated the case.

Acting Assistant Chief Michael Sawers and Trial Attorneys Zachary Trotter and Elizabeth French of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron S.J. Zelinsky, Sean M. Delaney and Darren Gardner for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.

Anyone with information about this investigation or other procurement fraud schemes should notify the PCSF at www.justice.gov/atr/webform/pcsf-citizen-complaint. The Justice Department created the PCSF in November 2019. It is a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government — federal, state and local. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

View the Rawls information.

View the Eady information.

View Reefe information.

View the Glisson information.

View the Madison indictment.

View the Marquez indictment.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment (PLACE) announcement
Source: Ministers for Social Services

30 October 2024

Good morning, it’s great to be with you all today.

I’d like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we meet and pay my respects to elders past and present. I extend this acknowledgement and respect to all First Nations people joining us today.

I would also like to acknowledge my colleague the Treasurer – the Honourable Jim Chalmers, who has been my partner in Government on this PLACE journey.

To our philanthropic partners, thank you for your support and co-investment to make PLACE a reality.

A big thank you of course to Our Place, Carlton Primary School, Gowrie Victoria and the City of Melbourne who are hosting us today.

We’re here today because our Government has made a commitment to deliver an overhaul to the way Australia tackles disadvantage.

Implementing this commitment requires us to work together differently with our partners and local communities, by shifting from traditional and siloed top-down support programs to an approach where we partner and collaborate, share decision-making and goals, and continue to learn from each other to drive better targeted and coordinated investment and effort. By innovating how we work with local communities and how we learn from each other, we will be able to drive a greater positive impact and deliver better outcomes with communities across Australia.

Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment, or PLACE for short, demonstrates how we will work differently. PLACE will support local communities, government, philanthropy and other stakeholders to work together around a shared understanding of complex problems and a shared commitment to action.

The Government, together with our philanthropic partners, is proud to be jointly investing $38.6 million over five years to establish PLACE and to launch it into the world today.

PLACE will be a not-for-profit, independent national organisation that will support communities to identify tailored, place-based solutions to address their needs and aspirations in areas they identify such as the early years, health, education, employment, youth justice and net zero.

The need for PLACE emerged from community, who called for a national hub that could support a different way of working with community, and that recognised community was best placed to understand their needs and how best to create positive change.

PLACE will provide this support by connecting community with best practice, building workforce capacity and capability, sharing research, data, tools and information, and supporting collaborative solutions with communities to accelerate progress on the things that matter most to them.

A key feature of PLACE that distinguishes it from other community initiatives is its structure. It was imperative for us that the essence of working differently with community was embedded in the structure of PLACE. This is reflected in the shared governance arrangements that we have with our philanthropic partners and the community to put community at the centre of the PLACE, and ensure community views are always heard.

We also want the Government’s involvement in PLACE to be different – that is not just connected to PLACE through the traditional grant agreement, where we are at arm’s length, but also as an active participant in its governance and in the work with communities to meet their needs and their identified priorities.

I am delighted to be announcing PLACE here at the Carlton Learning Precinct, which is an integrated child and family centre and primary school. The Precinct is part of a diverse multicultural community, and where more than 85 per cent of students at Carlton primary speak a first language other than English.

The Precinct is the result of work over many years between Carlton Primary School and local community members to meet the needs and aspirations identified by the community and their families and children. Since 2019, these early efforts have been amplified with the support of Our Place, Gowrie Victoria and the City of Melbourne.

The Precinct includes maternal child health nurses, a Services Australia visiting service and adult employment and education services. Local leaders continue to work together with and listens to the community to ensure these services are co-ordinated to meet community needs and to stop families falling through the cracks. This integrated approach has already led to a 20 per cent increase in school enrolments since 2022.

The Precinct also offers an insight into the practical benefits PLACE will have for communities like Carlton, including include offering:
- tools, frameworks, and guidance to help define and measure the impact of the Precinct, and
- specialised courses to equip Precinct staff and members manage complex, multi-stakeholder collaborations more effectively.
It is our vision, together with our philanthropic partners, that PLACE will support the efforts of communities like in the Carlton Learning Precinct, and ultimately the projects PLACE works on will be underpinned by working together differently with and listening to community..

The establishment of PLACE reflects a commitment to working differently, listening to what works locally and working in close collaboration with communities, philanthropy, and across governments to support accelerate positive change in local communities.

PLACE is a key priority highlighted by the Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children, and I am proud that we have been able to bring it to fruition together with our philanthropic partners.

I want to thank the Department of Social Services for the strong and productive working relationship it has established with philanthropy and their significant work in getting us to this point.

I’m excited to see what comes out of PLACE to help those communities and Australians experiencing disadvantage that need it most to thrive.

Thank you.

MIL OSI News –
January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Oportun Announces Next Step to Optimize Capital Structure and Drive Improved Profitability

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN CARLOS, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT) (“Oportun”, or the “Company”), a mission-driven financial services company, announced today another important step in its plans to optimize the Company’s capital structure and drive improved profitability. Following an extensive review of a range of alternatives led by the Board of Directors, Oportun has entered into a Credit Agreement to refinance its existing corporate financing facility with a new $235 million Senior Secured Term Loan (“Term Loan”). The refinancing will improve Oportun’s operational and balance sheet flexibility with covenants that reflect the performance improvements made by the Company to date, including the agreement to sell the Company’s credit card portfolio, and reward accretive actions and cash flow generation. The Term Loan will be provided by two firms (the “Lenders”), funds managed by Castlelake L.P., a global alternative investment manager specializing in asset-based private credit that led the refinancing, and funds managed by Neuberger Berman, a private employee-owned investment manager. The Term Loan will carry a 15% fixed rate and mature in November 2028.

“After a thorough and competitive process, where multiple strategic options were considered, the Board of Directors determined that this transaction, which was the least dilutive financing option available, would best position Oportun for the future by further strengthening the Company’s balance sheet and liquidity as well as enhancing the ability for Oportun to generate consistent cash flow and deliver increased stockholder value,” said Neil Williams, Lead Independent Director of Oportun’s Board of Directors.

“With this refinancing and the operational and balance sheet flexibility the Term Loan will provide, we’re even better positioned to build on our progress. We expect to build on that momentum in 2025 through improving credit performance, identifying high-quality originations, and further enhancing our GAAP and adjusted profitability on a per-share basis” said Raul Vazquez, CEO of Oportun.

“As we continue our longstanding relationship with Oportun, this refinancing illustrates the confidence we have in the Company’s ability to execute its long-term strategy, underpinned by focusing on its core products while identifying high-quality loan originations” said John Lundquist, Partner at Castlelake.

“We’re pleased to remain a capital partner to Oportun alongside Castlelake, and the revised structure provides the Company with the funding and flexibility to responsibly grow the business and service the needs of its customers,” said Peter Sterling, Head of Specialty Finance at Neuberger Berman. “This transaction reflects the confidence we have in the quality of Oportun’s underwriting and the sustainability of its business model.”

In connection with providing the Term Loan, the Lenders will receive warrants, at an exercise price of $0.01 per share, equal to 9.8% of the fully-diluted shares outstanding of the Company, excluding out-of-the-money options, on a pro-forma basis for the warrants, which as of September 30, 2024 was equal to 4,860,706 warrants, and the Lenders are entitled to Board observer rights. Even given the dilutionary impact from the newly issued warrants, the Company believes it will be able to drive increased profitability on a per share basis through focus on its core products, improving credit performance and maintaining cost discipline.

The new Term Loan provides a lower interest rate than the existing senior secured term loan being refinanced and Oportun is committed to paying off at least $40 million of the principal by February 1, 2026, with the flexibility to make additional pre-payments of $10 million at any time without penalty, and an additional $10 million without penalty after the one-year anniversary of closing. Management expects the Term Loan to close during the week of November 11, 2024, following and subject to customary closing conditions, as well as the closing of the credit card portfolio sale transaction, which was previously announced on September 25, 2024.

Preliminary Financial Results – Third Quarter 2024
Based upon management’s current expectations, the Company will report Total Revenue, Annualized Net Charge-Off Rate, Net Loss, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss), for the third quarter as follows:

Metric	Preliminary	Guidance
	3Q24	3Q24
Total Revenue	$249-251 million	$248 – $252 million
Annualized Net Charge-Off Rate	11.9%	12.3% +/- 15 bps
Net Loss	$(30) – $(32) million	N/A
Adjusted EBITDA ¹	$28 – 31 million	$23 – $26 million
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) ¹	$(2) – $1 million	N/A
¹See About Non-GAAP Financial Measures for more detail.

The Company expects to deliver resilient third quarter top-line performance with Total Revenue in line with its guidance range. The Company’s tightened credit posture contributed to delivering annualized net charge-offs 25 bps better than the edge of its guidance range. On a GAAP basis, the Company expects a net loss of $30 to 32 million driven by non-cash fair value marks, including a $35 million mark-to-market adjustment on its ABS notes due to their weighted average price increasing from 96.0% to 97.8% as benchmark interest rates declined and credit spreads tightened significantly. Given strong Total Revenue, improved credit performance and continued expense discipline, the Company also expects to be near break-even to profitable on an Adjusted Net Income basis. The Company expects Adjusted EBITDA to be $28 to $31 million, which will be $2 to $5 million above the top end of its guidance range.

Furthermore, management is providing the following preliminary set of expectations regarding Oportun’s full year 2025 operating performance:

GAAP EPS between $0.25 and $0.50
Adjusted EPS between $1.00 and $1.25
Annualized net charge-off rate between 11% and 12%

“We are pleased with our expected quarterly results and are looking forward to an even better 2025,” said Jonathan Coblentz, CFO of Oportun. “As these results and our future expectations demonstrate, we continue to make significant progress towards driving sustainable, profitable earnings growth, and shareholder value.”

Concurrent with this press release, Oportun has posted a business update presentation on its investor relations website, investor.oportun.com. The presentation further describes the Term Loan, the Company’s operating strategy, recent performance improvements, and preliminary performance expectations going into 2025.

Evercore acted as financial advisor and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati served as legal advisors to the Company on the transaction.

About Oportun
Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT) is a mission-driven financial services company that puts its members’ financial goals within reach. With intelligent borrowing, savings, and budgeting capabilities, Oportun empowers members with the confidence to build a better financial future. Since inception, Oportun has provided more than $18.7 billion in responsible and affordable credit, saved its members more than $2.4 billion in interest and fees, and helped its members save an average of more than $1,800 annually. For more information, visit Oportun.com.

About Castlelake
Castlelake, L.P. is a global alternative investment manager focused on asset-based investments. Founded in 2005, Castlelake manages approximately $24 billion of assets on behalf of a diversified global investor base. The Castlelake team comprises more than 220 experienced professionals, including 80 investment professionals, across seven offices in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.castlelake.com.

About Neuberger Berman
Neuberger Berman, founded in 1939, is a private, independent, employee-owned investment manager. The firm manages a range of strategies – including equity, fixed income, quantitative and multi-asset class, private equity, real estate and hedge funds – on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, engaged ownership and fundamental research, including industry-leading research into material environmental, social and governance factors. Neuberger Berman is a PRI Leader, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms. With offices in 26 countries, the firm’s diverse team has over 2,750 professionals. For nine consecutive years, Neuberger Berman has been named first or second in Pensions & Investments Best Places to Work in Money Management survey (among those with 1,000 employees or more). The firm manages $443 billion in client assets as of June 30, 2023. For more information, please visit Neuberger Berman’s website at www.nb.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, 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 historical fact contained in this press release, including statements as to future performance and financial position; the Company’s preliminary financial results for the third quarter of 2024; the Company’s full year 2025 outlook; expectations regarding the impact of the Term Loan, including expected timelines; the anticipated closing of the Company’s credit card portfolio sale transaction; our planned products and services; achievement of the Company’s strategic priorities and goals and the plans and objectives of management for our future operations, are forward-looking statements are forward-looking statements. These statements can be generally identified by terms such as “expect,” “plan,” “goal,” “target,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “predict,” “project,” “outlook,” “continue,” “due,” “may,” “believe,” “seek,” or “estimate” and similar expressions or the negative versions of these words or comparable words, as well as future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “likely” and “could.” These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause Oportun’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Oportun has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations and projections about future events, financial trends and risks and uncertainties that it believes may affect its business, financial condition and results of operations. These risks and uncertainties include those risks described in Oportun’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Oportun’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except to the extent required by federal securities laws, Oportun disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there is no assurance that the events or results suggested by the forward-looking statements will in fact occur, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Preliminary Information
Numbers are as of September 30, 2024, and are unaudited, preliminary and subject to change upon completion of the Company’s closing process and quarterly review procedures. As a result, the Company’s final results may vary materially from the preliminary results included in this press release. Oportun undertakes no obligation to update or supplement the information provided in this press release until the Company releases its financial statements for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The preliminary financial information included in this press release reflects the Company’s current estimates based on information available as of the date of this press release. This preliminary financial and operational information should not be viewed as a substitute for full financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP and is not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved for any future periods. This preliminary financial information could be impacted by the effects of financial closing procedures, final adjustments, and other developments.

About Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This press release presents information about the Company’s Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EPS, which are non-GAAP financial measures provided as a supplement to the results provided in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The Company believes non-GAAP measures can be useful measures for period-to-period comparisons of its core business and provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating its operating results. Non-GAAP financial measures are provided in addition to, and not as a substitute for, and are not superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, the non-GAAP measures the Company uses, as presented, may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Reconciliations of non-GAAP to GAAP measures can be found below.

As previously announced on March 12, 2024, beginning with the quarter ended March 31, 2024, the Company has updated its calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income for all periods. To align with these updated calculations, we also updated Adjusted EPS. Comparable prior period non-GAAP financial measures are included in addition to the previously reported metrics.

Adjusted EBITDA
The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income, adjusted to eliminate the effect of certain items as described below. The Company believes that Adjusted EBITDA is an important measure because it allows management, investors and its board of directors to evaluate and compare operating results, including return on capital and operating efficiencies, from period to period by making the adjustments described below. In addition, it provides a useful measure for period-to-period comparisons of Oportun’s business, as it removes the effect of income taxes, certain non-cash items, variable charges and timing differences.

The Company believes it is useful to exclude the impact of income tax expense, as reported, because historically it has included irregular income tax items that do not reflect ongoing business operations.
The Company believes it is useful to exclude depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation expense because they are non-cash charges.

The Company believes it is useful to exclude the impact of interest expense associated with the Company’s corporate financing facilities, including the senior secured term loan and the residual financing facility, as it views this expense as related to its capital structure rather than its funding.

The Company excludes the impact of certain non-recurring charges, such as expenses associated with our workforce optimization, and other non-recurring charges because it does not believe that these items reflect ongoing business operations. Other non-recurring charges include litigation reserve, impairment charges, debt amendment and warrant amortization costs related to our corporate financing facilities.

The Company also excludes fair value mark-to-market adjustments on its loans receivable portfolio and asset-backed notes carried at fair value because these adjustments do not impact cash.

Adjusted Net Income
The Company defines Adjusted Net Income as net income adjusted to eliminate the effect of certain items as described below. The Company believes that Adjusted Net Income is an important measure of operating performance because it allows management, investors, and the Company’s board of directors to evaluate and compare its operating results, including return on capital and operating efficiencies, from period to period, excluding the after-tax impact of non-cash, stock-based compensation expense and certain non-recurring charges.

The Company believes it is useful to exclude the impact of income tax expense (benefit), as reported, because historically it has included irregular income tax items that do not reflect ongoing business operations. The Company also includes the impact of normalized income tax expense by applying a normalized statutory tax rate.

The Company believes it is useful to exclude the impact of certain non-recurring charges, such as expenses associated with our workforce optimization, and other non-recurring charges because it does not believe that these items reflect its ongoing business operations. Other non-recurring charges include litigation reserve, impairment charges, debt amendment and warrant amortization costs related to our corporate financing facilities.

The Company believes it is useful to exclude stock-based compensation expense because it is a non-cash charge.

The Company also excludes the fair value mark-to-market adjustment on its asset-backed notes carried at fair value to align with the 2023 accounting policy decision to account for new debt financings at amortized cost.

Adjusted EPS
The Company defines Adjusted EPS as Adjusted Net Income divided by weighted average diluted shares outstanding.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Adjusted EBITDA
	Three Months Ended September 30,
	2024		2023
(dollars in millions)
Net Income (loss)	$(32) – (30)	$(21.1		)
Adjustments:
Income tax expense (benefit)	(10.2) – (9.5)		(16.2	)
Corporate debt interest	12.6		15.0
Depreciation and amortization	13.5		13.9
Workforce optimization expenses	–		0.5
Stock-based compensation expense	3.2		4.3
Other non-recurring charges	2.9		0.3
Fair value mark-to-market adjustment	38.0-38.3		16.5
Adjusted EBITDA	$28.0-31.0	$13.2

Adjusted Net Income (Loss)
	Three Months Ended September 30,
	2024		2023
(dollars in millions)
Net Income (loss)	$(32) – (30)	$(21.1		)
Adjustments:
Income Tax Expense (benefit)	(10.2) – (9.5)		(16.2	)
Stock-based compensation expense	3.2		4.3
Workforce optimization expense	–		0.5
Impairment	–		1.3
Other non-recurring charges	2.9		0.3
Fair value mark-to-market adjustment	33.3 – 34.7		14.9
Adjusted income before taxes	$ (2.8) – 1.3		(16.1	)
Normalized income tax expense	(0.8) – 0.3		(4.3	)
Adjusted income	$ (2.0) – 1.0	$(11.8		)

Forward-looking Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS
	FY 2025
	Low		High
(dollars in millions)
Net Income	$12.6		$25.1
Adjustments:
Income tax expense (benefit)		4.7		9.3
Stock-based compensation expense		14.4		14.4
Other non-recurring charges		6.4		6.4
Fair value mark-to-market adjustment		30.8		30.8
Adjusted income before taxes	$68.9		$86.0
Normalized income tax expense		18.7		23.2
Adjusted Net Income	$50.2		$62.8
Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (millions)		50.2		50.2
Diluted EPS	$0.25		$0.50
Adjusted EPS	$1.00		$1.25

Investor Contact

Dorian Hare
(650) 590-4323
ir@oportun.com

Media Contact for Oportun
Michael Azzano
Cosmo PR for Oportun
(415) 596-1978
michael@cosmo-pr.com

Media Contact for Castlelake
Remy Marin / Alex Hinson
Prosek Partners for Castlelake
(212) 279 3115
Rmarin@prosek.com / ahinson@prosek.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Highlights Colorado’s Leading Work to Save Coloradans Money on Energy Bills, Support Out of School Time that Helps Colorado Students Thrive, and Promote Civic Engagement at Front Range Community College

Source: US State of Colorado

ARVADA – Today, Governor Polis highlighted Colorado’s leadership in clean energy, investments in education, and promotion of healthy civic engagement for all Coloradans.

The Governor took part in the Colorado Afterschool Partnership Fall Conference, to discuss Colorado’s work to support out-of-school educators for their work to help Colorado students succeed . In 2023, Governor Polis signed a bipartisan law to make a major state investment in afterschool education opportunities to get every student on track to math proficiency. These investments provide support for math instruction and improvement for students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.

“Investing in our students’ success is an investment in our state’s future. I am grateful to all the educators across the state who work tirelessly to provide the support and instruction for Colorado students to succeed well beyond the classroom. No student should feel left behind, and afterschool programs are critical to ensure students thrive,” said Governor Polis.

The Governor then participated virtually in the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission Conference focused on solutions for low-cost energy. Colorado’s energy sector is a model for the nation, creating jobs and strengthening the economy.

“As Chair of the National Governors Association I work with Governors from across the country and aisle on the issues that matter most to the people we serve, and today I was glad to join my fellow Governors Stitt and Governor Dunleavy to discuss our work on energy, as well as Colorado’s national leadership on technologies that lower energy costs, protect our air quality, and ensure clean drinking water for all Coloradans,” said Governor Polis.

Governor Polis also spoke at the Energy M&A and Financing Forum to promote Colorado’s nation leading work in innovative clean energy solutions, ranking 4th in cleantech employment, 2nd in the nation for electric vehicle sales, and 8th nationally for wind, solar, and storage.

“In Colorado, we are taking a market-driven, sector-by-sector approach to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions. By doing so, we are delivering real results while creating good-paying jobs and reducing costs for Colorado consumers,” said Governor Polis.

Later today, the Governor will tour Northglenn City Hall, the first net-zero emissions municipal building in Colorado. New clean-energy buildings like this one are helping the state reach the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030. The State is proud to support the installation of nine public charging ports through the Charge Ahead Colorado grant program and eight charging ports for fleet vehicles through the Fleet-ZERO grant program at the Northglenn City Hall.

“Colorado is leading the way in bringing more jobs, cleaner energy, and saving Coloradans money on energy bills. The Northglenn City Hall, the first net-zero municipal building in Colorado, is a reflection of how far Colorado has come in creating clean energy infrastructure that will help power a bright future for our state,” said Governor Polis.

The Governor will take part in a discussion at Front Range Community College about the importance of civic engagement in Colorado at the News & Democracy Discussion Panel. The event invites leaders from across Colorado to partake in a panel discussion on the importance of free and fair elections.

“Each of us has a role to play in building and sustaining a strong, healthy democracy. That’s what civic engagement is all about and thank you to Front Page for being an important part of the media ecosystem here in Colorado, and continuing to promote a Colorado for all,” said Governor Polis.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aimfinity Investment Corp. I Announces Extension of the Deadline for an Initial Business Combination to October 28, 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aimfinity Investment Corp. I (the “Company” or “AIMA”) (Nasdaq: AIMAU), a special purpose acquisition company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company, today announced that, in order to extend the date by which the Company mush complete its initial business combination from October 28, 2024 to November 28, 2024, on October 28, 2024, I-Fa Chang, manager of the sponsor of the Company, has deposited into its trust account (the “Trust Account”) an aggregate of $60,000 (the “Monthly Extension Payment”).

Pursuant to the Company’s third amended & restated memorandum and articles of association (“Current Charter”), effectively April 23, 2024, the Company may extend on a monthly basis from April 28, 2024 until January 28, 2025 or such an earlier date as may be determined by its board to complete a business combination by depositing the Monthly Extension Payment for each month into the Trust Account. This is the seventh of nine monthly extensions sought under the Current Charter of the Company.

About Aimfinity Investment Corp. I

Aimfinity Investment Corp. I is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The Company has not selected any business combination target and has not, nor has anyone on its behalf, initiated any substantive discussions, directly or indirectly, with any business combination target with respect to an initial business combination with it. While the Company will not be limited to a particular industry or geographic region in its identification and acquisition of a target company, it will not complete its initial business combination with a target that is headquartered in China (including Hong Kong and Macau) or conducts a majority of its business in China (including Hong Kong and Macau).

Additional Information and Where to Find It

As previously disclosed, on October 13, 2023, the Company entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger (as may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”), by and between the Company, Docter Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), Aimfinity Investment Merger Sub I, a Cayman Islands exempted company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Parent (“Purchaser”), and Aimfinity Investment Merger Sub II, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Purchaser (“Merger Sub”), pursuant to which the Company is proposing to enter into a business combination with Docter involving an reincorporation merger and an acquisition merger. This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the proposed business combination and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the business combination. AIMA’s stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the proxy statement/prospectus and the amendments thereto and other documents filed in connection with the proposed business combination, as these materials will contain important information about AIMA, Purchaser or Docter, and the proposed business combination. When available, the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials for the proposed business combination will be mailed to stockholders of AIMA as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. Such stockholders will also be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), without charge, once available, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to AIMA’s principal office at 221 W 9th St, PMB 235 Wilmington, Delaware 19801.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, both as amended. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the pending transactions described herein, and the parties’ perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the proposed transaction, including the anticipated initial enterprise value and post-closing equity value, the benefits of the proposed transaction, integration plans, expected synergies and revenue opportunities, anticipated future financial and operating performance and results, including estimates for growth, the expected management and governance of the combined company, and the expected timing of the transactions. The words “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, assumptions (including assumptions about general economic, market, industry and operational factors), known or unknown, which could cause the actual results to vary materially from those indicated or anticipated.

Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (i) risks related to the expected timing and likelihood of completion of the pending business combination, including the risk that the transaction may not close due to one or more closing conditions to the transaction not being satisfied or waived, such as regulatory approvals not being obtained, on a timely basis or otherwise, or that a governmental entity prohibited, delayed or refused to grant approval for the consummation of the transaction or required certain conditions, limitations or restrictions in connection with such approvals; (ii) risks related to the ability of AIMA and Docter to successfully integrate the businesses; (iii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the applicable transaction agreements; (iv) the risk that there may be a material adverse change with respect to the financial position, performance, operations or prospects of AIMA or Docter; (v) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed transaction; (vi) the risk that any announcements relating to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of AIMA’s securities; (vii) the risk that the proposed transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of Docter to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers and customers and on their operating results and businesses generally; (viii): risks relating to the medical device industry, including but not limited to governmental regulatory and enforcement changes, market competitions, competitive product and pricing activity; and (ix) risks relating to the combined company’s ability to enhance its products and services, execute its business strategy, expand its customer base and maintain stable relationship with its business partners.

A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the prospectus filed on April 26, 2022 relating to AIMA’s initial public offering, the annual report of AIMA on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended on December 31, 2022, filed on April 17, 2023, and in the Registration Statement/proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC by AIMA and/or its affiliates in connection with the proposed transactions, and other documents that the parties may file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and Aimfinity, Docter, and their subsidiaries undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of any potential transaction and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of AIMA, Purchaser or Docter, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act.

Participants in the Solicitation

AIMA, Docter, and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of AIMA’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of AIMA’s shareholders in connection with the proposed business combination will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus on Form F-4 to be filed with the SEC.

Contact Information:

Aimfinity Investment Corp. I
I-Fa Chang
Chief Executive Officer
ceo@aimfinityspac.com
(425) 365-2933
221 W 9th St, PMB 235
Wilmington, Delaware 19801

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Hampton Financial Corporation Announces The Completion of A Non-Brokered Private Placement of Unsecured Convertible Debentures

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

TORONTO, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Financial Corporation (“Hampton” or the “Company”, TSXV:HFC) is pleased to announce the closing of a non-brokered private placement of unsecured convertible debentures (the “Debentures”) in the principal amount of $300,000.

The $300,000 principal amount of Debentures will mature five (5) years and one day after the issue date (the “Maturity Date”) and will bear interest at the rate of 10.0% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of March, June, September and December in each year until the Maturity Date. The first interest payment will be made at the end of the first calendar quarter following the closing date (the “Initial Interest Payment Date”) and will consist of interest accrued from and including the closing date to the Initial Interest Payment Date. Interest will be payable in cash only and will cease to accrue on the Maturity Date.

The whole, or any part, of the principal amount of the Debentures is convertible into common shares of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Oxygen Working Capital Corp. (“OWC”), held by the Company at the option of the holder thereof, at any time prior to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on the Maturity Date, at a conversion price of CAD$0.50 per share. Upon conversion of the Debentures the holders of Debentures will receive cash payment of any interest which accrues from the most recent interest payment date to the date of conversion.

The proceeds from the Offering may be advanced by the Company to OWC in order to further grow OWC’s loan book and for OWC’s working capital and general corporate purposes.

About Oxygen Working Capital Corp.

OWC, founded in 2017, is a specialized Canadian based lender focused on the commercial factoring business with clients across Canada, and with prospects for expanded reach and continued growth across broader North America. OWC provides entrepreneurs with short term financing solutions via immediate upfront capital by factoring their invoices and receivables, allowing businesses to meet their immediate working capital needs. Acquired in 2024, OWC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hampton.

About Hampton Financial Corporation

Hampton is a unique private equity firm that seeks to build shareholder value through long-term strategic investments. In addition to OWC, through its Investment Dealer subsidiary, Hampton Securities Limited (“HSL”), Hampton is actively engaged in family office, wealth management, institutional services and capital markets activities. HSL is a full-service investment dealer, regulated by CIRO (Formally IIROC) and registered in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, and Quebec. In addition, the Company provides investment banking services, which include assisting companies with raising capital, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and aiding issuers in obtaining a listing on recognized securities exchanges in Canada and abroad. The Company is also exploring opportunities to diversify its sources of revenue by way of strategic investments and acquisitions in both complimentary business and non-core sectors that can leverage the expertise of its Board and the diverse experience of its management team.

For more information, please contact:

Olga Juravlev
Chief Financial Officer
Hampton Financial Corporation
(416) 862-8701

Or

Peter M. Deeb
Executive Chairman & CEO
Hampton Financial Corporation
(416) 862-8651

The TSXV has in no way approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction outside of Canada. The securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to a U.S. person absent registration or pursuant to an available exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “should”, “hopeful”, “recovery”, “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project” or similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes.

Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results may vary, and vary materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements herein. Accordingly, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements herein and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Statement Regarding Fires at Ballot Boxes

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

The following statement may be attributed to U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman and Greg Austin, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Seattle field office:

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI want to assure our communities that we are working closely and expeditiously together to investigate the two incendiary fires at the ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and the one in Portland, Oregon, and will work to hold whoever is responsible fully accountable.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the nearest FBI office, provide information through tips.fbi.gov, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324).

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Strike Force Trident Responds to Overnight Crime Spree in Northern Suburbs

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Strike Force Trident responded to an overnight crime spree across Darwin’s northern suburbs, which included an attempted car-jacking, multiple burglaries, and the theft of scooters.

Four youths, aged between 13 and 15, are currently in custody following swift arrests made by Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit (DOU). Investigations remain ongoing to identify additional offenders involved in the incidents.

Between midnight and 4:00am, police received multiple reports of unlawful entries at business premises across the northern suburbs. In addition to these incidents, a car-jacking occurred on Wood Street in Darwin City, where a victim, while parked, was approached by two offenders. The offenders allegedly assaulted the victim and threatened them with an edged weapon before fleeing the scene.

A team from Strike Force Trident and DOU were immediately deployed. CCTV footage was reviewed, leading to the identification of four offenders. Trident officers quickly attended known residential locations in the northern suburbs and arrested the four youth offenders, all of whom were already on bail and subject to Electronic Monitoring conditions.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Chris Humphries praised the coordinated response, stating, “This is a great example of efficient teamwork between Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit. Their ability to identify and apprehend the offenders within two hours of responding demonstrates their dedication and effectiveness.”

Investigations into both the unlawful entries and the car-jacking are ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to contact NT Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Helps Secures $1 Million in Federal Funding for Capital City Airport in Frankfort

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide $1 million to the Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Kentucky to support the redevelopment of the terminal. According to airport officials, the federal funding will be used to construct a new, modern two-story facility that will expand passenger access, increase airfield safety, and support aviation career training programs.

Senator McConnell contacted the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in support of the airport’s competitive grant application for this project.

The federal grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, established in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Senator McConnell led the IIJA to Senate passage in 2021, and the President signed the bill into law. The IIJA gives Kentucky billions of federal dollars over five years to improve the Commonwealth’s roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, broadband, and more.

“Today’s announcement is great news for Frankfort and all of Central Kentucky, providing additional funding to overhaul and modernize a new terminal at Capital City Airport. I look forward to this project’s progression and will continue to deliver for Kentucky’s airports in the years ahead,” said Senator McConnell.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Helps Secure $1 Million in Federal Funding for Capital City Airport in Frankfort

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide $1 million to the Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Kentucky to support the redevelopment of the terminal. According to airport officials, the federal funding will be used to construct a new, modern two-story facility that will expand passenger access, increase airfield safety, and support aviation career training programs.

Senator McConnell contacted the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in support of the airport’s competitive grant application for this project.

The federal grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, established in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Senator McConnell led the IIJA to Senate passage in 2021, and the President signed the bill into law. The IIJA gives Kentucky billions of federal dollars over five years to improve the Commonwealth’s roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, broadband, and more.

“Today’s announcement is great news for Frankfort and all of Central Kentucky, providing additional funding to overhaul and modernize a new terminal at Capital City Airport. I look forward to this project’s progression and will continue to deliver for Kentucky’s airports in the years ahead,” said Senator McConnell.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)
FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)
*********************************************************************************

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan yesterday (October 29, Riyadh time) led a delegation from the financial and innovation sectors on a visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Mr Chan, along with the delegation, attended the first day of the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII). He was one of the speakers in the panel discussion titled “Is the Global South Now the Engine of Growth?”. This session focused on how the Global South could promote economic innovation, build resilience, and maintain growth while addressing the complexities of the international environment and the challenges of climate change. During the discussion, Mr Chan stated that as an international financial centre, Hong Kong is actively promoting the development of green finance and green technology. He emphasised that Hong Kong could provide capital support for infrastructure and green projects in the Global South and guide funding to new projects through innovative financial products, such as securitised loans. In response to a question, Mr Chan noted that a number of countries in the Global South are considering how to manage risks related to their trade and reserve currencies. Some are increasingly using their own currencies more for settlements. He mentioned that Hong Kong is collaborating with multiple central banks to launch the Project mBridge, aiming for faster, more cost effective, and more secure cross-border payments and settlements. He also pointed out that digitalisation and green transformation will be significant trends for the future development of the Global South, and investing in suitable projects in these areas will yield long-term returns. Furthermore, the development of fintech will help make financial services more accessible and inclusive, facilitating leapfrog development for developing countries. Hong Kong can contribute to the Global South in these areas. During the FII, Mr Chan witnessed, together with the Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, Mr Khalid Al-Falih, the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and Beta Lab, a venture capital firm focused on deep technology in Saudi Arabia. Both parties will share resources, recommend startups to each other, facilitate connections within their startup networks, and jointly engage in market promotion and events. A number of delegation members also spoke at various sessions of the FII, promoting Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a “super connector” and “super value-adder,” and how it can connect the Mainland and global capital markets and investors in multiple ways. In the evening, Mr Chan and the delegation members attended a reception hosted by the Cathay Pacific; as well as a reception organised by the Hang Seng Investment Management to celebrate the upcoming listing of its exchange-traded fund. Mr Chan will continue his visit in Riyadh today (October 30, Riyadh time).

Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Detailed fiscal package set to be unveiled

Source: China State Council Information Office

Detailed stimulus policies, including proactive fiscal expansion, are likely to be rolled out to address China’s local government debt issue and facilitate a steady economic recovery, as China’s top legislature is set to convene a highly anticipated session next month.

The Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress will convene its 12th session from Nov 4 to 8 in Beijing, and analysts said the meeting is widely expected to flesh out details of the fiscal package, including a swap program for local government hidden debt, and sales of government bonds to inject capital into banks.

Vice-Minister of Finance Liao Min said during the World Bank’s 110th Development Committee meeting on Friday in Washington, DC, that China will leverage more fiscal firepower to strengthen its countercyclical adjustments.

Countercyclical adjustments are macroeconomic tools used to neutralize possible negative effects of economic cycles.

Liao said that details of China’s fiscal initiatives would be announced after the conclusion of the meeting of the NPC Standing Committee, as fiscal policy in China requires going through legislative procedures.

Through government spending, China aims to catalyze investment from the private sector and shore up consumer spending, thereby increasing effective demand, Liao said, adding that the country is confident of achieving its annual growth target of around 5 percent.

In October last year, China’s top legislature approved a plan to increase treasury bond issuance by 1 trillion yuan ($140 billion).

Moreover, earlier this month, Finance Minister Lan Fo’an said at a news conference that the central government plans to significantly increase the debt ceiling to conduct a one-time swap of local governments’ existing hidden debt.

This policy is the largest support measure introduced in recent years to aid the debt resolution process, and is pending legislative approval, Lan added.

Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International, said, “This means that the local government debt quota, currently at around 46.79 trillion yuan, will be raised substantially this year.”

The quota increase will pave the way for the issuance of large-scale special local government refinancing bonds in the fourth quarter, which is estimated to reach around 2 to 3 trillion yuan and will be used to swap out the existing hidden local debt. This process is unlikely to be slow, Wang added.

The government’s debt restructuring program has extended repayment periods and reduced financing costs, enabling local authorities to free up more funds for current economic development and public service provision, said Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities.

Furthermore, the easing of local government debt helps optimize the local business environment, which is a significant boon for foreign companies investing in China, Luo added.

Meanwhile, analysts said the current round of fiscal initiatives also includes measures to replenish bank capital, which will boost the lending and bond-purchasing abilities of large commercial banks, with the aim of driving these major banks to further enhance support for the real economy.

The volume of special treasury bonds issued to replenish the core tier 1 capital of State-owned commercial banks could potentially reach around 1 trillion yuan, said Wang of Golden Credit Rating International.

“As a result, new yuan-denominated loans in the fourth quarter are expected to reverse the previous trend of slowdown and return to a growth trajectory, which is an important focus area for the current economic stabilization efforts,” Wang added.

While Lan, the finance minister, has hinted at the considerable headroom the central government has to raise debt levels and increase the fiscal deficit, analysts said that increases in the government deficit and treasury bond issuance are likely to be outlined in next year’s Government Work Report.

Tao Chuan, chief economist at Minsheng Securities Research Institute, said that given the relatively slower pace of issuance of special treasury bonds and local government bonds at the moment, the current fiscal policy thinking is likely tilting more toward effectively utilizing existing policy tools and larger-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins.

MIL OSI China News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Orleans Parish Man Sentenced For Attempted Bank Robbery

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHRISTOPHER DONNELLY (“DONNELLY”), age 46, was sentenced on September 18, 2024 to 57 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. DONNELLY previously pled guilty to attempted bank robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).

According to court documents, on March 26, 2024, DONNELLY entered a Capital One bank located in New Orleans. and presented a demand note to the teller, that read “$1,000 OR YOUR LIFE U DECIDE?” The teller retreated to an area behind the teller stations, activated a silent alarm, and alerted her co-workers and security. New Orleans Police Officers responded shortly after and took DONNELLY into custody.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Calogero of the General Crimes Unit.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Two Sacramento Residents Plead Guilty to False Income Tax Return Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Dominic Davis, 38, and Sharitia Wright, 59, both of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to file false claims with the IRS, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to court documents, between March 2019 and April 2022, Davis and Wright caused at least nine fraudulent income-tax returns to be filed with the IRS claiming more than $2 million of income tax refunds.

The returns were filed in the names of Davis, Wright, and family members. The returns listed wages that the taxpayers had not earned and often listed the taxpayers’ employer as one of the various LLCs created by Davis, Wright, and their family members. Many of the returns also falsely claimed charitable contributions that were not actually made. Davis prepared and filed the false tax returns. Wright provided him information and contacted the IRS to check on the status of the refunds claimed in the false tax returns.

Davis and Wright agreed to pay restitution for the fraudulent income tax refunds that they received.

This case is the product of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg is prosecuting the case.

Davis and Wright are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd on Feb. 3, 2025. Each faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentences, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former prosecutor goes to prison for extorting money

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

McALLEN, Texas – The former elected Starr County Attorney has been sentenced for extortion under color of law, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

Victor Canales Jr., 51, pleaded guilty Sept. 5, 2023.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Canales to serve 37 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard testimony from an auditor with the Texas Attorney General’s Office describing the cash deposits made into Canales’s personal accounts and his use of funds from the Starr County Attorney’s account. In imposing the sentence, the court determined the amount of the bribes at $44,000. The court also noted comments about the culture of corruption in Starr County, and said today’s sentence would act as a deterrent to that corruption.

“Prosecutors of all stripes, whether at the federal, state or city level, are defined by an oath, one to serve and protect their communities. It’s an oath that seeks only one thing—justice,” said Hamdani. “Victor Canales Jr. violated that oath and the trust of Starr County’s residents in exchange for tens of thousands of dollars in bribes. As an office of dedicated public servants, including 200 prosecutors, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District has little patience for corrupt officials, especially when a prosecutor trades his authority, his oath, for personal gain.”

“Today’s sentencing highlights the FBI’s commitment to combat public corruption at every level. Citizens in the Rio Grande Valley deserve local government officials who can be trusted,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “The FBI would like to thank our Operation Ice River partners at the Drug Enforcement Administration, as well as Texas Office of the Attorney General, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Texas Department of Public Safety – Texas Rangers for their continued collaboration in rooting out corruption and keeping our communities safe.”

Canales was the Starr County Attorney from 2005 to 2022. In that role, he was responsible for prosecuting misdemeanor crimes.

In September 2021, a woman reached out to Canales for assistance because her son had been charged with three misdemeanor offenses in Starr County. He said he could help her and that for $1500, he could take care of the Starr County tickets.

The mother gave Canales three money orders totaling $1500. He deposited the proceeds into his own checking account and used it for his own personal needs rather than depositing the monies into the Starr County account.

Canales then sent a series of letters to Cameron County indicating the three charges against the woman’s son would be dropped.

Canales was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI worked in partnership with the Texas Attorney General’s Office to conduct the Border Corruption Task Force investigation with the assistance of Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations and Texas Rangers.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Cook Profit prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $500 Million Loan to Support Climate and Disaster Resilience in Pakistan

Source: Asia Development Bank

MANILA, PHILIPPINES (29 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $500 million policy-based loan to support climate change and disaster risk reduction and resilience in Pakistan.

The Climate and Disaster Resilience Enhancement Program (CDREP) will strengthen Pakistan’s institutional capacity for planning, preparedness, and response; increase inclusive investment in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience; and support the scale up of disaster risk financing using a risk-layered approach.

Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and disasters triggered by natural hazards in Asia and the Pacific. Average losses from disaster events exceed $2 billion per year. Women and other vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by climate change and disaster events.

“This program builds on ADB’s longstanding work in Pakistan to understand and reduce climate and disaster risks and support effective disaster response,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov. “We are proud to support an integrated and comprehensive approach to climate and disaster risk management, including a portfolio of disaster risk financing instruments for timely and adequate funding for disaster response.”

The program supports enhanced capacity for disaster risk mapping and modeling for investment and development decisions. It enhances coordination for disaster monitoring and response. It supports enhanced planning and prioritization of gender-sensitive and resilient public investments, including integrated flood risk management and nature-based solutions.

The program supports mobilization of climate finance from public and private sources. This includes issuance of a domestic green sukuk (Islamic bond). A key innovation of the program is the use of ADB’s Contingent Disaster Financing option for the first time in the Central and West Asia region. This will provide quick disbursing budget support in the event of a disaster.

The program will support the establishment of a solidarity fund to facilitate the uptake of risk transfer solutions such as agriculture insurance. The program also supports shock-responsive social protection to deliver cash assistance in the event of a disaster.

ADB has also approved a technical assistance grant of $1 million to support implementation of the program.

Pakistan was a founding member of ADB. Since 1966, ADB has committed over $52 billion in public and private sector loans, grants, and other forms of financing to promote inclusive economic growth in Pakistan and improve the country’s infrastructure, energy and food security, transport networks, and social services.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Replicating ADB Projects from the People’s Republic of China

Source: Asia Development Bank

Transcript

Projects in the PRC offer rich potential for learning and replication—both domestically and abroad.

Echoes of Success assembles five case studies in demonstration and replication of ADB-financed projects in the PRC.

The five projects span diverse sectors—from nature conservation, green finance, water management, and energy efficiency, to road safety.

Jiangsu Yancheng Biodiversity Protection Project restored nature reserves, and strengthened wetland protection and habitat management.

The project’s insights in nurturing coexistence of rare species and humans have been applied to other wetlands, and inspired ADB’s Regional Flyway Initiative.

Shandong Green Development Fund Project is a funding mechanism that mobilizes investment for climate projects and the environment.

It has stimulated similar green finance initiatives in Southeast Asia, Central, and West Asia.

Shaanxi Mountain Road Safety Demonstration Project is ADB’s first standalone road safety project.

It adopts international road safety inspection, impact assessment, and design.

The road safety program has been replicated in the PRC and Mongolia and won a global award from the International Road Federation.

Shaanxi Accelerated Energy Efficiency and Environment Improvement Financing Project channeled funding to small and medium-scale clean energy investments in energy efficiency and emission reduction.

The project’s pollution reduction, renewable energy heating, energy conservation technologies were replicated in two cities in Henan province.

Wuhan Urban Environmental Improvement Project integrated sludge treatment and disposal systems, rehabilitated lakes, and strengthened water management.

Lessons from the project design and implementation were applied to ADB projects in Huangshi and Huainan.

Successful replication of projects requires active knowledge exchange, strong government support, and official recognition.

ADB and the PRC will continue to promote regional and global development by sharing best practices and lessons in the PRC with other developing countries.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 25, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Martha Stewart paved the way for influencers. But not everyone finds her brand empowering

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Di Yang, Doctoral student, School of Economics, Finance, and Marketing, RMIT University

From showing us how to cook the perfect turkey to mastering the art of folding a fitted sheet, Martha Stewart’s name has long been a byword for doing things well at home – “how very ‘Martha Stewart’ of you”.

New Netflix documentary, Martha, promises insights into her extraordinary life – from a teenage model to the original influencer and America’s first self-made female billionaire, with a prison stay and friendship with Snoop Dogg along the way.

Behind the expertly folded linens and immaculately set tables lies something more.

Martha Stewart created a brand empire that redefined the domestic lifestyle, monetised it and paved the way for others.

Beginnings and barriers

Stewart’s connection to the domestic arts began early.

Raised in New Jersey, she learned essential homemaking skills like cooking and sewing from her mother, while her father introduced her to gardening.

She studied art and architectural history yet Stewart started her career as a stockbroker. But her passion for the domestic realm led her to entrepreneurship.

As she once reflected, “the life of the homemaker was more interesting to me than the life of Wall Street”.

In 1972, she launched a catering business from the suburbs of Connecticut. It soon gained recognition for its elegant food presentations. A publisher client led to her 1982 book, Entertaining. It included notes for how to prepare a clambake for 30, a cocktail party for 200 and ranked presentation as highly as the food itself.

Book success sealed a partnership with Kmart in 1987 and eventually took her homewares brand into millions of American homes.

By 1999, she took her company, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (which encompassed her television show, magazines, websites and merchandising product lines) public, becoming America’s first self-made female billionaire – albeit momentarily.

A few years later, Stewart was embroiled in scandal. She received a five-month prison sentence for insider trading and obstruction of justice. Many expected this to mark the end of her career – but Stewart defied the odds.

Breaking new ground

After her release from prison, she didn’t shy away from her past. Instead, she continued sharing skills including those she honed during her time at prison camp – whether it was crocheting or experimenting with new recipes. As always, Stewart seized every opportunity to expand her brand.

Her genius lies in her ability to “sense a void in the culture” and turn a personal touch into commercial success.

Since selling her namesake brand, Stewart has stayed in the spotlight, sometimes sharing it with rapper Snoop Dogg. The unlikely duo struck up a seemingly genuine friendship that produced a television potluck series, appearances and prison jokes.

She continues to connect with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where her long-term influence is perhaps most evident.

The OG influencer

Stewart’s living legacy is unmistakable in today’s digital world. Scrolling through social media, you’ll find traces of her in meticulously arranged tablescapes or perfectly organised cabinets.

Popular “cleanfluencers” like Mrs Hinch and Australia’s Mama Mila have built massive followings by turning domestic tasks into visually captivating content.

Minimalist tidy maven Marie Kondo took the world by storm, with her philosophy of keeping only what “sparks joy”. Her global brand follows Stewart’s signature collection model. Stewart’s clean and white aesthetic and multichannel branding can be seen in Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop too.

When housework is repackaged as life-changing and transformative, it transcends private duty to become a public, respected and potentially profitable business.

But is this feminism?

Yet, the rise of domestic lifestyle influencers also raises critical questions in feminist circles.

As far back as Simone de Beauvoir’s The Second Sex, published in 1949, housework has been seen as part of the trap of domestic femininity.

Figures like Stewart may represent success stories in economic terms. But their ventures risk reinforcing the stereotype that homemaking is inherently women’s work, often packaged alongside an ever-growing array of consumer products designed to perfect it.

Stewart’s vision of domestic success – immaculate homes, flawless dinners, and perfect organisation – sets a standard that is unattainable for most. Scholars argue her media empire presents an upper-class fantasy, where the appearance of a wealthy lifestyle is emphasised over the reality of it.

Focusing on domesticity is not inherently regressive, but what happens when the standards of success are too high to reach?

The “solution” is often hidden in the consumerism trap, with women endlessly buying goods to chase an idealised lifestyle.

Stewart’s embrace of perfectionism fuelled her success. In her words, “being a perfectionist can be profitable”. Yet for women and consumers, the pursuit of “Martha Stewartness” often feels out of reach.

Martha is streaming on Netflix from today.

Di Yang does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Martha Stewart paved the way for influencers. But not everyone finds her brand empowering – https://theconversation.com/martha-stewart-paved-the-way-for-influencers-but-not-everyone-finds-her-brand-empowering-241802

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: How Cities Can Combat Extreme Heat Using Nature-Based Solutions
Source: Asia Development Bank

Despite their broad potential, nature-based solutions are often overlooked in city cooling strategies. Key barriers include a lack of supportive policies, financial constraints, and limited institutional capacity.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that maximizes NbS benefits and integrates them into broader heat action plans. This must involve reducing waste heat (e.g., from transport and buildings), addressing cooling needs efficiently, and ensuring equitable access to thermal comfort. Key considerations for incorporating NbS into urban cooling strategies include:
- Integrated planning: A systems approach ensures NbS are complemented by other solutions to maximize their benefits.
- Equity: Cooling solutions must be distributed fairly, with heat equity embedded in planning to prevent future injustices.
- Community participation: Involve women and vulnerable groups in designing and implementing cooling programs that deliver real benefits.
- Local solutions: NbS should be tailored to local climates, needs, and traditional approaches (e.g., architecture).
Studies suggest that 30% of cities should be dedicated to green or blue spaces. Achieving this requires enabling strategies like raising awareness, building institutional capacity, and securing financing. It also involves assessing current natural assets and identifying vulnerable communities. Partnerships with the private sector can help provide technical expertise and funding. In developing countries, protecting existing green spaces from development is the most effective way to maintain cooling.

Creating a cooling-friendly urban form requires time and sustained effort. In the near term, practical, no-regret actions to build resilience to heat stress through NbS include:
- Establishing champions and authorities to protect and enhance green and blue spaces
- Conducting baseline assessments of green and blue spaces and identifying vulnerable communities
- Investing in green and blue infrastructure, especially in public areas
Tree planting is perhaps the simplest and most effective action to reduce urban heat—provided the right trees are planted in the right places as part of a coordinated city-wide greening effort. Steps taken today will help future generations benefit from NbS for cooling.
MIL OSI Economics –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at Green Tech Summit 2024 (English only) (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

SFST’s speech at Green Tech Summit 2024 (English only) (with photo)
SFST’s speech at Green Tech Summit 2024 (English only) (with photo)
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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Green Tech Summit 2024 today (October 30): Dr Hua Jindong (Vice-chairperson of the International Sustainability Standards Board), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, It is a profound honour to join you at the Green Tech Summit 2024. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and GoImpact for hosting this important event. Today, we gather to explore how green finance, technology, and innovation converge to create a sustainable future. A call to action for our planet Our planet is currently facing unprecedented challenges due to climate change. These challenges encompass environmental, economic, and social dimensions, demanding our immediate attention. The statistics deserve attention: Global climate finance flows reached approximately US$1.3 trillion in 2021 and 2022. However, to meet our climate goals, we must significantly increase annual investments to around US$9 trillion by 2030 and US$10 trillion by 2050. This gap signals an immense demand for green finance and innovation – one that we must address with urgency and creativity. At this Summit, we aim to showcase Hong Kong’s leadership in the green transition through five key strategies, and they altogether will significantly promote green transformation: the growth of green capital, recognition of sustainability standards, empowerment in carbon trading, encouragement of green financing, and nurturing green technology. Each of these strategies plays a critical role in shaping a sustainable future for our city and beyond. Growth of green capital Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to lead the green transition. As Asia’s premier international financial centre, we have the infrastructure, expertise, and regulatory framework to channel international capital toward sustainable initiatives. As of June, over 230 ESG (environmental, social and governance) funds have been authorised by the Securities and Futures Commission, with assets under management exceeding HK$1.3 trillion. This represents a year-on-year increase of 19 per cent in the number of ESG funds and an 8 per cent increase in assets under management. The Hong Kong SAR Government has been proactive in issuing government green bonds totalling HK$220 billion since 2019. These bonds have funded numerous local green projects and set benchmarks for potential issuers. In 2023 alone, the total green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong surpassed US$50 billion, with approximately US$30 billion being green and sustainable bonds – 37 per cent of the total market. This year, we expanded our Government Green Bond Programme to include sustainable projects and hence the programme is, renamed Government Sustainable Bond Programme, reinforcing our commitment to a greener future. Recognition of sustainability standards Sustainability reporting is vital to our green finance ecosystem. In March, we published a vision statement outlining our approach to developing a comprehensive ecosystem for sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong. In the Chief Executive’s Policy Address, it was announced that our roadmap for adopting the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) will be published within this year. Our aim is to position Hong Kong among the first jurisdictions to adopt the global standard, enhancing our credibility as a green finance hub. To support our green transition, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) published the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance in May. This taxonomy raises awareness about green finance and promotes a common understanding of green activities. It aligns with the taxonomies of the Mainland and the European Union, currently encompassing 12 economic activities across four sectors. The HKMA is advancing to the next phase of developing the Hong Kong Taxonomy, which will broaden its scope to include more sectors and activities crucial for our sustainable future. Empowerment in carbon trading We advocate for innovative approaches to enable decarbonisation and allocate green funding. A noteworthy initiative is the Core Climate platform, launched by the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited in October 2022. This international carbon marketplace facilitates effective and transparent trading of carbon credits and supports transition towards net zero. Core Climate is currently the only carbon marketplace that offers settlement in both Hong Kong dollar and Renminbi for international voluntary carbon credits. This platform enables participants to source, hold, trade, and retire voluntary carbon credits, ensuring robust and credible quality verified against international standards. Since its launch, the number of registered participants has tripled, reaching approximately 80 by the end of last year. Encouragement to green financing To encourage even more green financing activities, we launched the Green and Sustainable Finance Grant Scheme back in 2021. This initiative provides funding support for eligible bond issuers and loan borrowers, covering expenses related to bond issuance and external review services. We have extended this scheme by three years, running until 2027, and expanded its scope to include transition bonds and loans. As of early October, we have granted approximately HK$280 million to support 470 green and sustainable debt instruments issued in Hong Kong, involving a total underlying debt issuance of over HK$1 trillion. This financial backing is crucial in incentivising industries to utilise Hong Kong’s transition financing platform for decarbonisation. Nurturing green technology A key focus of our green transition is our commitment to promoting green fintech. Integrating fintech with green finance is essential for accelerating our transformation. We are actively working to expand the green fintech ecosystem in Hong Kong, positioning our city as a green fintech hub. In June, we launched the Green and Sustainable Fintech Proof-of-Concept Funding Support Scheme. This initiative provides early-stage funding to technology companies and research institutes engaged in green fintech activities. Collaborating with local enterprises allows these innovators to co-develop projects that address challenges for the industry. This scheme is not solely about financial support. It facilitates the completion of commercialisation and the proof-of-concept stages, paving the way for wider adoption of green and sustainable fintech solutions. Innovative fintech solutions will enhance our ability to mobilise capital for green projects and increase transparency in fund flows. Against the backdrop of digitisation and global warming, fintech plays a crucial role in driving innovation in the financial industry and catalysing the low-carbon transformation of economic activities. The application of new technology can also help mitigate climate risk by forecasting environmental changes, improving supply chain efficiency, and identifying opportunities for innovation in low-carbon solutions. This year, we launched the Prototype Hong Kong Green Fintech Map. Developed with various stakeholders, this tool provides a comprehensive overview of green fintech companies in Hong Kong and the services they offer. This map symbolises the integration of green finance and fintech, fostering the development of a robust green fintech ecosystem and accelerating the transition toward a green economy. Finally, I want to emphasise the importance of nurturing talent for sustainable development. The future of green finance relies on the skills and knowledge of our workforce. To support the development of a green finance talent pool, we launched a three-year Pilot Green and Sustainable Finance Capacity Building Support Scheme. This initiative encourages practitioners, professionals, and students to participate in relevant training programmes. As of mid-September, we have approved over 4 100 reimbursement applications, amounting to approximately HK$23.3 million. This investment in human capital is essential for equipping our workforce with the skills needed to navigate and thrive in the evolving landscape of green finance. Closing remarks In conclusion, the path to a sustainable future is not just a challenge; it is an opportunity for innovation and growth. Green fintech will play a pivotal role in this transition, enabling us to mobilise capital, enhance transparency, and support the development of sustainable solutions. As we approach COP29 (29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) next month, let us intensify our efforts to forge a new chapter in sustainability. By collaborating across sectors and embracing innovative solutions, we can pave the way for impactful changes that resonate with green finance and technology. Together, we can turn our commitments into actionable strategies, ensuring a resilient and sustainable world for generations to come. Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to seeing you in the next Summit here.

Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:29

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025

Category: Finance

Transcript

Beginnings and barriers

Breaking new ground

The OG influencer

But is this feminism?