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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Russia: All-Russian seminar on land management, cadastres and geodesy was held at SPbGASU

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Seminar participants

    On February 20–21, the Department of Geodesy, Land Management and Cadastre of SPbGASU held the National (All-Russian) scientific and practical seminar “Current issues of land management, cadastres and geodesy”. More than 50 undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate students and young scientists from different cities of Russia took part in its work.

    “The reports were devoted to developments in the field of cadastral and market valuation, law enforcement practice of implementing current legislative norms in terms of clarifying the boundaries of land plots. These topics are very relevant in connection with the need to improve regulation in this area. In addition, we presented the interim results of one of the projects within the framework of the SPbGASU program “Startup as a Diploma”: we are talking about the development of an automated system for ensuring cadastral activities,” noted acting head of the department Yana Volkova.

    St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering student Daria Mineeva (fourth year in the field of Land Management and Cadastres) admits that she did not choose the topic of her report “Provision of land plots to preferential categories of citizens using the example of Chelyabinsk” by chance.

    “The topic is close to me because I am a native of this city and I know very well how sad the environmental situation is there, taking into account the impact of sanitary protection zones of industrial enterprises. Due to the large territories of these zones, the number of land plots for residential development is not increasing. According to the city administration, there are only 13 plots for 850 families. In order to find an opportunity to increase the number of the latter, I am developing a mechanism for providing plots, including a search for lands of undivided ownership, that is, without title documents. In a special information system on the map, I clearly marked the current boundaries of Chelyabinsk, noted the main enterprises with a high level of danger. Thus, you can get the location zones of these plots with one click. It became obvious that the territory allows you to increase the number of plots several times if you solve the labor-intensive issue of determining the location of sanitary zones according to modern requirements. In addition, in the system, citizens can check the characteristics and location of plots. The development will allow us to solve several problems at once: increase the number of sites and the quality of life of city residents, which, in turn, will lead to a decrease in the high level of morbidity,” explained Daria Mineeva.

    Vera Voronetskaya (in the foreground)

    Vera Voronetskaya, a first-year postgraduate student at the Department of Land Management and Cadastre at the Saint Petersburg Mining University, presented her research on the topic of “Establishing a zone of negative environmental impact of a solid waste landfill on the human habitat for the purposes of individual real estate assessment.”

    “The topic is relevant: landfills pollute the soil, ground and surface water, the atmosphere, and emit unpleasant odors. All these factors reduce the quality of the living environment, which entails losses for owners of real estate located near landfills. These losses must be taken into account. I propose developing a methodology for assessing the environmental impact of landfills in order to determine the zone of their negative impact, and then a methodology for calculating losses,” Vera Voronetskaya said.

    According to Yana Volkova, the exchange of relevant scientific and technical information and the identification of key trends in the industry became a good incentive for students to conduct independent research work in accordance with the topics proposed by representatives of the real sector of the economy.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Study: Brain Exercise Lowers Fatigue Symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Researchers at New York University (NYU) found that a particular set of brain exercises lowered the incidence of the all-too-common symptom of fatigue among patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in a recently published study in the journal Nature: Scientific Reports. The exercises used in the study are from the commercially-available brain exercise app, BrainHQ made by Posit Science.

    This is the tenth published study in patients with MS using the BrainHQ exercises. Earlier studies have shown significant gains in processing speed, which is a signature cognitive deficit of MS, as well as in various measures of cognitive function, including the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS (BICAMS) and in each of its subtests (speed of processing, visuospatial memory, and verbal learning).

    While studies in other populations have found training with BrainHQ exercises improved measures of mood (depressive symptoms, feeling of control) and distress (anxiety, stress and fatigue), this is the first study in MS patients showing an improvement from BrainHQ exercises in measures of fatigue.

    “We are grateful for the ongoing work by independent researchers examining the potential usefulness of our plasticity-based BrainHQ exercises in addressing chronic diseases,” said Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science. “The NYU team continues to be at the forefront of that research in MS.”

    The latest study at NYU set out to examine whether transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), which provides mild electrical stimulation of the brain, could further improve the benefits from training with BrainHQ by enhancing brain plasticity (i.e., the brain’s ability to change chemically, physically, and functionally). The study used a tDCS headset from Soterix®, and employed the PROMIS fatigue score change as the primary outcome measure and the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale as a secondary fatigue measure.

    The 117 study participants were randomized into either a group receiving active tDCS stimulation while training with BrainHQ exercises, or a group using a sham tDCS stimulation while training. Each group was asked to complete thirty 20-minute training sessions over six weeks (for a total of 10 hours of training). 

    The researchers found both groups experienced a significant decrease in fatigue over the time period on both measures, but no between group difference. “Both the active and sham tDCS groups experienced reductions in fatigue, with no significant difference between the two groups, suggesting that tDCS does not provide any additional benefit over cognitive training alone in reducing fatigue,” the researchers wrote. They noted the study also confirmed the feasibility and tolerance of the home-based intervention.

    BrainHQ exercises have shown benefits in more than 300 studies. Such benefits include gains in cognition (attention, speed, memory, decision-making), in quality of life (depressive symptoms, confidence and control, health-related quality of life) and in real-world activities (health outcomes, balance, driving, workplace activities). BrainHQ is offered by leading health and Medicare Advantage plans, by leading medical centers, clinics, and communities, and by organizations focused on peak performance. Consumers can try a BrainHQ exercise for free daily at https://www.brainhq.com.

    The MIL Network –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: reAlpha Acquires GTG Financial, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Ohio, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — reAlpha Tech Corp. (“reAlpha”) (Nasdaq: AIRE), a real estate technology company developing and commercializing artificial intelligence (“AI”) technologies, today announced the acquisition of GTG Financial, Inc. (“GTG Financial”), a mortgage brokerage company founded by Glenn Groves, a U.S. Marine and industry leader. GTG Financial is licensed to operate in seven U.S. states, including California, which will expand reAlpha’s geographic footprint to a total of 28 U.S. states and strengthen its operational capacity.

    The acquisition of GTG Financial marks another step in reAlpha’s strategy to further enhance its mortgage operations and provide a more seamless home financing experience within the reAlpha platform, its AI-powered real estate platform. By incorporating GTG Financial’s experience in the real estate industry and its added workforce of loan officers, reAlpha anticipates that it will be able to bolster its overall operational capacity, expand its loan processing capabilities and offer mortgage lending and refinancing services to homebuyers more efficiently.

    “We are excited to welcome GTG Financial to the reAlpha group,” said Piyush Phadke, Chief Financial Officer of reAlpha. “This acquisition will strengthen our mortgage operations, allowing us to scale and more efficiently provide lending services through our AI-powered homebuying platform. By acquiring GTG Financial, we are continuing to advance our vision of a fully streamlined, technology-driven real estate experience.”

    GTG Financial will retain its brand identity under the leadership of its founder, Glenn Groves, while leveraging reAlpha’s resources and generative AI platform, which is expected to enhance loan processing efficiency and support a more seamless home financing experience.

    Glenn Groves, Chief Executive Officer of GTG Financial, added: “I believe that reAlpha’s AI-driven platform is redefining real estate by simplifying and eliminating traditional barriers in the homebuying process. We’re proud to be part of this transformation and committed to driving its long-term success. GTG Financial will be officially powered by Be My Neighbor, one of reAlpha’s subsidiaries, strengthening our mortgage services and operational efficiency.”

    Christopher Griffith, Chief Executive Officer of Be My Neighbor, and a fellow U.S. Marine, echoed the sentiment: “Real success in M&A comes from aligned leadership. I believe that, as Marines, Glenn and I share the same values of discipline, integrity and execution, making this partnership a natural fit.”

    For additional details concerning the terms of the acquisition of GTG Financial, please refer to reAlpha’s Current Report on Form 8-K, which will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

    About GTG Financial Inc.

    GTG Financial, Inc. is a mortgage brokerage company founded by Glenn Groves, committed to helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership dreams, with a focus on transparency, customer service, and financial empowerment.

    About reAlpha Tech Corp.

    reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) is a real estate technology company developing an end-to-end commission-free homebuying platform. Utilizing the power of AI and an acquisition-led growth strategy, reAlpha aims to offer an affordable, streamlined experience for homebuyers. For more information, visit www.reAlpha.com.

    About the reAlpha Platform

    reAlpha’s AI-powered, commission-free homebuying platform enables buyers to navigate the homebuying process with ease. With the tagline “No Fees. Just Keys.™”, reAlpha is dedicated to eliminating traditional barriers and making homeownership more accessible and transparent. The platform’s generative AI assistant, “Claire,” supports homebuyers throughout the journey, from property search to closing, offering insights, market trends, and 24/7 assistance.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements about the GTG Financial acquisition; the anticipated benefits of the GTG Financial acquisition; reAlpha’s ability to anticipate the future needs of the short-term rental market; future trends in the real estate, technology and artificial intelligence industries, generally; and reAlpha’s future growth strategy and growth rate. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “plan”, “possible”, “project”, “strive”, “budget”, “forecast”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential” or “continue”, or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: reAlpha’s limited operating history and that reAlpha has not yet fully developed its AI-based technologies; reAlpha’s ability to commercialize its developing AI-based technologies; whether reAlpha’s technology and products will be accepted and adopted by its customers and intended users; reAlpha’s ability to integrate the business of GTG Financial into its existing business and the anticipated demand for GTG Financial’s services; reAlpha’s ability to successfully enter new geographic markets; reAlpha’s ability to obtain the necessary regulatory and legal approvals to expand into additional U.S. states and maintain, or obtain, brokerage licenses in such states; reAlpha’s ability to generate additional sales or revenue from having access to, or obtaining, additional U.S. states brokerage licenses; reAlpha’s ability to enhance its, and its subsidiaries’, loan processing efficiency by leveraging its AI-powered platform and overall resources; reAlpha’s ability to expand its loan processing capabilities through the acquisition of GTG Financial; reAlpha’s ability to offer mortgage lending and refinancing services to homebuyers more efficiently through its platform as a result of the acquisition of GTG Financial; the inability to maintain and strengthen reAlpha’s brand and reputation; reAlpha’s ability to scale its operational capabilities to expand into additional geographic markets; the potential loss of key employees of its acquired companies; reAlpha’s inability to accurately forecast demand for short-term rentals and AI-based real estate focused products; the inability to execute business objectives and growth strategies successfully or sustain reAlpha’s growth; the inability of reAlpha’s customers to pay for reAlpha’s services; changes in applicable laws or regulations, and the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in reAlpha’s SEC filings. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although reAlpha believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. reAlpha’s future results, level of activity, performance or achievements may differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking statements. For more information about the factors that could cause such differences, please refer to reAlpha’s filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and reAlpha does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Adele Carey, VP of Investor Relations
    investorrelations@realpha.com

    Media Contact:
    Fatema Bhabrawala, Director of Public Relations
    fbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Apollo to Acquire Bridge Investment Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Scaled Investment Platform Expands Apollo’s Origination Capabilities in Residential and Industrial Real Estate

    Bridge Manages $50 Billion of High-Quality AUM in Complementary Sectors Aligned with Apollo’s Long-Term Growth Strategy

    NEW YORK and SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) and Bridge Investment Group Holdings Inc. (NYSE: BRDG) (“Bridge” or the “Company”) today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Apollo to acquire Bridge in an all-stock transaction with an equity value of approximately $1.5 billion.

    Founded in 2009, Bridge is an established leader in residential and industrial real estate as well as other specialized real estate asset classes. Led by an experienced senior leadership team and over 300 dedicated investment professionals with significant real estate investment and operating expertise, Bridge’s forward-integrated model, nationwide operating platform and data-driven approach have fostered organic growth and consistently produced desirable outcomes across asset classes.

    Bridge will provide Apollo with immediate scale to its real estate equity platform and enhance Apollo’s origination capabilities in both real estate equity and credit, which is expected to benefit Apollo’s growing suite of hybrid and real estate product offerings. Bridge manages approximately $50 billion of high-quality AUM in real estate products targeting both institutional and wealth clients and is expected to be highly synergistic with Apollo’s existing real estate equity strategies and leading real estate credit platform. The transaction is expected to be immediately accretive to Apollo’s fee-related earnings upon closing.

    Apollo Partner and Co-Head of Equity David Sambur said, “We are pleased to announce this transaction with Bridge, which is highly aligned with Apollo’s strategic focus on expanding our origination base in areas of our business that are growing but not yet at scale. Led by a respected real estate team including Executive Chairman Bob Morse and CEO Jonathan Slager, Bridge brings a seasoned team with deep expertise and a strong track record in their sectors. Their business will complement and further augment our existing real estate capabilities, and we believe we can help scale Bridge’s products by leveraging the breadth of our integrated platform. We look forward to working with Bob and the talented Bridge team as we seek to achieve the strategic objectives we laid out at our recent Investor Day.”

    Bridge Executive Chairman Bob Morse said, “We are proud to be joining Apollo and its industry-leading team, who share our commitment to performance and excellence. This transaction will allow the Bridge and Apollo teams to grow on the strong foundation that Bridge has built since 2009 as we work to pursue meaningful value and impact for our investors and communities. With Apollo’s global integrated platform, resources, innovation and established expertise, we are confident that Bridge will be positioned for the next phase of growth amid growing demand across the alternative investments space.”

    Transaction Details
    Under the terms of the transaction, Bridge stockholders and Bridge OpCo unitholders will receive, at closing, 0.07081 shares of Apollo stock for each share of Bridge Class A common stock and each Bridge OpCo Class A common unit, respectively, valued by the parties at $11.50 per each share of Bridge Class A common stock and Bridge OpCo Class A common unit, respectively.

    Upon the closing of the transaction, Bridge will operate as a standalone platform within Apollo’s asset management business, retaining its existing brand, management team and dedicated capital formation team. Bob Morse will become an Apollo Partner and lead Apollo’s real estate equity franchise.

    A special committee of independent directors for Bridge (the “Special Committee”), advised by its own independent legal and financial advisors, reviewed, negotiated and unanimously recommended approval of the merger agreement by the Bridge Board of Directors, determining that it was in the best interests of Bridge and its stockholders not affiliated with Bridge management and directors. Acting upon the recommendation of the Special Committee, the Bridge Board of Directors approved the merger agreement. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions for transactions of this nature, including approval by a majority of the Class A common stock and Class B common stock of Bridge, voting together and the receipt of regulatory approvals. Certain members of Bridge management and their affiliates, collectively owning approximately 51.4% of the outstanding voting power of the Class A common stock and Class B common stock of Bridge, have entered into voting agreements in connection with the transaction and have agreed to vote in favor of the transaction in accordance with the terms therein. Subject to and upon completion of the transaction, shares of Bridge common stock will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Bridge will become a privately held company.

    Further information regarding terms and conditions contained in the definitive merger agreement will be made available in Bridge’s Current Report on Form 8-K, which will be filed in connection with this transaction.

    Bridge Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Earnings
    Bridge will no longer be holding its fourth quarter and full-year 2024 earnings conference call and webcast scheduled for February 25, 2025, due to the pending transaction.

    Advisors
    BofA Securities, Citi, Goldman, Sachs & Co. LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Newmark Group are acting as financial advisors, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is acting as legal counsel and Sidley Austin LLP is acting as insurance regulatory counsel to Apollo. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor to Bridge and Latham & Watkins LLP is acting as legal counsel. Lazard is serving as financial advisor to the special committee of the Bridge Board of Directors and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is acting as legal counsel.

    Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release contains statements regarding Apollo, Bridge, the proposed transactions and other matters that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, discussions related to the proposed transaction between Apollo and the Company, including statements regarding the benefits of the proposed transaction and the anticipated timing and likelihood of completion of the proposed transaction, and information regarding the businesses of Apollo and the Company, including Apollo’s and the Company’s objectives, plans and strategies for future operations, statements that contain projections of results of operations or of financial condition and all other statements other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that Apollo and the Company intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Such statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions made based on information currently available to management. All statements in this communication, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements that may be identified by the use of the words “outlook,” “indicator,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “seek,” “anticipates,” “plan,” “forecasts,” “could,” “intends,” “targets,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, but not all forward- looking statements include such words. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are beyond the control of Apollo and the Company, that could cause actual results and performance to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors and risks that may impact future results and performance include, but are not limited to, those factors and risks described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Apollo’s and the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and such reports that are subsequently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

    The forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, which include, but are not limited to, and in each case as a possible result of the proposed transaction on each of Apollo and the Company: the ultimate outcome of the proposed transaction between Apollo and the Company, including the possibility that the Company’s stockholders will not adopt the merger agreement in respect of the proposed transaction; the effect of the announcement of the proposed transaction; the ability to operate Apollo’s and the Company’s respective businesses, including business disruptions; difficulties in retaining and hiring key personnel and employees; the ability to maintain favorable business relationships with customers and other business partners; the terms and timing of the proposed transaction; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement and the proposed transaction; the anticipated or actual tax treatment of the proposed transaction; the ability to satisfy closing conditions to the completion of the proposed transaction (including the adoption of the merger agreement in respect of the proposed transaction by the Company’s stockholders); other risks related to the completion of the proposed transaction and actions related thereto; the ability of Apollo and the Company to integrate the businesses successfully and to achieve anticipated synergies and value creation from the proposed transaction; global market, political and economic conditions, including in the markets in which Apollo and the Company operate; the ability to secure government regulatory approvals on the terms expected, at all or in a timely manner; the global macro-economic environment, including headwinds caused by inflation, rising interest rates, unfavorable currency exchange rates, and potential recessionary or depressionary conditions; cyber-attacks, information security and data privacy; the impact of public health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics and any related company or government policies and actions to protect the health and safety of individuals or government policies or actions to maintain the functioning of national or global economies and markets; litigation and regulatory proceedings, including any proceedings that may be instituted against Apollo or the Company related to the proposed transaction; and disruptions of Apollo’s or the Company’s information technology systems.

    These risks, as well as other risks related to the proposed transaction, will be included in the Registration Statement (as defined below) and Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (as defined below) that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. While the list of factors presented here is, and the list of factors to be presented in the Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus are considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have a material adverse effect on Apollo’s and the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are inherently subject to uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Except as required by applicable law or regulation, neither Apollo nor the Company undertakes (and each of Apollo and the Company expressly disclaim) any obligation and do not intend to publicly update or review any of these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy or an invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities or the solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the proposed transactions or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act. Subject to certain exceptions to be approved by the relevant regulators or certain facts to be ascertained, the public offer will not be made directly or indirectly, in or into any jurisdiction where to do so would constitute a violation of the laws of such jurisdiction, or by use of the mails or by any means or instrumentality (including without limitation, facsimile transmission, telephone and the internet) of interstate or foreign commerce, or any facility of a national securities exchange, of any such jurisdiction.

    Additional Information Regarding the Transaction and Where to Find It

    This press release is being made in respect of the proposed transaction between Apollo and the Company. In connection with the proposed transaction, Apollo intends to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4, which will constitute a prospectus of Apollo for the issuance of Apollo common stock (the “Registration Statement”) and which will also include a proxy statement of the Company for the Company stockholder meeting (together with any amendments or supplements thereto, and together with the Registration Statement, the “Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus”). Each of Apollo and the Company may also file other relevant documents with the SEC regarding the proposed transaction. This document is not a substitute for the Registration Statement or Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus or any other document that Apollo or the Company may file with the SEC. The definitive Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (if and when available) will be mailed to stockholders of the Company.

    INVESTORS ARE URGED TO READ IN THEIR ENTIRETY THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, THE JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT MAY BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors will be able to obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (if and when available) and other documents containing important information about Apollo, the Company and the proposed transaction, once such documents are filed with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with, or furnished to, the SEC by Apollo will be available free of charge by accessing the Investor Relations section of Apollo’s website at https://ir.apollo.com. Copies of the documents filed with, or furnished to, the SEC by the Company will be available free of charge by accessing the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at https://www.bridgeig.com. The information included on, or accessible through, Apollo’s or the Company’s website is not incorporated by reference into this communication.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Apollo, the Company, and certain of their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the Company’s stockholders in respect of the proposed transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of Apollo, including a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is contained in its Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, dated April 26, 2024 (the “Apollo Annual Meeting Proxy Statement”), which is filed with the SEC. Any changes in the holdings of Apollo’s securities by Apollo’s directors or executive officers from the amounts described in the Apollo Annual Meeting Proxy Statement have been or will be reflected in Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 (“Form 3”), Statements of Changes in Beneficial Ownership on Form 4 (“Form 4”) or Annual Statements of Changes in Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 5 (“Form 5”) subsequently filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Information about the directors and executive officers of the Company, including a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is contained in its Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, dated March 21, 2024 (the “Company Annual Meeting Proxy Statement”), which is filed with the SEC. Any changes in the holdings of the Company’s securities by the Company’s directors or executive officers from the amounts described in the Company Annual Meeting Proxy Statement have been or will be reflected on Forms 3, Forms 4 or Forms 5, subsequently filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC regarding the proposed transaction when such materials become available. Investors should read the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus carefully when available before making any voting or investment decisions.

    About Apollo
    Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of December 31, 2024, Apollo had approximately $751 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

    About Bridge Investment Group
    Bridge is a leading alternative investment manager, diversified across specialized asset classes, with approximately $50 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2024. Bridge combines its nationwide operating platform with dedicated teams of investment professionals focused on select verticals across real estate, credit, renewable energy and secondaries strategies.

    Contacts

    For Apollo:

    Noah Gunn
    Global Head of Investor Relations
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    212-822-0540
    ir@apollo.com

    Joanna Rose
    Global Head of Corporate Communications
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    212-822-0491
    communications@apollo.com

    For Bridge:

    Shareholder Relations:
    Bonni Rosen Salisbury
    Bridge Investment Group Holdings Inc.
    shareholderrelations@bridgeig.com

    Media:
    Charlotte Morse
    Bridge Investment Group Holdings Inc.
    (877) 866-4540
    charlotte.morse@bridgeig.com

    H/Advisors Abernathy
    Eric Bonach / Dan Scorpio
    (917) 710-7973 / (646) 899-8118
    eric.bonach@h-advisors.global / dan.scorpio@h-advisors.global

    The MIL Network –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung hits the runway with E.L.V. DENIM to showcase sustainable fashion

    Source: Samsung

     
    LONDON, UK – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd is making its London Fashion Week debut as part of E.L.V. DENIM’s first ever presentation titled ‘The Journey’.
     
    The British luxury brand, dedicated to crafting timeless fashion pieces from 100% upcycled materials, created ‘The Journey’ to trace its evolution from the first pair of jeans in 2018 to a full ready-to-wear collection, including shirting, tailoring, leather, and evening wear.
     
    Set to a backdrop of Samsung’s Series 6 Washing Machines and Tumble Dryers – which offer a range of features that help reduce energy consumption[1] as well as decreasing the amount of harmful plastic microfibers clothes shed[2] – the show portrays E.L.V.’s commitment to upcycling, local manufacturing, and true sustainability by exploring the six core elements of E.L.V. DENIM’s production: sourcing, washing, grading, pairing, cutting & sewing.
     
    Dan Barfield, Director of Digital Appliances, Samsung UK & Ireland, comments: “We’re proud to be a part of E.L.V. DENIM’s London Fashion Week debut. The presentation showcases both brand’s dedication to innovation, making our products the perfect backdrop to the first fully upcycled show on-schedule.
     
    “This collaboration is a powerful statement towards responsible consumption. While E.L.V. DENIM transforms garments otherwise destined for landfill into high-end fashion, our laundry innovations help extend the life of clothing by delivering a deep clean using less water and energy. We’re committed to building products and providing consumers with options that put responsible practices at the forefront of fashion.”
     
    Anna Foster, Founder & Designer, E.L.V. DENIM, comments “From the very beginning, we believed—and still believe—that we make the best jeans in the world. Our commitment to upcycling, local manufacturing, and true sustainability sets us apart. Some might call that a bold statement, but we have the processes to prove it. That’s why we’ve created a fully transparent presentation that shows exactly how we do it.
     
    “We welcome questions and interaction—our team is here to share everything. Only by being completely open can we prove who we are, and what we’re striving to become. Today, E.L.V. DENIM is the only brand in the world producing high-end garments at scale entirely from 100% upcycled post-consumer waste. We are not just making jeans; we are rewriting the rules of fashion.”
     

     
    Samsung offers innovative solutions to help consumers reduce water and energy usage. Various Samsung washing machines have AI energy mode[3] that can reduce your energy consumption by up to 70%[4], whilst ecobubble technology can wash effectively at cooler temperatures.
     
    Samsung also offers the Less Microfiber cycle that works to make clothes shed less microplastics, which are discharged into the drain water. By adjusting the motor’s revolution speed and washing intensiveness, the Less Microfiber cycle reduces the amount of microfiber released into the drain by up to 54%[[5]].
     

     
     
    Top Tips: How to Make Your Laundry More Eco-Friendly
     
    Embrace energy-saving tech to cut down on water and energy use
    While it is a staple to our daily lives, electricity production generates the second largest share of greenhouse gas emissions, making it vital we explore how to cut our energy consumption. Our washing machines with AI energy mode can reduce your energy consumption by using sensors to detect the weight of your laundry before calculating and dispensing the optimal amount of water needed for the load. [3+4]
     
    Less is more when it comes to detergent
    Many laundry detergents contain microplastics—harmful plastic microfibres that make it into the ocean[6]. That’s why Samsung developed the new Less Microfiber Filter, an external washing machine filter designed to significantly reduce plastic microfiber emissions during laundry cycles.
     
    Designed with inspiration from apparel maker Patagonia and expertise from the global ocean conservation organisation Ocean Wise, the filter captures 98%[[7]] of microplastics released during laundry from escaping into the ocean, equivalent to eight 500ml plastic bottles per year when used four times a week[8].
     
    To manage the amount of detergent we use to avoid damaging the planet, our clothes and the machine itself over time, Samsung’s Auto Dispense feature automatically adds the right amount of detergent and softener into the washer, taking the guesswork out of every wash.
     
    Don’t be afraid of the cold (wash)
    Using hot water during a laundry cycle uses a substantial amount of energy—in fact, 75% of the energy required during a hot wash cycle is used just to heat up the water[9]. With Samsung’s EcoBubble technology, you need not worry that a colder wash will result in a less effective clean.
     
    Even at a cold wash setting of 15°C, EcoBubble technology will still effectively dissolve detergent and mix it with air and water to create bubbles that thoroughly penetrate clothes so as to remove even the toughest stains.
     
    Choose appliances that are built to last
    A final tip for making your laundry as eco-friendly as possible is to opt for appliances that are sure to last for a long time, a decision that contributes to the reduction of landfill waste, the conversation of resources, the prevention of environmental contamination by toxic materials, and the reduction of greenhouses gases created in the production of new materials.
     
    Samsung’s washers and dryers have been designed for long-term use, coming with industry-leading warranties for both product and parts so that users can rest assured that their appliance decisions are the best ones for the environment.
     
    About E.L.V. DENIM
     
    E.L.V. DENIM is a pioneering British luxury brand dedicated to handcrafting timeless fashion pieces from 100% upcycled materials. Breathing a second life into garments that could otherwise be destined for landfill, E.L.V. DENIM transforms loss into luxury.
     
    In a world of over-consumption, E.L.V. DENIM challenges convention. It’s fabric-first curated sourcing of pre-loved garments ensures every piece is unique and innovative designs create pieces to last a lifetime. Founder and Creative Director Anna Foster launched E.L.V. DENIM to redefine the perfect fit in denim, ensuring every pair of ‘off the rack’ jeans feels like it is tailor made. In addition, it is the first denim brand to launch a jean that can adapt to the wearer’s life with built-in seam allowances for effortless tailoring.
     
    In 2023 the brand extended beyond denim and into new categories; upcycling corduroy, shirting, tailoring, leather and cotton, helping to protect the environment for future generations and proving that a completely circular fashion model can be a success.
     
    All production takes place in East London, minimising carbon footprint and supporting our local
    community of ateliers. The brand has a holistic approach to sustainability and zero-waste, all parts of the jeans are used to make new products, scraps are constructed into sheets of patchwork fabrics and the smaller threads are turned into denim paper.
     
    [1] Our washing machines with AI energy mode* can reduce your energy consumption by up to 70%** * Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. ** Based on internal testing on the WW7000D models on a Cotton 40 degrees wash with the AI Energy Mode turned on compared to not using AI Energy Mode.
     
    [2] The Less Microfiber cycle works to make clothes shed less microplastics, which are discharged into the drain water. By adjusting the motor’s revolution speed and washing intensiveness, the Less Microfiber cycle reduces the amount of microfiber released into the drain by up to 54%. Based on testing by the Ocean Wise Plastics Lab using a 2kg load of 100% polyester hoodies, comparing the Synthetics cycle on a Samsung conventional model WW4000T and the Less Microfiber cycle on the WW7000B. Results may vary depending on the actual clothes and usage conditions.
     
    [3] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.
     
    [4] Based on internal testing on the WW7000D models on a Cotton 40 degrees wash with the AI Energy Mode turned on compared to not using AI Energy Mode.
     
    [5] Tested with 2kg load of 100% polyester hoodies, comparing Synthetics cycle on Samsung Conventional model WW4000T and the Less Microfiber Cycleon WW9400B. The results may be different depending on the clothes and environment. Tested at the Ocean Wise Plastics Lab. Newsroom post here.
     
    [6] “Fashion’s tiny hidden secret”, United Nations Environment Programme (unep.org/news-and-stories/story/fashions-tiny-hidden-secret).
     
    [7] Tested at Ocean Wise Plastics Lab on the WW90T734DWH model (using Synthetic cycle, approximately 2kg load of synthetic textile laundry) comparing the amount of microfiber released with and without the Less Microfiber Filter installed. The amount is calculated by filtering drain water through a 50um filter. Results may vary depending on clothes and environment.
     
    [8] Tested at Ocean Wise Plastics Lab on the WW90T734DWH model (using Synthetic cycle, approximately 2kg load of synthetic textile laundry) comparing the amount of microfiber released with and without the Less Microfiber Filter installed. The amount is calculated by filtering drain water through a 50um filter. One wash cycle’s reduction amount of 0.627g is based on a 5kg load (0.125g/kg x 5kg). Annual reduction amount (132g) is calculated based on 210 cycles (4 times a week, 52 weeks) and 5kg load on each cycle. 500㎖ bottle weight (15.4g) is based on the Korea Ministry of Environment’s guideline on plastic bottles.
     
    [9] Data source: https://www.euronews.com/living/2019/07/14/eco-washing-your-way-to-a-cleaner-planet
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Searching for a Universal Principle for Unconventional Superconductivity

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    You may recognize graphite as the “lead” in a pencil, but besides helping you take notes or fill in countless bubbles on exam answer sheets, it is helping scientists grapple with the secrets of superconductivity.

    Superconductivity happens when an electric current is transmitted through wires without the loss of any energy in the form of heat or resistance. Superconducting materials have the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our daily lives, from improving the electrical grid to making more powerful computers. However, superconductivity generally requires very low temperatures, so low they may become impractical, and the exact mechanisms of superconductivity are not well understood for many superconducting materials.

    In their recent Nature publication, a collaboration of researchers, including UConn Department of Physics Professor Pavel Volkov, detail surprising findings about superconductivity in twisted trilayer graphene.

    In 2018, attention focused on the rich physics of superconductivity in multilayer graphene, which is a single layer of carbon atoms forms graphite. As a single layer, graphene is not superconducting; however, this changes when two layers are stacked and slightly twisted to form twisted bilayer graphene (TBG). Stacking three layers to make twisted trilayer graphene (TTG) together makes the system more stable and robust and was the subject for much of this study.

    The twist leads to unique and unconventional superconducting properties in the twisted trilayer graphene. Volkov says that at a so-called ‘magic’ twist angle, quantum interference effects lead to the motion of elections slowing down enormously as they move through the layers of graphene, allowing them to interact much more strongly with one another, which is likely the driving force of superconductivity.

    “A number of observations on twisted trilayer graphene are quite similar to another system of immense interest where interactions are strong — the cuprate high transition temperature superconductors. We’re interested in it fundamentally because we don’t quite understand how this works,” Volkov says.

    Indeed, the famous theory of Bardeen, Cooper and Schrieffer, published in 1957, is known to fit well many known superconductors, Volkov explains. Their theory attributes superconductivity to the electrons forming “Cooper pairs” due to interaction with lattice vibrations. However, it does not match the observations for cuprates and several other material classes, which has since earned the name of “unconventional” superconductors. Some of them, like cuprates, become superconducting at relatively high temperatures – which in this case is -200°F – while others, including TTG, superconduct only at extremely low temperatures below -450°F. Yet, the presence of strong interactions between the electrons unites these rather different materials.

    Scientists hope that studying how superconductivity happens in TTG may help gain understanding the origin of unconventional superconductivity and in raising the extremely low temperatures required.

    Getting a conclusive answer 

    Volkov says the graphene system is great for studying superconductivity because it is clean, and fairly easy to control.

    “After adding the twist, suddenly it starts to show all the physics that we don’t understand,” he says. “The hope is that if we start with a system which is perhaps a little bit more in the theoretical control than the messy chemistry of the cuprates, maybe we can understand the general principles behind unconventional, non-BCS superconductors.”

    Many previous studies in graphene, though they contribute important information, are limited in describing superconductivity, says Volkov, because those experiments focus on the properties of single electrons rather than electron pairs.

    “What matters is that electrons form pairs, and somehow you want to probe the properties of those pairs to be able to study superconductivity. That is what this experiment achieves.”

    Volkov offers an analogy: if an electric field is applied to a superconductor, it will result in an increase in the velocity and acceleration of the electron pairs and a current increasing in time. This phenomenon is known as inductance.

    “At an engineering level, a superconductor is just an inductor, the problem is they are typically bad inductors. The better a superconductor is, the worse it is as an inductor.”

    Volkov says that co-authors Abhishek Bannerjee, Zeyu Hao and Mary Kreidel from the groups of Philip Kim, from Harvard’s Department of Physics, and K.C. Fong from Raytheon BBN Technologies, developed electrical circuits that allow the researchers to perform experiments to study the inductance of the superconducting graphene. Then, they were able to directly measure the inertia and density of the Cooper pairs that lead to superconductivity.

    Volkov says the question they wanted to answer concerns the structure of the electron pairs. When particles form a pair, their relative motion does not stop, but different kinds of motion can occur. While in the BCS theory relative motion of electrons in a pair is uniform, or isotropic, Volkov says there is evidence that the electrons in unconventional superconductors pair in a non-uniform, or anisotropic way.

    “Up to this work, I don’t think we had a conclusive answer on whether that pairing is isotropic or anisotropic in twisted graphene,” he says. “It’s important because the conventional mechanisms of superconductivity, such as what is proposed in BCS theory, typically advocate for uniform isotropic pairing. This experiment demonstrates that pairing in TTG is strongly anisotropic, and it reinforces the connection between twisted tri-layer graphene and high transition temperature cuprates, which is remarkable. As scientists, we want to see things that are that are complex but universal, because there’s trivial complexity. Every sample is different. Here we find two very different materials, showing quite similar properties, including superconductivity. Given the excellent tunability of TTG, the hope is that maybe we can get our hands on the universal principles of unconventional superconductivity, which are still missing.”

    ‘Beautiful experiments’ 

    Volkov says the discovery has been made by studying how temperature and current breaks the electron pairs apart. For strongly anisotropic pairs, there are always directions along which the pair is easy to break. Thus, even a tiny temperature change can lead to anisotropic pairs breaking apart. Volkov says they experimented with other parameters to disrupt the Cooper pairs, such as altering the current, and the results further confirm that the Cooper pairs in TTG are highly anisotropic.

    To understand more about the underlying electronic state, Volkov developed a theoretical model for the behavior of the TTG inductance as a function of temperature and current, in collaboration with co-authors Patrick Ledwith and Ashvin Vishwanath from Harvard’s Department of Physics.

    “By measuring the properties of superconducting pairs of electrons, we also get information on the underlying electronic structure and underlying properties of single electrons in that highly anisotropic state,” Volkov says. “That information is something we had to do theoretical modeling for, because it was not conforming to some simple expectations, where the more electrons you put in, the more superconducting pairs you get. That’s not how it works here. These beautiful experiments also gave us insights on the behavior of single electrons in TTG.”

    The take-home message of the paper is the electrons in twisted multilayer graphene behave unlike those described by BCS theory; but remarkably, they share properties with high-temperature cuprates, which may have practical uses. As Volkov says, they need to go back to the drawing board to develop a new theory of the superconducting state that accounts for these extraordinary materials because they may pave the way for a new generation of superconductors for real-world applications.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Anaergia Inc. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Anaergia Inc. (TSX: ANRG; OTCQX: ANRGF), a company that develops renewable energy from biogas through advanced anaerobic digestion of organic residues, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Anaergia Inc. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Anaergia Inc. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “ANRGF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors.  For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    “Being traded on the OTCQX Market is an important milestone for Anaergia,” stated Assaf Onn, CEO of Anaergia. “With a presence spanning five continents and executive offices in California, trading on OTCQX not only enhances our international appeal to investors but also underscores our global presence as the technology leader in our industry,” added Mr. Onn.

    About Anaergia Inc.
    Anaergia is a pioneering technology company in the renewable natural gas (RNG) sector, with over 250 patents dedicated to converting organic waste into sustainable solutions such as RNG, fertilizer, and water. We are committed to addressing a significant source of greenhouse gases (GHGs) through cost-effective processes. Our proprietary technologies, combined with our engineering expertise and vast experience in facility design, construction, and operation, position Anaergia as a leader in the RNG industry. With a proven track record of delivering hundreds of innovative projects over the past decade, we are well-equipped to tackle today’s critical resource recovery challenges through diverse project delivery methods. As one of the few companies worldwide offering an integrated portfolio of end-to-end solutions, we effectively combine solid waste processing, wastewater treatment, organics recovery, high-efficiency anaerobic digestion, and biomethane production. Additionally, we operate RNG facilities owned by both third parties and Anaergia. This comprehensive approach not only reduces environmental impact but also significantly lowers costs associated with waste and wastewater treatment while mitigating GHG emissions.

    For further information please see: www.anaergia.com

    For media and/or investor relations please contact: IR@Anaergia.com

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: CampDoc and Traction Rec Partnership Elevates Community-Based Programs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CampDoc, the leading camp management and electronic health record system for camps and youth programs, has joined forces with Traction Rec, a premier membership and program management platform, to streamline operations and elevate health and safety for YMCAs, JCCs, Boys and Girls Clubs, and parks and recreation organizations.

    This integration connects CampDoc’s camp management and health and safety tools with Traction Rec’s comprehensive program management platform, empowering organizations to deliver a seamless experience for participants and staff. Key features include automated account provisioning and data syncing, reducing administrative work and ensuring that critical health information is easily accessible when it’s needed most.

    “Partnering with Traction Rec is an exciting step in helping YMCAs, JCCs, and other community-based organizations enhance their operations,” said Dr. Michael Ambrose, Founder and CEO of CampDoc. “This integration brings simplicity and security to health management, so organizations can focus on delivering transformative experiences for participants.”

    Traction Rec is trusted by community-based organizations to manage membership, programs, and operations. With this integration, organizations running summer camps, youth programs, child care, or other out-of-school time events can now efficiently manage participant health and have instant access to allergies, medications, immunizations, and illness and injury reporting.

    “At Traction Rec, our goal is to equip organizations with the tools they need to operate more efficiently and focus on what truly matters,” said Lara Gilchrist, CEO of Traction Rec. “Partnering with CampDoc allows us to help customers tackle critical health and safety challenges, so they can dedicate more time and energy to strengthening their programs, supporting staff, and serving their communities.”

    This partnership highlights a shared vision to use technology to simplify operations, improve participant health and safety, and meet the growing demand for secure, user-friendly solutions. Together, CampDoc and Traction Rec are setting a new standard for health and program management in the nonprofit and community sector.

    YMCAs, JCCs, and other community-based organizations interested in exploring the CampDoc-Traction Rec integration can visit www.campdoc.com or www.tractionrec.com for more information.

    About DocNetwork
    CampDoc and SchoolDoc offer the most comprehensive Electronic Health Record (EHR) solution to help ensure the health and safety of children while they are away from home. DocNetwork is trusted by over 1,250 programs across all 50 states and internationally, including traditional day and residential camps, aquariums, museums, zoos, YMCAs, JCCs, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, parks and recreation facilities, colleges and universities, and K-12 public, private, and charter schools. For more information about DocNetwork and web-based health management, please visit www.campdoc.com, www.schooldoc.com, or call 734-619-8300.

    About Traction Rec
    Traction Rec is a leading provider of technology solutions for nonprofit community centers and parks and recreation organizations. Utilizing the Salesforce platform, Traction Rec is a purpose-built solution that empowers community organizations to efficiently manage memberships, programs, social services, financial operations and more. With a focus on innovation and community impact, Traction Rec continues to be a key player in driving the digital transformation of the nonprofit sector. To learn more, visit www.tractionrec.com.

    Contact:

    For DocNetwork:
    Michael Ambrose, M.D.
    734-619-8300
    michael@docnetwork.org

    For Traction Rec:
    Alysia Withers
    awithers@tractionrec.com 

    The MIL Network –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter from the Minister for Homelessness and Democracy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Letter from the Minister for Homelessness and Democracy

    A letter from the Minister for Homelessness and Democracy to CSPL Chair, Doug Chalmers on regulating election finance

    Documents

    Letter from Rushanara Ali MP to Doug Chalmers on regulating election finance

    PDF, 163 KB, 2 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email public@public-standards.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Details

    Rushanara Ali MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Homelessness and Democracy, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, has written to CSPL Chair, Doug Chalmers CB, DSO, OBE in response to his letter of 20 January about CSPL’s 2021 report, Regulating Election Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emergency foster carers needed to support children in Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth is in need of more foster carers who can help children and young people who need temporary support in emergency situations.

    Emergency foster carers support children and young people who need to come into temporary foster care at short notice for a limited period of time.

    Foster for Plymouth, Plymouth City Council’s own fostering service, has developed a new package of support specifically aimed at emergency foster carers. This includes enhanced financial support, with an additional disturbance allowance if a child is placed out of hours, as well as emotional and practical support from a range of professionals and fellow foster carers.

    Children may be placed in emergency care for a number of reasons, including to protect them from immediate risk of harm, or because their parent or carer has been admitted to hospital and there is no safe adult to care for the child.

    Emergency foster carers care for children for up to two weeks, while they are either supported to live back at home or move to live with a family member or a longer-term foster carer.   

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Children come into our care for a variety of reasons and there are sometimes emergencies where they need a safe place to stay immediately.

    “We need more emergency foster carers who are set up to look after children in these circumstances which is why we’ve developed this specific package of support. We would welcome applications from new prospective foster carers who think that emergency fostering may fit into their life.”

    To be an emergency foster carer, you must be over 21 and have the space for a foster child in your heart and home, with a spare bedroom available for a child at all times.

    For more information, contact the Foster for Plymouth team on [email protected] or 01752 308762. Find out more about fostering in Plymouth at fosterforplymouth.co.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GPs to launch ‘Nature Prescriptions’ with RSPB Scotland

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Three GP practices in Aberdeen have teamed up with RSPB Scotland, with support from Aberdeen City Council to roll out ‘Nature Prescriptions’, a pilot initiative designed to increase patients’ physical and mental health through a greater connection with local nature.  

    A ‘Nature Prescription’ is a guided conversation with a healthcare professional and patient which explores how wellbeing can be improved through a deeper connection with nature. Alongside the conversation, a ‘Nature Prescription Calendar’ is provided which contains seasonal activities, tailored to the local area.

    The calendar was informed by a community co-creation session supported by Aberdeen City Council. Suggested activities include spending time in a favourite nature space close to home, looking for signs of changing seasons, and recording the nature you see through photos, drawings or writing.

    Councillor Christian Allard, Co-Leader of Aberdeen City Council and Chair of Community Planning Aberdeen, said: “Research shows how spending time outdoors and being at one with nature helps people’s physical and mental wellbeing, which is why it is a key objective of Community Planning Aberdeen and the city’s Local Outcome Improvement Plan (LOIP).

    “By being part of RSPB Scotland’s Nature Prescriptions initiative, local GP Practices in Aberdeen can offer their patients the opportunity to connect with nature on their doorstep through a calendar of local events and activities.  It’s a great initiative, which we hope more local GP Practices will sign up to.”

    Dawn James, RSPB Scotland Community Engagement Officer, said: “With a growing body of evidence that nature connection is important for our health and wellbeing, taking time in nature can be crucial. RSPB Nature Prescriptions can help patients build their relationship with nature in a meaningful way to improve wellbeing with support from a healthcare professional.

    “We are excited to be collaborating with GPs and Aberdeen City Council to deliver the project for people in the area. Included in the calendar are varied accessible activities which reflect nature and wildlife across Aberdeen which were informed by feedback from the local community. It’s encouraging to see nature have an increasing role in the toolkit of healthcare professionals across Scotland and we hope this will help many patients kickstart a stronger relationship with the nature around them to help better support their health.”

    Dr Adrain Crofton, Lead Clinician, Torry Medical Practice said: “We have a wonderful resource of parks, woods, seashore and rivers in Aberdeen. We now know that even the smallest contact with nature, of being outside observing and appreciating plants, other creatures or the flow of the seasons is of incredible value to our health and sense of wellbeing.

    “This locality-specific and user-friendly programme designed by RSPB Scotland is an excellent tool for us to give to patients who feel this might be something they would like to try but might not otherwise know where to start. The materials are of a high quality and very easy and fun to follow.

    “The great advantage of the nature prescription is that it is all on your doorstep and is something that can help anyone at any stage of life, and it’s free. In many ways, that makes it one of the best treatments we have”.

    A growing body of evidence finds that connection to nature can benefit physical and mental health in varied ways including reducing stress, boosting the immune system, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improved memory and concentration.

    The Nature Prescription initiative was first trialled in Scotland in Shetland and in five GP practices across Edinburgh. 74% of patients who took part in the trial reported having benefitted and 91% of prescribing health professionals stated that they would continue to offer Nature Prescriptions. Since then, further trial schemes have been launched across Scotland including Orkney and Argyll and Bute, as well as in other parts of the UK.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work to begin on new council homes at former school site

    Source: City of Leicester

    WORK is set to begin on the construction of more than 50 new affordable council homes at a former school site in the south of Leicester.

    Leicester City Council plans to redevelop the derelict site of the former Newry and Southfield schools, in Eyres Monsell, for new housing.

    The school buildings, which had stood empty for over a decade, were demolished in late 2022. This was supported by £360,000 of government funding from the One Public Estate (OPE) programme.

    Now the council is ready to begin work to build 53 new council homes on the site. This will comprise of 44 houses and nine flats.

    The new homes will be built to high eco-performance standards and feature a range of energy efficiency measures to cut their carbon cost and help future tenants save on energy bills.

    After a competitive tendering process, the council has appointed GEDA, an award-winning construction, civil engineering, and development company, to oversee the construction of the new homes.

    Cllr Elly Cutkelvin, assistant city mayor for housing, said: “The redevelopment of the vacant and disused Newry and Southfield school sites for new housing represents an important step in our wider strategy to address the housing crisis in the city.

    “I’m pleased that construction work is now able to get under way on this complex and exciting project.

    “It will provide dozens of new and much-needed council homes and help bring a vacant site back into use in a way that will bring real benefits to the local neighbourhood.

    “We’ve set out an ambitious programme of creating new housing to try to meet the city’s urgent housing needs. Building new council houses to replace those lost to the Right to Buy scheme over the last few decades is an essential part of that.”

    Colm McVeigh, Build GB Director at GEDA Construction, said: “We are delighted to be working with Leicester City Council and their design team to deliver 53 housing units at Southfield and Newry. This is an exemplar project, and the new homes will be built to high-performance standards.

    “We’re also proud to working on a project that will have a huge and positive impact on the community, providing much-needed high-quality and affordable new homes for local residents.”

    Contractors will move onto the site in the coming days, with construction work expected to take around 16 months to complete.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bill McKay Trophy

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    AN ANNUAL award given to Dundee City Council’s Construction Services Apprentice of the Year has been picked up this year by an electrician.

    Lee Millar, in his second year as an electrician, was presented with the Bill McKay Trophy on Friday (February 21).

    Second year painter, Caitlin Vannet was the 2025 runner-up in the competition which recognises the apprentice who has achieved the best results at college and work during their apprenticeship.

    The trophy itself was donated in memory of the late Bill McKay, deputy director of Public Works (now part of the council’s neighbourhood services) from 1984 to 1993.

    Lynne Short, deputy convener of Dundee City Council’s neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee who attended the prize-giving said: “A big well done to Lee for picking up this year’s award and to Cailin for a tremendous second place.

    “We should never underestimate the amount of hard work it takes for a young person to get this level of recognition from their peers and skilled trades people, both at college and on the tools.

    “Lee and Caitlin are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to hard-working apprentices in construction services putting in the effort to learn a trade for themselves, and with it helping the people of the city get their homes and buildings to the highest possible standards.”

    Lee picked up the winners’ plaque and a tool voucher for £125, while Caitlin took home the runner up plaque and a tool voucher for £75.

    Cllr Short, added: “Apprentices and other recruits can pick up valuable skills and opportunities through their roles with Construction services, which plays a major role in the council.

    “The council’s apprenticeship schemes, as a whole, contribute to helping our young people reach their full potential.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: After three years of war, the Netherlands continues to support Ukraine

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 24-02-2025 | 12:02

    On 24 February 2022 Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For three years the Ukrainian people have been fighting for their lives and for their liberty. This article explains why supporting Ukraine remains important – to the whole of Europe.

    Enlarge image
    Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine, in the center of Kyiv.

    Why the Netherlands continues to support Ukraine:

    For the Ukrainian people

    Russia has caused devastation to the daily lives of millions of Ukrainians. Many Ukrainian towns and villages have been completely destroyed. In the areas occupied by Russia, Ukrainians have suffered violence at the hands of Russian soldiers. They have been murdered, tortured and raped. Ukrainian children have also been abducted. With international support, Ukrainians have been defending their country for three years.

    Russia started the war. And Russia could end it at any time.

    For the security of Europe as a whole

    Russia’s aggression is about more than Ukraine. President Putin has spoken publicly about a conflict with ‘the West’. And Russia is stepping up its efforts to undermine European countries. This includes cyberattacks, sabotage, election interference and spreading fake news.

    In other words: by defending itself against Russia, Ukraine is fighting for the security of Europe as a whole. That’s another reason why it’s important to support Ukraine. A Russian victory in Ukraine will not bring an end to the danger. And the costs for Europe will end up being much higher. Europe may have to deal with even more Russian cyberattacks or other kinds of attacks. And with more Ukrainian refugees who are unable to return home.

    For a world in which aggression is not rewarded

    A Russian victory would have consequences for the whole world. It would send a signal to Russia and to China, North Korea and Iran that aggression will be rewarded. And that brute strength is more important than international rules and agreements. That could lead to even more wars.

    Peace through strength, not war through weakness.

    Ukraine must be able to defend itself. And Russia must be made to pay a high price for its aggression. That is why the government is continuing to provide unwavering support to Ukraine. To help secure a positive outcome to the war, based on the idea of: achieving peace by showing strength, not risking further war by showing weakness.

    Dutch support for Ukraine

    The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine. It is for example providing:

    • Military support: equipment, such as munitions, F-16 aircraft and anti-aircraft systems. The Netherlands is also providing training to Ukrainian military personnel.
    • Sanctions against Russia: the sanctions imposed by EU member states are hurting the Russian economy. That makes it harder and more expensive for Russia to keep the war going.
    • Justice for Ukraine: working to ensure that war crimes do not go unpunished and that people who have suffered damage, loss or injury in the war receive compensation.
    • Reconstruction: support to repair damage where it is most needed: water mains, roads, hospitals and the electrical grid. This support is crucial so that Ukraine can continue to function.
    • Humanitarian aid: helping international, Dutch and Ukrainian organisations to provide emergency goods, ensure the availability of drinking water, medicine and food, provide protection, and assist civilian victims.
    • Protection of Ukrainian cultural heritage: Russia is deliberately attacking cultural targets in Ukraine, in an attempt to erase Ukraine’s culture and identity. The Netherlands is supporting Ukraine in the protection of its cultural heritage.
    • Other support: the Netherlands is also helping Ukraine by providing support in areas like healthcare, psychosocial care for victims, agriculture and cybersecurity.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: ‘My family lived on the second floor – where the missile hit and exploded’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    This story contains descriptions of attacks during armed conflict, including descriptions of the people who were killed. We published these details to bear witness to this family’s experience.

    On 24 February 2022, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For millions of families across the country, this moment marked the beginning of an ongoing nightmare.

    To mark the three-year anniversary, Olga Padey recounts the tragic loss of her niece Anastasia, a passionate gymnast, and nephew Maksym, a young karate champion. They were both killed, along with their mother, when their home was hit by a Russian missile in Kyiv, far from the front lines.

    Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians have been killed or injured since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Amnesty International has been documenting stories of dozens of families who have lost their loved ones due to Russian aggression.

    My brother, Vasya, lost his entire family: his wife and two children, my niece and nephew. On 8 July 2024, a Russian missile struck their residential building near downtown Kyiv. My brother was on a work trip, so he survived. However, my brother’s life ended as well. He visits the cemetery where his children and wife are buried every day – morning and evening. Now, the house where they lived has been rebuilt, but he would never return there. He lives in the countryside.

    I asked him – should I talk about what happened? Is it important for people to hear this? We understand it won’t bring our loved ones back. But he said, “Yes.” Let there be a memory. Let it be a drop in the sea. A thread to the shirt. A memory, a memory… A memory of them.

    © Beata Kurkul/Amnesty International Ukraine

    Maksym was just 10 when he was killed Russian missile that destroyed his home. His sister, Anastasia, was eight. This drawing is taken from a memorial calendar produced by Amnesty International Ukraine. The artist is Beata Kurkul.

    My nephew Maksym was 10 years old. He was a long-awaited and loved child. My husband was his godfather. Maksym loved karate – he was a champion. He went fishing with his father a lot, he was his father’s son. Our little Anastasia, Nastya, was eight. She was always cuddling up to her mom, loved rhythmic gymnastics and dreamed of becoming a blogger. “I’ll show you all,” she would promise. Zoryana, my brother’s wife, was tranquil and neat. At their home, everything was always cleaned, cooked, done; I was always amazed at how she managed to do it all. There was never a moment when she just sat and did nothing; she always found something to do.

    The basement wouldn’t have saved them

    I have many photos and videos where they are laughing, talking, running. Those are happy memories of a happy family. But no matter how hard I try to remember only the good, I find myself remembering – every day – the destroyed building. That image. Maybe one day I will forget?

    The basement wouldn’t have saved them, because it collapsed. It was completely destroyed

    Olga Padey

    Zoryana, my brother’s wife, was afraid of rockets. She was scared. I know they usually went down to the basement during air raids. This time, they didn’t. But the basement wouldn’t have saved them, because it collapsed. It was completely destroyed. It would have taken a long time to search for them if they had gone down there. Instead, they hid in the bathroom, following the two walls rule. They lived on the second floor, where the rocket hit and exploded.

    It was an ordinary day. I spoke to my brother in the morning; he said he had left home for work. We talked for about 10 minutes. Later that day, the sirens started, there were explosions as Russians struck a children’s hospital. Then my brother phoned me once more. I thought, “Damn, we just talked this morning, and now he’s calling again.”

    He said, “Part of the building collapsed, Zoryana and the kids were home, they were at home, probably at home.” I told my husband, we quickly woke up our child, and went there. When we arrived, the State Emergency Service was searching for people in the rubble. Then the sirens went off again, and the work was paused.

    The bodies were found the same day

    We stayed by the building all the time. No one answered their phone. I tried to find out whether they had been taken to the hospital, if they were already found, I called different hospitals.

    © Amnesty International Ukraine

    What’s left of Anastasia and Maksym’s home, after it was hit by a Russian missile in Kyiv. The two children died, along with their mother.

    The bodies were found that same day. The first responders carried out a girl. I thought she was a bit older than my niece, and she had a strand of purple hair. I said, “This is not Nastya.” Nastya is somewhere alive, everything’s fine! But that was Nastya. The day before, they had gone to the hairdresser. Maksym had a haircut, and Nastya made a strand of purple hair. We didn’t know that. When they asked me to identity Maksym, I didn’t recognize him. He had a new haircut, and he had no face.

    At that time, my brother was returning to Kyiv from another city. When he arrived, Zoryana had been found. She had no head.

    There is no safe place

    I found out I was going to have a child during the first year of the full-scale war. I had been waiting to be a mother for so long. I wanted it so much. And it is only thanks to my child that I am holding on. Every day I think about Zoryana, about Maksym and Nastya, about my brother. I think about families, like the family where the father lost his wife and three daughters in Lviv. Or the family in Kharkiv, where the mother and three children were killed.

    In Ukraine, there is no safe place right now. So many people are dying. But for me, it’s such a shock every time… I have hope that justice will be served. That there will be responsibility for all those who give the orders. And for those who directly carry those orders out.  When will that happen? I hope it’s soon.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    February 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Third Caithness Area Place Plan public engagement event takes place in Lybster

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The first public drop-in sessions held last week in Wick and Thurso saw many residents coming forward to provide their views on what should be in the new Caithness Area Place Plan.  At the same time, they were able to find out more and make comment about the Council’s Highland Investment Plan, Highland Local Delivery Plan and feed into the consultation on the Visitor Tourism Levy.

    These successful sessions saw residents from across Caithness being asked for their views and priorities across a number of themes including health and well-being; housing and population; transport and getting around; nature and environment; work and economy; community facilities and services.  An evening on-line session was also held for those not able to attend in person.

    The final drop-in session which will focus on the Area Place Plan, is being held in Lybster Community Hall from 2pm – 5pm on Wednesday 26 February. 

    There is also an opportunity to respond to the survey and pop your ideas on the virtual noticeboard. Young people will also find a specific “ideas board” so encourage the whole family to submit their comments.  The survey and ideas boards will be available on-line until Friday 7 March after which the draft Area Place Plan will be considered by Caithness Committee.

    Caithness Committee Chair Councillor Ron Gunn said, “We were delighted to see so many people come along to the engagement sessions which covered a number of plans and projects which are currently in development.  However, we would also welcome further engagement and hope as many people as possible will come along to the final drop-in session in Lybster or visit the website and leave their ideas there.”

    24 Feb 2025

    Share this story

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 14 building plans approved in December

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    14 building plans approved in December
    14 building plans approved in December
    **************************************

         The Buildings Department approved 14 building plans in December, with three on Hong Kong Island, five in Kowloon and six in the New Territories.      Of the approved plans, three were for apartment and apartment/commercial developments, four were for commercial developments, four were for factory and industrial developments, and three were for community services developments.      In the same month, consent was given for works to start on 13 building projects which, when completed, will provide 55 692 square metres of gross floor area for domestic use involving 1 495 units, and 47 657 sq m of gross floor area for non-domestic use. The department has received notification of commencement of superstructure works for one building project.      The department also issued 29 occupation permits, with eight on Hong Kong Island, nine in Kowloon and 12 in the New Territories.      Of the buildings certified for occupation, the gross floor area for domestic use was 377 282 sq m involving 6 121 units, and 81 787 sq m was for non-domestic use.      The declared cost of new buildings completed in December totalled about $20.2 billion.      In addition, two demolition consents were issued.      The department received 2 427 reports about unauthorised building works (UBWs) in December and issued 318 removal orders on UBWs.      The full version of the Monthly Digest for December can be viewed on the Buildings Department’s homepage (www.bd.gov.hk).

     
    Ends/Monday, February 24, 2025Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SITI at Cisco Engage Greater Bay Area Summit (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Cisco Engage Greater Bay Area Summit today (February 24):
     
    Dave (President of Cisco Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China, Mr Dave West), Jacqueline (Senior Vice President & General Manager, Customer Experience, Cisco Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China, Ms Jacqueline Guichelaar), Ming (Vice President & Chief Executive Officer of Cisco Greater China, Mr Ming Wong), Iris (General Manager of Cisco Hong Kong, Macau and South China, Ms Iris Feng), distinguished speakers, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good morning. It is my great pleasure to be here today at the Cisco Engage Greater Bay Area event, a dynamic platform for exploring the exciting opportunities and innovative solutions that lie ahead in this vibrant region.   
     
         I am delighted to learn that today’s event brings more than 20 visionary speakers and some 400 tech industry leaders and experts from home and abroad, a true testament to Hong Kong’s ability to attract the world’s top talent and innovative ideas.
     
         Today’s theme, “Go beyond”, perfectly captures the spirit of Cisco’s success over the past 40 years. It is also a call to action, urging us to push the boundaries of what is possible and explore new horizons to achieve our shared vision of developing Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre.
     
         Hong Kong has long been recognised as a super connector, bridging the dynamic markets of Mainland China with the rest of the world. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is fully committed to creating a robust I&T ecosystem and a business-friendly environment where I&T enterprises and start-ups can grow and thrive here, and make impactful contributions to the local and global economy and society. Proactive initiatives, such as the development of the Hetao Hong Kong Park and the new I&T land in San Tin Technopole, will provide new impetus to our I&T development. We welcome more international I&T enterprises like Cisco to set foot in Hong Kong and leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an ideal gateway for businesses aiming to tap into the vast markets of Mainland China and the Asia-Pacific region.  
      
         To construct a sustainable I&T ecosystem, the close collaboration among government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors is crucial. Last year, Cisco collaborated with Cyberport to jointly build an AI Lab, and I am pleased to learn that it has achieved some remarkable results. As one of the world’s largest technology companies specialising in IT network, cyber security and cloud computing, Cisco has long been a solid player in the ICT (information and communications technology) industry, supporting Hong Kong to become a leading digital hub in the region. I look forward to witnessing more successful partnership between Cisco and other stakeholders in Hong Kong’s I&T industry.
     
         The digital landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Together, let us continue to embrace the spirit of “going beyond”, and navigate the complexities of the digital age. 
     
         Wish you all a great day. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investigators secure jail for plumbing fraudster

    Source: City of York

    A man from Bolton who targeted victims across the North West has been sentenced to 4 years in prison at Bradford Crown Court today, after defrauding vulnerable customers out of a total of £250,000.

    Suhaib Sirajudin, 39, of Fifth Avenue, Bolton, operated as an ‘emergency plumber’ and pleaded guilty to 2 counts of fraudulent trading on Wednesday 9 October 2024. The court heard how he took advantage of homeowners’ urgent need for a plumber by charging grossly inflated emergency callout and repair fees, frequently targeting victims who were older, vulnerable or lived alone. As well as seriously overcharging for initial works he often deliberately damaged victims’ properties in order to charge more for repairs.

    Between June 2021 and December 2022, trading as Plumbing Emergency 24/7 Limited and Expert Plumbing Limited 24/7, Mr Sirajudin advertised his services online and responded to emergency callouts from householders seeking urgent help with leaks. Mr Sirajudin would then exploit his victims, pressurising them into paying ‘extortionate’ sums for works that he completed to such a poor standard that the problem was either unresolved, or got worse.

    One older victim watched her kitchen ceiling fall in after Mr Sirajudin said a hole needed to be made in it to repair a bathroom leak. In total she and her husband, who was bedbound, paid almost £10,000 which was almost all their savings. Another victim paid over £3,000 for the repair of a toilet leak that should have cost around £300. An expert said even that minor repair was not done properly.

    Another elderly couple were quoted £39,000 to repair their gas fire and boiler, which Mr Sirajudin was not qualified to do. They said Sirajudin made them feel belittled and as though they could not question the bill. They eventually paid £21,000.

    Many victims describe how Mr Sirajudin became aggressive when challenged, shouting and refusing to leave or threatening to take away new parts if payment was not made immediately. When victims or their relatives later contacted the companies to complain, their refund requests were often refused and they were cut off on the phone.

    As well as the financial losses, the emotional, mental and physical toll taken on victims has been significant, with a loss of confidence, depression and problems sleeping being among the lasting impacts of Mr Sirajudin’s crimes.

    The defendant was sentenced following an investigation by the National Trading Standards Yorkshire and Humber Regional Investigations Team, hosted by City of York Council, and the National Trading Standards eCrime Team, hosted by North Yorkshire Council.

    As well as the custodial sentence, Mr Sirajudin is also subject to a £250,000 confiscation order for victim compensation and £30,000 in prosecution costs. He will be disqualified from being a company director for 8 years.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member with portfolio for Trading Standards at City of York Council, said:

    Mr Sirajudin intimidated and exploited people at a time when they needed emergency plumbing help, often late at night, in their own homes.

    “Many victims were elderly or vulnerable and were charged extortionate amounts for often minor repairs which were badly done; in some cases made considerably worse. I hope they gain some small comfort from the sentencing today, and I’m very grateful for the persistence and dedication of our investigating teams here in York and North Yorkshire who worked hard to bring this case to trial.”

    Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said:

    With householders in desperate need of a plumber, often in the middle of the night, Mr Sirajudin was already in a position of power by the time he arrived at a caller’s home.

    “If he saw that a customer was older, vulnerable or lived alone he took the opportunity to exploit them, leaving many feeling frightened in their own homes as well as thousands of pounds out of pocket.

    “I hope today’s sentencing provides some comfort for those involved and serves as a stark reminder that this type of callous intimidation and deceit will be investigated, and perpetrators brought to justice.

    “If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a fraud like this you should report it to the Citizens Advice consumer service helpline by calling 0808 223 1133.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) now live 24 February 2025 Isle of Wight Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) now live

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) for children and families is now live.

    The Isle of Wight Council now has its own Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).

    The Isle of Wight Council and partner agencies have a duty to safeguard children and young people at risk of or in need of help and protection, by working together in a coordinated way.

    The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) brings together professionals from children’s social care, police, education and health providers to share information and make decisions to safeguard and promote the wellbeing of children.

    If Island residents are worried about a child they can report any concerns through the Isle of Wight Council’s website or by calling 01983 823435.

    Statement from the Director of Children’s Services

    We are delighted to announce that the multi-agency safeguarding hub for our children and families on the Island is now being delivered in-house by Isle of Wight Children’s Services. This significant milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care and protection for the children in our community.

    We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hampshire County Council for their invaluable support and collaboration over the past years. We also extend our thanks to the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Partnership, their expertise and dedication have been instrumental in helping us reach this point, and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership as we move forward.

    Together, we are making a profound difference in the lives of children and families on the Isle of Wight.

    Further information on what this means can be found on the Isle of Wight Council’s website

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 14 building plans approved in Dec

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Buildings Department approved 14 building plans in December – three on Hong Kong Island, five in Kowloon and six in the New Territories.

    Three of the plans were for residential or residential-commercial developments, four were for commercial developments, four were for factory or industrial developments, and three were for community services developments.

    Consent was given for works to start on 13 building projects which, when completed, will provide 55,692 sq m of gross floor area for domestic use across 1,495 units, and 47,657 sq m of gross floor area for non-domestic use.

    Additionally, the department received notification of the commencement of superstructure works for one building project.

    It also issued 29 occupation permits – eight on Hong Kong Island, nine in Kowloon and 12 in the New Territories.

    The buildings certified for occupation comprise 377,282 sq m of gross floor area for domestic use across 6,121 units, and 81,787 sq m for non-domestic use.

    Meanwhile, the department received 2,427 reports about unauthorised building works in December and issued 318 removal orders.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview – ABC Afternoon Briefing with Tom Lowrey

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    TOM LOWREY, HOST: Now, while the government wants to run on its support for Medicare, some in the Opposition have criticised the way the government is selling its pledge as a rerun of Medi-scare. To discuss this and more, let’s bring in the Youth Minister, Anne Aly. Minister, thanks for joining Afternoon Briefing and thanks for bearing through some technical difficulties too.

    MINISTER ANNE ALY: That’s ok. It’s just another day.

    LOWREY: And we’re already hearing GPs saying this is welcome, this Medicare pledge, but it doesn’t mean they’re about to start bulk billing. Their costs are simply too high. What would you say to them?

    ALY: Look, I think that the overwhelming evidence that we’ve seen, and I know that the Health Minister, Mark Butler, has done extensive consultations on this, is that this is good policy, it’s welcome policy, and first and foremost it’s about ensuring that all Australians have access to the healthcare they need and they don’t put off seeing a doctor because of the cost of seeing a doctor. And secondly, it’s about getting Medicare back on track to what its original purpose is, is that you should have access to the services you need, the health services you need, not based on your credit card. So, all the information that we’ve got is that this is good policy and that we’re confident that it will be taken up by the majority of bulk billing clinics or of practitioners, sorry, practitioner clinics by 2030.

    LOWREY: Yeah, we’ve been told to expect 90 per cent bulk billing by 2030. Is that figure a commitment from Labor or is it a hope?

    ALY: I think it’s based on projections of and – projections of what the uptake would be. These are really good incentives for practitioners and practices to bulk bill beyond what they already bulk bill, which is people on a concession card, for children and for pensioners and low-income families. This is to ensure that every Australian, regardless of what their bank balance is, has access to the medical services that they need. So, those projections are based on a level of confidence that this is the kind of incentive that will make a difference to practitioners and practices.

    LOWREY: Anne Aly, your home state of WA is in the midst of a state election campaign. We saw both campaigns launch their campaigns over the weekend. Are you worried that voters in WA might be happy to back Roger Cook, who seems like a reasonably popular Premier, but willing to back Peter Dutton when the federal election rolls around?

    ALY: Well, there’s always this kind of talk, and there’s two schools of thought. One is that the state election impacts on the federal election, and the other one is that, you know, Australians are discerning enough voters to make a difference between the two. And, you know, both are true to some extent and in their own ways. Look, I think that West Australians know that Labor, both federally and state, is good for them. We’ve got a strong economy here in WA, we’ve got low unemployment, we’ve got a state government that has really managed the budget well. We’ve got really strong infrastructure. And you know, we’ve got a Federal Government in Labor that has worked closely with the WA Government in the interests of Western Australia and a Prime Minister in Anthony Albanese who has made WA a focus. He’s been to Australia more times than I can, to Western Australia more times than I can count. I think it’s about 30 times or getting up to 30 times now, and has demonstrated to West Australians that he’s not just eastern states focused.

    LOWREY: Labor in WA at a state level. Is it something of a high watermark? Of course, the Former Premier Mark McGowan knocked the Liberals down. So, I think, is it six lower house seats in that state? Are you concerned the Liberals might take some momentum federally, even out of a close defeat in WA? They don’t necessarily need to win this election; they just need to come somewhat close.

    ALY: Well, the Liberals have a long way to go to, to take, take government here in Western Australia. I think they have to win something like 20 seats. So, it’s impossible to see them doing that, to be quite frank. You know, I think the extent to which they will claw back some of the seats that they lost at the last election will be seen over as the WA election continues. But I think also the West Australian Liberals have shown that they’re just really not ready to govern to be honest. They’ve had a whole lot of different scandals with one of the, with some of the, the people that they’ve pre-selected. They’ve had a challenge from Basil Zempilas against Libby Mettam, and I don’t think they’ve demonstrated to the West Australian people that they are in a position to govern and that they’re ready to govern.

    LOWREY: I just want to touch on your portfolio area of child care quickly and early childhood education. Is there more to come from Labor on child care ahead of the election or the Activity Test changes we saw past Parliament in the past few weeks it for Labor ahead of that poll?

    ALY: Well, I’ll just say it wasn’t just the Activity Test. The Activity Test, yes, did pass Parliament and for your viewers, the Activity Test was introduced by the Liberal Government in 2018. And the purpose of it, the stated purpose of it, was to incentivise women, in particular, to return to work. We know that that didn’t happen, and rather, what the Activity Test did was lock out children, and particularly children who would benefit the most from early childhood education and care, lock them out of the system. The Liberal and Coalition voted against our changes to the Activity Test, which demonstrates where they sit in terms of those transformational benefits of early childhood education and care, but also in terms of cost-of-living relief, because removing the Activity Test would benefit around 70,000 families with real cost-of-living relief. But that’s not the only thing that we’re doing. We’ve also got a building education fund, Building Early Education Fund. That’s a billion dollars that we’re putting towards building the services that families and children need, particularly in areas where there are no services. So, outer suburban, rural and regional and in vulnerable communities. This is all part of the big package, of course, starting with bringing down the cost of early childhood education, raising the wages of early childhood educators and getting more early childhood educators in to ensure kind of a stable workforce as a foundation and all working towards our vision of an early childhood education and care sector that is universal, and that recognises that this is an essential service that families and parents rely on.

    LOWREY: And before I let you go, I just want to touch on some of what we’ve seen in the Middle East over the past few days. Israel has been heavily critical of a ceremony Hamas put on as it returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages late last week. What did you make of those images, and how concerned are you about the ceasefire holding?

    ALY: I’m really concerned. I think what this demonstrates, what we know, is that it is particularly fragile. The ceasefire is particularly fragile. Peace is over there is particularly fragile. What we want to see is this first phase of the ceasefire to run smoothly and continue and then transition into the second phase of the ceasefire with a goal towards everlasting peace through a two-state solution. That’s Australia’s position. We’ve always supported a ceasefire, so of course, we are keen to see that the conditions of the ceasefire continue to be met and that that ceasefire can transition to the second phase. So, it is concerning. It is concerning that there are, I guess, challenges to the ceasefire continuing, but again, underscoring the fragility of it.

    LOWREY: Anne Aly, thanks so much for joining the Afternoon Briefing.

    ALY: Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nomad Internet Wholesale⁦ Goes Live, Empowering Americans to become an Internet Service Provider Overnight

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nomad Internet, a leading provider of internet services in America, has announced the launch of Nomad Internet Wholesale, a total paradigm shift in wireless connectivity, transforming Nomad Internet from a service provider to a wholesaler enabler. As a business-in-a-box solution, Nomad Internet Wholesale lets anyone become their own Internet Service Provider (ISP). Nomad Internet Wholesale provides the technology, equipment, marketing tools, and support to help Americans sell high-speed internet under their own brand. The user has full control over pricing, branding, and customer service.

    While announcing the launch of Nomad Internet Wholesale, Jaden Garza, CINO at Nomad Internet, shared on LinkedIn, “The future of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is here, and we’re making it easier than ever for entrepreneurs and businesses to launch their own ISP instantly—all from the comfort of home.”

    Nomad Internet Wholesale: A Complete Turnkey Solution.

    For years, major telecom firms have gathered power over internet accessibility, sidelining small, independent ISPs, resulting in communities facing scarce and costly alternatives. With Nomad Internet Wholesale, Nomad Internet is revolutionizing the market by equipping local entrepreneurs with the necessary tools for successful competition. In contrast to conventional ISP models that need significant infrastructure spending, Nomad’s program enables providers to begin with just one active line. This unmatched accessibility allows even one person to utilize the same carrier connections, pricing, and technological infrastructure as major providers.

    Nomad Internet Wholesale packages the refined technology, logistical systems, and carrier relationships that Nomad Internet has painstakingly built over years into an accessible platform that allows individuals to launch and manage their internet services with ease. As the ultimate fixed wireless wholesale ISP system, Nomad Internet Whole offers a host of benefits:

    • Nationwide coverage without building towers or networks.
    • No infrastructure costs—we handle everything
    • No administrative headaches—automated activations & customer management
    • No upfront investment—just pure opportunity
    • Set own pricing models
    • Freedom to market as per their own community needs
    • Access the same wholesale agreements and carrier partnerships as major telecom companies

    “At its core, this initiative is about economic empowerment,” added Jaden Garza. “This initiative isn’t about creating another giant ISP. It’s about creating thousands of local providers who understand their communities’ needs better than any massive corporation ever could.”

    The Technology Behind Nomad Internet Wholesale.

    Nomad Internet has spent years refining its operational framework, ensuring that its partners have everything they need to launch and sustain a successful ISP business. This includes:

    • Carrier Relationships: Access to competitive wholesale agreements with leading network providers.
    • Hardware & Equipment: Tested and optimized modems and network hardware.
    • Seamless Onboarding & Billing Systems: Automated customer acquisition, activation, and subscription management.
    • Logistics & Fulfillment: Efficient distribution and deployment of equipment to new providers.
    • Automated Backend Support: Streamlined troubleshooting and technical assistance for customer management.

    With this pre-established infrastructure, new ISPs can bypass the traditional barriers to entry and focus on delivering high-quality service to their customers.

    Decentralizing Wireless Access: The Future of Internet Distribution

    By enabling independent ISPs, Nomad Internet is championing a decentralized approach to internet access. This model decentralizes control from major corporations to local businesses and entrepreneurs who can customize services to address particular regional requirements.

    Rather than a monopolistic system that compels communities to select from restricted choices, this initiative promotes competition, innovation, and cost-effectiveness. Rural America, specifically, is poised to gain greatly, as inhabitants will enjoy enhanced access to a variety of locally sourced internet options.

    “Imagine a world where every town has its internet provider, built by someone who truly understands the area’s unique connectivity challenges,” Jaden explained. “This initiative is bigger than Nomad—it’s about reshaping the entire industry.”

    As Nomad Internet rolls out this initiative, the focus will be on refining and optimizing the model for scalability. The foundation is already in place, and future iterations will continue to enhance the program to ensure its long-term success.

    “This is just the beginning,” concluded Mr. Garza (CINO Nomad Internet). “We are committed to building a sustainable, community-driven internet ecosystem that gives people real choices, real control, and real competition in the broadband industry.”

    For more information on how to become an independent ISP, visit the official page of Nomad Internet Wholesale.

    About Nomad Internet

    Nomad Internet is America’s leading wireless internet provider for rural communities, delivering high-speed, reliable, and affordable connectivity to those in areas where traditional services fall short.

    Media Contact

    Company Name: Nomad Internet

    Contact Person: Manish Roshan

    Email: manish@nomadinternet.com

    Website: https://nomadinternet.com

    Phone: +1 281 800 1000

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by the Nomad Internet. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dabc1d47-3073-4d73-87f5-87bbcf0db787

    The MIL Network –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and ACES-NH deploy 25G PON-based neutral host fiber network to enhance broadband connectivity across Saudi Arabia #MWC25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia and ACES-NH deploy 25G PON-based neutral host fiber network to enhance broadband connectivity across Saudi Arabia #MWC25

    • ACES-NH first to deploy a 25G PON-based neutral host fiber network in Saudi Arabia, providing service providers across the region with access to high-speed connectivity to operators, residential, enterprise and SMEs users.
    • Nokia’s Altiplano network automation solution will enable ACES-NH to streamline operations, lower costs and enhance internet service delivery.
    • Nokia is the only vendor that supports all next-generation PON options, including 10G, 25G, 50G, and future 100G PON technologies.

    24 February 2025
    Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Nokia today announced that ACES-NH successfully deployed Saudi Arabia’s first-ever 25G PON-based neutral host network, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fiber evolution. Built on Nokia’s fiber technology, the new network enables multiple service providers to leverage a unified infrastructure, minimizing redundancy and driving enhanced connectivity to bolster Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

    The neutral host model allows multiple service providers to share a high-performance fiber broadband network, improving efficiency and reducing infrastructure duplication. As the leading supplier of 25G PON technology, Nokia equips ACES-NH with a future-ready fiber platform, supporting evolving use cases — from residential broadband and enterprise connectivity to smart city services and industrial applications.

    ACES-NH’ open access network, powered by Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller, leverages automation to streamline operations. The initial deployment comprises Optical Line Terminals (OLTs) and Optical Network Terminals (ONTs), laying the groundwork for future nationwide expansion and extended use cases for enterprises.

    Based on the Quillion chipset, Nokia’s 25G PON fiber broadband solution enables ACES-NH to deliver high-speed data and low latency for next-generation applications. This advancement ensures that businesses, small and medium enterprises, and consumers can enjoy seamless connectivity for cloud gaming, enterprise networking, and next-generation digital experiences.

    “Together with Nokia, we are proud to deliver Saudi Arabia’s first 25G PON-based neutral host network. This deployment transforms fiber connectivity in the Kingdom, giving multiple service providers secure, high-speed access over a shared infrastructure and reinforcing ACES-NH’ leadership in neutral host solutions.” said Dr. Luai Hasnawi, Chief of Fixed Network at ACES-NH.

    “This milestone marks a major shift toward “Fiber for Everything”. With 25G PON, infrastructure providers like ACES-NH can address residential, enterprise, and mobile transport needs on a single network, reducing costs and accelerating digital innovation across Saudi Arabia,” added Kamal Ballout, Head of Middle East and Africa Enterprise and Partners, Network Infrastructure at Nokia.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news 
    Product page: Nokia 25G PON
    Product page: Nokia Altiplano Access Controller
    Web page: Fiber for Everything

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

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

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

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Middle East & Africa Communications
    Email: cordia.so@nokia.com

    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s tech hub Shenzhen to launch 10B yuan fund to accelerate AI industry growth

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A robotic whale shark swims in a tank at Xiaomeisha Sea World in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, Sept. 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The south China tech hub of Shenzhen will launch a 10 billion yuan (about 1.39 billion U.S. dollars) industry fund to support the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, focusing on AI software, hardware and embodied intelligence, local authorities said Sunday.

    The fund is part of the city’s broader push to strengthen its position as a global hub for AI innovation.

    City officials revealed the plan at a press conference, announcing an additional 4.5 billion yuan in funding to be raised this year. This funding will cover up to 60 percent of computing power costs for businesses, with a maximum of 10 million yuan per enterprise, provided through vouchers and subsidies.

    Shenzhen’s AI ambitions go beyond financial support. The city plans to expand its AI application base with an additional 100 scenarios set to roll out in 2025, focusing on sectors like municipal sanitation, emergency response and health care. This follows the introduction of nearly 200 AI-powered application scenarios already in place across the city.

    Shenzhen aims to create a highly systematic, complete and collaborative innovation ecosystem, accelerate the development of a globally influential industrial and technological innovation center, and build itself into a city of innovation, said Zhang Lin, director of the Shenzhen municipal bureau of science and technology innovation.

    Shenzhen, once a small fishing village in Guangdong Province, has transformed into one of China’s most dynamic and innovative cities. It is home to more than 2,200 AI companies and boasts a comprehensive AI industry chain that spans from smart chips and algorithm frameworks to large models and software-hardware applications, according to data from the Shenzhen AI industry office.

    Data from iResearch, an industry research and consulting institute, indicates that China’s AI industry is projected to reach 811 billion yuan by 2028, with emerging sectors such as AI and robotics poised to unlock significant market potential and development opportunities.

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Rapidly growing cyber market presents range of issues for insurers, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Rapidly growing cyber market presents range of issues for insurers, says GlobalData

    Posted in Insurance

    The speed at which cyber insurance has grown and continues to grow as a product means insurers are cautious not to overexpose themselves in a particular risky line. A lack of built-up knowledge around historical data, how to assess risk, and how to manage claims are some of the leading concerns around cyber insurance from industry insiders, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    A GlobalData poll* conducted across Verdict Media sites in Q4 2024 and Q1 2025 found that assessing risk accurately was the biggest concern among industry insiders in offering cyber insurance. This was followed by other issues that are clearly linked to it—such as a lack of historical data. The product has grown so quickly due to the rapid rise of digitalization that it is very difficult for insurers to fully understand the level of risk they are exposing themselves to. It is also hard for them to limit risk, as in theory all of their customers could be hacked in the same incident.

    Ben Carey-Evans, Senior Insurance Analyst, GlobalData, comments: “Cyber insurance is unlike other lines, such as household, where insurers would limit the number of insured properties in high-risk areas. This creates a difficult balance between trying to increase penetration rates and grow the product and trying to keep premiums down to attract customers as the level of risk continues to rise.”

    Difficulties with assessing risk, managing claims, and a lack of reinsurance, combined with an ever-increasing threat of cyberattacks, have led to premium prices increasing by around 20% year-on-year in recent times, according to the Association of British Insurers.

    According to GlobalData, the UK cyber insurance market is forecast to see double-digit growth up to 2028, with a high of 44.7% growth estimated for 2024. The market is estimated to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.7% during 2023-28.

    Be Carey-Evans concludes: “This high level of growth, despite some uncertainty from insurers around managing and assessing risk, emphasizes the scale of demand within the market. It is continuing to grow despite some hesitancy from insurers and soaring premiums. It should get easier for insurers as they have more historical data to work with, but the level of risk will only rise as hackers become more sophisticated and businesses continue to operate primarily online.

    “Insurers will struggle to reduce premiums due to the level of price, but as inflationary pressures ease, more businesses should be able to afford it. The challenge for insurers is to convince businesses of its value and potentially to tailor policies to perfectly fit businesses’ needs.”

    *The poll was conducted globally with 105 participants  

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who is Friedrich Merz, the man now most likely to lead Germany? Eight things to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ed Turner, Reader in Politics, Co-Director, Aston Centre for Europe, Aston University

    With the social democrat Olaf Scholz conceding defeat to the centre right in Germany’s election, the man most likely to be named the next chancellor will be Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz.

    The CDU has emerged as the largest party with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) second – its best-ever result in a federal election.

    Merz will have to assemble a coalition government, which will involve some tough negotiations, but Europe’s leaders can be expected to treat him as a “chancellor in waiting”. Here are eight things to know about the man about to take one of the most important political positions in Europe.

    1. He’s taking his party further to the right

    The first thing you need to know about Merz is that he and former chancellor Angela Merkel were longstanding rivals and sparring partners. Back in the early 2000s, after Merkel became leader of the CDU, she ousted Merz from his role as the party’s parliamentary leader, taking on the role herself.

    Merkel never made Merz a minister, and indeed he decided not to run for parliament again in 2009, having already begun to focus on his various private sector interests (as a lawyer but also a company board member). Merz was critical of Merkel’s decision to shift the CDU to the centre ground and was concerned it would open up space for the AfD to move into.



    Read more:
    What is the AfD? Germany’s far-right party, explained

    When Merz did become party leader in 2022, he began rewriting of the party’s programme in a much more conservative direction.

    2. He’s an economic liberal

    Merz takes a very different economic view to Merkel, at least in the latter years of her chancellorship. In 2003, he argued for a radical simplification of Germany’s tax rules such that a tax return could be calculated on the back of a beer mat.

    His party’s 2025 manifesto argued for deregulation and tax cuts to boost Germany’s sluggish growth. Part of this, Merz argued, should be funded by more conditionality being applied to welfare recipients, with a complete stop on benefits for recipients who refused to take any form of work on. In 2024, he also said he’d do “everything” to stop the EU taking on common debt.

    3. He’s a social conservative

    In his younger years, Merz was in the Catholic youth movement. He has a record of voting against abortion and has made a few awkward comments about homosexuality (saying of Klaus Wowereit, a gay mayor of Berlin, “I don’t mind as long as he doesn’t come near me”). In a strange comment, he once referred to his wife and daughters as evidence he didn’t have a problem with women. In a TV debate with Scholz, Merz was asked about Donald Trump’s recognition of only two genders, and reacted: “You can understand his position.”

    In 2000, Merz spoke of a German Leitkultur (loosely, “leading culture”, as contrasted with “multiculturalism”) – a term now in common parlance in Merz’s CDU.

    4. He’s a transatlantacist

    From 2009 to 2019, Merz chaired the Atlantic Bridge, a prominent German organisation devoted to strengthening relations between Germany and the US. He is a transatlanticist by instinct and recently sent a hand-written note to Donald Trump congratulating him on his election, noting his “strong mandate for leadership”. However, in a statement on election night, Merz pledged to “achieve independence” from the US and recognised that Trump is “largely indifferent” to Europe’s fate.

    5. He’s pro-European

    With some caveats (for instance around common debt and cooperation over refugees) Merz is a pro-European. He was a member of the European parliament between 1989 and 1994, and has been clear that closer European cooperation is an essential part of Europe’s answer to Trump.

    He has also patched up relations with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen (with whom, as a Merkel ally and CDU liberal he had little instinctive attraction), and sees potential in cooperation with her and with Manfred Weber, a CSU politician and leader of the European parliament’s centre-right MEPs.

    Merz has also pledged to visit Warsaw and Paris to rebuild relations after a difficult period under Scholz.

    6. His dealings with the far right have been controversial

    Merz has been consistently inconsistent when it comes to relations with the AfD. He mused in 2023 about the possibility of cooperation at a local level, noting that “we are obliged to recognise democratic elections”, before rowing back.

    In November 2024, Merz said he and his party would not attempt to pass legislation in the national parliament if it meant relying on AfD votes to do it. But he shocked the nation in January 2025 when he did precisely that – pushing forward a hardline immigration plan with the AfD’s support.



    Read more:
    What happened in the German parliament and why is the far right hailing it as a ‘historic’ moment?

    The volte face earned him criticism from his nemesis, Merkel – although that’s not something likely to have concerned him unduly.

    7. He’ll be hemmed in by coalition politics

    Merz will need to strike a deal with multiple other parties in order to govern. That will make his flagship programme of tax cuts hard to achieve, since cuts to welfare or climate spending would be anathema to all potential coalition partners.

    Germany’s other parties instead want Merz to reconsider Germany’s “debt brake” – the constitutional rules that restrict government borrowing. He’ll be under even more pressure to do so given a broad consensus over the need to raise defence spending.

    Perhaps it will take a conservative fiscal hawk to assemble the necessary two-thirds majorities in both chambers of parliament for change.

    8. He’d like to visit… Tibet?

    Finally, among rather thin pickings in popular reporting on Merz’s hobbies, a softball interview last summer told us he likes modern classical music and Beethoven, and one day hopes to visit Tibet.

    But holidays will be some way from his priorities at the moment. There is a strong desire in Europe for Germany to play a more active leadership role once again. At a time when Trump is noisily backing away from underscoring European security and supporting Ukraine, Merz is keenly aware of the void being opened up, and is determined that Germany, with its European allies (including even the UK) will step up.

    Ed Turner 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. Who is Friedrich Merz, the man now most likely to lead Germany? Eight things to know – https://theconversation.com/who-is-friedrich-merz-the-man-now-most-likely-to-lead-germany-eight-things-to-know-247643

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Guns and cash stolen in Yorketown break-in

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating after firearms and cash was stolen from a home at Yorketown overnight.

    About 1am on Monday 24 February, police were called to a home on St Vincent Highway after three men broke into the property and assaulted the occupant. The men stole a large amount of cash along with a number of firearms.

    The suspects also stole the victim’s Toyota sedan which has since been located at Minlaton.

    The victim, a 74-year-old man, sustained injuries to his head and was treated at the local hospital.

    Yorke Mid North police are investigating the incident and are seeking anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Erotica, gore and racism: how America’s war on ‘ideological bias’ is letting AI off the leash

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Judith Bishop, Tracey Banivanua Mar Fellow, La Trobe University

    3d_kot/Shutterstock

    Badly behaved artificial intelligence (AI) systems have a long history in science fiction. Way back in 1961, in the famous Astro Boy comics by Osamu Tezuka, a clone of a popular robot magician was reprogrammed into a super-powered thief. In the 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey, the shipboard computer HAL 9000 turns out to be more sinister than the astronauts on board think.

    More recently, real-world chatbots such as Microsoft’s Tay have shown that AI models “going bad” isn’t sci-fi any longer. Tay started spewing racist and sexually explicit texts within hours of its public release in 2016.

    The generative AI models we’ve been using since ChatGPT launched in November 2022 are generally well behaved. There are signs this may be about to change.

    On February 20, the US Federal Trade Commission announced an inquiry to understand “how consumers have been harmed […] by technology platforms that limit users’ ability to share their ideas or affiliations freely and openly”. Introducing the inquiry, the commission said platforms with internal processes to suppress unsafe content “may have violated the law”.

    The latest version of the Elon Musk–owned Grok model already serves up “based” opinions, and features an “unhinged mode” that is “intended to be objectionable, inappropriate, and offensive”. Recent ChatGPT updates allow the bot to produce “erotica and gore”.

    These developments come after moves by US President Donald Trump to deregulate AI systems. Trump’s attempt to remove “ideological bias” from AI may see the return of rogue behaviour that AI developers have been working hard to suppress.

    Executive orders

    In January, Trump issued a sweeping executive order against “illegal and immoral discrimination programs, going by the name ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ (DEI)”, and another on “removing barriers to AI innovation” (which includes “engineered social agendas”).

    In February, the US refused to join 62 other nations in signing a “Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable AI” at the Paris AI Action Summit.

    What will this mean for the AI products we see around us? Some generative AI companies, including Microsoft and Google, are US federal government suppliers. These companies could come under significant direct pressure to eliminate measures to make AI systems safe, if the measures are perceived as supporting DEI or slowing innovation.

    AI developers’ interpretation of the executive orders could result in AI safety teams being reduced in size or scope, or replaced by teams whose social agenda better aligns with Trump’s.

    Why would that matter? Before generative AI algorithms are trained, they are neither helpful nor harmful. However, when they are fed a diet of human expression scraped from across the internet, their propensity to reflect biases and behaviours such as racism, sexism, ableism and abusive language becomes clear.

    AI risks and how they’re managed

    Major AI developers spend a lot of effort on suppressing biased outputs and unwanted model behaviours and rewarding more ethically neutral and balanced responses.

    Some of these measures could be seen as implementing DEI principles, even as they help to avoid incidents like the one involving Tay. They include the use of human feedback to tune model outputs, as well as monitoring and measuring bias towards specific populations.

    Another approach, developed by Anthropic for its Claude model, uses a policy document called a “constitution” to explicitly direct the model to respect principles of harmless and respectful behaviour.

    Model outputs are often tested via “red teaming”. In this process, prompt engineers and internal AI safety experts do their best to provoke unsafe and offensive responses from generative AI models.

    A Microsoft blog post from January described red teaming as “the first step in identifying potential harms […] to measure, manage, and govern AI risks for our customers”.

    The risks span a “wide range of vulnerabilities”, “including traditional security, responsible AI, and psychosocial harms”.

    The blog also notes “it is crucial to design red teaming probes that not only account for linguistic differences but also redefine harms in different political and cultural contexts”. Many generative AI products have a global user base. So this sort of effort is important for making the products safe for consumers and businesses well beyond US borders.

    We may be about to relearn some lessons

    Unfortunately, none of these efforts to make generative AI models safe is a one-shot process. Once generative AI models are installed in chatbots or other apps, they continually digest information from the human world through prompts and other inputs.

    This diet can shift their behaviour for the worse over time. Malicious attacks, such as user prompt injection and data poisoning, can produce more dramatic changes.

    Tech journalist Kevin Roose used prompt injection to make Microsoft Bing’s AI chatbot reveal its “shadow self”. The upshot? It encouraged him to leave his wife. Research published last month showed that a mere drop of poisoned data could make medical advice models generate misinformation.

    Constant monitoring and correction of AI outputs are essential. There is no other way to avoid offensive, discriminatory or unsafe behaviours cropping up without warning in generated responses.

    Yet all signs suggest the Trump administration favours a reduction in the ethical regulation of AI. The executive orders may be interpreted as allowing or encouraging the free expression and generation of even discriminatory and harmful views on subjects such as women, race, LGBTQIA+ individuals and immigrants.

    Generative AI moderation efforts may go the way of Meta’s fact-checking and expert content moderation programs. This could have an impact on global users of US-made AI products such as OpenAI ChatGPT, Microsoft Co-Pilot and Google Gemini.

    We might be about to rediscover how essential these efforts have been to keep AI models in check.

    Judith Bishop has received funding from Creative Australia for a book on AI and human data. Until 2022 she led teams producing training data for global AI companies and US government research agencies.

    – ref. Erotica, gore and racism: how America’s war on ‘ideological bias’ is letting AI off the leash – https://theconversation.com/erotica-gore-and-racism-how-americas-war-on-ideological-bias-is-letting-ai-off-the-leash-250060

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: How Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Rossetto, Adjunct, Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources, University of Adelaide

    Financial challenges at the Whyalla steelworks in South Australia have reignited debate about the nation’s steel industry and its future.

    Australians should have access to quality steel at competitive prices. The domestic steel production industry employs tens of thousands of people.

    The state and federal governments have stepped in, however, announcing a A$1.9 billion support package for Whyalla, together with a new $1 billion green iron investment fund. Half of the new fund will be allocated to Whyalla to support its transition to green steel production. That’s a large amount of money for a privately owned business.

    So, are the new packages going to be money well spent? To answer that question, let’s examine the priorities.

    A national priority

    Steel is an industry in which securing sovereign production capability is crucial. Sovereign capability means ensuring an industry can survive external shocks such as interruptions to shipping routes or disputes with other countries in the supply chain.

    Steel is a vital input for defence industries such as ship and submarine building. What could be said of a country’s autonomy – or its sovereign capability – if it relies on others for the steel needed for its defence?

    Whyalla is one of the two largest steelworks in Australia, the other being BlueScope’s Port Kembla plant. At least at first glance, the green iron investment fund seems to deal with the sovereign capability criterion well enough. Whyalla appears an ideal candidate.

    However, the public subsidy is large. The subsidised plant’s ability to operate in an economically competitive manner needs to be examined. Further, while the Whyalla plant began its life as a supplier to an adjacent shipbuilding operation, its share of the current domestic defence industry steel market is unclear.

    Environmentally friendly steel?

    Production of steel using iron ore and coking coal is a greenhouse gas emissions intensive process. It can result in as many as 2.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas per tonne of steel.

    The plan for Whyalla has long been to replace its coal-fired blast furnace with an electric arc furnace. This could, in turn, be supplied with low-emission sources of energy and consume scrap steel. While there is no globally agreed definition, this kind of approach would likely qualify as green steel.

    Sanjeev Gupta’s GFG, the owner of the plant, had originally wanted this furnace to be operating by 2025, potentially using solar among its energy supply. The plan would have cut its emissions dramatically. The timeline later slipped to 2027.

    The longer term plan for Whyalla appears based around production of green hydrogen to replace coking coal. As the world charges toward net zero emissions by 2050, the belief is that Australia can capture a good part of the green metals market.

    The challenge is that green hydrogen is expensive and not widely used around the world. It’s hard to find signs that the global steel market is willing to pay a premium in the absence of sectoral emissions pricing. The strategy could therefore be seen as a bet on the future. If the bet went wrong, who would absorb the losses? It would, most likely, be the taxpayer.

    The United States leads the way in low-emissions steel production. Firms there use electric arc furnaces to recycle scrap steel with energy from low-emission sources. This technology is proven and operates at industrial scale. It has a fraction of the emissions intensity but relies on the availability of scrap steel.

    Can we add value?

    Australia is a major world supplier of two key materials crucial for most steel making. These are iron ore and coking coal.

    The countries to which we sell those raw materials then do the processing and manufacture, capturing profit that is arguably lost to the Australian economy. Whyalla is already an example of domestic value-adding. It uses iron ore from mines in the adjacent area, and domestic coking coal.

    For Australia, however, this is going to be tricky. Australia is effectively signalling to its international customers that, one day, it hopes to compete with them in the global steel markets. In other words, this creates an incentive for the country’s customers to look for alternatives to buy iron ore.

    Whether Australia increases steel production ahead of its customers finding new sources of iron ore elsewhere in the world is a risky race with an uncertain result.

    Focus on government spending

    So, back to the question: is the new funding going to be money well spent? Perhaps the most solid justification among the priorities examined, is sovereign capability.

    The government probably needs to provide more information on how the new fund differs through from Future Made in Australia or the National Reconstruction Fund. Is this old funding with a new name? The nation is entering federal election season. Focus on government spending efficiency is likely to increase.

    Daniel Rossetto is the owner of Climate Mundial Limited, a private company that does consulting work but is currently inactive. He does ad hoc private consulting through various consulting platforms. He is also the owner and host of a new private and independent YouTube channel called Climate Mundial’s Energy and Climate Weekly. He is on the editorial board of the Discover Sustainability journal published by Springer Nature.

    – ref. How Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia – https://theconversation.com/how-whyalla-can-be-upgraded-to-green-steel-and-why-we-need-to-keep-steel-production-in-australia-250402

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 24, 2025
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