Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era Oct 30, 2024

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era
    Oct 30, 2024

    [Istanbul, Türkiye, October 30, 2024] The Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) has kicked off in Istanbul, Türkiye with the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era”. More than 1,000 guests from mobile network carriers, ecosystem players, and leaders from vertical industries have gathered to discuss a wide range of topics, from business model innovation to industry development and key technological directions in the Mobile AI era.
    This forum was set up to further promote the convergence of 5.5G and intelligent applications to create greater value for the mobile industry. During the forum, Huawei and Türkiye network carriers have jointly provided diverse intelligent 5.5G field experiences. Also, various players in the Mobile AI ecosystem will be displaying their intelligent connectivity applications for people, homes, things, vehicles, and industries.
    MBBF 2024 began with the opening remarks from Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman. “In the future, AI will change everything. Everyone will be able to use it, anytime and anywhere. Mobile networks and devices will play an important role to make that happen, just like what we have done to enable telephones and mobile Internet as a universal service,” said Hu.
    Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, delivering the opening remarks

    2024 has brought both the commercial launch of 5.5G and the unprecedented expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) into our everyday life and work. Globally, more than 3 million AI-capable applications have been developed, more than the total number of non-AI apps available in the app store. That early commercial 5.5G rollout coincides with the first year of AI adoption in various devices is tremendously significant — it heralds the dawn of the Mobile AI era.
    Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service delivered a keynote on how to maximize new growth opportunities in the mobile AI era. “The mobile AI era is here,” said Li. “We will see new forms of interaction with devices, new intelligent services, and structural changes in traffic models. This will bring huge new opportunities for the mobile industry.”
    Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service, speaking at Global MBB Forum 2024 in Istanbul

    Li then detailed how carriers can make the most of these new opportunities and drive new growth by reshaping services, network infrastructure, O&M, and business models. He shared how leading carriers around the world have already verified AI service capabilities on live 5.5G networks across a wide range of scenarios for individuals, homes, travel, and business.
    “Moving forward, there are two things we can do to capitalize on new opportunities in the mobile AI era,” said Li. “First, we should prepare our networks to support AI. That means boosting network capabilities, especially uplink, latency, and capacity. Second, we can use AI to support our networks. With more complex networks, we can use AI to help automate O&M, optimize network efficiency, and guarantee a solid user experience.”
    This forum features boutique exhibitions of new intelligent connectivity for people, homes, things, industries, and vehicles. Across the indoor booths and outdoor fields, multimodal AI devices and diverse Mobile AI applications are presented, including AI phones, AI glasses, intelligent cockpits, humanoid intelligence, AI-generated content (AIGC), digital human interaction, and AI-powered real-time call translation, thanks to the joint efforts of Huawei, operators, and industry players. Another highlight is the continuous 5.5G coverage across the indoor and outdoor areas of the venues, showcasing the multidimensional capabilities of 5.5G networks and the cutting-edge products and solutions that power them.
    The 15th Global Mobile Broadband Forum, with a tagline of ‘5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era’, runs from October 30 to 31 in Istanbul, Türkiye. It will be hosted by Huawei with support from our industry partners GSMA and GTI. Together with operators, vertical industry leaders, and ecosystem partners, we will share the industry’s latest advancements and explore new opportunities. Industry stakeholders will discuss how to achieve 5.5G business success in the Mobile AI era, and leverage the success of 5G to attain even greater achievements with 5.5G. For more information, please visit MBBF2024 at: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2024.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era

    [Istanbul, Türkiye, October 30, 2024] The Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) has kicked off in Istanbul, Türkiye with the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era”. More than 1,000 guests from mobile network carriers, ecosystem players, and leaders from vertical industries have gathered to discuss a wide range of topics, from business model innovation to industry development and key technological directions in the Mobile AI era.
    This forum was set up to further promote the convergence of 5.5G and intelligent applications to create greater value for the mobile industry. During the forum, Huawei and Türkiye network carriers have jointly provided diverse intelligent 5.5G field experiences. Also, various players in the Mobile AI ecosystem will be displaying their intelligent connectivity applications for people, homes, things, vehicles, and industries.
    MBBF 2024 began with the opening remarks from Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman. “In the future, AI will change everything. Everyone will be able to use it, anytime and anywhere. Mobile networks and devices will play an important role to make that happen, just like what we have done to enable telephones and mobile Internet as a universal service,” said Hu.
    Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, delivering the opening remarks

    2024 has brought both the commercial launch of 5.5G and the unprecedented expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) into our everyday life and work. Globally, more than 3 million AI-capable applications have been developed, more than the total number of non-AI apps available in the app store. That early commercial 5.5G rollout coincides with the first year of AI adoption in various devices is tremendously significant — it heralds the dawn of the Mobile AI era.
    Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service delivered a keynote on how to maximize new growth opportunities in the mobile AI era. “The mobile AI era is here,” said Li. “We will see new forms of interaction with devices, new intelligent services, and structural changes in traffic models. This will bring huge new opportunities for the mobile industry.”
    Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service, speaking at Global MBB Forum 2024 in Istanbul

    Li then detailed how carriers can make the most of these new opportunities and drive new growth by reshaping services, network infrastructure, O&M, and business models. He shared how leading carriers around the world have already verified AI service capabilities on live 5.5G networks across a wide range of scenarios for individuals, homes, travel, and business.
    “Moving forward, there are two things we can do to capitalize on new opportunities in the mobile AI era,” said Li. “First, we should prepare our networks to support AI. That means boosting network capabilities, especially uplink, latency, and capacity. Second, we can use AI to support our networks. With more complex networks, we can use AI to help automate O&M, optimize network efficiency, and guarantee a solid user experience.”
    This forum features boutique exhibitions of new intelligent connectivity for people, homes, things, industries, and vehicles. Across the indoor booths and outdoor fields, multimodal AI devices and diverse Mobile AI applications are presented, including AI phones, AI glasses, intelligent cockpits, humanoid intelligence, AI-generated content (AIGC), digital human interaction, and AI-powered real-time call translation, thanks to the joint efforts of Huawei, operators, and industry players. Another highlight is the continuous 5.5G coverage across the indoor and outdoor areas of the venues, showcasing the multidimensional capabilities of 5.5G networks and the cutting-edge products and solutions that power them.
    The 15th Global Mobile Broadband Forum, with a tagline of ‘5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era’, runs from October 30 to 31 in Istanbul, Türkiye. It will be hosted by Huawei with support from our industry partners GSMA and GTI. Together with operators, vertical industry leaders, and ecosystem partners, we will share the industry’s latest advancements and explore new opportunities. Industry stakeholders will discuss how to achieve 5.5G business success in the Mobile AI era, and leverage the success of 5G to attain even greater achievements with 5.5G. For more information, please visit MBBF2024 at: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2024.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Shorten doorstop interview at Services Australia, Mount Barker

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    E&OE TRANSCRIPT

    SUBJECTS: $241 million in outstanding Medicare payments owed to Australians; MP’s declaration of flights; academic pressure on politicians re: abortion laws.

    REBECCA SHARKIE, MEMBER FOR MAYO: I’d like to now welcome the Minister for NDIS, Government Services Minister Bill Shorten, who I – I’m allowed to have favourites, the Minister is my favourite Minister in the government. There we go. Mic drop over to you.

    BILL SHORTEN, MINISTER FOR THIS NDIS AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES: Look, it is great to be in Rebecca Sharkie’s electorate of Mayo. The truth of the matter is, Rebecca is one of the hardest working members of Parliament. She’s highly respected in all parts. And I was very keen to come and visit, hear her issues on the ground. It’s great to be here at Service Australia and the NDIA office. The Services Australia staff here look after over 100 people every day, making sure that people can get their pensions, their entitlements, their Medicare. And it’s fantastic, what this hard-working team do.

    It’s also great to be here with staff from the National Disability Insurance Agency. The NDIS is changing hundreds of thousands of lives for the better. There’s been a lot of change. We’re making the scheme better. We’re making it true to its original purpose. We’re ensuring it’s sustainable. But all of that happens because we’ve got great people. So, the fact that call waiting times in Centrelink are down, processing payment times are now shorter in Medicare because of the hard work. And in the NDIS, we’re getting better outcomes for people daily, is due to hard work in Commonwealth public servants here in Mount Barker.

    But I’m not just here to listen and not just here to say thank you to the public servants who look after people when they’re vulnerable or in distress. I’ve got some good news for South Australians and good news for Australians generally, during a cost-of-living crisis. At the moment, there is $241 million of Medicare payments which people have accrued. In other words, the money is there for them. There’s 930,000 of our fellow Australians, from every corner of this continent and all walks of life, who actually are entitled to get rebates for the health system. They just haven’t collected them.

    In South Australia alone, there’s $19 million, just basically sitting in the government bank accounts for 73,800 South Australians who, all they have to do is because we don’t have their current bank details, we can’t just automatically send it to them. So, this is good news, but it’s also a request. People should go to the myGov website or the myGov app, link up their Medicare card to their myGov account, and then make sure that the bank details are up to date. You will receive any outstanding money within three working days. That’s all you’ve got to do. Like, if finding treasure was this easy, we’d all be treasure hunters.

    But the reality is we’ve got a national treasure. It’s called Medicare. It’s there to help people defray the costs of their health system. And what we find is that there’s $241 million which people legitimately can claim, just tell us your bank account details and then we will pay you. And you know, when you think about a million people and a quarter of $1 billion, that’s not small change. For some people, I think the average that’s owed is about $260, which is just great. But some people, there’s thousands of people who are owed tens of thousands of dollars. So, my request, my plea, my invitation is, go online to myGov, download the myGov app, link up the Medicare card, make sure you’ve got your bank details up to date, and then if you’re owed money, bang, in three days, it’s in your account. This process will take you about ten minutes if you have to set up a myGov account and link it to Medicare. It’s a lot quicker if you’ve already got your myGov app and Medicare linked. Just update your bank details. Anyway, that’s good news and happy to take questions on this or any other matter.

    JOURNALIST: How did this get uncovered in the first place?

    SHORTEN: Well, it’s always been a thing. I’m just not sure my predecessors always talked about it. I want the money which is the money of the Australian people to be in Australian people’s bank accounts. So, it is possible, you know, you change banks, you can lose track of different things that you put in. You’re not sure. So, I can understand how in busy lives and changing details, thinking about whether or not the government’s got your current bank account details, it’s probably not your number one issue. If you’ve got to, you know, feed the dog, get the kids to school, you know, go to work. But it’s 241 million. We’ve been pushing this a bit to get money back to people. Since the end of last year, we have reunited $117 million with Australians who had outstanding payments, but literally, you don’t have to go on a treasure hunt. Just go to myGov. It’s your money. We just want to try and give it to you. Please just update your bank details.

    JOURNALIST: It might be possible that scammers might jump on this and try.

    SHORTEN: Oh yeah. One thing, listen, there’s a lot of – you know, scammers are wicked, wicked people. Um, and you know, international scammers, terrible. Don’t open a link. We won’t be sending you a link to open. You go to myGov website, you download the myGov app. We won’t be sending you a link to click and open. Do not click a link. You go to myGov website, and you go to the myGov app. Download that.

    JOURNALIST: Is there a certain age group which is owed significantly more than others?

    SHORTEN: Well, the Millennials. The Millennials, Gen Z. There is about 224,000 Gen Z-ers who are owed some money, so that’s the biggest group. But what is interesting when you look at the age cohorts are there’s children, so, through their parents, Gen Z is the biggest group, but it’s right up to people in their 80s. So everywhere in Australia, there’s 930,000 people who are owed money. And literally, it’s not that hard to get. You’ve just got to sort of prioritize it for about ten minutes of your life. I’m not saying you might well be up to date with your Medicare payments, so that’s good, that doesn’t mean you get any more. But for 930,000 of our fellow citizens, it’s just there. Like, it’s like picking apples off a tree.

    JOURNALIST: And this obviously isn’t just in the last financial year. Has this been accruing over time?

    SHORTEN: It accrues over time, yes. I mean, this year, last financial year, this nation of ours paid out $30 billion in Medicare payments, but there’s a quarter of a billion which is ready to be paid, which hasn’t been collected.

    JOURNALIST: As you said, this keeps happening. Do processes perhaps need to be a bit more streamlined?

    SHORTEN: Yeah, we do so – well, the good news is we’re taking a lot of government services online so we can digitally notify a lot of people. Until we had the myGov app, once upon a time, you’d get, you know, myGov, “you have mail”. And that was sort of almost like a nightmare for people because they’d have to try different systems. Very clunky. You’d have to go to the site. The myGov app is great. It’s in the Google shop, just download it. So, we can notify people digitally. We’ve got 30 different campaigns on campuses to let students know, but I think this is something which we can more proactively push, which is why we’re doing it today. We’re doing it in Rebekha Sharkie’s electorate. She has people in Mount Barker, 795 who are owed some money. They’ve just got to update their bank registration details.

    JOURNALIST: It doesn’t run out. Does the government going to hold on to these?

    SHORTEN: Yeah, we’re not spending it. No, there’s no there’s no due date where then it’s garnisheed. It just builds up. But let’s just get it out the door. Cost of living crisis. This is this is really good practical stuff, by the way. It’s not inflationary. This is money which has already been accrued, banked, allocated. We just need to help people reunite with it.

    JOURNALIST: On other matters if that’s okay. Minister. Police are currently investigating the death of a woman in Port Augusta, apparently living with quite significant disability, but wasn’t on the NDIS. She was just living in squalor. How can something, how does someone fall through the cracks like this? Or is the onus on the person with the disability to get onto the NDIS?

    SHORTEN: First of all, this woman’s passing is a tragedy. I understand she was about 26. It’s just tragic. That’s the first point I’d want to make. People with disabilities are vulnerable. It’s a tragedy when someone dies. As I understand in 20 – I’ve only just heard about this matter – in 2017, there was an initial expression of interest to be on the scheme. Then documentation was sent back, and then nothing more was ever heard. South Australian police, you know, they’re the professionals. We’re going to let them investigate. Obviously, we want to see what the findings are. But I think this is an issue not just for government. You know, the great people here or, you know, a local member can’t know what’s going on behind the fence and behind the door in every house. But communities, we’ve all got to look after each other, look out for each other more. Um, and sometimes people with disabilities can be socially isolated, or they might just have a relationship, and if that breaks down, then no one cares. So, I think it is a tragedy and a disaster. And the challenge here, though, is how do we as a community make sure that if someone isn’t seen for a while, what are we doing about it? So, I think this is not just one on government. This is one on all of us, to keep an eye out for each other.

    JOURNALIST: When there is a request to NDIS and you don’t hear back, are steps taken to follow up or is that it?

    SHORTEN: I don’t know what the system was in 2017. Yeah, we do follow up and we do go back to people. But at the end of the day, if someone doesn’t want to persist with an application, you’re not going to make them. It’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.

    JOURNALIST: Do you think there needs to be more independent processes or safeguards for people to report concerns?

    SHORTEN: I think the question really is, and I’ll be interested in what the South Australian police say, from 2017, who knew about her circumstances? That’s a pretty relevant question, isn’t it? I don’t expect every politician in Australia to know every one of 110,000 adults in their electorate, but one thing they have in some states are community visitor programs. There’s a role also here for the state government. I know Nat Cook is a very conscientious Minister, though. I don’t think there’s a better Disability Minister in the country at the state level. But I think that we need to have a discussion with councils because councils often know where – I mean, maybe I don’t know if anything could have been done to avoid this death. I don’t know. But generally, your council bylaw officers often know where the dodgy houses are. They know what’s happening. I think community visitor programs are very good, where you’ve got volunteers who want to just pop in and check in on people. I think the community generally needs to notice if your neighbours aren’t around, or if they haven’t seen them in a while. What we do though, of course when we get someone who seeks a plan, is we have red flags. So, if you get to sit down and you want your individual plan, we look at their social circumstances. Are they vulnerable where they might just have a carer as a relationship or just one person? o that’s something we certainly take into account in the planning stage, but it’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.

    JOURNALIST: Do you think this was an extreme case or do you are you concerned with how many others there might be out there like this?

    SHORTEN: It’s an extreme case, but I also am concerned, and it might be rare, but that doesn’t make it acceptable. But let’s let South Australian police see what they say and recommend will, of course. Watch the findings.

    JOURNALIST: We just might move on to the whole Qantas saga at the moment and the whole flights. Peter Dutton now has admitted to taking flights from Gina Rinehart. Do you think MPs are going to be looking at their flight logs?

    SHORTEN: First of all, let’s go to the heart of the matter. The Prime Minister has done everything according to the rules that are in place. He’s made that clear. He’s also made clear that he didn’t approach Alan Joyce for upgrades. That’s the sort of – that’s where this this debate started. Now, of course, it’s cascading into the adequacy of reporting, you know, the role of upgrades. Just two observations. The Liberals have been holding themselves out to be pretty pure and pretty holier than thou, but then it turns out they’ve got problems.

    This reminds me of when Malcolm Turnbull went on the attack, when he was an opposition leader, and there was a whistleblower who I believe was called Godwin Grech and said somehow Kevin Rudd had done something wrong on a used car scheme and it was just wrong. So, I think oppositions need to be very careful about playing the man and going after the Prime Minister because they, I think, have their own problems. They clearly don’t live in a glass house.

    But the other observation I want to make is this I think politicians work incredibly hard. I think they’re very committed. They want to make a difference. I think the opposition fascination with airlines lets the big issue of cost of living off the hook. You know, I’m here today with Rebecca. We want to talk about, how do we get money, which people are owed, in their pockets so they’ve got a little bit more for Christmas. So, you know, I think the opposition’s sort of made a meal of this. They’ve held themselves up to be saintly and they’re not. And I think they’re in danger of overreaching. And maybe they might even shoot themselves in the foot.

    JOURNALIST: But do you do you think that the Prime Minister, by using terminology like he didn’t call Alan Joyce, he could have cleared it up by clarifying it from the outset?

    SHORTEN: Well, first of all, there’s been a book written. Everyone got excited about that. Or at least Mr. Albanese’s enemies did. He’s cleared it up. We want to get on with talking about cost of living.

    JOURNALIST: Sorry, one quick question. Do you recall working with a Professor Joanna Howe?

    SHORTEN: Not in the Parliament, no. Way back when I was a union official, I don’t really recall, but that would be 20 years ago.

    JOURNALIST: This is a question from another network, but there was, she was championing an anti-abortion bill lately, and she’s admitted to pressuring a politician to abandon a pair vote. Your thoughts on, you know, an academic trying to pressure MPs to vote a certain way?

    SHORTEN: Listen, I’ve accused of being ambitious. I’ve been ambitious for the Australian people, but I’ve never been ambitious enough to run for the South Australian parliament. I think Peter Malinauskas is outstanding. I’m not really wanting to get into South Australia and the entrails of South Australian politics. I do make this point about a woman’s right to choose nationally. I think Mr. Dutton needs to come out and be very clear that if he was ever elected Prime Minister, he wouldn’t use federal powers to roll back the protections that women have to accessing our safe and healthy treatment.

    JOURNALIST: Sorry, Minister, I just have to take you back to the flights. Can I ask, does Bridget McKenzie have anything to question for, any questions to answer? If she hasn’t declared flights, should she be found in contempt of the Senate?

    SHORTEN: Oh, man, the Senate. We have enough time in the Reps. I think the point here is that the Liberals got on their high horse, and they’ve been throwing a lot of mud, but I think what’s ended up is they’ve ended up with most of it on their own face.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Antigone,” “Beethoven,” “The Entertainer.” Actress Elena Zakharova recommends this season’s performances

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The repertoire of Moscow theatres this season includes classic works in unexpected interpretations and modern plays, anticipated premieres and performances that have been on stage for many years. Theatre and film actress Elena Zakharova told mos.ru readers about the productions that particularly impressed her.

    “I have a pretty busy schedule: work in the theater, filming, touring. And going to the theater as a spectator does not happen as often as I would like. Nevertheless, I try not to miss interesting theater events in Moscow whenever possible. Visiting the theater always means new emotions and vivid impressions. I am happy to share with you a short list of performances that can transform gloomy autumn evenings,” says the actress.

    “Sashashishin” at the Sovremennik Theatre

    Address: Chistoprudny Boulevard, Building 19, Building 1

    Dates: November 27 and 28, December 14 and 15

    Age limit: 12

    The play “Sasha Shishin” is a reason to remember childhood, to be touched and to think at the same time. The main character Sasha Shishin lives with a despotic mother, is in love with the neighbor girl Tanya and hates his classmate Bobrykin. In his imaginary world of childhood, he experiences all feelings with equal intensity and does not want to grow up at all. Sasha likes to look at the Moscow courtyard of the 1980s through bottle glass and see the Emerald City, where there is no hostility, malice and the hated Bobrykin. There is only joy, naive dreams and incredible love for Tanya.

    A magical phantasmagoric world comes to life on stage thanks to animation, choreographic numbers, double puppets, songs by Petr Nalich and spectacular tricks.

    You can buy tickets at mos.ru.

    “Solo for a Chiming Clock” at the Mossovet Theatre

    Address: Bolshaya Sadovaya street, house 16, building 1

    Dates: November 20, December 6 and 22

    Age limit: 12

    Every Friday, František Abel’s old friends from the nursing home gather in his small apartment, which he shares with his grandson Pavel, and reminisce about the happy past. Pavel, having decided to get married, suggests that his grandfather move in with his friends – he thinks it will be better for everyone. But he does not understand how important his home is to František – the only place where reality is not so harsh.

    Oswald Zahradnik’s play is tragicomic, but its parable essence immerses the characters in a fantasy world, a timelessness between the past and the present.

    Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.

    “The Marriage of Figaro” at the Moscow A.S. Pushkin Drama Theatre

    Address: Tverskoy Boulevard, Building 23, Building 1

    Dates: November 4th and 5th, December 17th and 18th

    Age limit: 12

    Director Evgeny Pisarev turned Beaumarchais’ classic comedy of situations into a real celebration with spectacular sets and beautiful costumes, charming characters extricating themselves from complex intrigues, and an inevitable happy ending.

    Figaro is pursued by failures in all his endeavors, but the hero, full of dignity and love of life, does not despair. Even having experienced the betrayal of a friend and the imaginary betrayal of a young wife, he does not lose faith in love and himself.

    Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.

    “An absolutely incredible event” at the “Pyotr Fomenko Workshop”

    Address: Taras Shevchenko Embankment, Building 29

    Date: November 13

    Age limit: 12

    The main conflict of the famous Gogol’s play is at first glance very clear – matchmaking, albeit involving trickery and confusion, but still with an inevitable wedding in the finale. And how far from this the comedy turns out to be – everything in it seems to be turned inside out, everything is the opposite.

    A simple everyday story turns into a wonderfully absurd and ridiculous buffoonery, a carnival with grooms’ viewing and a lot that the bride is ready to draw. That is why “The Marriage” by director Evgeny Kamenkovich turned into “An Absolutely Incredible Event”.

    Tickets are available at mos.ru.

    “The Lady of the Camellias” at the Theatre on Trubnaya

    Address: Neglinnaya street, house 29, building 1

    Dates: November 15 and 16, December 12, 13, 26 and 27

    Age limit: 18

    “The Lady of the Camellias” is the most famous work of Alexandre Dumas (fils), it is based on real events: the prototype of the Parisian courtesan Marguerite was the author’s beloved. The novel was transferred to the stage of the Theater on Trubnaya this season by Dmitry Astrakhan, the main roles are played by Valeria Lanskaya and Sukhrab Khaylobekov.

    Margarita loves camellias because they have no scent, candied grapes because they have no taste, and rich men because they have no heart. But behind the desire to escape from feelings lies fragility, vulnerability, and a thirst for true love. A chance encounter gives Margarita hope for a different life, but will the heroine be able to allow herself to be real?

    Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.

    “The Entertainer” at the Sfera Theatre

    Address: Karetny Ryad Street, Building 3, Bldg. 3

    Dates: November 16 and 29, December 5 and 18

    Age limit: 16

    Two friends who haven’t seen each other for a long time meet at a sanatorium on the Black Sea coast. Valentin is a successful civil servant, a married man who came to relax, and Sergey, a lonely entertainer, works and lives at this recreation center. In the past, they courted the same girl, Galina – then Valentin won thanks to his influential father. How will this love story end many years later?

    The plot is based on the play of the same name by Viktor Rozov.

    Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.

    “Beethoven” at the Praktika Theatre

    Address: Bolshoy Kozikhinsky Lane, Building 30

    Date: November 25

    Age limit: 16

    Beethoven has come a long way from obscurity to worldwide fame, from despair to hope. The path that lay through the struggle with the most terrible illness for a musician and composer – deafness. However, the life of a genius is not limited to the years indicated in the biography, Beethoven lives today – in his works.

    The Praktika Theatre’s production is about a composer who wanted to “embrace all of humanity.” The creators told his story without pathos, through acting and mummery, an endless change of masks, and in the diverse and contradictory context of his time.

    Tickets are available at mos.ru.

    “Fathers and Sons” at the Moscow Theatre of Illusion

    Address: Perovskaya street, house 75

    Date: November 8

    Age limit: 12

    The novel Fathers and Sons became a landmark for its time, and the image of the main character, Yevgeny Bazarov, was perceived by young people as an example to follow – they were enchanted by his uncompromising nature, his lack of worship of authorities and old truths.

    The worldview conflict of generations intersects in the play with love triangles. “Fathers” defend their foundations from rebellious “children”, women defend their rights. The line between the modern and classical vision of Ivan Turgenev’s work at the Moscow Theatre of Illusion is very thin.

    Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.

    “The Storm. Temptation” at the N.V. Gogol Theatre

    Address: Kazakova street, house 8

    Dates: November 2 and 22, December 6 and 30

    Age limit: 16

    The classic play by Alexander Ostrovsky for the renovated Moscow Drama Theatre named after N.V. Gogol was interpreted by Anton Yakovlev. His production immerses the viewer in the world of mystical drama with elements of tragicomedy, revealing the story of a person’s struggle with temptations – absurd, funny and sometimes frightening.

    The plot centers on Katerina, for whom forbidden love becomes a source of internal conflict. Perceiving passion as a challenge from the surrounding reality, the heroine is forced to fight the moral foundations and pressure of a stagnant conservative society. And the path to liberation will be a very difficult test.

    You can buy tickets at mos.ru.

    “Antigone” at the M.N. Ermolova Theatre

    Address: Tverskaya street, building 5/6

    Dates: November 8 and 19, December 8 and 17

    Age limit: 16

    In Athens they used to say: “The law is above all in human life, and the unwritten law is above the written.” This is what Antigone, written by Sophocles in 442 BC, is dedicated to. In the early 1940s, Jean Anouilh created his own version of the famous tragedy – and the image of the main character then became one of the embodiments of the highest morality.

    The play is based on the mythological plot of the Theban cycle. Polynices, the son of King Oedipus, fought with his brother for power after the death of his father and died at the walls of Thebes. The new king Creon forbade the burial of Polynices’ body, while the defender of the city Eteocles was buried according to the law. Their younger sister Antigone, who disagreed with this decision, buries Polynices at night, bypassing the guards, knowing that she would die for it.

    Fate or will? Laws of the country or laws of conscience? What is a person willing to do, driven by love? Answers to these eternal questions have not been found for many centuries, but everyone has the opportunity to make their own choice. And director Vladimir Kimmelman considers the play more relevant today than ever.

    Tickets are available at mos.ru.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145977073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five Moscow projects have become laureates of the All-Russian award “Route of the Year”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow projects win the XI All-Russian Tourism Prize “Route of the Year”. The following were awarded in various nominations: the exhibition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet” in the “Smart City” pavilion at VDNKh, the AR quest “Conquering Space” and the interactive route “Architectural Secrets of the Past: Augmented Reality Journey” in the “Discover Moscow” application, the Mostourism project “Moscow Vladimir Region. Journey to a Russian Fairy Tale”, as well as a gamified tour of “MetaVDNKh” with Vanya Dmitrienko.

    More than 450 applications from 62 regions of Russia were submitted to participate in this year’s award.

    “All the Moscow projects nominated this year were developed for city residents who not only love to travel, walk around the capital and learn something new, but also actively use modern technologies for this. Routes, excursions and quests with augmented reality allow you to immerse yourself in the history of familiar places and get a completely new experience of interacting with space. And thanks to the unique exhibition dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Runet, you can learn how technologies and IT solutions have been created and developed in the capital since 1994,” the press service noted.

    Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.

    In the nomination “Best online route in the city”, the grand prix of the award was given to a unique educational tour of “MetaVDNKh” using game mechanics. The VDNKh metaverse is an exact virtual copy of the main exhibition of the country, created on the basis of a 3D model from a digital twin of Moscow, to which the smallest details of buildings and interiors were added using gaming industry technologies. In the year of the 85th anniversary of VDNKh, all RuNet users were given the opportunity to walk through the metaverse of the exhibition. Tour participants can, without leaving home, take an interactive journey through time and learn the history of the development of the nuclear industry, the conquest of space and film production technologies, and thanks to the interactive format, take a new look at the familiar and familiar pavilions of VDNKh.

    The Grand Prix in the nomination “Best modern digital technologies in tourism” was awarded to the exposition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet” in the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh. The first place in the same nomination went to the AR quest Conquering Space, a project developed by the capital’s Department of Information Technology together with the Moscow Museum of Cosmonautics and available in the online guide Discover Moscow.

    The exhibition for the 30th anniversary of the Runet in the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh is dedicated to the history of Moscow’s digitalization. Today, Moscow is one of the smartest megacities in the world, a city where technology helps people every day. Many Muscovites can no longer imagine their lives without convenient services, gadgets, and an intelligent urban environment. However, just 30 years ago, there was no mobile Internet, no smartphones, no electronic services in Moscow. The exhibition features more than 30 interactive exhibits that tell how digital solutions have been created and developed in the capital over three decades, and how familiar areas of urban life have changed along with them. Since its opening, the exhibition has already been visited by more than 100,000 people.

    The AR quest “Conquering Space” in the mobile application of the online guide “Discover Moscow” is the first interactive route through the Moscow Museum of Cosmonautics. It allows you to learn more about space and look at legendary rockets, satellites and devices in augmented reality. Thanks to the presented 3D models of space technology samples, users can imagine themselves, for example, witnessing the launch of the Vostok launch vehicle or see how the docking unit created for the Soyuz and Apollo spacecraft works.

    The second place in two nominations at once – “Best Interregional Route” and “Best Tourist Guide” – was awarded to the project Mosturism “Moscow Vladimir Region. Journey into a Russian Fairytale”. It offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the wealth of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, linking two ancient principalities – Vladimir and Moscow. Participants can immerse themselves in an atmosphere full of amazing stories and traditions, as well as get to know local attractions and take part in exciting master classes.

    The Moscow Vladimir Region project is being implemented within the framework of the “Improving the Availability of Tourist Services” initiative of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry” with the aim of popularizing short interregional trips. More information about the national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found find out here.

    In the special nomination “Best City Tour” for an innovative approach to creating a mass city tour, the route “Architectural Secrets of the Past: Augmented Reality Journey” in the “Discover Moscow” application was noted. It allows you to study in detail the iconic monuments of the past and architectural objects of the present using augmented reality technology. Participants of the walk rediscover Moscow of the 18th-19th centuries, plunging into the era of two centuries ago. At the same time, you can examine three-dimensional models of lost historical architectural monuments, for example Sukharev tower AndRed Gate, and also imagine how the capital has changed over the years.

    All-Russian Tourism Award “Route of the Year” has been held since 2014. It was established as an industry award, awarded based on the results of an open all-Russian competition of projects for achievements in the field of creating and developing tourist routes. Over 10 years, the award has become a significant project for domestic tourism, which helps to identify and support the best initiatives in this area.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145987073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged over series of Kingston burglaries

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Man charged over series of Kingston burglaries

    Thursday, 31 October 2024 – 3:28 pm.

    Following significant investigations into a series of reported home burglaries in the Kingston area, Kingston police have charged an Old Beach man with a range of burglary-related matters, and have recovered stolen property.
    Inspector Colin Riley said the man was arrested on 23 October, and there have been no further reports of home burglaries in the area since that date.
    “House burglaries not only lead to significant financial loss but can also create feelings of insecurity in our community,” he said.
    “With the busy summer months approaching, Kingston Police are encouraging residents to enhance their home security measures.”
    “Preventing house burglaries involves a combination of physical security measures, community awareness, and personal habits.”
    “By implementing these measures, community members can significantly reduce the risk of burglary and create a safer environment for themselves and their neighbours.”
    Burglary prevention tips:
    Enhance physical security
    Secure doors and windows: Install deadbolts on doors and ensure windows have sturdy locks.Install a security system: Use a monitored alarm system, video doorbells, or security cameras. Visible cameras can deter potential burglars.Use smart home technology: Smart lighting, motion sensors, and automated timers can make it appear that someone is home, even when you’re away.
    Improve outdoor security
    Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around entry points and in your yard to eliminate dark areas.Landscaping: Tidy shrubs and trees near windows and doors to reduce hiding spots.Fencing: A sturdy fence can provide an additional layer of security. Ensure gates are locked and maintained.
    Be aware of your surroundings
    Neighbourhood Watch: Join a neighbourhood watch program to promote communication and vigilance among neighbours. There is a Kingston Central Neighbourhood which has just started up.Report suspicious activity: Encourage everyone in the community to report any unusual behaviour or unfamiliar individuals who look out of place in an area.
    Practice good habits
    Lock up: Always lock doors and windows, even when your home. Use deadbolts when possible.Don’t advertise absences: Avoid sharing vacation plans on social media until you return. Use timers for lights and electronics to simulate occupancy.Secure valuables: Keep valuable items out of sight from windows and consider using a safe for important documents and expensive belongings.
    Suspicious behaviour should be reported to police on 131 444, or Triple-Zero (000) in an emergency.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on World Cities Day: “Youth Climate Changemakers: Catalyzing Local Action for Urban Sustainability” [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    On this World Cities Day, we recognize the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures.

    With more than half of the world’s population and 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis. And they need the energy and vision of youth leading the charge for change.

    From grassroots movements to innovation labs, young people are pushing for ambitious climate action.  They are championing renewable energy integration, green jobs, clean public transportation, and climate adaptation measures – contributing to shape sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.

    We must amplify their voices, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making. By empowering young people, we can accelerate climate action and drive global progress for the Sustainable Development Goals.

    As we mark World Cities Day, let us celebrate the power of youth to build green, resilient and inclusive cities that meet the needs and aspirations of future generations.

    ***
    À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, nous saluons le rôle des jeunes dans l’action climatique et la construction de l’avenir des villes.

    Abritant plus de la moitié de la population mondiale, les villes produisent 70 % des émissions mondiales de gaz à effet de serre : elles sont donc en première ligne de la crise climatique. Elles ont besoin des idées et du dynamisme des jeunes, qui mènent la charge du changement.

    Des mouvements locaux aux laboratoires d’innovation, les jeunes réclament une action climatique ambitieuse. Ils militent pour une intégration des énergies renouvelables, des emplois verts, des transports publics propres et des mesures d’adaptation aux changements climatiques – autant de contributions à la construction de villes durables où chaque personne peut s’épanouir.

    Nous devons relayer le message des jeunes, investir dans leurs idées et promouvoir leur participation véritable à la prise de décisions en matière d’urbanisme. En leur donnant les moyens d’agir, nous pouvons accélérer l’action climatique et faire avancer la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable au niveau mondial.

    À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, célébrons le pouvoir des jeunes de construire des villes vertes, résilientes et inclusives, qui répondent aux besoins et aux aspirations des générations futures.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hirono Welcomes $59 Million in Federal Funding for Honolulu Harbor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Mazie K. Hirono

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement celebrating the announcement of more than $56 million in federal funding to modernize Honolulu Harbor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the port along with $2.5 million to develop strategies to improve air quality at ports around the state, developed in consultation with communities living near the ports. The funding comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Ports Program, funded through the Inflation Reduction Act that Senator Hirono helped pass into law.

    “Honolulu Harbor is essential to the delivery of food, medicine, and other goods people rely on not only on Oahu, but across Hawaii,” said Senator Hirono. “The investments in hydrogen-powered cargo tractors and a hydrogen fueling station will help the port operate more efficiently while decreasing carbon emissions and other pollution that affects surrounding communities. The funding will also support the development of plans to improve air quality at ports and surrounding communities throughout our state. I’m proud to have supported the Inflation Reduction Act, which made this investment possible, and I’ll continue working to secure federal funds for projects that strengthen communities across our islands.”

    More information on the projects being funded is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cats and dogs shaped our world – and art: the NGV gives us the definitive exhibition

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sasha Grishin, Adjunct Professor of Art History, Australian National University

    Marguerite Mahood, Feline design, 1930s colour linocut, with hand-colouring 36.0 × 22.5 cm (image and block). National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Gift of Andrée Fay Harkness through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program, 2020 © MTH Mahood

    After a new relationship with pets was forged during COVID lockdown and the phenomenon of Bluey, we now have the definitive cats and dogs show presented by the National Gallery of Victoria.

    Can there be an intelligent show about canines and felines that goes beyond a collection of feelgood images of our favourite pets? This exhibition sets out to achieve this and, at least in part, succeeds.

    A central question concerning pets and people is how we position ourselves in relationship to animals. If we adopt a Judeo-Christian position – that of Adam naming and having power over all of the animals on earth – then there is the power relationship of ownership.

    Venkat Raman Singh Shyam, The world of the Gonds, 2017. Synthetic polymer paint on canvas 125.0 × 91.0 cm.
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Purchased NGV Foundation, 2019 © Venkat Shyam, courtesy of Minhazz Majumdar

    Alternatively, as understood by many First Nations peoples, many Asian civilisations and popularised by such writers as Joseph Campbell, there are common animal powers that mystically unite humankind with nature.

    The dogs and cats that share our lives are also our distant (perhaps not that distant) ancestors. They understand us so intimately because they are part of us and we are part of them.

    Most pet owners already know this. We did not need Rupert Sheldrake to tell us that dogs know when their owners are coming home, but, by him telling us, this confirms in our minds we are not simply crazy.

    Nomenclature also matters – “owners”. As pointed out in the excellent book that accompanies this exhibition, dogs may have masters, while cats have only servants.

    Do we really own our dogs and cats or simply provide for their physical needs while they support us in countless ways?

    Companions over time

    When it comes to dogs and cats represented in art, the weirdness exposed in this exhibition lies in the social and ideological values held in various human societies.

    The Christian tradition saw cats as sinister – Satan’s little helpers and the essential attribute of witches – while dogs are noble and above all else designate fidelity. The dog is a symbol of faith, protection and companionship. The Bible is silent on cats, with a single possible passing reference in the Old Testament, while dogs are mentioned over 40 times.

    Albrecht Dürer, Adam and Eve, 1504. Engraving 25.0 × 19.3 cm (image and sheet)
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Felton Bequest, 1956

    Albrecht Dürer’s magnificent engraving Adam and Eve (1504) sums up much of the traditional Christian attitude to cats. The cat at Eve’s foot represents the choleric humour – cruelty and pride – and its tail entwines Eve’s feet echoing that of the serpent who gives her the forbidden fruit that leads to their expulsion from Paradise and the advent of death.

    In the etchings of Rembrandt and the aquatints of Goya, the demonic cat joins witches and other powers of darkness.

    Francisco Goya y Lucientes, Where is mother going? (Donde vá mamá?), 1797–98. Etching, aquatint and drypoint printed in sepia ink 18.2 × 11.9 cm (image) 20.6 × 16.2 cm (plate) 23.9 × 16.4 cm (sheet trimmed within platemark at left edge).
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, Felton Bequest, 1976

    A mysterious kind of folk

    The cat in many cultures is also associated with seduction, debauchery and eroticism. The NGV exhibition is particularly rich in examples of this category.

    This includes Jan Steen’s tavern interior (1661–65), Henri Toulouse-Lautrec’s May Belfort (1895) and the great painting by Balthus, Nude with cat (1949).

    Balthus, French, 1908-2001, worked in Italy 1961–77. Nude with cat, 1949. Oil on canvas 65.1 x 80.5 cm.
    National Gallery of Victoria Felton Bequest 1952 (2949 – 4)

    While the cat may be omnipresent, its actual participation in the events surrounding it frequently remain ambiguous.

    As the great observer of human behaviour, Sir Walter Scott, once commented: “Cats are a mysterious kind of folk”.

    Man’s best friend

    Dogs, in keeping with their reputation as man’s best friend, are superficially more knowable to people because dogs already know what to expect.

    Rembrandt, in Christ at Emmaus: the smaller plate (1634) has the faithful dog standing at Christ’s feet ready to protect the Saviour.

    Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn, Christ at Emmaus: the smaller plate, 1634. Etching and touches of drypoint 9.7 × 7.2 cm (image) 10.3 × 7.3 cm (sheet, trimmed to platemark).
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Felton Bequest, 1958

    In Dürer’s Saint Eustace (ca.1501), the dogs are not only noble witnesses to the conversion of the Roman general to Christianity, but the five dogs are shown from different angles and positions to celebrate the beauty of the canine.

    This is one of the great dog studies of Western civilisation.

    Albrecht Dürer, Saint Eustace, 1501. Engraving 35.9 × 26.1 cm (image) 36.0 × 26.2 cm (sheet; inlaid onto cream wove sheet 39.6 × 29.9 cm).
    Etching: five dogs, a horse and a man.

    The exhibition features Aboriginal dog dreaming barks and wooden sculptures of dingos. In the coastal community of Aurukun in Far North Queensland, the dingo, or ku’, are ancestral beings that carry a special significance for the artists and their community.

    The dogs are unique with their specific characters but also tap into an ancestral history.

    Installation view of Cats & Dogs on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia from November 1 2024 to July 20 2025.
    Photo: Tom Ross

    Throughout human history, dogs were also status symbols and an expression of their owner’s personality from William Hogarth’s pug, called Trump, to David Hockney’s dachshunds, Stanley and Boodgie.

    Many a maiden in 19th and 20th century Europe would establish their reputation through their highly groomed and ridiculously attired poodle or lapdog as richly testified to in this exhibition.

    Dogs also carried their owner’s personality. Pierre Bonnard’s dogs and Grace Cossington Smith’s cats tell us as much about their owners as they do about the personality of the animal.

    Grace Cossington Smith, Quaker girl, 1915. Oil on canvas 67.0 × 51.6 cm.
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Presented by the National Gallery Society of Victoria, 1967 © Estate of Grace Cossington Smith

    Humour and reverence

    About 250 furry creatures from the collection of the NGV have been brought together for this exhibition by curators Laurie Benson and Imogen Mallia-Valjan. You meet farm dogs and Felix the Cat with cats and dogs kept separate on different sides of the rooms.

    Thomas Gainsborough, Richard St George Mansergh – St George, c. 1776–80. Oil on canvas 230.2 × 156.1 cm.
    National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Felton Bequest, 1922

    Although this exhibition is raining cats and dogs, they are presented with respect, sometimes with humour and occasionally with reverence.

    In the past we thought about how we shaped the world of our canine and feline companions – now we increasingly are starting to understand how they have shaped and enriched our world.

    This wonderful exhibition explores part of this journey of realisation.

    Disclaimer: Sasha Grishin all of his life has shared his home with dingos and dogs.


    Cats & Dogs is at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia until July 20 2025.

    Sasha Grishin 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. Cats and dogs shaped our world – and art: the NGV gives us the definitive exhibition – https://theconversation.com/cats-and-dogs-shaped-our-world-and-art-the-ngv-gives-us-the-definitive-exhibition-241365

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Timely prevention: veterinarians tell how to protect pets from ticks

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    With the onset of cold weather, the tick season is coming to an end, from the bites of which domestic animals suffer, becoming infected with dangerous infections. According to data as of the end of October 2024, 5,340 dogs bitten by ticks were admitted to the veterinary clinics of the State Budgetary Institution “Mosvetoedinenie”. Of these, 1,857 pets tested positive for babesiosis (piroplasmosis) – they required treatment.

    The largest number of calls were recorded at the animal disease control stations (ADCS) of the Eastern and South-Eastern districts (1309), as well as the Western and South-Western (996). The smallest number of patients were registered at state veterinary clinics – ADCS of TiNAO (300).

    Head of the Kuntsevo State Veterinary Clinic in the capital, Elena Aleshina, said that ticks were most often found on dogs after trips to the region and to the dacha. There were isolated cases in Moscow as well. Moreover, the age and breed of the dogs did not play a role – the patients included a wide variety of pets.

    According to veterinarians, the peaks of visits with tick bites occurred in April-May and September-October. Now the activity of parasites is declining, but nevertheless the risk of “catching a tick” remains, and therefore it is necessary to treat dogs with drugs against ixodid ticks until stable subzero temperatures.

    Ticks affected mainly those pets that had not undergone regular preventive treatment. The majority of affected dogs were completely without it, and other patients received bites due to improper use of drugs against ectoparasites. For example, veterinarians noted violations in the number of treatments or a reduction in the recommended dose of the drug. At the same time, the state veterinary service of the capital explained that most Moscow dog owners are responsible for protecting their pets.

    Babesiosis (piroplasmosis) is a dangerous disease of dogs caused by the bite of an ixodid tick. The protozoa of the genus babesia, getting into the animal’s blood, affect and destroy red blood cells, which leads to severe damage to the liver and other organs, and in the absence of treatment – to death in 95 percent of cases.

    Signs of piroplasmosis include refusal to eat, lethargy, dark urine, pale or yellow mucous membranes and whites of the eyes, increased temperature to 41–42 degrees, weakness or failure of the hind limbs.

    The sooner you notice at least one of these symptoms and start treatment, the easier and more successful your pet’s recovery will be. The course of therapy can last from three to 14 days. It is impossible to cure piroplasmosis at home or with any folk remedies. The best prevention of a tick bite is timely treatment with tablets or drops on the withers.

    There are 26 state veterinary clinics in Moscow where pets can receive the necessary care. You can make an appointment online at mos.ru or by calling the single contact center of the state veterinary service: 7 495 612-04-25 (24 hours).

    What to do if a dog or cat is bitten by a tick: a veterinarian gave advice to owners

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145983073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on World Cities Day: “Youth Climate Changemakers: Catalyzing Local Action for Urban Sustainability” [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    n this World Cities Day, we recognize the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures.

    With more than half of the world’s population and 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis. And they need the energy and vision of youth leading the charge for change.

    From grassroots movements to innovation labs, young people are pushing for ambitious climate action.  They are championing renewable energy integration, green jobs, clean public transportation, and climate adaptation measures – contributing to shape sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.

    We must amplify their voices, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making. By empowering young people, we can accelerate climate action and drive global progress for the Sustainable Development Goals.

    As we mark World Cities Day, let us celebrate the power of youth to build green, resilient and inclusive cities that meet the needs and aspirations of future generations.

    ***
    À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, nous saluons le rôle des jeunes dans l’action climatique et la construction de l’avenir des villes.

    Abritant plus de la moitié de la population mondiale, les villes produisent 70 % des émissions mondiales de gaz à effet de serre : elles sont donc en première ligne de la crise climatique. Elles ont besoin des idées et du dynamisme des jeunes, qui mènent la charge du changement.

    Des mouvements locaux aux laboratoires d’innovation, les jeunes réclament une action climatique ambitieuse. Ils militent pour une intégration des énergies renouvelables, des emplois verts, des transports publics propres et des mesures d’adaptation aux changements climatiques – autant de contributions à la construction de villes durables où chaque personne peut s’épanouir.

    Nous devons relayer le message des jeunes, investir dans leurs idées et promouvoir leur participation véritable à la prise de décisions en matière d’urbanisme. En leur donnant les moyens d’agir, nous pouvons accélérer l’action climatique et faire avancer la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable au niveau mondial.

    À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, célébrons le pouvoir des jeunes de construire des villes vertes, résilientes et inclusives, qui répondent aux besoins et aux aspirations des générations futures.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Societe Generale: Third quarter 2024 earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESULTS AT 30 SEPTEMBER 2024

    Press release                                                        
    Paris, 31 October 2024

    SOLID BUSINESS PERFORMANCE IN Q3 24,
    GROUP NET INCOME OF EUR 1.4 BILLION

    Revenues of EUR 6.8 billion, up +10.5% vs. Q3 231, driven notably by the strong rebound in net interest income in France, in line with end of year estimate, and by another solid performance of Global Banking and Investor Solutions, in particular in Equities and Transaction Banking

    Strong positive jaws, control of operating expenses, down by -0.8% vs. Q3 23

    Cost-to-income ratio at 63.3% in Q3 24, improved by 7.1 points vs. Q3 23

    Stable cost of risk at 27 basis points in Q3 24

    Profitability (ROTE) at 9.6% vs. 3.8% for Q3 23

    9M 24 NET INCOME UP 53% VS. 9M 23 AT EUR 3.2 BILLION,
    DRIVEN BY THE IMPROVEMENT IN OPERATING PERFORMANCE

    Revenues of EUR 20.2 billion, up +5.3% vs. 9M 23

    Stable operating expenses, +0.1% vs. 9M 23

    Cost-to-income ratio at 68.8%, improved by 3.6 percentage points vs. 9M 23

    Profitability (ROTE) at 7.1% vs. 5.0% for 9M 23

    SOLID CAPITAL AND LIQUIDITY RATIOS

    CET 1 ratio of 13.2%2at end of Q3 24, around 300 basis points above the regulatory requirement

    Liquidity Coverage Ratio at 152% at end of Q3 24

    Distribution provision of EUR 1.663per share at end-September 2024

    DECISIVE EXECUTION OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN

    Capital build-up ahead of Capital Markets Day trajectory

    Continuous improvement in efficiency and profitability

    Reshaping of the business portfolio well underway

    Slawomir Krupa, the Group’s Chief Executive Officer, commented:
    “We are publishing solid quarterly results that continue to show strong improvement. It demonstrates that we are executing our strategic plan which is impacting our results in a positive and tangible way. Our revenues are up thanks to the solid performance of our businesses with a strong rebound of the net interest income in France and another remarkable contribution from Global Banking and Investor Solutions. Operating expenses are stable and cost of risk is contained. We are posting a clear improvement of cost-to-income ratio and profitability, and our capital ratio continues to strengthen.
    For the past year we have been working relentlessly. Our teams are mobilized and we have made progress in three fundamental areas: capital build-up, improvement of profitability, and the reshaping of our business portfolio. We continue to implement our various strategic initiatives such as BoursoBank’s development, LeasePlan’s integration within Ayvens and the acceleration of our contribution to the energy transition. Our goal remains unchanged: a sustainable performance that will create long-term value.”

    1. GROUP CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Change 9M 24 9M 23 Change
    Net banking income 6,837 6,189 +10.5% +11.8%* 20,167 19,147 +5.3% +6.5%*
    Operating expenses (4,327) (4,360) -0.8% -0.3%* (13,877) (13,858) +0.1% +0.5%*
    Gross operating income 2,511 1,829 +37.3% +41.0%* 6,290 5,289 +18.9% +22.4%*
    Net cost of risk (406) (316) +28.4% +30.5%* (1,192) (664) +79.6% +81.0%*
    Operating income 2,105 1,513 +39.1% +43.2%* 5,098 4,625 +10.2% +13.9%*
    Net profits or losses from other assets 21 6 x 3.5 x 3.4* (67) (92) +27.5% +27.3%*
    Income tax (535) (624) -14.3% -12.7%* (1,188) (1,377) -13.7% -11.3%*
    Net income 1,591 563 x 2.8 x 3.0* 3,856 2,836 +35.9% +41.3%*
    O.w. non-controlling interests 224 268 -16.5% -16.1%* 696 774 -10.1% -11.2%*
    Reported Group net income 1,367 295 x 4.6 x 5.1* 3,160 2,062 +53.2% +62.2%*
    ROE 8.4% 0.9%     6.2% 3.6% +0.0% +0.0%*
    ROTE 9.6% 3.8%     7.1% 5.0% +0.0% +0.0%*
    Cost to income 63.3% 70.4%     68.8% 72.4% +0.0% +0.0%*

    Societe Generale’s Board of Directors, which met on 30 October 2024 under the chairmanship of Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, examined Societe Generale Group’s results for Q3 24 and for the first nine months of 2024.

    Net banking income 

    Net banking income stood at EUR 6.8 billion, up by +10.5% vs. Q3 23.

    Revenues of French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance were up by +18.7% vs. Q3 23 and totalled EUR 2.3 billion in Q3 24. Net interest income continued its rebound in Q3 24 (+43% excluding PEL/CEL provision vs. Q3 23), in line with latest estimates, in the context of a still muted loan environment and the pursuit of increasing interest-bearing deposits. Assets under management in the Private Banking and Insurance businesses continued to rise, respectively recording a growth of +8% and +10% in Q3 24 vs. Q3 23. Last, BoursoBank continued its controlled client acquisition, onboarding once again more than 300,000 new clients over the quarter, reaching close to 6.8 million clients at end-September 2024. Likewise, assets under administration rose by over 14% vs. Q3 23. As in Q2 24, BoursoBank posted a positive contribution to Group net income in Q3 24.

    Global Banking and Investor Solutions registered a +4.9% increase in revenues relative to Q3 23. Revenues totalled EUR 2.4 billion over the quarter, still driven by strong dynamics of Global Markets’ and Global Transaction & Payment Services’ activities, with revenues increasing by a respective +7.6% and +9.0% in Q3 24 vs. Q3 23. Within Global Markets, revenues of Equity businesses grew by +10.1%. This is the second best third quarter ever. Fixed income and Currencies also recorded a solid performance, with a +6.1% increase in revenues amid a falling interest rates. Financing and Advisory’s revenues totalled EUR 843 million, stable vs. Q3 23. The commercial momentum in the securitisation businesses remained very solid and the performance of financing activities continued to be good, albeit slower relative to an elevated Q3 23. Likewise, Global Transaction & Payment Services’ activities posted an +9.0% increase in revenues vs. Q3 23, driven by a favourable market environment and sustained commercial development in the cash management and correspondent banking activities.

    Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services’ revenues were down by -5.4% vs. Q3 23 mainly owing to base effects at Ayvens. International Retail Banking recorded a +1.4% increase in revenues vs. Q3 23 to EUR 1.1 billion, driven by favourable momentum across all regions. Mobility and Financial Services’ revenues contracted by -11.4% vs. Q3 23 owing to an unfavourable non-recurring base effect on Ayvens.

    The Corporate Centre recorded revenues of EUR +54 million in Q3 24. They include the booking of exceptional proceeds of approximately EUR 0.3 billion4.

    Over 9M 24, net banking income increased by +5.3% vs. 9M 23.

    Operating expenses 

    Operating expenses came to EUR 4,327 million in Q3 24, down -0.8% vs. Q3 23.

    The cost-to-income ratio stood at 63.3% in Q3 24, a sharp decrease vs. Q3 23 (70.4%) and Q2 24 (68.4%).

    Over 9M 24, operating expenses were stable (+0.1% vs. 9M 23) and the cost-to-income ratio came to 68.8% (vs. 72.4% for 9M 23), which is lower than the 71% target set for FY 2024.

    Cost of risk

    The cost of risk was stable and contained over the quarter at 27 basis points, i.e., EUR 406 million. This comprises a EUR 400 million provision for doubtful loans (around 27 basis points) and a provision on performing loan outstandings for EUR +6 million.

    At end-September 2024, the Group’s provisions on performing loans amounted to EUR 3,122 million, down by a slight EUR -56 million relative to 30 June 2024 notably as per the application of IFRS5 accounting standards on activities under disposal. The EUR -450 million contraction relative to 31 December 2023 is mainly owing to the application of IFRS 5 accounting standards for activities under disposal.

    The gross non-performing loan ratio stood at 2.95%5,6 at 30 September 2024, down vs. end of June 2024 (3.03%). The net coverage ratio on the Group’s non-performing loans stood at 84%7 at 30 September 2024 (after netting of guarantees and collateral).

    Net profits from other assets

    In Q3 24, the Group booked net profit of EUR 21 million driven, on the one hand, by the sale of the headquarters of KB in the Czech Republic and, on the other hand, by the accounting impacts mainly owing to the current sale of assets.

    Group net income

    Group net income stood at EUR 1,367 million in Q3 24, equating to a Return on Tangible Equity (ROTE) of 9.6%.

    Over 9M 24, Group net income came to EUR 3,160 million, equating to a Return on Tangible Equity (ROTE) of 7.1%.

    2.   STRATEGIC PLAN FULLY ON TRACK

    Since announcing its strategic plan in September 2023, the Group has made significant progress in its implementation, the benefits of which are starting to materialise, including on financials aspects. Fundamental milestones have notably been reached in three major areas: capital build-up, the continuous improvement in efficiency and profitability and the reshaping of the business portfolio.

    Regarding the business portfolio, the Group has been proactive in recent months, announcing the disposal of several non-core and non-synergistic assets. These latest divestments not only contribute to simplifying the Group but will also reinforce the capital ratio by around 60 basis points, of which around 15 basis points are expected by year-end.

    At the same time, the Group is preparing the future by investing in our core franchises, as demonstrated by the development of BoursoBank, the integration of LeasePlan in Ayvens, the creation of Bernstein, the partnership with Brookfield, the merger of our networks in France and the digitalization of our networks in the Czech Republic.

    The rollout of our ESG roadmap is also progressing well, particularly on the alignment of our portfolio. The Group has already reduced by more than 50% its upstream Oil & Gas exposure at Q2 24 compared to 20198.

    Last quarter, the Group reached its EUR 300 billion sustainable finance target set between 2022-2025. Societe Generale announces today a new sustainable finance target to facilitate EUR 500 billion over the 2024-2030 period that breaks down as follows:
    – EUR 400 billion in financing and EUR 100 billion in sustainable bonds9
    – EUR 400 billion in environmental activities and EUR 100 billion in social

    A major portion of financing will be for dedicated transactions in clean energy, sustainable real estate, low carbon mobility, and other industry and environmental transition topics.

    3.   THE GROUP’S FINANCIAL STRUCTURE

    At 30 September 2024, the Group’s Common Equity Tier 1 ratio stood at 13.2%10, around 300 basis points above the regulatory requirement. Likewise, the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) was well ahead of regulatory requirements at 152% at end-September 2024 (156% on average for the quarter), and the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) stood at 116% at end-September 2024.

    All liquidity and solvency ratios are well above the regulatory requirements.

      30.09.2024 31.12.2023 Requirements
    CET1(1) 13.2% 13.1% 10.22%
    CET1 fully loaded 13.2% 13.1% 10.22%
    Tier 1 ratio (1) 15.5% 15.6% 12.15%
    Total Capital(1) 18.2% 18.2% 14.71%
    Leverage ratio (1) 4.25% 4.25% 3.60%
    TLAC (% RWA)(1) 27.8% 31.9% 22.29%
    TLAC (% leverage)(1) 7.6% 8.7% 6.75%
    MREL (% RWA)(1) 32.2% 33.7% 27.56%
    MREL (% leverage)(1) 8.8% 9.2% 6.23%
    End of period LCR 152% 160% >100%
    Period average LCR 156% 155% >100%
    NSFR 116% 119% >100%
    In EURbn 30.09.2024 31.12.2023
    Total consolidated balance sheet 1,580 1,554
    Group shareholders’ equity 67 66
    Risk-weighted assets 392 389
    O.w. credit risk 331 326
    Total funded balance sheet 948 970
    Customer loans 453 497
    Customer deposits 608 618

    At 11 October 2024, the parent company had issued a total of EUR 38.0 billion in medium/long-term debt, of which EUR 17.5 billion in vanilla notes. The 2024 long-term vanilla funding programme is completed. The subsidiaries had issued EUR 4.6 billion. In all, the Group has issued a total of EUR 42.6 billion.

    The Group is rated by four rating agencies: (i) FitchRatings – long-term rating “A-”, stable outlook, senior preferred debt rating “A”, short-term rating “F1” (ii) Moody’s – long-term rating (senior preferred debt) “A1”, negative outlook, short-term rating “P-1” (iii) R&I – long-term rating (senior preferred debt) “A”, stable outlook; and (iv) S&P Global Ratings – long-term rating (senior preferred debt) “A”, stable outlook, short-term rating “A-1”.
    4.   FRENCH RETAIL, PRIVATE BANKING AND INSURANCE

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Change 9M 24 9M 23 Change
    Net banking income 2,254 1,900 +18.7% 6,390 6,090 +4.9%
    Net banking income excl. PEL/CEL 2,259 1,895 +19.2% 6,392 6,090 +5.0%
    Operating expenses (1,585) (1,608) -1.4% (4,962) (5,073) -2.2%
    Gross operating income 669 292 x 2.3 1,428 1,017 +40.5%
    Net cost of risk (178) (144) +23.4% (597) (342) +74.7%
    Operating income 491 148 x 3.3 831 675 +23.1%
    Net profits or losses from other assets (1) 0 n/s 7 4 x 2.1
    Reported Group net income 368 109 x 3.4 631 506 +24.8%
    RONE 9.4% 2.8%   5.4% 4.4%  
    Cost to income 70.3% 84.7%   77.7% 83.3%  

    Commercial activity

    SG Network, Private Banking and Insurance 

    Average outstanding deposits of the SG Network amounted to EUR 236 billion in Q3 24, up by +0.6% vs. the previous quarter (-1% vs. Q3 23), with a continued rise in interest-bearing deposits and financial savings.

    The SG Network’s average loan outstandings contracted by -5% vs. Q3 23 to EUR 195 billion. Outstanding loans to corporate and professional clients were stable vs. Q3 23 (excluding government-guaranteed PGE loans), with the share of medium to long-term loans increasing relative to Q2 24. Home loan production continued its recovery (2.4x vs. Q3 23 and +15% vs. Q2 24).

    The average loan to deposit ratio came to 82.5% in Q3 24, down by -3.3 percentage points relative to Q3 23.

    Private Banking activities saw their assets under management11 reach a new record of EUR 154 billion in Q3 24, up by +8% vs. Q3 23. Net gathering stood at EUR 5.9 billion in 9M 24, the net asset gathering pace (net new money divided by AuM) has risen by +5.5% since the start of the year. Net banking income stood at EUR 368 million over the quarter, stable vs. Q3 23. Over 9M 24, net banking income came to EUR 1,121 million, a +1% increase vs. 9M 23.

    Insurance, which covers activities in and outside France, posted a very strong commercial performance. Life insurance outstandings increased sharply by +10% vs. Q3 23 to reach a record EUR 145 billion at end-September 2024. The share of unit-linked products remained high at 40%. Gross life insurance savings inflows amounted to EUR 3.6 billion in Q3 24, up by +35% vs. Q3 23.

    Personal protection and P&C premia were up by +5% vs. Q3 23.

    BoursoBank 

    BoursoBank registered almost 6.8 million clients at end-September 2024, a +27% increase vs. Q3 23 (an increase of around 1.4 million clients year on year). The pace of new client acquisition (around 310,000 new clients in Q3 24) is fully in line with the target of 7 million clients by the end of 2024. BoursoBank can build on an active, loyal and high-quality client base. The brokerage activity registered two million transactions, up by +18% vs. Q3 23. Last, proof of the efficiency of the model and of the very high client satisfaction level, the churn rate has remained low at around 3% and below the market rate.

    Average loan outstandings rose by +4,2% compared to Q3 23, at EUR 15 billion in Q3 24.

    Average outstanding savings including deposits and financial savings were +13.8% higher vs. Q3 23 at EUR 63 billion. Deposits outstanding totalled EUR 38 billion at Q3 24, posting another sharp increase of +16.2% vs. Q3 23. Life insurance outstandings came to EUR 12 billion in Q3 24 and rose by +7.3% vs. Q3 23 (o/w 47% unit-linked products, a +3.3 percentage points increase vs. Q3 23). The activity continued to register strong gross inflows over the quarter (+55% vs. Q3 23, around 53% unit-linked products).

    For the second quarter in a row, BoursoBank recorded a positive contribution to Group net income in Q3 24.

    Net banking income

    Over the quarter, revenues came to EUR 2,254 million, up +19% vs. Q3 23 and up +6% vs Q2 24. Net interest income grew by +43% vs. Q3 23 (excluding PEL/CEL) and +19% (EUR 169 million) vs. Q2 24. Fee income rose by +5.0% relative to Q3 23.

    Over 9M 24 revenues came to EUR 6,390 million, up by +4.9% vs. 9M 23. Net interest income excluding PEL/CEL was up by +15.9% vs. 9M 23. Fee income increased by +1.7% relative to 9M 23.

    Operating expenses

    Over the quarter, operating expenses came to EUR 1,585 million, down -1.4% vs. Q3 23. Operating expenses for Q3 24 include EUR 12 million in transformation costs. The cost-to-income ratio stood at 70.3% for Q3 24, improving by more than +14 percentage points vs. Q3 23.

    Over 9M 24, operating expenses came to EUR 4,962 million (-2.2% vs. 9M 23). The cost-to-income ratio stood at 77.7% and improved by +5.7 percentage points vs. 9M 23.

    Cost of risk

    In Q3 24, the cost of risk amounted to EUR 178 million or 30 basis points stable on Q2 24
    (29 basis points).

    Over 9M 24, the cost of risk totalled EUR 597 million or 34 basis points.

    Group net income

    Over the quarter, Group net income totalled EUR 368 million. RONE stood at 9.4% in Q3 24.

    Over 9M 24, Group net income totalled EUR 631 million. RONE stood at 5.4% in 9M 24.
    5.   GLOBAL BANKING AND INVESTOR SOLUTIONS

    In EUR m Q3 24 Q3 23 Variation 9M 24 9M 23 Change
    Net banking income 2,422 2,309 +4.9% +5.2%* 7,666 7,457 +2.8% +2.8%*
    Operating expenses (1,494) (1,478) +1.1% +1.3%* (4,898) (5,187) -5.6% -5.5%*
    Gross operating income 928 831 +11.6% +12.0%* 2,768 2,270 +21.9% +21.8%*
    Net cost of risk (27) (14) +95.3% x 2.0* (29) 8 n/s n/s
    Operating income 901 817 +10.2% +10.5%* 2,739 2,278 +20.2% +20.0%*
    Reported Group net income 699 645 +8.2% +8.5%* 2,160 1,814 +19.1% +18.8%*
    RONE 18.0% 16.8% +0.0% +0.0%* 19.0% 15.6% +0.0% +0.0%*
    Cost to income 61.7% 64.0% +0.0% +0.0%* 63.9% 69.6% +0.0% +0.0%*

    Net banking income

    Global Banking and Investor Solutions continued to deliver very strong performances, posting revenues of EUR 2,422 million, up +4.9% versus Q3 23.

    Over 9M 24, revenues climbed by +2.8% vs. 9M 23 (EUR 7,666 million vs. EUR 7,457 million).

    Global Markets and Investor Services recorded a rise in revenues over the quarter vs. Q3 23 of +7.6% to EUR 1,579 million. Over 9M 24, revenues totalled EUR 5,063 million, i.e., a +3.1% increase vs. 9M 23. Growth was mainly driven by Global Markets which recorded revenues of EUR 1,410 million in Q3 24, up by +8.6% relative to Q3 23 amid a positive environment that was particularly conducive to Equities. Over 9M 24, revenues totalled EUR 4,553 million, up by +4.5% vs. 9M 23.

    The Equities business again delivered a solid performance, recording revenues of EUR 880 million in Q3 24, up by a strong +10.1% vs. Q3 23, notably on the back of a very good performance from derivatives amid favourable market conditions. This is the second best third quarter ever. Over 9M 24, revenues increased sharply by +12.9% relative to 9M 23 to EUR 2,739 million.

    Fixed Income and Currencies registered a +6.1% increase in revenues to EUR 530 million in Q3 24, notably owing to robust demand for rates and forex flow activities, particularly from US clients. Over 9M 24, revenues decreased by -6.0% to EUR 1,814 million.

    Securities Services’ revenues were up +0.6% versus Q3 23 at EUR 169 million, but increased by +9.9% excluding the impact of equity participations. The business continued to reap the benefit of a positive fee generation trend and robust momentum in private market and fund distribution. Over 9M 24, revenues were down by -8.2%, but rose by +2.1% excluding equity participations. Assets under Custody and Assets under Administration amounted to EUR 4,975 billion and EUR 614 billion, respectively.

    The Financing and Advisory business posted revenues of EUR 843 million, stable versus Q3 23. Over 9M 24, revenues totalled EUR 2,602 million, up by +2.3% vs. 9M 23.

    The Global Banking and Advisory business posted a -3.2% decline in revenues relative to Q3 23. Securitised products again delivered a solid performance and momentum was strong in the distribution activity. Financing activities posted a good performance, albeit down on the high baseline in Q3 23. Investment banking activities turned in resilient performances. Over 9M 24, revenues dipped slightly by -0.3% relative to 9M 23.

    Global Transaction & Payment Services again delivered a very robust performance compared with Q3 23, posting an +9.0% increase in revenues, driven by strong momentum in cash management and the correspondent banking activities. Over 9M 24, revenues grew by +10.1%.

    Operating expenses

    Operating expenses came to EUR 1,494 million over the quarter and included EUR 21 million in transformation costs. Operating expenses rose by +1.1% compared with Q3 23, equating to a cost-to-income ratio of 61.7% in Q3 24.

    Over 9M 24, operating expenses decreased by -5.6% compared with 9M 23 and the cost-to-income ratio came to 63.9%.

    Cost of risk

    Over the quarter, the cost of risk was low at EUR 27 million, or 7 basis points vs. 3 basis points in Q3 23.

    Over 9M 24, the cost of risk was EUR 29 million, or 2 basis points.

    Group net income

    Group net income increased by +8.2% vs. Q3 23 to EUR 699 million. Over 9M 24, Group net income rose sharply by +19.1% to EUR 2,160 million.

    Global Banking and Investor Solutions reported high RONE of 18.0% for the quarter and RONE of 19.0% for 9M 24.

    6.   MOBILITY, INTERNATIONAL RETAIL BANKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Change   9M 24 9M 23 Change
    Net banking income 2,108 2,228 -5.4% -2.8%*   6,403 6,491 -1.4% +1.8%*
    Operating expenses (1,221) (1,239) -1.4% +0.3%*   (3,832) (3,479) +10.2% +12.7%*
    Gross operating income 887 989 -10.4% -6.6%*   2,570 3,013 -14.7% -10.9%*
    Net cost of risk (201) (175) +14.9% +18.1%*   (572) (349) +63.7% +65.9%*
    Operating income 685 814 -15.8% -12.0%*   1,998 2,663 -25.0% -21.2%*
    Net profits or losses from other assets 94 1 x 77.0 x 76.7*   98 0 x 375.7 x 304.1
    Non-controlling interests 223 237 -6.1% -3.6%*   623 674 -7.6% -7.8%*
    Reported Group net income 367 377 -2.4% +3.1%*   956 1,325 -27.8% -22.1%*
    RONE 14.1% 14.9%       12.2% 18.6%    
    Cost to income 57.9% 55.6%       59.9% 53.6%    

    (122)()

    Commercial activity

    International Retail Banking

    International Retail Banking1 posted robust commercial momentum in Q3 24, with an increase in loan outstandings of +4.2%* vs. Q3 23 (+1.8%, outstandings of EUR 68 billion in Q3 24) and growth of +4.1%* vs. Q3 23 (+1.2%, outstandings of EUR 83 billion in Q3 24).

    Activity in Europe was solid across client segments for both entities. Loan outstandings increased by +6.0%* vs. Q3 23 (+3.1% at current perimeter and exchange rates, outstandings of EUR 43 billion in Q3 24), driven by home loans and medium and long-term corporate loans in a lower rates environment. Deposit outstandings increased by +4.6%* vs. Q3 23 (+1.9% at current perimeter and exchange rates, outstandings of EUR 55 billion in Q3 24), mainly on interest-bearing products.

    In Africa, Mediterranean Basin and French Overseas Territories, loan outstandings totalled EUR 25 billion in Q3 24 (+1.2%* vs. Q3 23, stable at current perimeter and exchange rates) on back of a +5.6%* rise vs. Q3 23 in sub-Saharan Africa (stable vs. Q3 23 at current perimeter and exchange rates). Deposit outstandings totalled EUR 27 billion at Q3 24. They increased by +3.0%* vs. Q3 23 (stable at current perimeter and exchange rates) across all client segments in Africa.

    Mobility and Financial Services

    Overall, Mobility and Financial Services maintained a good commercial performance.

    Ayvens’ earning assets totalled EUR 53.1 billion at end-September 2024, a +5.8% increase vs.                                end-September 2023.

    The Consumer Finance business posted loans outstanding of EUR 23 billion for Q3 24, down -4.5% vs. Q3 23 in a still uncertain environment.

    Equipment Finance posted outstandings of EUR 15 billion in Q3 24, the same level as in Q3 23.

    Net banking income

    Over the quarter, Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services’ revenues totalled EUR 2,108 million, a decrease of -2.8%* vs. Q3 23 (-5.4% at current perimeter and exchange rates).

    Over 9M 24, revenues came to EUR 6,403 million, up slightly by +1.8%* vs. 9M 23 (-1.4% at current perimeter and exchange rates).

    International Retail Banking recorded a solid performance over the quarter, with a net banking income of EUR 1,058 million, up by +5.1%* vs. Q3 23 (+1.4% at current perimeter and exchange rates). Over 9M 24, revenues totalled EUR 3,131 million, a +4.0%* increase vs. 9M 23 (stable at current perimeter and exchange rates).

    Europe recorded revenues of EUR 506 million in Q3 24, an increase for both entities (+3.0%* vs. Q3 23, stable at current perimeter and exchange rates).

    The Africa, Mediterranean Basin and French Overseas Territories region continued to post robust commercial momentum with revenues of EUR 552 million in Q3 24. These increased by +7.2%* vs. Q3 23 (+2.8% at current perimeter and exchange rates), driven by a significant rise in net interest income in Africa (+10.5%* vs. Q3 23).

    In Q3 24, Mobility and Financial Services’ revenues decreased by -11.4% vs. Q3 23 to EUR 1,049 million. Over the first nine months of 2024, they contracted by -2.9% to EUR 3,271 million.

    Ayvens’ net banking income stood at EUR 732 million, a decrease of -14,8% in Q3 24 vs. Q3 23 and of
    -4,0% restated from non-recurring items13. The amount of underlying margins was stable vs. Q3 23 at around EUR 690 million1. The average used car sale result per vehicle (UCS) continued to normalise but remained at a high level of EUR 1,4201 per unit in Q3 24 vs. EUR 1,4801 in Q2 24.

    Consumer Finance activities, down by -3.5% vs. Q3 23, have stabilised since Q2 24 with the business posting net banking income of EUR 218 million in Q3 24. Equipment Finance revenues were also stable vs. Q3 23 (EUR 99 million in Q3 24).

    Operating expenses

    Over the quarter, operating expenses were stable (+0.3%* vs. Q3 23, -1.4%) at EUR 1,221 million and included EUR 29 million in transformation costs. The cost-to-income ratio came to 57.9% in Q3 24.

    Over 9M 24, operating expenses totalled EUR 3,832 million, up +12.7%* vs. 9M 23 (+10.2% at current perimeter and exchange rates). They include around EUR 148 million of transformation charges.

    In a context of a strong transformation, International Retail Banking costs rose by +3.4%* vs. Q3 23 (stable at current perimeter and exchange rates, EUR 567 million in Q3 24), notably due to the impact of a new banking tax in Romania which entered into force in January 2024.

    The Mobility and Financial Services business recorded a decrease in operating expenses compared to Q3 23 (-2.4% vs. Q3 23, EUR 654 million in Q3 24).

    Cost of risk

    Over the quarter, the cost of risk normalised at 48 basis points (or EUR 201 million).

    Over 9M 24, the cost of risk stood at 45 basis points vs. 32 basis points in 9M 23.

    Group net income

    Over the quarter, Group net income came to EUR 367 million, down -2.4% vs. Q3 23. RONE stood at 14.1% in Q3 24. RONE was 21.4% for International Retail Banking (positive impact on Group net income of around EUR 40 million related to the sale of KB head office premises), and 9.2% in Mobility and Financial Services in Q3 24.

    Over 9M 24, Group net income came to EUR 956 million, down by -27.8% vs. 9M 23. RONE stood at 12.2% for 9M 24. RONE was 16.4% in International Retail Banking, and 9.5% in Mobility and Financial Services in 9M 24.
    7.   CORPORATE CENTRE

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Change 9M 24 9M 23 Change
    Net banking income 54 (249) n/s n/s (291) (891) +67.3% +67.8%*
    Operating expenses (27) (35) -22.8% -25.8%* (185) (119) +55.2% +48.2%*
    Gross operating income 27 (283) n/s n/s (476) (1,010) +52.9% +54.2%*
    Net cost of risk 1 17 +95.9% +95.9%* 6 19 +70.6% +70.6%*
    Net profits or losses from other assets (73) 4 n/s n/s (172) (96) -78.9% -79.1%*
    Income tax (26) (214) -87.7% -87.5%* 118 (85) n/s n/s
    Reported Group net income (67) (836) +92.0% +92.2%* (587) (1,582) +62.9% +63.7%*

    The Corporate Centre includes:

    • the property management of the Group’s head office,
    • the Group’s equity portfolio,
    • the Treasury function for the Group,
    • certain costs related to cross-functional projects, as well as several costs incurred by the Group that are not re-invoiced to the businesses.

    Net banking income

    Over the quarter, the Corporate Centre’s net banking income totalled EUR +54 million vs.  EUR -249 million in Q3 23. It includes the booking of exceptional proceeds received of approximately EUR 0.3 billion14.

    Operating expenses

    Over the quarter, operating expenses totalled EUR 27 million vs. EUR 35 million in Q3 23.

    Net losses from other assets

    Pursuant notably to the application of IFRS 5, the Group booked in Q3 24 various impacts from ongoing disposals of assets.

    Group net income

    Over the quarter, the Corporate Centre’s Group net income totalled EUR -67 million vs. EUR -836 million in Q3 23.

    8.   2024 AND 2025 FINANCIAL CALENDAR

    2024 and 2025 Financial communication calendar
    February 6th, 2025 Fourth quarter and full year 2024 results
    April 30th, 2025 First quarter 2025 results
    May 20th, 2025 2024 Combined General Meeting
    The Alternative Performance Measures, notably the notions of net banking income for the pillars, operating expenses, cost of risk in basis points, ROE, ROTE, RONE, net assets and tangible net assets are presented in the methodology notes, as are the principles for the presentation of prudential ratios.

    This document contains forward-looking statements relating to the targets and strategies of the Societe Generale Group.

    These forward-looking statements are based on a series of assumptions, both general and specific, in particular the application of accounting principles and methods in accordance with IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) as adopted in the European Union, as well as the application of existing prudential regulations.

    These forward-looking statements have also been developed from scenarios based on a number of economic assumptions in the context of a given competitive and regulatory environment. The Group may be unable to:

    – anticipate all the risks, uncertainties or other factors likely to affect its business and to appraise their potential consequences;

    – evaluate the extent to which the occurrence of a risk or a combination of risks could cause actual results to differ materially from those provided in this document and the related presentation.

    Therefore, although Societe Generale believes that these statements are based on reasonable assumptions, these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including matters not yet known to it or its management or not currently considered material, and there can be no assurance that anticipated events will occur or that the objectives set out will actually be achieved. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, overall trends in general economic activity and in Societe Generale’s markets in particular, regulatory and prudential changes, and the success of Societe Generale’s strategic, operating and financial initiatives.

    More detailed information on the potential risks that could affect Societe Generale’s financial results can be found in the section “Risk Factors” in our Universal Registration Document filed with the French Autorité des Marchés Financiers (which is available on https://investors.societegenerale.com/en).

    Investors are advised to take into account factors of uncertainty and risk likely to impact the operations of the Group when considering the information contained in such forward-looking statements. Other than as required by applicable law, Societe Generale does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements. Unless otherwise specified, the sources for the business rankings and market positions are internal.

    9.   APPENDIX 1: FINANCIAL DATA

    GROUP NET INCOME BY CORE BUSINESS

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Variation 9M 24 9M 23 Variation
    French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance 368 109 x 3.4 631 506 +24.8%
    Global Banking and Investor Solutions 699 645 +8.2% 2,160 1,814 +19.1%
    Mobility, International Retail Banking & Financial Services 367 377 -2.4% 956 1,325 -27.8%
    Core Businesses 1,434 1,131 +26.7% 3,747 3,644 +2.8%
    Corporate Centre (67) (836) +92.0% (587) (1,582) +62.9%
    Group 1,367 295 x 4.6 3,160 2,062 +53.2%

    MAIN EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 9M 24 9M 23
    Net Banking Income – Total exceptional items 287 0 287 (240)
    One-off legacy items – Corporate Centre 0 0 0 (240)
    Exceptional proceeds received – Corporate Centre 287 0 287 0
             
    Operating expenses – Total one-off items and transformation charges (62) (145) (538) (662)
    Transformation charges (62) (145) (538) (627)
    Of which French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance (12) (46) (139) (330)
    Of which Global Banking & Investor Solutions (21) (41) (204) (102)
    Of which Mobility, International Retail Banking & Financial Services (29) (58) (148) (195)
    Of which Corporate Centre 0 0 (47) 0
    One-off items 0 0 0 (35)
    Of which French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance 0 0 0 60
    Of which Global Banking & Investor Solutions 0 0 0 (95)
             
    Other one-off items – Total 13 (625) 13 (704)
    Net profits or losses from other assets 13 (17) 13 (96)
    Of which Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services 86 0 86 0
    Of which Corporate Centre (73) (17) (73) (96)
    Goodwill impairment – Corporate Centre 0 (338) 0 (338)
    Provision of Deferred Tax Assets – Corporate Centre 0 (270) 0 (270)

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

    In EUR m   30.09.2024 31.12.2023
    Cash, due from central banks   199,140 223,048
    Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss   528,259 495,882
    Hedging derivatives   8,265 10,585
    Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income   93,795 90,894
    Securities at amortised cost   29,908 28,147
    Due from banks at amortised cost   87,153 77,879
    Customer loans at amortised cost   446,576 485,449
    Revaluation differences on portfolios hedged against interest rate risk   (330) (433)
    Insurance and reinsurance contracts assets   438 459
    Tax assets   4,535 4,717
    Other assets   75,523 69,765
    Non-current assets held for sale   39,940 1,763
    Investments accounted for using the equity method   384 227
    Tangible and intangible fixed assets   60,970 60,714
    Goodwill   5,031 4,949
    Total   1,579,587 1,554,045
    In EUR m   30.09.2024 31.12.2023
    Due to central banks   10,134 9,718
    Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss   391,788 375,584
    Hedging derivatives   14,621 18,708
    Debt securities issued   162,997 160,506
    Due to banks   105,320 117,847
    Customer deposits   526,100 541,677
    Revaluation differences on portfolios hedged

    against interest rate risk

      (5,074) (5,857)
    Tax liabilities   2,516 2,402
    Other liabilities   93,909 93,658
    Non-current liabilities held for sale   29,802 1,703
    Insurance contracts related liabilities   150,295 141,723
    Provisions   3,954 4,235
    Subordinated debts   15,985 15,894
    Total liabilities   1,502,347 1,477,798
    Shareholder’s equity  
    Shareholders’ equity, Group share  
    Issued common stocks and capital reserves   21,166 21,186
    Other equity instruments   8,918 8,924
    Retained earnings   34,074 32,891
    Net income   3,160 2,493
    Sub-total   67,318 65,494
    Unrealised or deferred capital gains and losses   128 481
    Sub-total equity, Group share   67,446 65,975
    Non-controlling interests   9,794 10,272
    Total equity   77,240 76,247
    Total   1,579,587 1,554,045

    10.    APPENDIX 2: METHODOLOGY

    1 –The financial information presented for the third quarter and nine-month 2024 was examined by the Board of Directors on October 30th, 2024 and has been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted in the European Union and applicable at that date. This information has not been audited.

    2 – Net banking income

    The pillars’ net banking income is defined on page 42 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document. The terms “Revenues” or “Net Banking Income” are used interchangeably. They provide a normalised measure of each pillar’s net banking income taking into account the normative capital mobilised for its activity.

    3 – Operating expenses

    Operating expenses correspond to the “Operating Expenses” as presented in note 5 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements as at December 31st, 2023. The term “costs” is also used to refer to Operating Expenses. The Cost/Income Ratio is defined on page 42 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document.

    4 – Cost of risk in basis points, coverage ratio for doubtful outstandings

    The cost of risk is defined on pages 43 and 770 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document. This indicator makes it possible to assess the level of risk of each of the pillars as a percentage of balance sheet loan commitments, including operating leases.

    In EURm   Q3 24 Q3 23 9M 24 9M 23
    French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance Net Cost Of Risk 178 144 597 342
    Gross loan Outstandings 234,420 243,740 236,286 248,757
    Cost of Risk in bp 30 24 34 18
    Global Banking and Investor Solutions Net Cost Of Risk 27 14 29 (8)
    Gross loan Outstandings 163,160 167,057 163,482 170,165
    Cost of Risk in bp 7 3 2 (1)
    Mobility, International Retail Banking & Financial Services Net Cost Of Risk 201 175 572 349
    Gross loan Outstandings 168,182 162,873 167,680 145,227
    Cost of Risk in bp 48 43 45 32
    Corporate Centre Net Cost Of Risk (1) (17) (6) (19)
    Gross loan Outstandings 25,121 22,681 24,356 19,364
    Cost of Risk in bp (1) (31) (3) (13)
    Societe Generale Group Net Cost Of Risk 406 316 1,192 664
    Gross loan Outstandings 590,882 596,350 591,804 583,512
    Cost of Risk in bp 27 21 27 15

    The gross coverage ratio for doubtful outstandings is calculated as the ratio of provisions recognised in respect of the credit risk to gross outstandings identified as in default within the meaning of the regulations, without taking account of any guarantees provided. This coverage ratio measures the maximum residual risk associated with outstandings in default (“doubtful”).

    5 – ROE, ROTE, RONE

    The notions of ROE (Return on Equity) and ROTE (Return on Tangible Equity), as well as their calculation methodology, are specified on pages 43 and 44 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document. This measure makes it possible to assess Societe Generale’s return on equity and return on tangible equity.
    RONE (Return on Normative Equity) determines the return on average normative equity allocated to the Group’s businesses, according to the principles presented on page 44 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document.
    Group net income used for the ratio numerator is the accounting Group net income adjusted for “Interest paid and payable to holders if deeply subordinated notes and undated subordinated notes, issue premium amortisation”. For ROTE, income is also restated for goodwill impairment.
    Details of the corrections made to the accounting equity in order to calculate ROE and ROTE for the period are given in the table below:

    ROTE calculation: calculation methodology

    End of period (in EURm) Q3 24 Q3 23 9M 24 9M 23
    Shareholders’ equity Group share 67,446 68,077 67,446 68,077
    Deeply subordinated and undated subordinated notes (8,955) (11,054) (8,955) (11,054)
    Interest payable to holders of deeply & undated subordinated notes, issue premium amortisation(1) (45) (102) (45) (102)
    OCI excluding conversion reserves 560 853 560 853
    Distribution provision(2) (1,319) (1,059) (1,319) (1,059)
    Distribution N-1 to be paid
    ROE equity end-of-period 57,687 56,715 57,687 56,715
    Average ROE equity 57,368 56,572 56,896 56,326
    Average Goodwill(3) (4,160) (4,279) (4,079) (3,991)
    Average Intangible Assets (2,906) (3,390) (2,933) (3,128)
    Average ROTE equity 50,302 48,903 49,884 49,207
             
    Group net Income 1,367 295 3,160 2,063
    Interest paid and payable to holders of deeply subordinated notes and undated subordinated notes, issue premium amortisation (165) (165) (521) (544)
    Cancellation of goodwill impairment 338 338
    Adjusted Group net Income 1,202 468 2,639 1,858
    ROTE 9.6% 3.8% 7.1% 5.0%

    151617

    RONE calculation: Average capital allocated to Core Businesses (in EURm)

    In EURm Q3 24 Q3 23 Change 9M 24 9M 23 Change
    French Retail , Private Banking and Insurance 15,695 15,564 +0.8% 15,602 15,457 +0.9%
    Global Banking and Investor Solutions 15,490 15,324 +1.1% 15,149 15,485 -2.2%
    Mobility, International Retail Banking & Financial Services 10,433 10,136 +2.9% 10,425 9,505 +9.7%
    Core Businesses 41,618 41,024 +1.4% 41,177 40,448 +1.8%
    Corporate Center 15,750 15,548 +1.3% 15,719 15,878 -1.0%
    Group 57,368 56,572 +1.4% 56,896 56,326 +1.0%

    6 – Net assets and tangible net assets

    Net assets and tangible net assets are defined in the methodology, page 45 of the Group’s 2024 Universal Registration Document. The items used to calculate them are presented below:
    1819

    End of period (in EURm) 9M 24 H1 24 2023
    Shareholders’ equity Group share 67,446 66,829 65,975
    Deeply subordinated and undated subordinated notes (8,955) (9,747) (9,095)
    Interest of deeply & undated subordinated notes, issue premium amortisation(1) (45) (19) (21)
    Book value of own shares in trading portfolio 97 96 36
    Net Asset Value 58,543 57,159 56,895
    Goodwill(2) (4,178) (4,143) (4,008)
    Intangible Assets (2,895) (2,917) (2,954)
    Net Tangible Asset Value 51,471 50,099 49,933
           
    Number of shares used to calculate NAPS(3) 796,498 787,442 796,244
    Net Asset Value per Share 73.5 72.6 71.5
    Net Tangible Asset Value per Share 64.6 63.6 62.7

    7 – Calculation of Earnings Per Share (EPS)

    The EPS published by Societe Generale is calculated according to the rules defined by the IAS 33 standard (see page 44 of Societe Generale’s 2024 Universal Registration Document). The corrections made to Group net income in order to calculate EPS correspond to the restatements carried out for the calculation of ROE and ROTE.
    The calculation of Earnings Per Share is described in the following table:

    Average number of shares (thousands) 9M 24 H1 24 2023
    Existing shares 802,314 802,980 818,008
    Deductions      
    Shares allocated to cover stock option plans and free shares awarded to staff 4,548 4,791 6,802
    Other own shares and treasury shares 2,930 3,907 11,891
    Number of shares used to calculate EPS(4) 794,836 794,282 799,315
    Group net Income (in EUR m) 3,160 1,793 2,493
    Interest on deeply subordinated notes and undated subordinated notes (in EUR m) (521) (356) (759)
    Adjusted Group net income (in EUR m) 2,638 1,437 1,735
    EPS (in EUR) 3.32 1.81 2.17

    20
    8 – The Societe Generale Group’s Common Equity Tier 1 capital is calculated in accordance with applicable CRR2/CRD5 rules. The fully loaded solvency ratios are presented pro forma for current earnings, net of dividends, for the current financial year, unless specified otherwise. When there is reference to phased-in ratios, these do not include the earnings for the current financial year, unless specified otherwise. The leverage ratio is also calculated according to applicable CRR2/CRD5 rules including the phased-in following the same rationale as solvency ratios.

    9 – Funded balance sheet, loan to deposit ratio

    The funded balance sheet is based on the Group financial statements. It is obtained in two steps:

    • A first step aiming at reclassifying the items of the financial statements into aggregates allowing for a more economic reading of the balance sheet. Main reclassifications:

    Insurance: grouping of the accounting items related to insurance within a single aggregate in both assets and liabilities.
    Customer loans: include outstanding loans with customers (net of provisions and write-downs, including net lease financing outstanding and transactions at fair value through profit and loss); excludes financial assets reclassified under loans and receivables in accordance with the conditions stipulated by IFRS 9 (these positions have been reclassified in their original lines).
    Wholesale funding: Includes interbank liabilities and debt securities issued. Financing transactions have been allocated to medium/long-term resources and short-term resources based on the maturity of outstanding, more or less than one year.
    Reclassification under customer deposits of the share of issues placed by French Retail Banking networks (recorded in medium/long-term financing), and certain transactions carried out with counterparties equivalent to customer deposits (previously included in short term financing).
    Deduction from customer deposits and reintegration into short-term financing of certain transactions equivalent to market resources.

    • A second step aiming at excluding the contribution of insurance subsidiaries, and netting derivatives, repurchase agreements, securities borrowing/lending, accruals and “due to central banks”.

    The Group loan/deposit ratio is determined as the division of the customer loans by customer deposits as presented in the funded balance sheet.

    NB (1) The sum of values contained in the tables and analyses may differ slightly from the total reported due to rounding rules.
    (2) All the information on the results for the period (notably: press release, downloadable data, presentation slides and supplement) is available on Societe Generale’s website www.societegenerale.com in the “Investor” section.

    Societe Generale

    Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with more than 126,000 employees serving about 25 million clients in 65 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for nearly 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

    The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

    • French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
    • Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
    • Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

    Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

    For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com. or visit our website societegenerale.com.


    Asterisks* in the document refer to data at constant perimeter and exchange rates
    1 +5.8% excluding exceptional proceeds recorded in Corporate Centre (~EUR 0.3bn)
    2 Including IFRS 9 phasing, proforma including Q3 24 results
    3 Based on a pay-out ratio of 50% of the Group net income, at the high-end of the 40%-50% pay-out ratio, as per regulation, restated from non-cash items and after deduction of interest on deeply subordinated notes and undated subordinated notes
    4 As stated in Q2 24 results press release
    5 Ratio calculated according to European Banking Authority (EBA) methodology published on 16 July 2019
    6 Ratio excluding loans outstanding of companies currently being disposed of in compliance with IFRS 5
    7 Ratio of S3 provisions, guarantees and collaterals over gross outstanding non-performing loans
    8 Target: -80% upstream exposure reduction by 2030 vs. 2019, with an intermediary step in 2025 at -50% vs. 2019
    9 Only the Societe Generale participation is taken into account
    10 Including IFRS 9 phasing, proforma including Q3 24 results
    11 France and International, including Switzerland and United Kingdom
    1 Including entities reported under IFRS 5
    1 Excluding non-recurring items on either margins or UCS (mainly linked to fleet revaluation at EUR 114m in Q3 23 vs EUR 0m in Q3 24, the net impact related to prospective depreciation and Purchase Price Allocation for ~EUR 35m vs. Q3 23, hyperinflation in Turkey at EUR 46m in Q3 23 vs. EUR 10m in Q3 24 and MtM of derivatives at EUR -82m in Q3 23 vs. EUR -55m in Q3 24)
    14 As stated in Q2 24 results press release
    15 Interest net of tax
    16 The dividend to be paid is calculated based on a pay-out ratio of 50%, restated from non-cash items and after deduction of interest on deeply subordinated notes and on undated subordinated notes
    17 Excluding goodwill arising from non-controlling interests
    18 Interest net of tax
    19 Excluding goodwill arising from non-controlling interests
    20 The number of shares considered is the number of ordinary shares outstanding at end of period, excluding treasury shares and buybacks, but including the trading shares held by the Group (expressed in thousand of shares)
    4 The number of shares considered is the average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period, excluding treasury shares and buybacks, but including the trading shares held by the Group.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Šiaulių Bankas results for 9M 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Profit. Šiaulių Bankas earned a net profit of €63.6 million
    • Return on capital. Achieved a return on equity (RoE) of 15.4%
    • Loan portfolio. New loan financing contract volumes grew by 8%, with the loan portfolio exceeding €3.4 billion
    • Asset quality. The quality of the loan portfolio remains strong – the cost of risk (CoR) of the loan portfolio was 0.31%
    • Net fee and commission income. Net fee and commission income amounted to €21.0 million, an increase of 44% compared to the same period last year
    • Capital and liquidity. Two successful bond issues of €300 million and €50 million in the international capital markets strengthened the bank’s capital and liquidity position
    • New dividend policy. Šiaulių Bankas commits to pay out at least 50% of the previous year’s net profit

    “Šiaulių Bankas continues to maintain stable growth. We expanded our market share across all financing segments: the corporate financing portfolio grew, more new contracts were signed, and growth in the mortgage segment gained even stronger momentum. Net fee and commission income also increased, and we made a significant contribution to capital markets by issuing more bonds in the first three quarters than initially planned for the entire year.

    We are focusing on another key area – capital efficiency. Šiaulių Bankas made its international debut with substantial bond issues, strengthening our capital and liquidity position. We have introduced a new dividend policy and are continuing our share buyback program, committed to increasing returns to shareholders while meeting the capital requirements outlined in our strategy,” says Vytautas Sinius, CEO of Šiaulių Bankas.

    Šiaulių Bankas Group earned an unaudited net profit of €63.6 million in in the first three quarters of 2024, which is 3% less than in the corresponding period of 2023. Operating profit before impairment and income tax amounted to €85.4 million, an 8% decrease compared to operating profit of €93.1 million in the first three quarters of 2023.

    Net interest income in the first three quarters of 2024 grew by 4% compared to the corresponding period of 2023 to €121.1 million, while net fee and commission income grew by 44% to €21.0 million.

    All loan book segments grew in the first three quarters of the year, with the total loan portfolio increasing by 17% (€498 million) to €3.43 billion (growth of 8% or €241 million in Q3 alone). New credit agreements worth €1.3 billion were signed during the three quarters of the year, 29% more than in the corresponding period of 2023 (€1.0 billion).

    The quality of the loan portfolio remains strong with provisions of €7.3 million made in the first three quarters of the year due to the strong portfolio growth and model adjustment, compared to provisions of €8.4 million in corresponding period of 2023. The cost of risk (CoR) of the loan portfolio for three quarters of 2024 was 0.31% (0.41% in corresponding period of 2023).

    The deposit portfolio grew by 8% (€240 million) over the three quarter period and exceeded €3.4 billion at the end of September (growth of 2% or €78 million in Q3 alone). The bank’s funding structure was reinforced by a €300 million bond issue on the international market. After the quarter, in October, the bank issued an additional Tier 1 bond of €50 million, which strengthened its funding structure as well as capital structure. This will allow the bank to continue its rapid and sustainable growth and to implement its new dividend policy.

    Šiaulių Bankas maintained a high level of operational efficiency – the group’s cost-to-income ratio in the three quarters of this year reaching 45.6%1 (34.4%1 in the corresponding period of 2023) and the return on equity of 15.4% achieved (18.9% in the three quarters of 2023). The capital and liquidity position remained strong and prudential ratios were met by a wide margin. The capital adequacy ratio (CAR) stood at 21.22%2 and the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) at 156.0%2.

    Income Statement (€’m) 2024 9M YTD  2023 9M YTD % ∆
           
    Net Interest Income 121.1 116.1 4%
    Net Fee and Commission Income 21.0 14.6 44%
    Other Income 24.9 13.6 84%
    Total Revenue 167.0 144.3 16%
           
    Salaries and Related Expenses (35.4) (25.5) 39%
    Other Operating Expenses (46.2) (25.6) 80%
    Total Operating Expenses (81.6) (51.1) 59%
           
    Operating Profit 85.4 93.1 (8%)
    Provisions (6.9) (8.5) (18%)
    Income Tax Expense (14.9) (19.0) (22%)
           
    Net Profit 63.6 65.7 (3%)
           
    Balance Sheet Metrics (€’m) 2024-09-30 2023-12-31 % ∆
           
    Loan Portfolio 3,429 2,932 17%
    Total Assets 4,944 4,809 3%
    Deposits 3,419 3,178 8%
    Equity 577 543 6%
           
    Assets under Management3 1,870 1,556 20%
    Assets under Custody 1,862 1,943 -4%
           
    KPIs 2024 9M YTD 2023 9M YTD
           
    Net Interest Margin (NIM) 3.6% 4.3% -73bps
    Cost-to-Income Ratio (C/I)1 45.6% 34.4% +1125bps
    Return on Equity (RoE) 15.4% 18.9% -357bps
    Cost of Risk (CoR) 0.3% 0.4% -10bps
    Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)2 21.22% 21.34% -12bps

    Overview of Business Segments

    Corporate Client Segment

    The business loan portfolio grew by 24% year-on-year, driven by an increase in new lending volumes in the first 9 months of the year to €854 million, or 45% compared to the corresponding period last year. In the Q3 alone, the total amounted to €393 million. Since the beginning of the year, the portfolio has grown by €0.3 billion to over €1.8 billion.

    This underlines the favourable business environment in key strategic sectors including energy, manufacturing and retail. Šiaulių Bankas also further strengthens its commitment to green projects by financing a 29.5 MWh wind farm in western Lithuania, boosting the region’s economic growth and further diversifying its loan portfolio.

    Private Client Segment

    Lending activity in the retail segment increased significantly. New mortgage loans signed in the first nine months of 2024 amounted to €187 million and increased by 39% compared to the same period last year. Since the beginning of the year, the total portfolio of housing loans has grown by 16% (€127 million) to over €0.9 billion.

    New consumer loans totaling €191 million were issued in the first nine months of the year, up 12% compared to the same period last year. Since the beginning of the year, the consumer loan portfolio has grown by 21% (€61 million), reaching €0.35 billion.

    Šiaulių Bankas continues to prepare for a growth phase in retail banking segment. Along with implementing new core banking platform, preparations are being made for an active sales promotion phase: the number of direct marketing consents is growing, a new CRM system is being implemented, sales processes are being optimised and the competences of employees are being strengthened.

    Investment Client Segment

    In the first nine months of 2024, the volume of new bond issues reached €185 million, up 16% year-on-year, reflecting consistent investor interest and growing confidence in the bank’s financial products. In the third quarter of the year alone, due to the seasonality of the capital markets, new bond issues amounted to € 31 million.

    In Q3, the Bank also introduced a new option for investors to buy bonds through the Bank’s securities platform. This is an opportunity for customers to acquire bonds conveniently and quickly on their own online.

    Assets managed by SB Asset Management, the asset management company of Šiaulių Bankas Group, reached €1.38 billion at the end of Q3 2024 and increased by almost €200 million this year. Most of this increase was driven by the return on investment of the funds under management, which generated a profit of €142 million for clients.

    Pension funds managed by SB Asset Management maintain competitive performance in both the short and long term. In the Q3 of the year alone, the returns of Tier II pension funds were the highest in 7 out of 8 life cycle funds, and the 4-year performance of the funds was the best in 6 out of 8 life cycle funds, compared to other managers’ funds in the same age group.

    1 eliminating the impact of the client portfolio if SB draudimas
    2 preliminary data
    includes Asset Management and Modernisation Funds AuM

    Šiaulių Bankas invites shareholders, investors, analysts and all interested parties to a webinar presentation of the financial results and highlights for the second quarter of 2024. The webinar will start on 31 October 2024 at 8.30 am (EET). The webinar will be held in English. Please register here. Please find attached the information that will be presented at the webinar.

    If you would like to receive Šiaulių Bankas’ news for investors directly to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter.

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    Attachments

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  • MIL-OSI: Societe Generale: Managerial changes within the Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SOCIETE GENERALE: MANAGERIAL CHANGES WITHIN THE GROUP

    Press release
    Paris, 31 October 2024

    Societe Generale announces managerial changes within the Group.

    Within General Management:

    Following a proposal by Slawomir Krupa, Chief Executive Officer, the Societe Generale Board of Directors, under the chairmanship of Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, approved on 30 October 2024 the reduction of the number of General Management executive officers to two: Slawomir Krupa, Chief Executive Officer, and Pierre Palmieri, Deputy Chief Executive Officer.

    Philippe Aymerich, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, will step down from his role on 31 October 2024. 

    As part of this change, Slawomir Krupa will assume direct supervision of Retail Banking activities in France (SG Network and BoursoBank), Private Banking, and Insurance.

    Within Retail Banking and Private Banking:

    Bertrand Cozzarolo and Thierry Le Marre are appointed Co-Heads of the SG Retail Banking network in France, effective 1 November 2024. They have been serving Societe Generale and its clients since 2004 and 1998, respectively. Their extensive experience in retail banking activities in France and abroad, as well as their direct contribution to the development of SG Retail Banking, will be essential assets in implementing our ambitious commercial roadmap to deliver sustainable performance.

    They replace Marie-Christine Ducholet, who will pursue projects outside the Group, effective 31 October 2024.

    Mathieu Vedrenne is appointed Head of Private Banking activities, effective 1 November 2024, replacing Bertrand Cozzarolo. At the service of the Group and its clients since 2001, he is currently Deputy Head of Private Banking, with particular responsibility for Private Banking in France, where he has successfully led its many years of sustainable growth.

    Within Financial Management:

    Leopoldo Alvear is appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Group, effective 7 January 2025. He will also become a member of the Group Executive Committee. With over 27 years of banking experience, including 12 years as head of financial departments at banking institutions (successively at Bankia and currently at Banco Sabadell), Leopoldo Alvear has demonstrated outstanding professional and leadership qualities.

    He will succeed Claire Dumas, who will ensure a seamless transition of the Chief Financial Officer duties until the end of January 2025, before pursuing professional opportunities outside the Group.

    The role of the Chief Financial Officer remains a direct report to Slawomir Krupa.

    Slawomir Krupa, Chief Executive Officer, comments: “Over the past 18 months, we have initiated numerous transformation, development and efficiency initiatives to strengthen our Group and increase the sustainability of our performance. We are already realizing the tangible benefits in our results. The trajectory of our improvement is clear, and our determination is unwavering.
    I would like to warmly thank Philippe and Marie-Christine for their commitment throughout the many years they have served our Group, and I wish them every success in their new projects.
    I am proud to promote our internal talents, Bertrand, Thierry and Mathieu, to continue building the new model of our SG Network in France while also developing our Private Banking activities, and strengthening commercial dynamics, synergies, and financial performance of our retail banking activities in France.
    I would also like to thank Claire for all the work she has done for Societe Generale over the past two decades, which she will continue during the transition period until the end of January.
    I am delighted to welcome Leopoldo to our team starting 7 January. His experience as a chief financial officer of other banking institutions, as well as his professional and personal qualities, will be valuable assets in ensuring the flawless execution of our strategic plan.
    Our ambition remains the same: to build a stronger and more profitable bank and create more long-term value for all our stakeholders.”

    Press contact:
    Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com

    Biographies

      Bertrand Cozzarolo began his career in 2000 in the General Inspection teams of the Ministry of Finance before joining Societe Generale in 2004 as a financial analyst. He subsequently held several management positions within retail banking subsidiaries in Egypt and Bulgaria before returning to France in 2011 as Executive Management Chief of Staff. In 2015, he joined Retail Banking in France, where he held various key positions in commercial management and customer relations before being appointed as the Commercial and Marketing Director in 2021. In December 2022, he was appointed as the Head of Societe Generale Private Banking.
    He is a graduate of the Paris Institute of Political Studies and a former student of the National School of Administration.

     

      Thierry Le Marre began his career in 1990 as a consultant at Coopers & Lybrand before joining the Societe Generale Group in 1998 in the Organization department. In 2002, he became the Chief of Staff of the Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Directors. From 2007 to 2014, he held various management positions in international consumer credit activities. In 2014, he joined retail banking in France, where he successively led two regional delegations. In January 2021, he was appointed co-responsible for the “Clients and network organization” project within the merger project between Credit du Nord and Societe Generale. He has been the Regional Director of SG Societe Generale Ile-de-France Sud since 2023.
    He is a graduate of the Paris Institute of Political Studies.

     

      Mathieu Vedrenne began his career as a consultant at PriceWaterhouseCoopers in 1998 before joining the General Inspection of Societe Generale in 2001, and then the Strategy Department in 2005. In 2008, he was appointed as Executive Management Chief of Staff. He joined Private Banking in 2011, where he held several positions in Switzerland and France and contributed to the commercial development of the activities. He has been Head of Societe Generale Private Banking France since 2019 and Deputy Head of Private Banking since 2023.
    He is a graduate of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL).

     

     

      Leopoldo Alvear has over 27 years of experience in financial services. Since 2021, he has been the General Manager and Chief Financial Officer of Banco Sabadell. Previously, he spent 11 years at Bankia, where he successively held the positions of first Head of Financial Management & Rating, and then, since 2012 Group CFO. He began his career at PWC in Corporate Finance before joining Caja Madrid as head of Equity Capital Markets.
    He is a graduate of the Complutense University of Madrid.

     

    Societe Generale

    Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with more than 126,000 employees serving about 25 million clients in 65 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

    The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

    • French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
    • Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
    • Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

    Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

    In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of the Group News page on societegenerale.com website where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the document’s legitimacy directly on the web page.

    For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Christine Lagarde: Interview with Le Monde

    Source: European Central Bank

    Interview with Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, conducted by Eric Albert, Philippe Escande and Béatrice Madeline on 28 October 2024

    31 October 2024

    In September, former ECB President Mario Draghi published an alarming report on how the European economy is falling behind. Do you agree with this assessment?

    Europe is falling behind. It’s true. And so is France. Mario Draghi’s report highlights the productivity gap, which is largely due to the tech sector. Tech players in Europe and the United States believe that the gap first emerged during the digital revolution that began in the mid-1990s.

    The question now is whether the boost that the United States got from the mid-1990s will continue with artificial intelligence, the accumulation of data centres and the exploitation of these data. This is the key issue. In Europe we need to roll up our sleeves and make an effort to keep those companies that start out here and then develop themselves elsewhere. We need to try to make them stay.

    So what is the solution? Do you think the gap will remain?

    We need to look at why Europe is falling behind. The energy component is key, especially as regards data centres. Labour is also important, with mobility being much greater in the United States. And regulation is a crucial issue, too. In overly simple terms, the United States is developing AI very quickly, and already has a number of major players. In the meantime, not only is Europe lacking such big players, but it has also become a pioneer in AI regulation. This causes players in this sector to say “OK, let’s do this elsewhere. It’ll be easier and we’ll have fewer obstacles and fewer restrictions”.

    What about the public funding provided to businesses in the United States?

    The fourth factor that is contributing to Europe falling behind is the “light” industrial policy pursued by the United States. It’s not light in terms of money because the Inflation Reduction Act of August 2022 is very large, but there are relatively few criteria to qualify for funding to start a company on US soil. When I ask manufacturers, they pretty much all agree that in Europe, the process is complicated and unwieldy. And on top of the multi-layered European system, you then have those of the Member States.

    The final factor is private funding. In the United States there are pension fund plans and other financial instruments that make it possible to channel savings and get savers (employees or retirees) interested in the future of the economy or the evolution of the stock market. In many European countries, these plans are still a long way off of those mechanisms, especially share participation and company profit sharing. Hence the need to develop a capital markets union.

    But we have been talking about this project for the past 15 years. And when Mario Draghi’s report was published, Germany immediately opposed common borrowing. Is Europe really capable of reacting?

    You’re right. We have been talking about a capital markets union since the time of Jean-Claude Juncker (President of the European Commission from 2014 to 2019), and little progress has been made. The Letta and Draghi reports are a wake-up call for Europeans, a warning. The assessment is severe but fair and provides specific recommendations. It suggests that all Europeans should gear up and be ready to give up a bit of sovereignty to ‘combine the best,’ to paraphrase what Paul Valéry once said. But what gives me hope is the engagement of all European institutions on the capital markets union. The ECB’s Governing Council is firmly engaged as well. We must use this momentum.

    In 2020, the plan for a collective European loan of €750 billion was a major step forward. Four years later, less than half of the loan has been allocated. Should we see this as another example of European slowness?

    We had exactly the same problem during the Greek crisis. The administrations of the different countries are not always able to quickly manage the incoming funds. The finance ministers of countries receiving a lot of funds tell you that they have of course identified what bridge or railway line should be constructed, but that they need to obtain local authorisations as well as permissions to expropriate property, and that environmental organisations are taking court actions. All of this takes a lot of time.

    In this context, what consequences could the US elections on Tuesday 5 November have for Europe?

    I do not want to give an opinion on any particular candidate. But US international trade policy will of course have an impact on economic activity in the rest of the world, and primarily on China. Whoever wins, if trade fragmentation worsens, the effect on global GDP will be negative, with losses reaching 9% in a severe scenario of full decoupling according to ECB simulations. But remember: when Joe Biden was elected, everyone thought that he would remove the customs barriers erected by his predecessor (Donald Trump). Nothing came of that.

    Between China, which is withdrawing towards Asia, and the United States, which is closing up again, isn’t Europe, as a partner to both powers, the big loser?

    That’s why we need to act and roll up our sleeves. Will Europe need to undergo another crisis for it to bring about reforms? It’s always in times of crisis that we are able to make things happen. That may be why Mario Draghi speaks of “agony”, it’s a way of saying “the crisis is here, now, do something!”.

    There is talk of a European decoupling. But isn’t there a French decoupling within Europe?

    If you compare today’s GDP figures with those of 2019, the United States has grown by 10.7%, the European average by 4.8% and France by 3.7%. France is lagging behind the European average.

    What is your view of the surge in the French deficit?

    The prospect of returning in line with European standards by applying European fiscal rules should serve as a binding guideline.

    And are the French promises to restore public finances credible?

    As I said, applying European fiscal rules should serve as a binding guideline.

    Will we be heading towards a recession in Europe in 2025?

    Based on the information now available and our current assessment, we don’t see a recession in 2024, nor in 2025, nor in 2026.

    What will drive this growth, given the weakness in demand?

    The two levers are exports and domestic demand, which is set to pick up. Today, with wages rising and inflation falling, disposable income is increasing. For the moment, this benefits savings more than consumption. But we are convinced, and economic history shows us, that this additional disposable income will ultimately flow towards consumption.

    How do you explain the fact that it is proving so difficult for consumption to recover?

    We can indeed ask why households are choosing to save their money instead of spending it. It could be that people are reluctant to make major purchases owing to geopolitical uncertainty. A second explanation could be related to the return on their savings, which is still fairly high in the euro area. A third could be that people are deciding it’s better to save rather than spend when they expect their taxes or other contributions to go up.

    Euro area inflation was at 1.7% in September, below your 2% target. Is it now under control?

    The target is in sight but I’m not going to tell you that inflation is defeated yet. Inflation stood at 1.7% in September. Excluding energy and food, it was still at 2.7%. We are pleased about the 1.7% figure, but we also know that inflation is going to rise again in the coming months simply because of base effects. In September energy prices were 6.1% lower than a year earlier, bringing down the cost of the consumption basket. Besides, inflation in the services sector – which is highly dependent on wages – is still at 3.9%. So, prudence is warranted.

    How do you respond to those who say the ECB was too late in reacting to the rise in inflation?

    I tell them we should look at the facts. Don’t forget that inflation was at 10.6% two years ago. It has fallen back to 1.7%. Perhaps we could have started a few months earlier. But we raised rates at the fastest pace ever and we managed to bring down inflation considerably in a short period of time. I now want to see inflation reach the 2% target on a sustained and durable basis. Unless there is a major shock, this will happen during the course of 2025.

    And what do you say to those who now accuse you of cutting rates too late and not quickly enough?

    The pace at which interest rates are cut will be determined by the economic data we receive in the coming weeks and months – based on our updated assessment of the inflation outlook, the dynamics of underlying inflation and the strength of monetary policy transmission. And to revitalise growth, urgent action is needed in the area of structural reforms.

    The spread between France and Germany has increased from 0.5% to 0.8% since the French National Assembly was dissolved. The ECB has an instrument that it can use to intervene and calm the markets. Are you ready to use it?

    We have clearly outlined the conditions under which we will use this instrument. And that is not an issue today.

    A number of emerging countries brought together by the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are thinking about a payments system to circumvent the dollar. Is dedollarisation happening?

    That would require another country to be able to take on the role of reserve currency. China is preparing for that, but it isn’t ready yet. I won’t see the renminbi take the place of the dollar in my lifetime.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Public Fertility Care turns two

    Source: Government of Victoria 2

    30/10/24

    Two years on from the launch

    This month Public Fertility Care is celebrating two years of making fertility services more affordable and accessible for Victorians wanting to start or grow their family. Public Fertility Care was established in October 2022 and provides a range of services – including in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) for free. Since its launch, Public Fertility Care has been accessed by more than 4,000 Victorians and over 50 babies have been born.

    Caring for those who need it most

    Public Fertility Care is a government-funded fertility service available to all eligible Victorians, but the service has a particular focus on helping people with limited access to the private fertility sector. This includes lower-income earners, rural and regional Victorians, people who need donor services such as LGBTIQA+ and single people, people who need fertility preservation for medical reasons, and people needing testing for specific genetic conditions.

    Delivering fertility care across Victoria

    Public Fertility Care is led by the Royal Women’s Hospital, who work with partner sites across the state, providing a range of services closer to home for more Victorians. Partner sites enable patients to access consultations with a fertility specialist, diagnostics tests, ultrasounds, and medications closer to home, reducing the need for travel. Patients can access Public Fertility Care via a referral from their GP or specialist which is sent to the Royal Women’s Hospital. The Women’s then organise eligible patients to receive fertility treatment at their nearest partner site. In the past two years over 600 patients have accessed the service through partner sites.

    Launch of the egg and sperm bank

    The service is supported by Australia’s first public egg and sperm bank, which opened in July last year and is located at the Royal Women’s Hospital. The bank provides critical access to donated eggs and sperm for Victorians who need support to start or grow their families. Interest from potential donors in the Victorian community has been strong, with more than 650 people expressing interest since the bank’s launch.

    Visit Public Fertility CareExternal Link on Better Health Channel to find out more.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: ING posts 3Q2024 net result of €1,880 million, supported by commercial growth and strong income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ING posts 3Q2024 net result of €1,880 million,
    supported by commercial growth and strong income

     

    3Q2024 profit before tax of €2,668 million with a four-quarter rolling average return on equity of 13.8%

    Resilient net interest income, supported by volume growth in lending and deposits
    Fee income increasing 11% year-on-year, surpassing €1 billion, with significant growth in both Retail and Wholesale Banking
    Increase of 189,000 mobile primary customers and strong growth in mortgages
    €2.5 billion distribution announced as we continue to align our capital to our target level
     
    CEO statement
    “In the third quarter of 2024, we have again delivered strong results and are executing well on our strategy to accelerate growth, increase impact and deliver value for all stakeholders,” said Steven van Rijswijk, CEO of ING. “We have grown our customer base and taken important steps in our climate action approach. Our good commercial momentum has led to robust income growth, specifically in fee income. We have also seen increased lending and deposit volumes and resilient margins.

    “Fee income has continued to increase in line with our ambition to diversify our income and surpassed €1 billion for the first time. Fee income from retail investment products has continued to rise, reflecting an increase in assets under management and customer trading activity. Wholesale Banking has in particular benefited from higher deal flow in Global Capital Markets.

    “In Retail Banking, performance was supported by strong core lending growth of €6 billion, mainly in residential mortgages across all Retail markets. Our market share of new mortgage production has increased significantly in the Netherlands, as our quick processing of digital applications and our flexible operations helped us in a very competitive market. This is a clear example of how we increase impact and deliver value for customers.

    “Wholesale Banking income was resilient, supported by volume growth in lending and deposits in addition to strong results in Payments & Cash Management and Financial Markets. Our Capital Markets Advisory business continues to grow following investments to further build on our expertise. We aim to optimise our capital efficiency and during this quarter we have significantly reduced our risk-weighted assets (RWA) in Wholesale Banking.

    “Expenses have risen 2% from the last quarter as we invest in growing our business. Risk costs were €336 million, in line with our through-the-cycle-average. Our four-quarter rolling return on equity came out at 13.8% and our CET1 ratio increased to 14.3%, driven by our strong profitability and lower RWA.

    “We continue to take steps to converge our CET1 capital ratio to our target level of around 12.5%. The share buyback programme announced in May 2024 has been completed and we today announce a next distribution of €2.5 billion, which will have a pro forma impact of 76 basis points on our CET1 ratio. Operating at the right level of capital is in the best interest of all our stakeholders and allows us to support customers and the economy in the countries we operate in.

    “In September, we have published our Climate Progress Update 2024, which shares our sharpened approach to client engagement, our updated energy policy and the latest on our Terra approach. We aim to make an impact by working with clients on their transitions to net zero while financing the technologies and solutions needed for a sustainable future.

    “We are well positioned to continue to execute our strategy and grow our business, and I would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and our employees for their contributions to our excellent third-quarter performance.”

     
    Further information
    All publications related to ING’s 3Q 2024 results can be found at the quarterly results publications page on ING.com. For more on investor information, go to www.ing.com/investors.

    A short ING ON AIR video with CEO Steven van Rijswijk discussing our 3Q 2024 results is available on Youtube.
    For further information on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroom or via the @ING_news X-feed. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr.

     
    Investor conference call, Media meeting and webcasts
    Steven van Rijswijk, Tanate Phutrakul and Ljiljana Čortan will discuss the results in an Investor conference call on 31 October 2024 at 9:00 a.m. CET. Members of the investment community can join the conference call at +31 20 708 5074 (NL), or +44 330 551 0202 (UK) (registration required via invitation) and via live audio webcast at www.ing.com.

    Steven van Rijswijk, Tanate Phutrakul and Ljiljana Čortan will also discuss the results in a Media conference call on 31 October 2024 at 11:00 a.m. CET. Journalists can dial-in via +31 20 708 5073 (NL), or +44 330 551 0200 (UK) – quote ING Media Call when prompted by the operator. The conference call can also be followed via live audio webcast at www.ing.com.

     
    Investor enquiries
    E: investor.relations@ing.com

    Press enquiries
    T: +31 20 576 5000
    E: media.relations@ing.com

     
     
    ING Profile
    ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank’s more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 40 countries.

    ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N).

    ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING’s ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as ‘AA’ in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of December 2023, in Sustainalytics’ view, ING’s management of ESG material risk is ‘Strong’. Our current ESG Risk Rating, is 17.2 (Low Risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell.

    Important legal information
    Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 (‘Market Abuse Regulation’).

    ING Group’s annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (‘IFRS- EU’). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2023 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding.

    Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: (1) changes in general economic conditions and customer behaviour, in particular economic conditions in ING’s core markets, including changes affecting currency exchange rates and the regional and global economic impact of the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and related international response measures (2) changes affecting interest rate levels (3) any default of a major market participant and related market disruption (4) changes in performance of financial markets, including in Europe and developing markets (5) fiscal uncertainty in Europe and the United States (6) discontinuation of or changes in ‘benchmark’ indices (7) inflation and deflation in our principal markets (8) changes in conditions in the credit and capital markets generally, including changes in borrower and counterparty creditworthiness (9) failures of banks falling under the scope of state compensation schemes (10) noncompliance with or changes in laws and regulations, including those concerning financial services, financial economic crimes and tax laws, and the interpretation and application thereof (11) geopolitical risks, political instabilities and policies and actions of governmental and regulatory authorities, including in connection with the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and the related international response measures (12) legal and regulatory risks in certain countries with less developed legal and regulatory frameworks (13) prudential supervision and regulations, including in relation to stress tests and regulatory restrictions on dividends and distributions (also among members of the group) (14) ING’s ability to meet minimum capital and other prudential regulatory requirements (15) changes in regulation of US commodities and derivatives businesses of ING and its customers (16) application of bank recovery and resolution regimes, including write down and conversion powers in relation to our securities (17) outcome of current and future litigation, enforcement proceedings, investigations or other regulatory actions, including claims by customers or stakeholders who feel misled or treated unfairly, and other conduct issues (18) changes in tax laws and regulations and risks of non-compliance or investigation in connection with tax laws, including FATCA (19) operational and IT risks, such as system disruptions or failures, breaches of security, cyber-attacks, human error, changes in operational practices or inadequate controls including in respect of third parties with which we do business and including any risks as a result of incomplete, inaccurate, or otherwise flawed outputs from the algorithms and data sets utilized in artificial intelligence (20) risks and challenges related to cybercrime including the effects of cyberattacks and changes in legislation and regulation related to cybersecurity and data privacy, including such risks and challenges as a consequence of the use of emerging technologies, such as advanced forms of artificial intelligence and quantum computing (21) changes in general competitive factors, including ability to increase or maintain market share (22) inability to protect our intellectual property and infringement claims by third parties (23) inability of counterparties to meet financial obligations or ability to enforce rights against such counterparties (24) changes in credit ratings (25) business, operational, regulatory, reputation, transition and other risks and challenges in connection with climate change and ESG-related matters, including data gathering and reporting (26) inability to attract and retain key personnel (27) future liabilities under defined benefit retirement plans (28) failure to manage business risks, including in connection with use of models, use of derivatives, or maintaining appropriate policies and guidelines (29) changes in capital and credit markets, including interbank funding, as well as customer deposits, which provide the liquidity and capital required to fund our operations, and (30) the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the most recent annual report of ING Groep N.V. (including the Risk Factors contained therein) and ING’s more recent disclosures, including press releases, which are available on www.ING.com.

    This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information.

    Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are “green” or “sustainable.” Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security.

    This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. ING does not make any representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of, or take any responsibility for, any information found at any websites operated by third parties. ING specifically disclaims any liability with respect to any information found at websites operated by third parties. ING cannot guarantee that websites operated by third parties remain available following the publication of this document, or that any information found at such websites will not change following the filing of this document. Many of those factors are beyond ING’s control.

    Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of ING speak only as of the date they are made, and ING assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason.

    This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction.

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus man sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for drug & gun crimes

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus man known as “Philly” was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 130 months in prison for narcotics and firearms crimes.

    Bernard Clark McMillon, 32, conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute controlled substances, including 40 grams or more of fentanyl and five grams or more of methamphetamine. McMillon also possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    According to court documents, from fall of 2022 through February 2023, McMillon and a co-defendant used a series of different houses in central Ohio to traffic fentanyl, crack cocaine and methamphetamine. Their stash houses included residences on South Terrace, Doren, Columbian, Floral and Springmont avenues and McCarley Drive West.

    McMillon and the co-defendant took advantage of people with addictions who were using the defendants’ residences to make drug sales on their behalf.

    Law enforcement seized two pistols and a 12-gauge shotgun as part of this investigation.

    A federal grand jury indicted McMillon in February 2023 and he pleaded guilty in June 2024.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Daryl McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Micheal H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin W. Kelley and Tyler Aagard are representing the United States in this case.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Regional customers have made over 33,000 purchases based on their needs on the supplier portal since the beginning of the year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From January to September 2024, regional customers conducted more than 33.5 thousand purchases on the supplier portal based on their needs. This trading format allowed them to save about 400 million rubles, Maria Bagreeva, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Head of the City Department of Economic Policy and Development.

    “The capital’s supplier portal is a dynamically developing interregional platform for small-volume purchases. It enables state and municipal customers to post information on operational needs for 350 thousand suppliers. Over the first nine months of this year, regions have concluded more than 33.5 thousand contracts on the portal based on the results of purchases based on needs for a total of 5.9 billion rubles. Reducing the initial maximum price based on supplier proposals allowed them to save about 400 million rubles when concluding contracts,” said Maria Bagreeva.

    Purchases based on needs allow regional customers to quickly purchase various products on the supplier portal: medical and construction goods, household appliances and equipment, food, office supplies, textbooks, and also to conclude contracts for services and work on the security and maintenance of institutions. As part of the purchase based on needs, the customer publishes a list of necessary goods, works or services. At the same time, he specifies the period during which suppliers can submit their price offers. After the specified time, the customer can conclude a contract with the supplier, the terms of which best meet the stated needs.

    “The largest number of purchases based on needs on the supplier portal from January to September were made by customers from the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug: they concluded 9.6 thousand contracts worth 1.76 billion rubles. The top five most active regions also included Perm Krai – customers from this region signed 7.6 thousand contracts worth 864 million rubles, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – 4.7 thousand contracts worth 781 million rubles, Tyumen Oblast – 3.2 thousand contracts worth 664.4 million rubles and Kemerovo Oblast – 2.3 thousand contracts worth 519.6 million rubles,” added the head of the Moscow City Department for Competition Policy.

    Kirill Purtov.

    As noted in the capital Department of Information Technology, for the convenience of users, when visiting the supplier portal, the location is automatically determined and relevant purchases by region are displayed. Thus, by default, an entrepreneur sees local purchases, and when changing the location in the filter, he can offer products to state and municipal organizations from other entities and thereby expand his sales market. Regional users have access to all the digital capabilities of the capital’s platform: customers can unite to conduct joint purchases, suppliers can subscribe to notifications about the publication of suitable purchases in the selected region, and also use analytical tools for working with the product catalog.

    Suppliers portal was created in 2013 to automate small-volume purchases. The list of goods, works and services offered by entrepreneurs includes more than 2.9 million unique items. The platform’s development is facilitated by a technical support service and an AI assistant for prompt consultations. The training section “Supplier School” helps novice specialists quickly master the principles of working on the platform.

    Representative offices are opened in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation to support users of the portal. There, specialists provide training on how to work on the platform, answer questions from customers and suppliers, hold face-to-face meetings, and collect proposals for improving functionality and solving technical problems. In addition, users can contact the support service at a single federal number: 7 800 303-12-34 or leave a request on the website.

    The functional customer of the supplier portal is Moscow City Department of Competition Policy, and technical development is supervised by the capital’s Department of Information Technology.

    The development of electronic services for business corresponds to the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the Moscow regional project “Digital Public Administration”. More information about the national projects implemented in Moscow can be found Here.

    More than 35 thousand contracts were concluded by customers on the supplier portal this summerAn effective tool for conducting purchases: another region has been connected to the supplier portal

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145963073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of two old houses in Losinoostrovsky district will move to a new building under the renovation program

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Almost 200 residents of two old buildings in the north-east of the capital received letters at the end of October with offers of new apartments under the renovation program. They will move to a new building on Startovaya Street. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “In the Losinoostrovsky district, about 200 residents of two houses are starting to inspect new apartments under the renovation program. A modern residential complex located at 3/1 Startovaya Street has been handed over for their settlement. In total, more than 4.6 thousand families from 68 old houses will receive new apartments in the district,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The area around the new building was landscaped. Trees and bushes were planted, a children’s playground and a sports ground were created, as well as a quiet recreation area for city residents.

    “The city offered modern apartments with improved finishing to 86 residents of building 5, block 2 on Startovaya Street and 100 residents of building 8, block 2 on Taimyrskaya Street. To make the resettlement process more comfortable and faster for them, a resettlement information center will open on November 6, 2024, on the first floor of the new building. There, city residents will be able to consult on issues related to the registration of documents for new housing,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    The two-section residential complex has 141 apartments. It is located 200 meters from the old buildings. This is an example of how the renovation program preserves the social ties of Muscovites, while providing them with new comfortable and spacious housing, added the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    The new building is the eighth to be handed over for occupancy in this area since the renovation program began. Hospitals, a school, a medical college and public infrastructure facilities are within walking distance.

    Residents can view the offered housing at a date and time convenient for them. To do this, they need to register online on the mos.ru portal.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reported, that since the beginning of the year, 23 new buildings have been commissioned in the capital under the renovation program and 44 residential complexes have been handed over for occupancy.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. In 2023 alone, 59 new buildings in the capital were handed over for settlement and the resettlement of over 47 thousand people was ensured. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction rates and volumes. Over the past five years, within the framework of the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment” the volume of construction and commissioning of residential properties in the capital has doubled: from three million to five to seven million square meters per year. More information about this and other national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found Here.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145979073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev inspected the construction of the airport in Blagoveshchensk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Previous news Next news

    Yuri Trutnev got acquainted with the progress of reconstruction, modernization and operation of infrastructure facilities of the Blagoveshchensk International Airport named after N.N. Muravyov-Amursky (Ignatievo)

    During a working visit to the Amur Region, Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev familiarized himself with the progress of reconstruction, modernization and operation of infrastructure facilities at the Blagoveshchensk International Airport named after N.N. Muravyov-Amursky (Ignatievo).

    Large-scale reconstruction is underway at Blagoveshchensk International Airport. As part of the airfield infrastructure upgrade, a taxiway connecting the new runway with the new apron has been put into operation. Its length is 320 m, and its width, taking into account the reinforced asphalt shoulders, is 46 m. Aircraft servicing has already been accelerated. Thanks to the new taxiway, aircraft can taxi to the parking areas of the new apron under their own power, without waiting to be towed by a tractor. In addition to the taxiway, the airport also received additional parking areas for aircraft. They are located on the new apron, part of which was put into operation in March of this year. Until today, up to three aircraft could be serviced here at a time. The new areas make it possible to place up to five narrow-body aircraft or up to three wide-body aircraft on the apron. A special area for de-icing aircraft has also been equipped here.

    Work continues on the construction of the new terminal of the Blagoveshchensk airport. The new airport complex will be 3.5 times larger than the current one. The total area is more than 25 thousand square meters. The throughput capacity is at least 600 passengers per hour on domestic flights and 400 passengers per hour on international flights. The terminal will be equipped with two galleries, each of which will have two jet bridges, as well as comfortable business lounges. Completion of construction and commissioning is scheduled for 2025.

    The work on erecting the reinforced concrete structures of the airport complex building has already been completed, the columns and floors of the building have been fully completed, and all the necessary reinforced concrete structures have been installed. The installation of the metal structures of the building is in progress: 745 tons (78%) of the 960 tons of the main structures of the airport complex have been installed, the installation of the main metal structures of the building is planned to be completed in the first ten days of November. The installation of the roof of the building is more than 40% complete. The installation of profile facade systems and the manufacture of double-glazed windows is underway. Engineering equipment for the airport is being purchased. Work is being carried out on laying external networks: the laying of water supply networks has been completed, the piping of water supply chambers is in progress, the laying of the heating main to the airport has been completed, a block-modular boiler house has been delivered and installed at the site, the laying of sewerage and power supply networks on the station square is being completed.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Improving macroeconomic environment and good customer activity drive progress, supported by cost focus and strong credit quality. Net profit of DKK 17.6bn for Q1-Q3 of 2024. 2024 net profit outlook revised upwards to DKK 22.5-23.5 billion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release  

    Bernstorffsgade 40
    DK – 1577 København V
    Tel. +45 45 14 14 00

    31 October 2024

    Improving macroeconomic environment and good customer activity drive progress, supported by cost focus and strong credit quality
    Net profit of DKK 17.6 billion for the first nine months of 2024
    2024 net profit outlook revised upwards. Now expects a net profit of DKK 22.5-23.5 billion, against previously 21-23 billion

    Carsten Egeriis, Chief Executive Officer, comments on the financial results:

    During the first nine months of 2024, we consistently delivered satisfactory financial results, while progressing with our strategic priorities. Stable core income, consistent cost management, improved customer activity and continually strong credit quality led to an increase in net profit of 14% for the first nine months of the year relative to the same period last year.

    On the back of lower inflation, central banks have started to lower policy rates. In response to this, we lowered selected customer rates on lending and deposits during the first nine months of the year, while ensuring our offerings remain attractive across customer segments. This has resulted in an increase of 4% in deposit volumes for personal customers in Denmark during the period coupled with a substantial shift towards placing excess liquidity in our wide range of investment solutions, which contributed to a 10% increase in net fee income year-on-year. With continued growth in customer business volumes at our Business Customers unit and good traction during the year so far in our capital markets business at our Large Corporates & Institutions unit, there was progress across our business.

    We continue to execute on our Forward ’28 strategy, and with a return on equity of 13.4% and a cost/income ratio of 45.5%, we remain on track to meet our financial targets.”

    First nine months of 2024 vs first nine months of 2023
    Total income of DKK 41.8 billion (up 8.4% against the first nine months of 2023)
    Operating expenses of DKK 19.0 billion (up 1.0% against the first nine months of 2023)
    Loan impairments of DKK -436 million (against DKK 294 million in the first nine months of 2023)
    Net profit of DKK 17.6 billion (up 13.8% against the first nine months of 2023)
    Return on shareholders’ equity of 13.4% (against 12.5% in the first nine months of 2023)
    Strong capital position, with a total capital ratio of 23% and a CET1 capital ratio of 19.1%

    Macroeconomic environment more positive
    In the third quarter, the macroeconomic outlook improved, as inflation got under control and interest rates were lowered, which all in all is paving the way for an outlook for stable growth. Among the Nordic countries, the macroeconomic outlook is especially positive in Denmark where the labour market remains strong, inflation is low and economic growth is expected to be solid, even without the significant contribution from the pharmaceutical sector. Despite the more positive macroeconomic outlook, we remain prudently aware of the downside risks stemming from the geopolitical situation and concerns about a potential slowdown in economic activity.

    Although geopolitical tension has unfortunately become permanent and continues to be the global backdrop, the macroeconomic picture in the Nordic countries has improved, and we maintain our strong focus on our customers and are delivering according to the plan set out in our Forward ’28 strategy. Our focus on execution and our efforts to improve Danske Bank to the benefit of all stakeholders are moving us forward as expected.

    Improved commercial momentum in core banking
    We continue to see improved commercial momentum and good interest in our leading advisory solutions for customers with complex needs, and we continue to enhance our products to make everyday banking both simpler and safer.

    At our Personal Customers unit, we saw an increase in net fee income, particularly from everyday banking and investment fees, higher net interest income from deposits and a net loan impairment reversal. Good growth in customer business volumes across our Business Customers unit supported an increase in bank lending volumes in local currency across our Nordic markets, except for Denmark. And at our Large Corporates & Institutions unit, the positive momentum continued, among other things with good activity in Loan Capital Markets, where we in the third quarter supported the financing of some of the largest transactions in Europe.

    The improved momentum shows that Danske Bank’s underlying business is strong, our treasury asset and liability management is prudent, and our capital and liquidity positions continue to be strong, with significant buffers well above regulatory requirements.

    “Supported by the improving macroeconomic environment, our diversified business model and core activities continued to ensure commercial progress. Net interest income increased 6% in the first nine months of the year and net fee income was up 10% for the period as a result of both solid customer activity and our ongoing development of customer offerings across the business. We continued our consistent focus on costs and on creating further efficiency improvements in our processes, allowing us to keep operating expenses on par while still developing according to plan. Our sustained commercial momentum and focus on operational efficiency thus resulted in a cost/income ratio of 45.5% and a return on equity of 13.4%, with credit quality remaining strong, as reflected in a net loan impairment reversal across all countries. The continued cost focus and strong credit quality is furthermore the basis for our second upward revision this year, which is a testament to the robustness of the bank and our customers,” says Stephan Engels, CFO.

    Personal Customers
    During the first nine months of 2024, we continued to support our customers in managing their finances in a market environment characterised by falling interest rate levels. Our Danske Bolig Fri home finance products were in high demand and were named ‘Best in Test’ by the Danish Consumer Council. The same was the case for our loans targeting first-time home buyers. We also saw an increased flow of customers into our Private Banking unit. Profit before tax amounted to DKK 7.48 billion in the first nine months of 2024, representing an increase of 21% from the year-earlier period. The result was fuelled primarily by an increase in net fee income, particularly from everyday banking and investment fees, and a net loan impairment reversal.

    Business Customers
    In the first nine months of 2024, the economic landscape in which we operate continued to improve, due primarily to a stabilisation of interest rates in the first part of the period, followed by interest rate cuts by the central banks towards the latter part of the period. We continued to expand the customer base in our focus segments. In addition, we took strategic repricing actions and continued to enhance support for our customers by providing the best possible advice tailored to their needs. Profit before tax for the first nine months of 2024 amounted to DKK 6.69 billion, a decrease of 6% from the same period last year. Net fee income rose as a result of our subscription-based fee service model as well as repricing actions. However, we saw an increase in operating expenses attributable to investments made under our Forward ’28 strategy.

    Large Corporates & Institutions
    In the first nine months of 2024, we continued to see a positive underlying momentum, particularly in our fee business as higher fees from assets under management, everyday banking products and capital markets activities mitigated the decline in net trading income, thus demonstrating the value of our diversified business model. Furthermore, we continued to leverage our strategic commercial strengths as reflected in growth in our corporate customer portfolio outside Denmark, an increased market share of cash management services and the maintaining of our leading position in sustainable finance. Profit before tax increased to DKK 7.03 billion, an increase of 6% from the same period last year. The increase was driven by higher net fee income and loan impairment reversals, although the increase was partly offset by lower net trading income.

    Danica Pension
    Through high levels of volatility, the global markets continued their positive trend in the third quarter of 2024. The investment return on our pension customers’ savings in the first nine months of the year profited from the favourable trend in the global financial markets. We have thus had a prolonged period throughout 2023 and 2024 during which we have been able to deliver significant returns for our customers. However, we continued to see challenges in the health and accident business due to a rise in new health and accident claims. This reflects the general trend in society. Net income at Danica Pension increased to DKK 1.41 billion in the first nine months of 2024, up 53% from the level in the first nine months of 2023, due to an increase in the net financial result.

    Northern Ireland
    The strong underlying financial performance reflects business growth in a higher interest rate environment. Profit before loan impairments was 7% higher than in the first nine months of 2023, while profit before tax of DKK 1.51 billion represented an increase of 3% year-on-year.

    Outlook for 2024
    The outlook for 2023 is revised upwards to a net profit in the range of DKK 22.5-23.5 billion. At the release of our upward adjustment on 26 June 2024, we guided for a full-year 2024 net profit in the range of DKK 21-23 billion. The change in outlook is based on better cost trajectory as well as lower than expected loan impairments.

    The outlook is subject to uncertainty and depends on economic conditions.

    Danske Bank

    Contact: Stefan Singh Kailay, Head of Media Relations, tel. +45 45 14 14 00

    More information about Danske Bank’s financial results is available at danskebank.com/reports.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OP Financial Group’s Interim Report for 1 January–30 September 2024: Strong business performance continued – operating profit EUR 1,948 million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OP Financial Group
    Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2024
    Stock Exchange Release 31 October 2024 at 9.00 EET

    OP Financial Group’s Interim Report for 1 January–30 September 2024: Strong business performance continued – operating profit EUR 1,948 million

    • Operating profit was EUR 1,948 million (1,570).
    • Income from customer business, or net interest income, insurance service result and net commissions and fees, increased by 7% to EUR 2,813 million (2,634). Net interest income grew by 10% to EUR 2,118 million (1,919). The insurance service result grew by 63% to EUR 95 million (58). Net commissions and fees decreased by 9% to EUR 599 million (656). The decrease was affected by the fact that owner-customers are being provided with daily banking services free of monthly charges in 2024. The value of this benefit was EUR 67 million during the reporting period.
    • Impairment loss on receivables in the income statement was EUR 72 million (170), accounting for 0.10% (0.22) of the loan and guarantee portfolio.
    • Investment income increased by 43% to EUR 419 million (294).
    • Total expenses grew by 4% to EUR 1,629 million (1,564). The cost/income ratio improved to 45% (47).
    • In the year to September, the loan portfolio decreased by 1% to EUR 98.0 billion (98.9). Deposits increased by 5% to EUR 76.2 billion (72.6).
    • CET1 ratio strengthened to 21.4% (19.2), which exceeds the minimum regulatory requirement by 7.9 percentage points.
    • Retail Banking segment’s operating profit rose to EUR 1,037 million (919). Net interest income grew by 11% to EUR 1,615 million (1,459). Impairment loss on receivables decreased by EUR 50 million to EUR 57 million (107). Net commissions and fees decreased by 13% to EUR 458 million (524). The cost/income ratio improved to 48% (49). The loan portfolio decreased by 1% year on year, to EUR 70.6 billion. Deposits increased by 1% to EUR 62.4 billion.
    • Corporate Banking segment’s operating profit rose to EUR 418 million (321). Net interest income grew by 12% to EUR 493 million (441). Impairment loss on receivables decreased by EUR 48 million to EUR 15 million (63). Net commissions and fees increased by 2% to EUR 146 million (143). The cost/income ratio improved to 37% (40). In the year to September, the loan portfolio decreased by 2% to EUR 27.5 billion. Deposits increased by 26% to EUR 14.4 billion.
    • Insurance segment’s operating profit rose to EUR 458 million (298). Insurance service result grew by 63% to EUR 95 million (58). Investment income increased by 52% to EUR 365 million (241). Combined ratio reported by non-life insurance was 95% (95).
    • Group Functions operating profit was EUR 4 million (–2).
    • OP Financial Group will increase the OP bonuses to be earned by owner-customers for 2025 by 40% compared to the normal level of 2022. In addition, owner-customers will get daily banking services free of monthly charges until the end of 2025. Together, these benefits are estimated to add up to more than EUR 400 million in value for owner-customers next year.
    • On 14 October 2024, OP Financial Group raised its earnings outlook for 2024. Operating profit for 2024 is expected to be higher than that for 2023. For more detailed information on the outlook, see “Outlook towards the year end”.

    OP Financial Group’s key indicators

      Q1–3/2024 Q1–3/2023 Change, % Q1–4/2023
    Operating profit, € million 1,948 1,570 24.1 2,050
    Retail Banking 1,037 919 12.8 1,223
    Corporate Banking 418 321 30.3 408
    Insurance 458 298 53.6 414
    Group Functions 4 -2 -26
    New OP bonuses accrued to owner-customers,
    € million
    -233 -204 14.1 -275
    Total income** 3,650 3,304 10.5 4,520
    Total expenses -1,629 -1,564 4.2 -2,201
    Cost/income ratio, %** 44.6 47.3 -2.7* 48.7
    Return on equity (ROE), % 12.3 11.1 1.2* 10.6
    Return on equity, excluding OP bonuses, % 13.7 12.5 1.2* 12.0
    Return on assets (ROA), % 1.30 1.02 0.29* 0.98
    Return on assets, excluding OP bonuses, % 1.46 1.15 0.31* 1.11
      30 Sep 2024 30 Sep 2023 Change, % 31 Dec 2023
    CET1 ratio, % 21.4 19.1 2.3* 19.2
    Loan portfolio, € billion 98.0 98.9 -1.0 98.9
    Deposits, € billion 76.2 72.6 5.0 74.5
    Ratio of non-performing exposures to exposures, % 2.91 2.73 0.18* 2.94
    Ratio of impairment loss on receivables to loan and guarantee portfolio, % 0.10 0.22 -0.13* 0.26
    Owner-customers (1,000) 2,107 2,083 1.2 2,094

     Comparatives for the income statement are based on the corresponding figures in 2023. Unless otherwise specified, figures from 31 December 2023 are used as comparatives for balance-sheet and other cross-sectional items.
    * Change in ratio, percentage point(s).
    ** OP bonuses to owner-customers, which were previously shown on a separate line in the income statement, have been divided under the following items based on their accrual: interest income, interest expenses, and commission income from mutual funds. The line ‘OP bonuses to owner-customers’ is no longer shown in the income statement. Comparative information has been adjusted accordingly. For more detailed information on the change, see Note 1 to the Half-year Financial Report 1 January–30 June 2024, Accounting policies and changes in accounting policies and presentation.

    Comments by the President and Group Chief Executive Officer

    The Finnish economy is recovering as forecast – inflation continued to slow and market rates fell markedly

    Finland’s recovery, which began in the first half of the year, seems to be continuing into late 2024, mainly because the domestic market has been stronger than forecast. Consumer demand has been the mainstay of the economy this year. In contrast, investments have sharply reduced and exports are slightly down.

    Finland’s economy seems to have bottomed out in the summer. Annual GDP growth is expected to reach 2% next year, when exports should clearly outpace the current year’s performance as industry perks up and service exports recover.

    Inflation in Finland fell to 0.8%, which was clearly below the average for the euro area (1.7%). Short-term market rates fell sharply in the third quarter and the 12-month Euribor (the most commonly used reference rate for home loans) was at 2.75% at the end of September. Consumers, in particular, have benefited from lower inflation and interest rates.

    Third-quarter home purchase volumes and home loan demand were clearly higher than in the same period last year: there are signs of a gradual recovery in the housing market.

    Stock markets continued to perform well in July–September due to enduringly moderate global growth, better private-sector results and falling market rates.

    OP Financial Group’s business operations continued to grow strongly – the excellent results will benefit OP’s owner-customers

    OP Financial Group’s operating profit continued its excellent trend into the third quarter, growing by 24% year on year to EUR 1,948 million in January–September. This strong profit performance guarantees the continuance of highly competitive benefits for our owner-customers.

    We will increase the OP bonuses earned by owner-customers for 2025 by 40% compared to the normal level of 2022. Moreover, in 2025, we will not collect monthly charges from our owner-customers for use of daily banking services. Next year, these benefits will add up to more than EUR 400 million in value for our owner-customers. Being customer-owned, OP Financial Group will continue to share its financial success through a range of financial and other benefits for its owner-customers.

    OP Financial Group’s CET1 ratio strengthened again in the third quarter, to 21.4%, which exceeds the minimum regulatory requirement by 7.9 percentage points. OP Financial Group is one of Europe’s most financially solid large banks. Excellent profitability and strong capital adequacy and liquidity are critical factors for banks and insurance companies, building trust among customers, partners and other stakeholders. Trust is vital in the banking and insurance businesses.

    OP Financial Group’s income from customer business grew considerably in January–September 2024, mainly owing to the strong increase in net interest income. Net commissions and fees decreased by 9%, due to the benefit (provided for owner-customers) of zero monthly charges for daily banking services.

    The insurance service result for January–September clearly improved year on year, rising to EUR 95 million. It also improved considerably compared to the first half of 2024. Since the first quarter, there have been fewer large claims than usual and vehicle and health insurance claims fell in the summer months as favourable weather began and the flu season ended.

    Income from investment activities has fared extremely well this year, the result of EUR 419 million being 43% higher than for the same period in 2023. Total income was EUR 3,650 million, or 10% more year on year.

    At EUR 1,629 million, total expenses in January–September were 4% higher than in the same period in 2023, mainly due to rising personnel costs and higher investments in ICT development. OP Financial Group’s cost/income ratio markedly improved year on year, to an excellent 45%.

    All three business segments performed well in January–September. The Retail Banking segment’s operating profit rose by 13% from the same period in 2023, to EUR 1,037 million. Corporate Banking’s operating profit was EUR 418 million, up by 30% year on year. Operating profit in the Insurance segment totalled EUR 458 million, a rise of 54% on January–September 2023, largely because of the excellent result in investment income.

    Deposits grew strongly – but the loan portfolio decreased slightly

    OP Financial Group’s deposit portfolio grew by 5% year on year. There was moderate growth both in household and corporate deposits. OP Financial Group strengthened its position as Finland’s leading deposit bank in the first half of 2024; OP’s market share is now almost 40%.

    OP Financial Group’s loan portfolio shrank by around 1% year on year. Demand for new home loans and corporate loans remained fairly low. In the first half of 2024, OP Financial Group further strengthened its position as a provider of home loans in Finland; with a market share of 39%, it is the clear market leader. OP’s home loan customers have continued to manage their repayments well despite the general economic downturn. The number of loan modification applications was lower than the year before. Non-performing exposures totalled 2.9% (2.9). Impairment loss on receivables markedly decreased year on year.

    Strong growth in wealth management continued

    OP Financial Group aims to coach its customers to help them make better financial choices. We are therefore investing heavily in the range, quality and availability of the wealth management services we provide for our various customer categories. We want to promote our customers’ long-term financial wellbeing.

    Our customers remain interested in systematically investing in funds, with 33% more new systematic investment agreements being made in January–September than in the same period last year. The number of OP mutual fund unitholders rose to almost 1.38 million. There was also considerable growth in the number of active equity investors. At EUR 111 billion in value, investment assets managed by OP Financial Group grew by 13% year on year.

    Corporate Banking succeeded well as a provider of financing for big companies

    Corporate Banking had a highly successful nine months as a versatile intermediary of financing for large corporations. It was the lead arranger or arranger of 11 bond issues, which raised EUR 2.6 billion for companies from the capital markets. Sustainable financing provided by Corporate Banking also grew in the first half of 2024. By the end of September, the commitment portfolio totalled EUR 8.0 billion.

    The insurance business’s profitability improved in the third quarter

    Insurance revenue for January–September grew by 7% year on year. The rapid growth in claims expenditure of early 2024 slowed in the third quarter, but claims expenditure in January–September was still 8% higher than in the same period in 2023. Non-life insurance reported a combined ratio of 95%. Compensation was paid for 94% of all claims reported to Pohjola Insurance. There was a clear improvement in non-life insurance’s profitability in the third quarter.

    Life insurance’s performance has been excellent this year, with 10% growth in unit-linked insurance assets. Growing this business is one of OP Financial Group’s strategic focus areas.

    Strong growth in the number of customer interactions through the AI-based OP Aina

    In June, we launched OP Aina, a new personal assistant on OP-mobile. OP Aina helps our customers with a range of banking and insurance matters on a 24/7 basis. It is the first financial service in Finland to use artificial intelligence and alerts. We use the service to provide even more personalised and readily available services than before. Customers have been actively using the service. There have already been 4.8 million customer interactions with OP Aina and feedback has been positive.

    Cybersecurity is at the core of our operations

    OP Financial Group’s service availability has been excellent despite the rapidly growing number of denial of service attacks. We are investing strongly in cybersecurity to ensure that our customers’ money and data are secure and our service level is maintained under all circumstances. As phishing and scam attempts directed at our customers have proliferated, we have created several new ways of providing even better protection.

    Owner-customers have been benefiting from OP bonuses for more than 25 years and will continue to do so

    A total of more than EUR 3.7 billion in OP bonuses have accumulated for OP Financial Group’s owner-customers in more than 25 years. OP Financial Group has prepared for the possible change in the tax treatment of financial-sector customer bonuses in early 2026. A bill has been presented to the Finnish Parliament, which would bring OP bonuses accumulated from banking services under capital gains tax if they were used for non-banking services – to pay insurance premiums, for example. However, there is no need for concern among OP Financial Group’s 2.1 million owner-customers, who will continue to receive at least the same level of financial benefits as before, regardless of possible changes in the law. It therefore pays to be an owner-customer of OP Financial Group. In line with our mission, we will continue to promote the sustainable prosperity, security and wellbeing of our owner-customers.

    OP Financial Group is an attractive employer

    This year, OP Financial Group was ranked for the first time as Finland’s most attractive employer by business sector professionals, and as the fourth most attractive by IT professionals, in an annual employer branding survey by Universum. Year after year in the survey, professionals and students have ranked us as top performers.

    Over the years, one of our strategic priorities has been to ensure that our personnel are highly skilled, motivated and satisfied. The survey results are strong evidence of our success in fulfilling this priority. Our employer image, as a genuinely inclusive workplace based on high-level competencies, is critical to retaining our current talent and continuing to recruit the best for OP Financial Group.

    Together through time

    OP Financial Group is in great shape to be there for its customers through economic ups and downs. We want to be a pioneer in Finnish society, pointing the way towards futures filled with hope. The success of Finland and all those who live here is our number one priority now and in the future.

    My warm thanks to all our customers for the trust they have shown in OP Financial Group. We want to continue being worthy of your trust going forward. I would also like to give my heartfelt thanks to our employees and governing bodies for their fine work and commitment during the year. We have a superb basis for continuing to be successful in the times ahead.

    Timo Ritakallio
    President and Group CEO

    January–September

    OP Financial Group’s operating profit was EUR 1,948 million (1,570), up by 24.1% or EUR 378 million year on year. Income from customer business, or net interest income, net commissions and fees and insurance service result, increased by a total of 6.8% to EUR 2,813 million (2,634). The cost/income ratio improved to 44.6% (47.3). New OP bonuses accrued to owner-customers, which are included in earnings, increased by 14.1% to EUR 233 million.

    Net interest income grew by 10.4% to EUR 2,118 million. The development of market rates continued to increase net interest income. Net interest income reported by the Retail Banking segment increased by 10.7% to EUR 1,615 million and that by the Corporate Banking segment increased by 11.9% to EUR 493 million. OP Financial Group’s loan portfolio decreased by 1.0% to EUR 98.0 billion while deposits grew by 5.0% to EUR 76.2 billion, year on year. Household deposits increased by 1.7% year on year, to EUR 47.8 billion. New loans drawn down by customers during the reporting period totalled EUR 15.0 billion (16.0).

    Impairment loss on loans and receivables, which reduces earnings, totalled EUR 72 million (170). A year ago, expected credit losses concerning the real estate and construction sector increased the impairment loss on receivables. Final credit losses totalled EUR 38 million (42). At the end of the reporting period, loss allowance was EUR 964 million (929), of which management overlay accounted for EUR 85 million (109). Non-performing exposures accounted for 2.9% (2.9) of total exposures. Impairment loss on loans and receivables accounted for 0.10% (0.22) of the loan and guarantee portfolio.

    Owner-customers have received daily banking services without monthly charges since October 2023. This contributed to the decrease in payment transfer net commissions and fees. Net commissions and fees decreased by a total of 8.7% to EUR 599 million. Net commissions and fees for payment transfer services decreased by EUR 58 million to EUR 175 million, and those for residential brokerage by EUR 4 million to EUR 43 million. Meanwhile, commission income from life insurance investment contracts increased by EUR 3 million to EUR 21 million.

    Insurance service result increased by EUR 37 million to EUR 95 million. Insurance service result includes EUR 387 million (348) in operating expenses. Non-life insurance net insurance revenue including reinsurer’s share grew by 7.3% to EUR 1,299 million. Net claims incurred after reinsurer’s share grew by 7.9% to EUR 859 million. Combined ratio reported by non-life insurance was 95.0% (94.8).

    Investment income, or net investment income, net insurance finance expenses and income from financial assets held for trading, increased by a total of 42.7% to EUR 419 million. Investment income grew as a result of the increase in the value of equity and fixed income investments. Net investment income together with net finance income describe investment profitability in the insurance business. The combined return on investments at fair value of OP Financial Group’s insurance companies was 6.4% (2.7).

    Net income from financial assets recognised at fair value through profit or loss, or notes and bonds, shares and derivatives, totalled EUR 1,605 million (591). Net income from investment contract liabilities totalled EUR –689 million (–241). Net insurance finance expenses totalled EUR –565 million (–102). In banking, net income from financial assets held for trading grew by 77.2% to EUR 43 million due to the increase in interest income from derivatives.

    Other operating income increased to EUR 31 million (28).

    Total expenses grew by 4.2% to EUR 1,629 million. Personnel costs rose by 11.3% to EUR 781 million. The increase was affected by headcount growth and pay increases. OP Financial Group’s personnel increased by approximately 1,061 year on year. Depreciation/amortisation and impairment loss on PPE and intangible assets decreased by 22.1% to EUR 107 million. Other operating expenses grew by 2.3% to EUR 741 million. ICT costs increased to EUR 372 million (318). Development costs were EUR 249 million (194) and capitalised development expenditure EUR 43 million (66). Charges of financial authorities fell by EUR 62 million to EUR 1 million. The EU’s Single Resolution Board (SRB) will not collect stability contributions from banks for 2024. In 2023, OP Financial Group paid a total of EUR 62 million in stability contributions.

    The new OP bonuses to owner-customers have been divided under the following items based on their accrual: EUR 125 million (116) under interest income, EUR 61 million (49) under interest expenses, EUR 36 million (29) under commission income from mutual funds, and EUR 12 million (11) under insurance service result.

    Income tax amounted to EUR 388 million (312). The effective tax rate for the reporting period was 19.9% (19.9). Comprehensive income after tax totalled EUR 1,644 million (1,279).

    OP Financial Group’s equity amounted to EUR 17.7 billion (16.3). Equity included EUR 3.2 billion (3.3) in Profit Shares, terminated Profit Shares accounting for EUR 0.3 billion (0.4).

    OP Financial Group’s funding position and liquidity is strong. At the end of the reporting period, the Group’s LCR was 214% (199) and NSFR was 130% (130).

    Outlook towards the year end

    The Finnish economy was sluggish in the first half. GDP contracted over the previous year and unemployment increased. Forecast data suggests that the Finnish economy began to grow in the third quarter of 2024. Falling inflation and interest rates provide a basis for the recovery to continue. Risks associated with the economic outlook are still higher than usual. The escalation of geopolitical crises may abruptly affect capital markets and the economic environment.

    OP Financial Group’s operating profit for 2024 is expected to be higher than that for 2023.

    The key uncertainties affecting OP Financial Group’s earnings performance in late 2024 relate to developments in the business environment, changes in the interest rate and investment environment, and developments in impairment loss on receivables. Forward-looking statements in this Interim Report expressing the management’s expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions are based on the current view on developments in the economy, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.

    Press conference

    OP Financial Group’s financial performance will be presented to the media by President and Group Chief Executive Officer Timo Ritakallio in a press conference on 31 October 2024 at 11am at Gebhardinaukio 1, Vallila, Helsinki.

    Media enquiries: OP Corporate Communications, tel. +358 10 252 8719, viestinta@op.fi

    OP Corporate Bank plc and OP Mortgage Bank will publish their own interim reports.

    Schedule for financial reports for 2024:

    OP Amalgamation Pillar 3 Tables 30 September 2024 Week 45, 2024
    Report by the Board of Directors (incl. Sustainability Report) and Financial Statements 2024 Week 11, 2025 
    OP Financial Group’s Corporate Governance Statement 2024 Week 11, 2025 
    OP Financial Group’s Annual Report 2024 Week 11, 2025 
    OP Amalgamation Pillar 3 Disclosures 2024 Week 11, 2025 
    OP Financial Group’s Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies 2024 Week 11, 2025 
    Remuneration Policy for Governing Bodies at OP Financial Group Week 11, 2025 

    Schedule for Financial Statements Bulletin 2024 and Interim Reports and Half-year Financial Report in 2025:

    Financial Statements Bulletin 1 January‒31 December 2024 6 February 2025
    Interim Report 1 January–31 March 2025 7 May 2025
    Half-year Financial Report 1 January–30 June 2025 30 July 2025
    Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2025 28 October 2025
    OP Amalgamation Pillar 3 Disclosures 31 March 2025 Week 19, 2025 
    OP Amalgamation Pillar 3 Disclosures 30 June 2025 Week 32, 2025 
    OP Amalgamation Pillar 3 Disclosures 30 September 2025 Week 45, 2025 

    Helsinki, 31 October 2024

    OP Cooperative
    Board of Directors

    Additional information:

    Timo Ritakallio, President and Group Chief Executive Officer, tel. +358 (0)10 252 4500
    Mikko Timonen, Chief Financial Officer, tel. +358 (0)10 252 1325
    Piia Kumpulainen, Chief Communications Officer, tel. +358 (0)10 252 7317

    DISTRIBUTION

    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Euronext Dublin (Irish Stock Exchange)
    London Stock Exchange
    Major media
    op.fi

    OP Financial Group is Finland’s largest financial services group, with more than two million owner-customers and over 14,000 employees. We provide a comprehensive range of banking and insurance services for personal and corporate customers. OP Financial Group consists of OP cooperative banks, its central cooperative OP Cooperative, and the latter’s subsidiaries and affiliates. Our mission is to promote the sustainable prosperity, security and wellbeing of our owner-customers and operating region. Together with our owner-customers, we have been building Finnish society and a sustainable future for 120 years now. www.op.fi

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: LanzaTech and Eramet announce plans for first-of-a-kind integrated Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) project in Norway

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) (“LanzaTech”), the carbon recycling company transforming above-ground carbon into sustainable fuels, chemicals, materials, and proteins, today announced plans to develop a commercial-scale Carbon Capture and Utilization (“CCU”) facility (the “facility”, “plant”, or “project”) at Herøya Industrial Park in Porsgrunn, Norway. The plant will produce ethanol and is expected to begin operations in 2028. Eramet will supply furnace gas as feedstock to the facility from the Porsgrunn Manganese Alloys smelter but will not participate in its financing.

    To unlock further emissions reductions, the two companies also intend to build upon the CCU infrastructure and, if demonstrated to be feasible, integrate Carbon Capture and Storage (“CCS”) technology as part of a second phase of the project. The integration of LanzaTech’s CCU technology with CCS, two commercially proven carbon management solutions, is expected to establish a first-of-a-kind, integrated facility that drives leading-edge carbon abatement metrics.

    The new plant at Herøya will complement the six other commercial scale plants already using LanzaTech’s carbon recycling technology to produce ethanol and the first for which LanzaTech will manage the full scope of project design, construction, and operations. The project’s Front-end Engineering Design (FEED) phase was completed with global engineering firm Fluor Corporation, which brings deep experience and expertise across the project scope and has partnered with LanzaTech in creating a baseline plant design that can be replicated for projects around the world. The project is also being supported by Sweco Group, which brings best-in-class sustainability expertise and design acumen. From a project financing standpoint, LanzaTech’s infrastructure investment partner Brookfield Asset Management will have right of first refusal for financing and owning the project, with a Final Investment Decision (FID) expected within the next six months.

    LanzaTech’s proprietary technology is a fermentation process that biologically converts carbon-rich gases into sustainable raw materials, such as ethanol, for use in clothing, personal care products, packaging, fuel, and more. The facility’s maximum production capacity is expected to be 24 kilotons per annum of fuel-grade ethanol. Demand markets for this ethanol are wide ranging and include chemicals and sustainable aviation fuel. Given LanzaTech’s growing ethanol product sales business, the company intends to market the produced ethanol through its existing and emerging sales channels.

    Eramet Norway’s Porsgrunn smelter has two closed furnaces producing manganese alloys. Manganese smelting falls into the category of hard-to-abate, as carbon is necessary for the chemical reduction of manganese ore. Eramet Group, headquartered in France, is engaged in an ambitious decarbonization pathway, with a target of a 40% reduction of its scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2035 set by the company’s “Act for positive mining” CSR roadmap. CCUS has been identified by Eramet as a major lever of decarbonization for its metallurgical assets. Since metallurgy represents ~90% of Eramet’s scope 1 & 2 emissions, this project makes an important contribution to the validation of a path to Near Zero CO2-emission Manganese Alloys.

    The planned integration of LanzaTech’s CCU process with CCS technology demonstrates the ability of LanzaTech’s carbon recycling platform to partner with and enable other carbon management technologies to further reduce carbon footprints. Residual output from LanzaTech’s gas fermentation process at this facility will take the form of highly concentrated CO2, suitable for CCS, which reduces further operating and capital costs compared to a standalone CCS project.

    “We are thrilled to announce plans for Norway’s first commercial carbon recycling facility using LanzaTech’s technology,” said Dr. Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech. “Carbon is an incredibly important resource that requires a wide range of solutions to manage responsibly. By recycling above-ground carbon with our CCU process, this groundbreaking project gets us another step closer to realizing an enduring global circular carbon economy.”

    The facility in Porsgrunn would allow the Eramet Norway Porsgrunn smelter to achieve a significant reduction in its CO2 emissions. The potential inclusion of CCS in the project is pending results of a feasibility study and financing, though the companies remain optimistic about its implementation as further support of Norway’s position as a frontrunner in the deployment of CCUS.

    In addition to CO2 emissions reductions, the LanzaTech-Eramet collaboration will positively impact the local community by creating new jobs in the thriving industrial region of Grenland, and furthers the municipality’s reputation for technological innovation.

    Geoff Streeton, Chief Development Officer, in charge of strategy, innovation and business development at Eramet, stated (to be quoted for the global version), ‘Eramet is pleased to be collaborating with LanzaTech on this first-of-its-kind decarbonization project of our manganese smelters. Firstly, to ensure optimal circular value creation in the use our energy-rich furnace gas. Secondly, this creates an attractive option to further liquefy and ultimately sequester the remaining CO2streams. On a combined basis these CCU & CCS projects at Porsgrunn could bring a reduction of the company’s CO2emissions by ~200 kt of Eramet’s Scope 1 & 2 emissions. This project brings Eramet closer towards its target of producing and offering a Zero CO2manganese alloy product for the benefit of decarbonizing the value chain of steel.’

    About LanzaTech
    LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) is the carbon recycling company transforming waste carbon into sustainable fuels, chemicals, materials, and protein for everyday products. Using its biorecycling technology, LanzaTech captures carbon generated by energy-intensive industries at the source, preventing it from being emitted into the air. LanzaTech then gives that captured carbon a new life as a clean replacement for virgin fossil carbon in everything from household cleaners and clothing fibers to packaging and fuels. By partnering with companies across the global supply chain like ArcelorMittal, Zara, H&M Move, Coty, On, and LanzaJet, LanzaTech is paving the way for a circular carbon economy. For more information about LanzaTech, visit https://lanzatech.com.

    About Eramet
    Eramet transforms the Earth’s mineral resources to provide sustainable and responsible solutions to the growth of the industry and to the challenges of the energy transition. Its employees are committed to this through their civic and contributory approach in all the countries where the mining and metallurgical group is present. Manganese, nickel, mineral sands, and lithium: Eramet recovers and develops metals that are essential to the construction of a more sustainable world. As a privileged partner of its industrial clients, the Group contributes to making robust and resistant infrastructures and constructions, more efficient means of mobility, safer health tools and more efficient telecommunications devices. Fully committed to the era of metals, Eramet’s ambition is to become a reference for the responsible transformation of the Earth’s mineral resources for living well together.
    www.eramet.com

    Eramet Norway
    Operating manganese smelters in Porsgrunn, Sauda and Kvinesdal, Eramet Norway AS is fully owned by the French mining and metallurgical group Eramet SA and part of the Group’s manganese alloy business unit.
    Eramet Norway AS has a world leading market position on refined manganese alloys with one of the industry’s lowest carbon footprints, and is ambitiously pursuing the ultimate target of producing Zero CO2 manganese alloys for the benefit of decarbonizing the value chain of steel.
    www.eramet.no

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, the plans, strategies, and prospects, both business and financial, of LanzaTech. These statements are based on the beliefs, assumptions, projections and conclusions of LanzaTech’s management. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are outside LanzaTech’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. LanzaTech cannot assure you that it will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and you should not rely on forward-looking statements.

    Generally, statements that are not historical facts, including those concerning possible or assumed future actions, business strategies, events or results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “plans,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “intends” or similar expressions. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: (a) timing delays in the advancement of projects to the final investment decision stage or into construction; (b) failure by customers to adopt new technologies and platforms; (c) fluctuations in the availability and cost of feedstocks and other process inputs; (d) the availability and continuation of government funding and support; (e) broader economic conditions, including inflation, interest rates, supply chain disruptions, employment conditions, and competitive pressures; (f) unforeseen technical, regulatory, or commercial challenges in scaling proprietary technologies, business functions or operational disruptions; and (g) other economic, business, or competitive factors, and other risks and uncertainties, including the risk factors and other information contained in LanzaTech’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other existing and future filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Any forward-looking statement herein is based only on information currently available to LanzaTech and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. LanzaTech undertakes no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media contact LanzaTech:
    LanzaTech Global, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Kate Walsh
    VP, Investor Relations & Tax
    Investor.Relations@lanzatech.com

    Media Relations
    Kit McDonnell
    Director of Communications
    press@lanzatech.com

    Media contact Eramet:
    Fanny Mounier
    Media Manager
    fanny.mounier@eramet.com
    +33 145383732

    Media contact Eramet Norway:
    Kåre Bjarte Bjelland
    Director Public Affairs
    kare.bjarte.bjelland@eramet.com
    +47 91636493

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to establish an advisory council on science and technology, it is hereby ordered as follows:
    Section 1.  Purpose.  The American story is one of boundless creativity and bold ambition, driven by an indomitable pioneering spirit that propels exploration and discovery.  It is this spirit that illuminated the world with Edison’s lightbulb, carried the Wright brothers into the skies, and sent Armstrong to the moon.  Today, a new frontier of scientific discovery lies before us, defined by transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced biotechnology.  Breakthroughs in these fields have the potential to reshape the global balance of power, spark entirely new industries, and revolutionize the way we live and work.  As our global competitors race to exploit these technologies, it is a national security imperative for the United States to achieve and maintain unquestioned and unchallenged global technological dominance.  To secure our future, we must harness the full power of American innovation by empowering entrepreneurs, unleashing private-sector creativity, and reinvigorating our research institutions.
    At the heart of scientific progress lies the pursuit of truth.  But this foundational principle, which has driven every major breakthrough in our history, is increasingly under threat. Today, across science, medicine, and technology, ideological dogmas have surfaced that elevate group identity above individual achievement, enforce conformity at the expense of innovative ideas, and inject politics into the heart of the scientific method.  These agendas have not only distorted truth but have eroded public trust, undermined the integrity of research, stifled innovation, and weakened America’s competitive edge.
    This order establishes the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology to unite the brightest minds from academia, industry, and government to guide our Nation through this critical moment by charting a path forward for American leadership in science and technology.
    Sec. 2.  Establishment.  (a)  There is hereby established the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).(b)  The PCAST shall be composed of not more than 24 members.  The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology (APST) and the Special Advisor for AI & Crypto shall be members of the PCAST.  If also serving as the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the APST may designate the U.S. Chief Technology Officer as a member.  The remaining members shall be distinguished individuals and representatives from sectors outside of the Federal Government appointed by the President.  These non-Federal members shall have diverse perspectives and expertise in science, technology, education, and innovation.(c)  The APST and the Special Advisor for AI & Crypto shall serve as Co-Chairs of the PCAST.  The Co-Chairs may designate up to two Vice Chairs of the PCAST from among the non-Federal members of the PCAST, to support the Co-Chairs in the leadership and organization of the PCAST.
    Sec. 3.  Functions.  (a)  The PCAST shall advise the President on matters involving science, technology, education, and innovation policy.  The Council shall also provide the President with scientific and technical information that is needed to inform public policy relating to the American economy, the American worker, national and homeland security, and other topics.(b)  The PCAST shall meet regularly and shall:(i)    respond to requests from the President or the Co-Chairs for information, analysis, evaluation, or advice;(ii)   solicit information and ideas from a broad range of stakeholders, including the research community; the private sector; universities; national laboratories; State, local, and Tribal governments; foundations; and nonprofit organizations;(iii)  serve as the advisory committee identified in section 101(b) of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (Public Law 102-194), as amended (15 U.S.C. 5511(b)), in which capacity the PCAST shall be known as the President’s Innovation and Technology Advisory Committee; and(iv)    serve as the advisory panel identified in section 4 of the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act (Public Law 108-153), as amended (15 U.S.C. 7503), in which capacity the PCAST shall be known as the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel.(c)  The PCAST shall provide advice from the non-Federal sector to the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) in response to requests from the NSTC.
    Sec. 4.  Administration.  (a)  The heads of executive departments and agencies shall, to the extent permitted by law, provide the PCAST with information concerning scientific and technological matters when requested by the PCAST Co-Chairs and as required for the purpose of carrying out the PCAST’s functions.(b)  In consultation with the Co-Chairs, the PCAST is authorized to create standing subcommittees and ad hoc groups, including technical advisory groups, to assist the PCAST and provide preliminary information directly to the PCAST.(c)  In order to allow the PCAST to provide advice and analysis regarding classified matters, the Co-Chairs may request that members of the PCAST, its standing subcommittees, or ad hoc groups who do not hold a current clearance for access to classified information receive security clearance and access determinations pursuant to Executive Order 12968 of August 2, 1995 (Access to Classified Information), as amended, or any successor order.(d)  The Department of Energy shall provide such funding and administrative and technical support as the PCAST may require, to the extent permitted by law and as authorized by existing appropriations.(e)  Members of the PCAST shall serve without any compensation for their work on the PCAST, but may receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized by law for persons serving intermittently in the government service (5 U.S.C. 5701–5707).(f)  Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. App.), may apply to the PCAST, any functions of the President under that Act, except that of reporting to the Congress, shall be performed by the Secretary of Energy, in accordance with the guidelines and procedures established by the Administrator of General Services.
    Sec. 5.  Termination.  The PCAST shall terminate 2 years from the date of this order unless extended by the President.
    Sec. 6.  Revocation.  Executive Order 14007 of January 27, 2021 (President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology), as amended by Executive Order 14109 of September 29, 2023 (Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees and Amendments to Other Executive Orders), is hereby revoked.
    Sec. 7.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    THE WHITE HOUSE    January 23, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: The First 100 Hours: Historic Action to Kick off America’s Golden Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>President Donald Trump’s second term is off to an historic start. The President is wasting no time delivering on the promises he made to the American people. The President signed more executive orders on his first day in office than any other president in history. Within the first 100 hours of his second administration, President Trump taken hundreds of executive actions to secure the border, deport criminal illegal immigrants, unleash American prosperity, lower costs, increase government transparency, and reinstitute merit-based hiring in the federal government. The President has already secured over $1 trillion in historic new investments. 
    We’re witnessing the Trump Effect:
    President Trump is securing historic investments just days after being sworn in.
    President Trump secured $500 billion in private sector investment for the largest AI infrastructure project in history, with Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman all stating that it would not have been possible if not for President Trump’s election victory and leadership.
    Saudi Arabia “wants to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years.”
    Stellantis announced it will restart an assembly plant in Illinois and build the new Dodge Durango in Detroit.
    The Detroit Free Press: “The news, announced in a letter Wednesday to employees from North America Chief Operating Officer Antonio Filosa, also provided some good news to workers in Toledo, Ohio, and Kokomo, Indiana, where investments are planned. The Belvidere plant will start production of a new midsize truck in the next two years. The letter said company Chairman John Elkann had met last week with President Donald Trump before his inauguration on Monday. Elkann shared ‘our enthusiasm for his strong commitment to the United States auto industry and all that this means for American jobs and the broader economy.’”

    President Trump is already securing the border and arresting criminal illegal immigrants.
    The Border Patrol is reporting a significant drop already in attempted illegal crossings.
    Fox News: “The U.S. southern border has seen a sharp drop in illegal immigrant encounters in the first days of the Trump administration, compared to the final few days of the Biden administration.”
    ICE is at work rounding up criminal aliens.
    Fox News: “Information obtained by Fox News Digital, shows that between midnight Jan. 21 and 9 a.m. Jan 22, a 33-hour period, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested more than 460 illegal immigrants that include criminal histories of sexual assault, robbery, burglary, aggravated assault, drugs and weapons offenses, resisting arrest and domestic violence.”
    Breitbart News: “President Donald Trump’s administration arrested 538 illegal aliens on Thursday, ranging from child predators to gang members and a suspected terrorist.”

    The Trump Administration immediately shut down the CBP One app, which “paroled” over 1 million illegal immigrants.
    Deportation flights have already started and the military is assisting with the effort.
    The Department of Homeland Security reinstated official use of the term “illegal alien” over “undocumented noncitizen,” and the DOJ announced it would be taking action against lawless sanctuary city policies.
    President Donald Trump signed an executive order to designate the cartels as terrorist organizations.

    Common sense has been restored to the government.
    President Trump signed a series of executive orders ensuring the elimination of discriminatory DEI practices and ensuring merit-based hiring.
    DEI staff are being placed on leave.
    The Federal Aviation Administration must now return to merit-based hiring.
    President Trump ended an affirmative action mandate in federal government hiring.
    President Trump signed an executive order affirming the reality that there are only two sexes.
    The State Department issued guidance that embassies should only be flying the American flag, and not any activist flags.
    President Donald Trump signed an executive order telling agencies to stop remote work practices and directing workers to return to the office.
    The State Department subsequently ordered workers to return to working in the office.
    President Donald Trump is unleashing American energy.
    President Trump declared a National Energy Emergency to unlock America’s full energy potential and bring down costs for American families.
    President Trump rescinded every one of Joe Biden’s industry-killing, pro-China, and anti-American energy regulations, empowering consumer choice in vehicles, showerheads, toilets, washing machines, lightbulbs, and dishwashers.
    President Trump withdrew the United States from the disastrous Paris Climate Agreement that unfairly ripped off our country.
    President Trump paused all new federal leasing and permitting for massive wind farms that degrade our natural landscapes and fail to serve American energy consumers.
    President Trump reversed the burdensome regulations that impeded Alaska’s ability to develop its vast natural resources.
    President Trump terminated Biden’s harmful electric vehicle mandate.

      These opening few days can be summarized as Promises Made, Promises Kept: 
    President Donald Trump said he would declassify the JFK Files. He did.
    President Donald Trump said he would end the EV mandate. He did.
    President Donald Trump said he would have the backs of the brave men and women in law enforcement. He did just that by pardoning two Washington D.C. Police officers that were unjustly prosecuted. The Metropolitan Police Department thanked President Trump for the pardon.
    President Donald Trump said he would use the military to secure the border. The Pentagon is deploying troops to the border and the Coast Guard is surging assets to the Gulf of America.
    President Trump said we would drill, baby, drill. The President signed executive orders to open up offshore drilling and allow more energy exploration in Alaska.
    President Donald Trump said he would end the weaponization of government. He signed an executive order doing just that.
    President Donald Trump said he would pardon the J6 Hostages. He did.
    President Donald Trump said he would end government censorship. On his first day in office, he signed an executive order restoring freedom of speech and ending government censorship.
    President Trump is being praised for his historic leadership:
    The Steel Manufacturers Association: “President Trump has repeatedly demonstrated his strong support for American steel workers. He reiterated that support on day one by directing his agencies to investigate unfair trade and its impact on domestic manufacturing.”
    American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers President and CEO Chet Thompson: “President Trump promised to end gas car bans and vehicle mandates on Day 1 of his new administration, and we are pleased to see that work already underway. Thank you, President Trump.”
    American Petroleum Institute President and CEO Mike Sommers: “Americans sent a clear message at the ballot box, and President Trump is answering the call on Day 1. U.S. energy dominance will drive our nation’s economic and security agenda. This is a new day for American energy, and we applaud President Trump for moving swiftly to chart a new path where U.S. oil and natural gas are embraced, not restricted.”
    Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “Trump’s two-fold approach of boosting oil and gas production and repealing the Biden administration’s green energy mandates will make American energy cheaper, reliable and more efficient.”
    Mortgage Bankers Association President and CEO Bob Broeksmit: “President Trump campaigned on lowering costs for Americans, and we appreciate housing supply and affordability being included in an executive order on this issue. We support efforts to cut unnecessary regulatory red tape and to pursue federal housing program enhancements that make renting and homeownership more attainable and sustainable.”
    Professional Trucking Association Group: “President Trump’s decision to freeze regulations and curtail bureaucratic overreach is commendable. This is precisely what America needs: reduced government interference and increased freedom for small trucking businesses and entrepreneurs to flourish.”
    NetChoice CEO Steve DelBianco: “Upon returning to office, President Trump showed that America is ready to lead in tech and innovation again. By repealing Biden’s restrictive rules on energy production and AI development, the president is steering America to remain dominant in creating the best technology in the world.”
    United Against Nuclear Iran Chairman Governor Jeb Bush and CEO Ambassador Mark Wallace: “We applaud President Trump for his decision today to redesignate the Houthis as an FTO. UANI in its recommended action plan for the Trump administration’s first 100 days suggested that the president redesignate the Houthis as an FTO. This will now provide the U.S. government additional authorities to hold the Houthis accountable for their threats to international commerce and U.S. allies and partners.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s incremental policies boost foreign investor confidence

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Oct. 31 — Foreign investors are becoming increasingly bullish on the Chinese market, bolstered by the country’s recent incremental policies aimed at vitalizing growth momentum.

    UBS Investment Bank has raised its China 2024 growth forecast to 4.8 percent from 4.6 percent, while Goldman Sachs has lifted China’s GDP prediction this year from 4.7 percent to 4.9 percent.

    The uplift is mostly due to China’s third-quarter year-on-year GDP growth of 4.6 percent, slightly above market expectation of 4.4 percent, and the series of support policies the government recently launched, said UBS economist Wang Tao.

    Economists with Goldman Sachs noted that the latest round of China’s incremental policies clearly indicates that policymakers have made a turn on cyclical policy management and increased their focus on the economy.

    So far this year, multiple international institutions, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, have raised their forecast for China’s economic growth for 2024.

    In the face of mounting challenges at home and abroad, China’s GDP grew 4.8 percent year on year in the first three quarters of this year. The country set a target of economic growth at around 5 percent for this year.

    To beef up the economy in response to looming challenges, Chinese authorities have unveiled a broader-than-expected policy package since late September, which focused on enhancing counter-cyclical adjustments, expanding effective domestic demand, supporting business operations, promoting the recovery of the property market, and invigorating capital markets.

    Aside from these pro-growth policies, Chinese policymakers continued to improve investment facilitation, create a favorable investment environment, promote high-level financial opening up to the outside world, and actively support foreign investors in participating in the Chinese capital market.

    Alan Ho, co-senior country officer for China at J.P. Morgan, said that the pace of China’s financial market opening up had accelerated in recent years.

    For example, foreign ownership restrictions in local securities, funds and futures companies have been lifted and financial markets’ connectivity mechanisms have been maturing more quickly than expected, which has brought broader development opportunities to foreign financial institutions, Ho said.

    Data from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange showed that foreign holdings of domestic renminbi bonds have so far exceeded 640 billion U.S. dollars, reaching a historic high.

    Net foreign investment in domestic bonds surpassed 80 billion U.S. dollars in the first three quarters of this year, while foreign investment in Chinese equities saw notable improvement.

    Foreign central banks and commercial banks are the biggest investors in domestic renminbi bonds, as they allocate a higher proportion of investment in medium and long-term bonds such as treasury bonds and policy bank bonds, according to the foreign exchange regulator.

    The growing foreign holdings have reflected the global investors’ confidence in the Chinese market. Currently, 24 global systemically important banks have a presence in China.

    Industry insiders believed that foreign investors’ active buy-in of Chinese assets has shown their optimism in China’s continuous opening-up measures and policy support in the capital market.

    During the World Bank’s 110th meeting of the Development Committee last week in Washington DC, Vice Minister of Finance Liao Min pledged that China will intensify countercyclical adjustments of fiscal policy.

    A series of strong measures will be implemented to resolve local government debt risks, stabilize the real estate market, increase the income of key groups, enhance people’s livelihoods, and drive equipment upgrades and trade-in deals for consumer goods, Liao said.

    By leveraging government spending to stimulate social investment and consumption, effective demand will be increased, he said, noting that China is confident in achieving the annual economic growth target, and will continue to inject impetus into world economic growth.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Recommendations on merger control

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Recommendations on merger control

    Competitive markets

    Download the recommendations

    To enhance compliance and proper enforcement of merger control regulations, ICC proposes recommendations and underscores the importance of companies, lawyers and antitrust agencies working side by side to pursue shared goals.

    Why are ICC’s recommendations on merger control relevant? 

    Over the past 40 years, a growing number of countries have adopted merger rules to examine the impact of mergers on competition and ensure the functioning of their markets. This unprecedented development has been spurred by recommendations from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development and the International Competition Network.  

    As more jurisdictions establish merger control regimes, inconsistencies and procedural issues have emerged. Emphasising the importance of clear guidelines, ICC addresses these challenges by providing a comprehensive framework and recommendations for improving merger control practices.  

    The recommendations cover key areas such as the concept of reportable mergers, notification thresholds, simplified forms, funding of antitrust agencies, guidelines and gun jumping fines. 

    They aim to  

    • enhance predictability, 
    • reduce costs, 
    • ensure effective enforcement,  
    • promote consistency at a global level and 
    • reduce administrative burdens.  

    What makes ICC’s recommendations on merger control unique? 

    The recommendations are the result of a cooperative and inclusive effort involving nearly 200 ICC in-house counsel, private practitioners from 20 key jurisdictions and several antitrust agencies providing feedback.  

    The broad representation included in the country annex ensures that the recommendations reflect a global perspective and consider the needs and challenges faced by companies operating across borders. 

    ICC underscores the importance of continued collaboration among companies, lawyers and antitrust agencies to pursue the following shared goals:  

    • ensure that transactions are reported in jurisdictions where they might have an impact on competition;  
    • secure and dedicate resources that are proportionate to the issues at stake in an individual case;  
    • enhance predictability and legal certainty with clear legal tests and consistent sanctions. 

    Who are the recommendations on merger control for?  

    • companies, private practitioners, and antitrust agencies involved in merger transactions;  
    • companies engaged in cross-border transactions involving multiple merger control jurisdictions; 
    • antitrust agencies seeking insights and proposals for streamlining processes and achieving more effective enforcement 

    Should you have any further questions, contact us. 

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank of NZ – Home buyers remain cautious in subdued housing market

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    31 October 2024 – Housing market activity is currently subdued, with interest rates still at elevated levels. Households continue to show resilience following the significant price rises and falls seen over the last four years, according to a special topic on housing from the upcoming Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua Financial Stability Report.

    Understanding the dynamics of the housing market is crucial for Te Pūtea Matua, as home loans account for more than 60 percent of total bank lending. Residential property makes up over half of New Zealand households’ wealth and the housing market directly influences financial stability, affects consumer confidence, and shapes economic growth.

    “Ensuring that we remain vigilant in monitoring these trends and market dynamics is essential for safeguarding the financial system and broader economy,” says Kerry Watt, Director of Financial Stability Assessment & Strategy.

    “House prices remain a stretch for many prospective buyers and are hovering around the top of our estimate of sustainable levels. Banks are currently facing competitive pressures to attract a limited pool of creditworthy borrowers, ” Mr Watt says.

    Borrowers’ capacity to take on more debt is increasing as monetary policy is eased. However, the weaker economic environment means households are exercising caution. The level of interest rates is still high by recent standards and lending growth has been low over the past year. It is uncertain when and by how much demand for new borrowing will pick up.

    New Zealand saw a rapid house price cycle over the past few years. The special topic compares our experience with some international examples of house price cycles, including those that led to significant financial system distress.

    “Although New Zealand’s recent house price cycle has been rapid compared to overseas examples, there has been comparatively less stress on our financial system, demonstrating the robustness of our institutions and regulatory frameworks,” Mr Watt says.

    Looking ahead, government policy changes are underway to increase long-term supply responsiveness in the housing market. Better supply responses to housing demand will help to moderate future house price cycles and improve housing affordability. Debt-to-income restrictions will also play an important role in moderating demand cycles and reducing the buildup of risks.

    More information

    Read our update on the housing market  https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8ebee3769c&e=f3c68946f8
    The 2024 November Financial Stability report will be published on our website at 9:00am on Tuesday 5 November, with a media conference starting at 1:00pm. See the full details. https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=2e769bc10c&e=f3c68946f8

    What is the Financial Stability report https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=2731de53b7&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI: OP Mortgage Bank: Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OP Mortgage Bank
    Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2024
    Stock Exchange Release 31 October 2024 at 10.00 EET

    OP Mortgage Bank: Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2024

    OP Mortgage Bank (OP MB) is the covered bond issuing entity of OP Financial Group. Together with OP Corporate Bank plc, its role is to raise funding for OP Financial Group from money and capital markets.

    Financial standing

    The intermediary loans and loan portfolio of OP MB totalled EUR 16,628 million (16,988)* on 30 September 2024. Bonds issued by OP MB totalled EUR 14,915 million (14,915) at the end of September.

    OP MB’s covered bonds after 8 July 2022 are issued under the Euro Medium Term Covered Bond (Premium) programme (EMTCB), pursuant to the Finnish Act on Mortgage Credit Banks and Covered Bonds (151/2022). The collateral is added to the EMTCB cover pool from the member cooperative banks’ balance sheets via the intermediary loan process on the issue date of a new covered bond.

    In January, OP MB issued a covered bond in the international capital market. The fixed-rate covered bond worth EUR 1 billion has a maturity of seven years and six months. All proceeds of the bond were intermediated to 63 OP cooperative banks in the form of intermediary loans.

    The terms of issue are available on the op.fi website, under Debt investors: www.op.fi/op-ryhma/velkasijoittajat/issuers/op-mortgage-bank/emtcb-debt-programme-documentation.

    On 30 September 2024, 98 OP cooperative banks had a total of EUR 14,800 million (14,800) in intermediary loans from OP MB.

    Impairment loss on receivables related to loans in OP MB’s balance sheet totalled EUR 0.1 million (-0.2). Loss allowance was EUR 2.4 million (2.6).

    Operating profit was EUR 6.4 million (8.3). The company’s financial standing remained stable throughout the reporting period.

    * The comparatives for 2023 are given in brackets. For income statement and other aggregated figures, the January–September 2023 figures serve as comparatives. For balance-sheet and other cross-sectional figures, figures at the end of the previous financial year (31 December 2023) serve as comparatives.

    Collateralisation of bonds issued to the public

    The covered bonds issued under the EMTCB programme worth EUR 25 billion established on 11 October 2022, in accordance with the Act on Mortgage Credit Banks and Covered Bonds (151/2022), totalled EUR 5,250 million. The cover pool included a total of EUR 5,781 million in loans serving as collateral on 30 September 2024. Overcollateralisation exceeded the minimum requirement under the Act (151/2022).

    The covered bonds issued under the Euro Medium Term Covered Note programme worth EUR 20 billion established on 12 November 2010, in accordance with the Act on Mortgage Credit Banks (Laki kiinnitysluottopankkitoiminnasta, 688/2010), totalled EUR 9,665 million. The cover pool included a total of EUR 11,900 million in loans serving as collateral on 30 September 2024. Overcollateralisation exceeded the minimum requirement under the Act (688/2010).

    Capital adequacy

    OP MB’s Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio stood at 49.3% (41.8) on 30 September 2024. The ratio was improved by the decrease in mortgages on OP MB’s balance sheet and the resulting reduction in capital requirement for credit risk. The minimum CET1 capital requirement is 4.5% and the requirement for the capital conservation buffer is 2.5%. The minimum total capital requirement is 8% (or 10.5% with the increased capital conservation buffer). Because OP MB covers capital requirements in their entirety with CET1 capital, the CET1 capital requirement is 10.5%. Estimated profit distribution has been subtracted from earnings for the reporting period.

    OP MB uses the Standardised Approach (SA) to measure its capital adequacy requirement for credit risk. The Standardised Approach is also used to measure the capital requirement for operational risks.

    OP MB belongs to OP Financial Group. As part of the Group, OP MB is supervised by the European Central Bank. OP Financial Group presents capital adequacy information in its financial statements bulletins and interim and half-year financial reports in accordance with the Act on the Amalgamation of Deposit Banks. OP Financial Group also publishes Pillar III disclosures.

    Own funds and capital adequacy, TEUR 30 Sep 2024 31 Dec 2023
    Equity capital 369,686 372,160
    Excess funding of pension liability -13 -13
    Share of unaudited profits   -7,490
    Proposed profit distribution -5,016  
    Insufficient coverage for non-performing exposures -4,632 -2,856
    CET1 capital 360,024 361,800
    Tier 1 capital (T1) 360,024 361,800
    Total own funds 360,024 361,800
    Total risk exposure amount    
    Credit and counterparty risk 679,352 812,205
    Operational risk 26,636 25,140
    Other risks* 24,774 27,336
    Total 730,762 864,682
    Ratios, %    
    CET1 ratio 49.3 41.8
    Tier 1 capital ratio 49.3 41.8
    Capital adequacy ratio 49.3 41.8
    Capital requirement    
    Own funds 360,024 361,800
    Capital requirement 76,765 90,829
    Buffer for capital requirements 283,259 270,971

    * Risks not otherwise covered.

    Liabilities under the Resolution Act

    Under regulation applied to crisis resolution of credit institutions and investment firms, the resolution authority is authorised to intervene in the terms and conditions of investment products issued by a bank in a way that affects an investor’s position. The EU’s Single Resolution Board (SRB) based in Brussels is OP Financial Group’s resolution authority. The SRB has confirmed a resolution strategy for OP Financial Group whereby the resolution measures would focus on the OP amalgamation and on the new OP Corporate Bank that would be formed in case of resolution. According to the resolution strategy, OP MB will continue its operations as the new OP Corporate Bank’s subsidiary.

    The SRB has set a Minimum Requirement for Own Funds and Eligible Liabilities (MREL) for OP MB. From May 2024, the MREL is 16% of the total risk exposure amount and 18.5% of the total risk exposure amount including a combined buffer requirement, and 6% of leverage ratio exposures. The requirement entered into force on 15 May 2024. The requirement includes a Combined Buffer Requirement (CBR) of 2.5%.

    OP MB’s buffer for the MREL requirement was EUR 215 million. The buffer consists of own funds only. OP MB clearly exceeds the MREL requirement. OP MB’s MREL ratio was 46% of the total risk exposure amount.

    Joint and several liability of amalgamation

    Under the Act on the Amalgamation of Deposit Banks (599/2010), the amalgamation of cooperative banks comprises the organisation’s central cooperative (OP Cooperative), the central cooperative’s member credit institutions and the companies belonging to their consolidation groups, as well as credit and financial institutions and service companies in which the above together hold more than half of the total votes. This amalgamation is supervised on a consolidated basis. On 30 September 2024, OP Cooperative’s member credit institutions comprised 99 OP cooperative banks, OP Corporate Bank plc, OP Mortgage Bank and OP Retail Customers plc.

    The central cooperative is responsible for issuing instructions to its member credit institutions concerning their internal control and risk management, their procedures for securing liquidity and capital adequacy, and for compliance with harmonised accounting policies in the preparation of the amalgamation’s consolidated financial statements.

    As a support measure referred to in the Act on the Amalgamation of Deposit Banks, the central cooperative is liable to pay any of its member credit institutions the amount necessary to preventing the credit institution from being placed in liquidation. The central cooperative is also liable for the debts of a member credit institution which cannot be paid using the member credit institution’s assets.

    Each member bank is liable to pay a proportion of the amount which the central cooperative has paid to either another member bank as a support measure or to a creditor of such a member bank in payment of an overdue amount which the creditor has not received from the member bank. Furthermore, if the central cooperative defaults, a member bank has unlimited refinancing liability for the central cooperative’s debts as referred to in the Co-operatives Act.

    Each member bank’s liability for the amount the central cooperative has paid to the creditor on behalf of a member bank is divided between the member banks in proportion to their last adopted balance sheets. OP Financial Group’s insurance companies do not fall within the scope of joint and several liability.

    According to section 25 of the Act on Mortgage Credit Banks (688/2010), which was valid at that time, the creditors of covered bonds issued prior to 8 July 2022 have the right to receive payment, before other claims, for the entire term of the bond, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the bond, out of the funds entered as collateral for the bond, without this being prevented by OP MB’s liquidation or bankruptcy. A similar and equal priority also applies to derivative contracts entered in the register of bonds, and to marginal lending facilities referred to in section 26, subsection 4 of said Act. For mortgage-backed loans issued prior to 8 July 2022 and included in the total amount of collateral of covered bonds, the priority of the covered bond holders’ payment right is limited to the amount of loan that, with respect to home loans, corresponds to 70% of the value of shares or property serving as security for the loan and entered in the bond register at the time of the issuer’s liquidation or bankruptcy declaration.

    Under section 20 of the Act on Mortgage Credit Banks and Covered Bonds (151/2022), which entered into force on 8 July 2022, the creditors of bonds issued after 8 July 2022, including the related management and clearing costs, have the right to receive payment from the collateral included in the cover pool, before other creditors of OP MB or the OP cooperative bank which is the debtor of an intermediary loan. A similar priority also applies to creditors of derivative contracts related to covered bonds, including the related management and clearing costs. Interest and yield accruing on the collateral, and any substitute assets, fall within the scope of said priority. Section 44, subsection 3 of the Act on Mortgage Credit Banks and Covered Bonds includes provisions on the creditor’s priority claim regarding cover pool liquidity support. According to said subsection, the creditor has the right to receive payment against the funds contained in the cover pool after claims based on the principal and interest of covered bonds secured by the cover assets included in the cover pool, obligations based on derivatives contracts associated with covered bonds, as well as administration and liquidation costs.

    Sustainability and corporate responsibility

    Responsible business is one of OP Financial Group’s strategic priorities. OP Financial Group’s sustainability programme guides the Group’s actions and is built around three themes: Climate and the environment, People and communities, and Corporate governance. Read more about the sustainability programme at www.op.fi/en/op-financial-group/corporate-social-responsibility.

    At OP Financial Group, sustainability and corporate responsibility are guided by a number of principles and policies. OP Financial Group is committed to complying not only with all applicable laws and regulations, but also with a number of international initiatives. The Group is committed to complying with the ten principles of the UN Global Compact initiative in the areas of human rights, labour rights, the environment and anti-corruption. OP Financial Group is a Founding Signatory of the Principles for Responsible Banking under the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). Furthermore, OP Financial Group is committed to complying with the UN Principles for Responsible Investment and the UN Principles for Sustainable Insurance.

    As of the reporting year 2024, OP Financial Group reports on its sustainability and corporate responsibility in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

    OP Financial Group has drawn up a biodiversity road map that includes measures to promote biodiversity at OP Financial Group. The aim is to create a nature positive handprint by 2030. ‘Nature positive’ means that OP Financial Group’s operations will have a net positive impact (NPI) on nature.

    OP Financial Group has also drawn up a Human Rights Statement and Human Rights Policy. OP Financial Group respects all recognised human rights, and the Human Rights Statement includes the requirements and expectations that OP Financial Group has set for itself and actors in its value chains. OP Financial Group is committed to remediation actions if it causes adverse human rights impacts.

    In March 2024, OP MB published a Green Covered Bond Report on the allocation and impacts of Finland’s first green covered bonds issued in March 2021 and April 2022. Under OP MB’s Green Covered Bond Framework, the proceeds from the bonds have been allocated to mortgages with energy-efficient residential buildings as collateral.

    The environmental impacts allocated to the green covered bonds in 2023 were 59,000 MWh of energy use avoided per year and 8,800 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions avoided per year. 

    Personnel

    On 30 September 2024, OP MB had six employees. OP MB has been digitising its operations and purchases all key support services from OP Cooperative and its Group members, reducing the need for its own personnel.

    Management

    The Board composition is as follows:

    Chair Mikko Timonen Chief Financial Officer, OP Cooperative
    Members Satu Nurmi Head of Personal Finance and Real Estate Services,
    OP Retail Customers plc
      Mari Heikkilä Head of Group Treasury & ALM, OP Corporate Bank plc

    OP MB’s Managing Director is Sanna Eriksson. The deputy Managing Director is Tuomas Ruotsalainen, Senior Covered Bonds Manager at OP MB.

    Risk profile

    OP MB has a strong capital base, capital buffers and risk-bearing capacity, and they are expected to remain strong throughout the rest of the year.

    OP MB’s most significant risks are related to the quality of collateral and to the structural liquidity and interest rate risks on the balance sheet for which limits have been set in the Banking Risk Policy. The key credit risk indicators in use show that OP MB’s credit risk exposure is stable. OP MB has used interest rate swaps to hedge against its interest rate risk. Interest rate swaps have been used to swap home loan interest, intermediary loan interest and interest on issued bonds onto the same basis rate. OP MB has concluded all derivative contracts for hedging purposes, applying fair value hedges which have OP Corporate Bank plc as their counterparty. OP MB’s interest risk exposure is under control and has been within the set limit.

    The liquidity buffer for OP Financial Group is centrally managed by OP Corporate Bank and therefore exploitable by OP MB. At the end of the reporting period, OP Financial Group’s Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) was 214% and the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) was 130%. OP MB monitors its cash flows on a daily basis to secure funding liquidity and its structural funding risk on a regular basis as part of the company’s internal capital adequacy assessment process (ICAAP).

    An analysis of OP MB’s risk exposure should always take account of OP Financial Group’s risk exposure, which is based on the joint and several liability of all its member credit institutions. The member credit institutions are jointly liable for each other’s debts. All member banks must participate in support measures, as referred to in the Act on the Amalgamation of Deposit Banks, to support each other’s capital adequacy.

    OP Financial Group analyses the business environment as part of the ongoing risk assessment activities and strategy process. Megatrends and worldviews behind OP Financial Group’s strategy reflect driving forces that affect the daily activities, conditions and future of the Group and its customers. Factors currently shaping the business environment include climate, biodiversity loss, scientific and technological innovations, polarisation, demography and geopolitics. External business environment factors are considered thoroughly, so that their effects on customers’ future success are understood. OP Financial Group provides advice and makes business decisions that promote the sustainable financial success, security and wellbeing of its owner-customers and operating region while managing the Group’s risk profile on a longer-term basis. Advice for customers, risk-based service sizing, contract lifecycle management, decision-making, management and reporting are based on correct and comprehensive information.

    Events after the reporting period

    In October, OP MB issued a covered bond in the international capital market. The fixed-rate covered bond worth EUR 1 billion has a maturity of five years. All proceeds of the bond were intermediated to 48 OP cooperative banks in the form of intermediary loans.

    The terms of issue are available at the op.fi website, under Debt investors: www.op.fi/op-ryhma/velkasijoittajat/issuers/op-mortgage-bank/emtcb-debt-programme-documentation.

    In October, OP MB’s Board of Directors decided to sell OP MB’s on-balance sheet loan portfolio of EUR 1,825 million to 85 OP cooperative banks later this year.

    Outlook for 2024

    The Finnish economy was sluggish in the first half. GDP contracted over the previous year and unemployment increased. Forecast data suggests that the Finnish economy began to grow in the third quarter of 2024. Falling inflation and interest rates provide a basis for the recovery to continue. Risks associated with the economic outlook are still higher than usual. The escalation of geopolitical crises may abruptly affect capital markets and the economic environment.

    OP MB’s capital adequacy is expected to remain strong and risk exposure favourable. This will enable the issuance of new covered bonds also in the future.

    Time of publication of 2024 reports

    Report by the Board of Directors and Financial Statements 2024 Week 11, 2025
    Corporate Governance Statement 2024 Week 11, 2025

    Schedule for Financial Statements Bulletin 2024 and Interim Reports in 2025

    Financial Statements Bulletin 1 January‒31 December 2024 6 February 2025
    Interim Report 1 January–31 March 2025 7 May 2025
    Half-year Financial Report 1 January–30 June 2025 30 July 2025
    Interim Report 1 January–30 September 2025 28 October 2025

    Helsinki, 31 October 2024

    OP Mortgage Bank
    Board of Directors

    Additional information:

    Managing Director Sanna Eriksson, phone +358 10 252 2517

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