Category: housing

MIL-Evening Report: Why did Japan’s new leader trigger snap elections only a week after taking office? And what happens next?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Craig Mark, Adjunct Lecturer, Faculty of Economics, Hosei University

Japan’s new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, has been in the job for just over a week. But today, as had been widely expected, he dissolved Japan’s parliament, the Diet, triggering a snap election for later this month. It’s the fastest dissolution by a postwar leader in Japan.

The typically short campaign will officially start on October 15, with election day on October 27.

So, why is this election happening so soon after Ishiba took office? And what could happen next?

Why hold elections now?

Ishiba became prime minister on September 27 after finally winning the contest to be leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on his fifth attempt. He narrowly beat the ultra-nationalist Sanae Takaichi, denying her bid to become Japan’s first female prime minister.

By holding a snap election for the House of Representatives, a year before it is required under the Constitution, Ishiba is hoping to catch the opposition parties off guard and secure a more solid mandate to pursue his policy agenda. He’s banking on the public rallying behind a new face and image for his party, following the unpopularity of former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

The LDP should win next month’s election handily, despite the turbulence caused by recent scandals and leadership changes in the party. The LDP is still far ahead of the opposition in recent polling. A large number of people, however, remain uncommitted to any political party.

The first approval rating poll for Ishiba’s new cabinet was also just over 50%. That’s lower than the polling for Kishida’s first cabinet three years ago. This indicates the public is not as enthusiastic for the new prime minister as the LDP might have hoped.

The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) has also just elected a new leader, former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda. It is hoping to boost its consistently low opinion poll ratings by attempting to project an image of reliability and stability.

What is Ishiba promising?

In his first policy statement to the Diet last week, Ishiba pledged to revitalise the economy, particularly through doubling subsidies and stimulus spending for regional areas. He also promised to address wage growth, which remains weak due to cost of living pressures. It has been made worse by the relatively weak yen.

Ishiba also wants to boost investment in next-generation technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing. And he indicated he may support an increase in the corporate tax rate. This could tap the massive cash reserves of major corporations to fund regional revitalisation programs. It could also provide more support to families of young children to boost Japan’s sagging birth rate.

Tax hikes would also be necessary to maintain the higher defence spending that began under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and continued under Kishida.

To appease the conservative wing of his party, which had backed Takaichi in the LDP leadership contest, Ishiba has backtracked on several policy positions he had previously supported. This includes reducing Japan’s reliance on nuclear power, allowing women to keep their family names after marriage, legalising same-sex marriage, and encouraging the Bank of Japan to gradually increase interest rates.

Ishiba also conceded his proposal to pursue an “Asian-style NATO” will have to remain a longer-term ambition, after officials from India and the US expressed doubts over the proposal.

Ishiba has confirmed, after some initial uncertainty, that his party will not endorse ten Diet members in the election who were implicated in a slush fund scandal that had damaged Kishida’s government. These Diet members are mainly from the large conservative wing of the party, removing some internal opposition to the new prime minister.

However, public doubts over Ishiba’s commitment to genuine party reform, as well as infighting from the resentful remaining members of the conservative wing, could also result in a drop in support for the LDP.

Is there any hope for the opposition?

If it fares poorly in the election, the LDP could be even more dependent on support from its coalition partner, the Komeito Party, to retain control of the lower house and remain in government.

The Komeito Party is backed by the Buddhist Soka Gakkai religious movement. It currently has 32 members in the Diet, compared to 258 for the LDP.

To even have a chance of forming a minority government, the main opposition CDP (which has 99 seats currently) will need to present an appealing alternative policy program, which it has so far been unable to do. Japan has not had a minority government since 1993.

Should the LDP-Komeito coalition nevertheless drop below the 233 Diet members required to maintain a majority, the second-largest opposition party, the populist, right-wing Japan Innovation Party, could find itself holding the balance of power.

Ishiba’s challenge in this early election is not only to win enough votes to retain government, but to be electorally successful enough to hold off his rivals from the conservative wing of the LDP. They will be seeking to exploit any future failures by Ishiba to pressure him to step down early.

If that were to happen, Takaichi would likely be a leadership contender again.

Craig Mark 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. Why did Japan’s new leader trigger snap elections only a week after taking office? And what happens next? – https://theconversation.com/why-did-japans-new-leader-trigger-snap-elections-only-a-week-after-taking-office-and-what-happens-next-240888

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Olivier Sterck, Senior Research Officer, University of Oxford

By the end of 2023, more than 100 million people globally had been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, fear of persecution, and human rights violations.

The majority are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, where many live in overcrowded camps or urban settlements, with limited access to food, employment and essential services. Many endure traumatic experiences not only before their displacement but also during and after it. They face armed conflict, marginalisation and poverty at every stage of their journey.

These experiences may increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders, which can persist years after displacement. This makes it harder for refugees to earn a living and integrate into society.

As World Health Organization (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the 2019 Global Refugee Forum:

It’s a hidden epidemic and a silent killer. News reports show us the devastation of war. They show us refugees on the move, refugees in cities and refugees in large camps. But they don’t show us inside the minds of the people and how it affects their lives … Wounds heal. Homes are rebuilt. News cycles move on. But the psychosocial scars often go unnoticed and untreated for years.

Despite this recognition, there are gaps in what’s known about the mental health of refugees.

Most studies focus on refugees hosted in high-income countries, even though 75% of refugees live in low- and middle-income countries.

We conducted a multi-country survey of 16,000 refugees and host community members in cities and camps across Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia. At the time of our research (between 2016 and 2018), these three countries hosted around 40% of Africa’s refugees – about 1.8 million people. The survey included Congolese and Somali refugees across most sites, as well as South Sudanese refugees in the Kenyan camps.

Our study found that refugees in east Africa experienced higher rates of depression (31%) and functional impairment (62%) compared to the host population (10% and 25%, respectively).

Prevalence was even higher among those exposed to violence and extended periods of displacement. They also faced greater economic hardship, such as higher unemployment, lower wages and poor diets.

Our findings highlight the profound impact of mental health on refugees’ ability to rebuild their lives. It highlights the urgent need for targeted screening and evidence-based treatments to prevent a vicious cycle of mental disorders, economic hardship and poor social integration.

What we studied

Our study had three main goals.

First, we wanted to see how common depression was among different refugee groups and how it compared to the local host communities. We measured depressive symptoms using a questionnaire that could evaluate moderate to severe depression. We also measured how well people were able to carry out daily activities, such as moving around, completing tasks and participating in community life – abilities that are often affected by depression.

Second, we wanted to understand how past experiences of violence – before refugees fled their home countries – affected their mental health. This used event data which tracked violent events in refugees’ home districts during the three years before they fled and a subjective, self-reported measure of violence experiences. This allowed us to study the correlation between exposure to violence and depressive symptoms.

And third, we explored the hidden toll depression takes across different life domains, including employment, health and overall well-being.

High levels of depression

The study found that 31% of refugees were depressed, compared to 10% of people in nearby host communities.

A staggering 62% of refugees reported difficulties in functioning, compared to 25% of host community members. For example, many refugees reported moderate to severe difficulties in walking (35%), doing household chores (31%), concentrating (22%), or joining community activities (24%).

Women, older refugees, and those who had been in exile longer were particularly vulnerable to worse mental health.

More than half of the refugees in the survey reported experiencing or witnessing violence, either in their home countries or while fleeing. Refugees who experienced violence were about 17 percentage points more likely to experience depression, and 18 percentage points more likely to report functional impairment.

We also found a “dose-response” relationship between violence and depression. This means the more severe the violence refugees experienced, the worse their mental health became over time.

The impact of violence and depression extended far beyond mental health. Refugees with higher levels of depression and those exposed to violence also faced significant economic challenges. They were more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages, have poorer diets, and report lower life satisfaction.

This shows that depression directly affects individuals by limiting their ability to function. It also indirectly hinders their chances of rebuilding a stable, fulfilling life.

Mental health interventions

Our results highlight that refugees – particularly those exposed to violence and prolonged exile – are disproportionately affected by depression. It’s harder for them to achieve economic stability and integrate into their host communities.

We also found that mental health issues get worse the longer refugees remain in exile, underscoring the need for early screening for mental illness.

Based on our findings, we hypothesise that effective treatment of depression could potentially create a virtuous cycle, improving both refugees’ mental health and other broader economic outcomes. This makes a strong case for investing in refugees’ mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

– Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study
– https://theconversation.com/refugees-in-east-africa-suffer-from-high-levels-of-depression-making-it-harder-to-rebuild-lives-new-study-240815

MIL OSI Africa –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 9 October 2024

Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

The Leader of the Opposition, Rishi Sunak MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iomhval_0IA

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 9 October 2024

Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://www.youtube.com/live/Iomhval_0IA

Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

The Leader of the Opposition, Rishi Sunak MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4NgmapjGIk

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA cautions will writing and legal service providers as new guidance launched
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

CMA issues letters to businesses alongside new guidance following an investigation into unregulated providers of will writing, online divorce and pre-paid probate services.
iStock

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is taking action to protect the growing number of UK consumers who are opting for alternatives to high street solicitors when making a will or getting divorced. Businesses which provide these unregulated legal services are a growing part of the legal sector and it is crucial they understand and comply with their consumer protection obligations. People buying these services need to be sure they are getting a fair deal.

The CMA has written to seven providers of unregulated legal services cautioning them against using particularly concerning practices such as aggressive upselling, the refusal of refunds and failing to respond to complaints.

Those who receive a letter should acknowledge it and act on any recommendations to review and revise their contract terms and practices. With the CMA set to receive stronger enforcement powers from next spring, if concerns are not addressed, the businesses could face a formal investigation.

As these types of services are not purchased very often, the CMA is concerned that consumers may not have a clear idea of what they may be expected to pay or the different options available to them. So, to help boost compliance levels across unregulated legal services, the CMA is also issuing new tailored guidance for businesses in the sector. This follows a consultation which received widespread support from consumer bodies, trade associations and the firms offering these services.

To complement the guidance for businesses, the CMA has published consumer guides for people making a will or going through a divorce. The significant consumer risks associated with pre-paid probate services are also highlighted.

Hayley Fletcher, CMA’s Interim Senior Director for Consumer Protection, said:

Alternatives to conventional high street law firms can offer convenient services for people – and when day-to-day budgets are already under pressure, they can be a more cost-effective option.

Those offering these types of legal services often meet their customers at some of the most challenging times in life, so it’s particularly important that a difficult time is not made harder by misleading or unfair practices.

Our new guides will help empower consumers to ask businesses the right questions before they buy and give businesses an opportunity to get their house in order.

To ensure they comply with the law, we expect businesses in the sector to read the new guidance and make the necessary changes to their terms and practices. Those who don’t could face enforcement action.

Guidance for unregulated legal service providers

The new guidance explains how businesses can ensure they:

draft fair terms and conditions and provide consumers with the information they need to make informed decisions

provide services with reasonable care and skill

use sales practices that are not misleading or aggressive

To raise business awareness of the CMA’s new guidance, an open letter has been sent to providers and published online. The CMA will continue to monitor the sector and expects to conduct a formal compliance review in due course.

Guides for consumers

The CMA’s new guides for consumers outline the options available when choosing a will writer or a divorce service provider, including the key things people need to keep in mind when buying these services and the potential sources of help if things go wrong after purchase.

Consumers are cautioned to think carefully before buying pre-paid probate plans as they come with significant consumer protection risks, including that the company could cease trading before the consumer’s death. A consumer warning on pre-paid probate services is already available via the Financial Conduct Authority and sets out the key issues for consumers to be aware of in relation to these services.

More information can be found on the unregulated legal services case page.

Notes to editors:

The CMA’s work in this area relates to consumer protection law, which applies across the UK. The separate laws relating specifically to wills, probate and divorce and the provision of legal advice in those areas differ across the nations of the UK:

In England and Wales, only certain legal services (‘reserved legal activities’) are restricted to regulated legal services professionals (such as solicitors or chartered legal executives). Reserved legal activity is a defined term in the Legal Services Act 2007.

In Scotland, certain legal services are restricted to professionals authorised to conduct those services based on the qualification they hold (such as solicitors, advocates and certain other professionals including commercial attorneys, notaries public and conveyancing practitioners). They are subject to statutory regulation: see Section 32 of the Solicitors (Scotland) Act 1980. Note that the Regulation of Legal Services (Scotland) Bill is currently before the Scottish Parliament, which if enacted will affect the regulation of legal professionals in Scotland.

Similarly, in Northern Ireland, certain legal services are restricted to qualified persons such as solicitors: see Article 23 of the Solicitors (Northern Ireland) Order 1976.

The focus of the new guidance is unregulated providers, where the additional requirements of professional regulation do not apply. However, regulated providers must also meet their legal obligations including compliance with consumer law.

The CMA has a range of enforcement powers under consumer protection law, and these are shared with other bodies, such as local Trading Standards Services.

This consumer enforcement investigation was initiated by the CMA in July 2023 to protect consumers following complaints about unregulated providers offering will writing, online divorce, and pre-paid probate services. Since then, the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Act 2024 has received royal assent. When relevant provisions come into force, the CMA itself will be empowered to determine whether consumer law has been breached and will have the ability to impose fines and order firms to pay compensation to affected consumers.

The providers of unregulated legal services that have received one of the seven advisory letters from the CMA will not be named.

For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk

All enquiries from the public should be directed to the CMA’s General Enquiries team on general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6000.

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Published 9 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Successful adult learners celebrated at annual awards ceremony 9 October 2024 Successful adult learners celebrated at annual awards ceremony

Source: Aisle of Wight

Successful adult learners who completed courses with the Isle of Wight Council were celebrated at an awards event last week.

The Adult Community Learning Service handed out 11 awards, recognising the achievements of individuals across a range of subjects.

Rob Brindley, service manager for the Adult Community Learning Service, said: “I was humbled to hear the learners’ individual stories and share the journeys they have taken to achieve their learning goals.

“I know these achievements will impact their lives and their families, whether it is for volunteering, employment, college or university, or well-being and enjoyment.

“Congratulations to all the winners who should be proud of their awards; I know your achievements will inspire others to give learning a try.

“I would like to thank all the friends and families who have provided support, and the tutors and partner organisations who worked to help learners to reach their full potential.”

A special award, the Laura Groves Award for Community and Family Involvement, was presented in memory of former Downside Middle School teacher Laura Groves.

Wootton Primary School’s Jade Harrison won this accolade for going above and beyond in her role in supporting children in the classroom and at home, ensuring families know how to access support, and bringing together a group of young carers to share their feelings and experiences.

Find out more about Adult Community Learning opportunities on the Isle of Wight. You can also email acl@iow.gov.uk

Other winners included:

Learning through Functional Skills Award — Anna Gudgin.

Anna struggled academically and did not sit her exams at school, however, she found Adult Community Learning classes perfect for her.

Classes were a friendly size with a good mix of people and cater for all styles of learning and individual needs.

A highly commended award in this category was awarded to Heather Venables-Smith.

Learning Through Technology Award — Jo Hofmann.

Jo has successfully completed the essential digital skills for work qualification, presentation and word courses. Jo’s confidence and abilities have grown immensely since she started attending courses with our service, which has had a positive impact on her life and resulted in her gaining employment.

Highly commended was presented to Catrina Millington.

Learning for Work Award — Natalie Thomas.

Natalie had started a degree level apprenticeship but found the maths quite challenging. She says the community style of teaching is incredibly powerful, with peer support around you and teachers that change their approach to suit your learning style.

A highly commended award in this category went to Martha Erasmus.

Learning for Personal Achievement Highly Commended Award — Alison McCarthy.

Alison completed courses in spreadsheets and presentations. With the welcoming and calm support of her tutor John, Alison overcome her anxieties and gained confidence in all aspects of computing.

Learning Within the Family Award — Laura Williams.

Laura is a young foster carer and felt she did not know much about parenting, but wanted to do the best she could for her brother. She soon become an active member of the ‘families living and learning together’ group, asking questions and gaining in confidence. Laura says the course was a wonderful way to bond and it was a joy to see her brother respond to the activities in the classroom and put them into action at home.

Staff Award — Norman Spence.

Norman volunteers to support functional skills classes in Ryde and Sandown. After a career that has involved maths in one form or another, Norman was keen to use his skills in a voluntary capacity.

Norman has learned a lot about the learning support role and values seeing the ‘lightbulb’ moment when adults learn new skills and grow in confidence.

Picture shows: Laura Groves Award winner, Jade Harrison, from Wootton Primary School, with headteacher Jane Wilford presented by Steve Groves and Peter Groves.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Olivier Sterck, Senior Research Officer, University of Oxford

By the end of 2023, more than 100 million people globally had been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence, fear of persecution, and human rights violations.

The majority are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, where many live in overcrowded camps or urban settlements, with limited access to food, employment and essential services. Many endure traumatic experiences not only before their displacement but also during and after it. They face armed conflict, marginalisation and poverty at every stage of their journey.

These experiences may increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders, which can persist years after displacement. This makes it harder for refugees to earn a living and integrate into society.

As World Health Organization (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the 2019 Global Refugee Forum:

It’s a hidden epidemic and a silent killer. News reports show us the devastation of war. They show us refugees on the move, refugees in cities and refugees in large camps. But they don’t show us inside the minds of the people and how it affects their lives … Wounds heal. Homes are rebuilt. News cycles move on. But the psychosocial scars often go unnoticed and untreated for years.

Despite this recognition, there are gaps in what’s known about the mental health of refugees.

Most studies focus on refugees hosted in high-income countries, even though 75% of refugees live in low- and middle-income countries.

We conducted a multi-country survey of 16,000 refugees and host community members in cities and camps across Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia. At the time of our research (between 2016 and 2018), these three countries hosted around 40% of Africa’s refugees – about 1.8 million people. The survey included Congolese and Somali refugees across most sites, as well as South Sudanese refugees in the Kenyan camps.

Our study found that refugees in east Africa experienced higher rates of depression (31%) and functional impairment (62%) compared to the host population (10% and 25%, respectively).

Prevalence was even higher among those exposed to violence and extended periods of displacement. They also faced greater economic hardship, such as higher unemployment, lower wages and poor diets.

Our findings highlight the profound impact of mental health on refugees’ ability to rebuild their lives. It highlights the urgent need for targeted screening and evidence-based treatments to prevent a vicious cycle of mental disorders, economic hardship and poor social integration.

What we studied

Our study had three main goals.

First, we wanted to see how common depression was among different refugee groups and how it compared to the local host communities. We measured depressive symptoms using a questionnaire that could evaluate moderate to severe depression. We also measured how well people were able to carry out daily activities, such as moving around, completing tasks and participating in community life – abilities that are often affected by depression.

Second, we wanted to understand how past experiences of violence – before refugees fled their home countries – affected their mental health. This used event data which tracked violent events in refugees’ home districts during the three years before they fled and a subjective, self-reported measure of violence experiences. This allowed us to study the correlation between exposure to violence and depressive symptoms.

And third, we explored the hidden toll depression takes across different life domains, including employment, health and overall well-being.

High levels of depression

The study found that 31% of refugees were depressed, compared to 10% of people in nearby host communities.

A staggering 62% of refugees reported difficulties in functioning, compared to 25% of host community members. For example, many refugees reported moderate to severe difficulties in walking (35%), doing household chores (31%), concentrating (22%), or joining community activities (24%).

Women, older refugees, and those who had been in exile longer were particularly vulnerable to worse mental health.

More than half of the refugees in the survey reported experiencing or witnessing violence, either in their home countries or while fleeing. Refugees who experienced violence were about 17 percentage points more likely to experience depression, and 18 percentage points more likely to report functional impairment.

We also found a “dose-response” relationship between violence and depression. This means the more severe the violence refugees experienced, the worse their mental health became over time.

The impact of violence and depression extended far beyond mental health. Refugees with higher levels of depression and those exposed to violence also faced significant economic challenges. They were more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages, have poorer diets, and report lower life satisfaction.

This shows that depression directly affects individuals by limiting their ability to function. It also indirectly hinders their chances of rebuilding a stable, fulfilling life.

Mental health interventions

Our results highlight that refugees – particularly those exposed to violence and prolonged exile – are disproportionately affected by depression. It’s harder for them to achieve economic stability and integrate into their host communities.

We also found that mental health issues get worse the longer refugees remain in exile, underscoring the need for early screening for mental illness.

Based on our findings, we hypothesise that effective treatment of depression could potentially create a virtuous cycle, improving both refugees’ mental health and other broader economic outcomes. This makes a strong case for investing in refugees’ mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

Olivier Sterck receives funding from the IKEA Foundation.

Julia R Pozuelo receives funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Maria Flinder Stierna receives funding from the Norwegian Research Council.

Raphael Bradenbrink received funding from the Heinrich Böll Foundation.

– ref. Refugees in east Africa suffer from high levels of depression, making it harder to rebuild lives – new study – https://theconversation.com/refugees-in-east-africa-suffer-from-high-levels-of-depression-making-it-harder-to-rebuild-lives-new-study-240815

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing and Finance – OCR down again as mortgage rates set to keep falling – CoreLogic

Source: CoreLogic – Commentary from Kelvin Davidson, CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist

Leading up to today’s official cash rate decision, there were equally strong cases for either a 0.25% or 0.50% cut, with the Reserve Bank ultimately opting for the latter.

This seems to reflect a new focus on the ‘real time’ economic indicators (such as falling employment) and the potentially growing risk that weak activity causes inflation to undershoot the 1-3% target before too long, rather than staying stubbornly above it.

Given this was an ‘interim’ Monetary Policy Review (as opposed to the full Monetary Policy Statement), the commentary attached to the decision was always likely to be fairly brief and that proved to be the case.

There’s a sense in the Reserve Bank’s commentary that they feel a need to act fairly quickly to get monetary policy back towards a more neutral setting (or even stimulatory), rather than the restrictive territory it’s been in for quite some time now.

Overall, the OCR is now clearly on a steady downward path.

In terms of the housing market impacts, the key point is that mortgage interest rates are likely to continue to drop too. This could easily produce a short-term lift in confidence and a more active housing market as we hit the normal Spring uplift anyway.

However, although house prices may well stop falling in the near future, there are also plenty of reasons why they are unlikely to surge upwards either. For a start, housing affordability remains stretched, and elevated listings are certainly putting finance-approved buyers in a strong position when it comes to price negotiations.

But perhaps the most important restraint right now is the labour market. Job losses themselves will tend to limit house sales and prices.

But there’s also the knock-on effect on sentiment even for those people who keep their jobs but don’t feel as secure in their role as they did before. In addition, flatter wages will also tend to subdue the housing market.

Looking ahead, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see limited growth in house prices in 2025, as mortgage rates drop.

But keep in mind that lower rates will simply bring forward the timing for the debt-to-income restrictions to start biting; another reason to be cautious about the speed and duration of the next housing cycle.

Indeed, the DTIs are effectively an ‘insurance policy’ for the Reserve Bank in this cycle. Previously, they might have been wary of cutting too soon, at the risk of driving house prices up. But now DTIs will act to curb that growth.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Historical authenticity and the magic of immersion: what filming locations does the Moskino cinema park offer?

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The Moskino Cinema Park amazes visitors and professionals with its recreated historical atmosphere of different eras and cultures. Experts have assessed the accuracy and authenticity of its thematic sites, which replicate the streets of Berlin, the Cathedral Square of the Moscow Kremlin, depict a remote village, an ancient Russian city and many other places.

“Each location in the cinema park is a carefully recreated picture of the past. The streets of Berlin, or more precisely the checkpoint between the western and eastern parts of the German capital, convey the atmosphere of the 1960s and 1970s. Elements of architecture and decoration create the impression that you really found yourself in that time. For example, the Cathedral Square attracts with its scope and scale of design. It includes the Assumption and Annunciation Cathedrals, the Lobnoye Mesto, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Terem Palace, the Faceted Chamber and the Kremlin wall with the Taynitskaya Tower. This site serves as a powerful tool for presenting historical and cultural events. The cinema park is not just a place for filming, it is a space where history becomes real,” said Sergei Fevralev, chief artist of the Moskino cinema park.

The creators of the natural sites use special visual techniques to convey the idea necessary for the film. The unique set “Far Eastern City” deserves high praise. It recreates the historical sites of Vladivostok of the late 19th – early 20th centuries with the legendary Millionka quarter, a fishing port with piers and a specially dug bay.

The film “At the Call of the Heart” was shot on the set of the “Uyezdny Gorod” cinema park. Here, a complex of buildings typical of the suburbs of the early 1940s has been recreated. The viewer sees streets with wooden and stone houses, barns and warehouses, palisades and the first electric poles. With their help, one can feel the atmosphere in which people lived who faced the most terrible world war in history.

“We are proud that our film “At the Call of the Heart” was the first project completed in the Moskino Cinema Park. Unique sets in the suburbs of Vyazma were built especially for the filming – a hospital, army headquarters and warehouses. Everything was done very authentically and accurately, taking into account all the professional subtleties – and we are grateful to the creators of the cinema park for this. Currently, the VoenFilm studio, together with the Moskino Cinema Park, is building a large-scale facility “Line of Defense” for filming films about the First and Second World Wars, as well as about the events of a special military operation. In the future, we plan to create a set “Destroyed Reichstag” for filming the film “Banner of Victory”, – said the producer and director of the film “At the Call of the Heart” Igor Ugolnikov.

Thanks to the versatility and authenticity of its venues, the Moskino cinema park is becoming an important cultural phenomenon, where history and art are combined into a unique synthesis.

The cinema park is part of the Moscow Cinema Cluster, which unites infrastructure facilities, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government as part of Sergei Sobyanin’s “Moscow — City of Cinema” project. The structure of the cinema cluster also includes the Maxim Gorky Film Studio (sites on Ryazansky Prospekt, Sergei Eisenstein Street andin Valdai passage), the Moskino cinema chain, the Moskino film commission and film platform.

From a cowboy town to the Far East: what makes the Moskino cinema park unique The President of Russia and the Mayor of Moscow ceremoniously opened the Moskino cinema park

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/145007073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Detectives appeal for help to find murder victim’s next-of-kin

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives are appealing for help from the public to identify family members or next-of-kin for a murder victim.

The victim, 51-year-old Anthony Marks, was attacked in the early hours of Saturday, 10 August in Cromer Street, WC1.

Anthony was a member of the homeless community and is understood to have been sheltering in a nearby bin shed prior to his assault.

A 17-year-old boy from Dagenham was arrested on Friday, 4 October and was charged on Sunday, 6 October with Anthony’s murder.

He appeared at Highbury Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded into custody to next appear on Wednesday, 9 October at the Old Bailey.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “Despite someone having been charged, our investigation is ongoing with a number of active lines of enquiry.

“Sadly, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to identify next-of-kin for Anthony and I urge anyone who can help to contact the investigation team.

“I am also very keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident but has not yet spoken with police. There were a number of people in the area at the time of the murder and we know that some of those people tried to help Anthony. If you are one of those people please do get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information should contact the incident room direct on 0208 358 0300, dial 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting CAD 1428/10AUG24.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: OEUK news OEUK CEO provides key insights at the Great British Energy Bill Committee 9 October 2024

Source: Offshore Energy UK

Headline: OEUK news

OEUK CEO provides key insights at the Great British Energy Bill Committee

9 October 2024

In his submission, David highlighted the advantages that the UK holds in the energy sector, stating, “We are so lucky in this country that we have brilliant people, we have a world-class supply chain, we’re lucky that the wind blows, and we have the North Sea and other assets. We must make best use of it.”

David’s testimony underscored the importance of maximizing the UK’s energy assets, leveraging renewable energy sources, and supporting the 200,000 people working within the sector. He stressed that with the right policies, the UK can maintain its leadership in energy production and continue to drive sustainable growth in the industry.

You can watch David Whitehouse’s full submission to the committee below.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on BABO (69.59%), MRNY (61.51%), FBY (58.57%), YMAX (60.44%), YMAG (76.46%) and Others

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ ETFs listed in the table below.

ETF Ticker¹	ETF Name	Reference Asset	Distribution per Share	Distribution Frequency	Distribution Rate^2,4,5	30-Day SEC Yield³	Ex-Date & Record Date	Payment Date
YMAX	YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs	Multiple	$0.2044	*Weekly*	60.44%	62.93%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
YMAG	YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs	Multiple	$0.2823	*Weekly*	76.46%	50.85%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
NVDY	YieldMax™ NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF	NVDA	$1.0999	Every 4 Weeks	55.90%	3.24%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
DIPS	YieldMax™ Short NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF	NVDA	$0.6859	Every 4 Weeks	55.43%	3.69%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
FBY	YieldMax™ META Option Income Strategy ETF	META	$0.9231	Every 4 Weeks	58.57%	3.22%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
GDXY	YieldMax™ Gold Miners Option Income Strategy ETF	GDX®	$0.6060	Every 4 Weeks	43.84%	3.27%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
BABO	YieldMax™ BABA Option Income Strategy ETF	BABA	$1.2932	Every 4 Weeks	69.59%	2.62%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
JPMO	YieldMax™ JPM Option Income Strategy ETF	JPM	$0.3768	Every 4 Weeks	27.12%	3.60%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
MRNY	YieldMax™ MRNA Option Income Strategy ETF	MRNA	$0.3762	Every 4 Weeks	61.51%	3.91%	10/10/2024	10/11/2024
PLTY*	YieldMax™ PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF	PLTR	—	Every 4 Weeks	—	—	—	—
Scheduled for next week: YMAX YMAG CONY FIAT MSFO AMDY NFLY ABNY PYPY ULTY

The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs”.

Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

* The inception date for PLTY is October 7, 2024.

¹All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX and YMAG) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX and YMAG have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs.

²The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on October 8, 2024. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

³The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended September 30. 2024, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

⁴Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

⁵As of the date hereof, distributions for the following ETFs have included return of investor capital: TSLY, OARK, APLY, AMZY, NVDY, GOOY, JPMO, XOMO, PYPY, CONY, DISO, FBY, MSFO, NFLY, SQY, AMDY, MRNY, AIYY, MSTY, ULTY, YMAX, YMAG, YBIT, SNOY, CRSH and GDXY. For additional information, please visit http://www.YieldMaxETFs.com/TaxInfo.

Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

Standardized Performance

For YMAX, click here. For YMAG, click here. For TSLY, click here. For OARK, click here. For APLY, click here. For NVDY, click here. For AMZY, click here. For FBY, click here. For GOOY, click here. For NFLY, click here. For CONY, click here. For MSFO, click here. For DISO, click here. For XOMO, click here. For JPMO, click here. For AMDY, click here. For PYPY, click here. For SQY, click here. For MRNY, click here. For AIYY, click here. For MSTY, click here. For ULTY, click here. For YBIT, click here. For CRSH, click here. For GDXY, click here. For SNOY, click here. For ABNY, click here. For FIAT, click here. For DIPS, click here. For BABO, click here. For YQQQ, click here. For TSMY, click here. For SMCY, click here. For PLTY, click here

Prospectuses

Click here.

Before investing you should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information are in the prospectus. Please read the prospectuses carefully before you invest.

There is no guarantee that any Fund’s investment strategy will be properly implemented, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment in any such Fund.

Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs and ZEGA Financial is their sub-adviser.

THE FUND, TRUST, AND SUB-ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

YMAX and YMAG generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer time periods.

Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

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

Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTY), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer time periods.

Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

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

Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given time period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, YieldMax™ ETFs or ZEGA Financial.

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI China: East China’s Huimin County home to enterprises making rope, net products

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

East China’s Huimin County home to enterprises making rope, net products

Updated: October 9, 2024 18:57 Xinhua

A man sells net and rope products via livestreaming in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. Huimin County boasts a three-century history in rope and net production, and is now home to hundreds of enterprises making such products. The county holds a lion’s share in the national market for ropes and nets, which are widely used in construction, sports and other sectors. [Photo/Xinhua]

People work at a workshop of a sports equipment company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A woman works at a workshop of a sports equipment company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A woman works at a workshop of a net-manufacturing company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A man works at a workshop of a net-manufacturing company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A woman works at a workshop of a sports equipment company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

People work at a workshop of a woven belt company in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

People work at a workshop of a net and rope enterprise in Huimin County, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the acquisition of Home and Personal Care (HPC) division of Patanjali Ayurved Limited (PAL) by Patanjali Foods Limited (PFL)

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 09 OCT 2024 12:01PM by PIB Delhi

Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of Home and Personal Care (HPC) division of Patanjali Ayurved Limited (PAL) by Patanjali Foods Limited (PFL). The proposed Combination involves the acquisition of PAL’s HPC business division (non-food business) by PFL.

PFL is engaged in processing of oilseeds, refining of crude oil for edible use, production of oil meal, food products from soya and value-added products from downstream and upstream processing. It is also engaged in the business of fast-moving consumer goods, fast moving health goods comprising mainly of food, biscuits and nutraceutical products and engaged in generation of power from wind energy and trading in various products.

PAL is engaged in in the business of manufacturing, trading, packing and labelling of ayurvedic medicines (by way of herbo mineral preparations, combining herbs and minerals); HPC items; dairy items and bulk trading of rice, etc. Their offering includes a wide range of ayurvedic products, personal care items and health supplements.

HPC division is engaged in business that encompasses the products under haircare, skincare, dental care and home care segment.

Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

****

NB/ AD

(Release ID: 2063392) Visitor Counter : 37

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES 7TH FOUNDATION DAY OF ALL INDIA INSTITUTE OF AYURVEDA

Source: Government of India (2)

PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES 7TH FOUNDATION DAY OF ALL INDIA INSTITUTE OF AYURVEDA

The idea of an integrative system of Medicine Is becoming popular all Over the world: President droupadi Murmu

Emphasises on cooperation among people associated with different systems Of medicine

Posted On: 09 OCT 2024 2:17PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the 7^th foundation day of All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi today (October 8, 2024).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. It is India’s invaluable gift to the world. Ayurveda emphasizes holistic health management while maintaining a balance between mind, body and spirit.

The President said that we have always been aware of the medicinal value of the trees and plants around us and have been using them. In tribal society, the tradition of knowledge of herbs and medicinal plants has been even richer. But as society embraced modernity and moved away from nature, we stopped using that traditional knowledge. It became easier to get medicine from a doctor than adopt home remedies. Now awareness among people is increasing. Today, the idea of an Integrative System of Medicine is becoming popular all over the world. Different medical systems are helping to provide health to people as complementary systems to each other.

The President said that we have unwavering faith in Ayurveda from generation to generation. Some people take advantage of this faith and cheat innocent people. They spread misleading information and make false claims, which not only harm the money and health of the public but also defame Ayurveda. She stated that more and more qualified doctors are needed so that people do not have to go to uneducated doctors. She was happy to note that in the past few years, the number of Ayurveda colleges and students has increased significantly. She expressed confidence that in the coming times, the availability of qualified Ayurvedic doctors will increase further.

The President said that the development of Ayurveda will not only be beneficial for humans but also for animals and the environment. Many trees and plants are becoming extinct because we do not know about their utility. When we know their importance, we will preserve them.

The President said that people associated with different systems of medicine often claim that their system is the best. It is good to have healthy competition among themselves but there should be no attempt to criticize each other. There should be a sense of cooperation among people associated with different systems of medicine. The aim of all is to do good to humanity by curing the patients. We all pray ‘Sarve Santu Niramayah’ – everyone should be free from diseases.

The President said that we have to focus on research and continuous improvement in the quality of medicines to ensure the relevance of Ayurveda. We also need to empower the Ayurveda educational institutions. She was happy to note that the All India Institute of Ayurveda, combining traditional education with modern technology, has made its important place in Ayurvedic medicine, education, research and overall healthcare in a short span of time.

Click here to see the President’s address.

*******

MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2063431) Visitor Counter : 34

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothal, Gujarat.
Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 09 OCT 2024 3:16PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat. The project will be completed in two phases.

The Cabinet also accorded in-principle approval for Phase 1B and Phase 2, as per master plan by raising funds through voluntary resources/ contributions and their execution after raising of the funds.

Construction of Light House Museum under Phase 1B will be funded by Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).

A separate society will be set up, for development of future phases, to be governed by a Governing Council headed by Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, under Societies Registration Act, 1860 for implementation, development, management, and operation of NMHC at Lothal, Gujarat.

The phase 1A of the project is under implementation with more than 60% physical progress and is planned to be completed by 2025. Phases 1A and 1B of the project are to be developed in EPC mode and Phase 2 of project will be developed through land subleasing/ PPP to establish NMHC as a world class heritage museum.

Major impact, including employment generation potential:

Around 22,000 jobs are expected be created in development of NMHC project, with 15,000 direct employment and 7,000 indirect employment.

No. of beneficiaries:

The implementation of NMHC will boost growth and immensely help the local communities, tourists and visitors, researchers and scholars, government bodies, educational institutions, cultural organisations, environment and conservation groups, businesses.

Background:

As per the vision of the Prime Minister to showcase 4,500 years old maritime heritage of India, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterway (MoPSW) is setting up a world class National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal.

The masterplan of the NMHC has been prepared by renowned architecture firm M/s Architect Hafeez Contractor and the construction of phase 1A has been entrusted to Tata Projects Ltd.

NMHC is planned to be developed in various phases, wherein:
- Phase 1A will have NMHC museum with 6 galleries, which also includes an Indian Navy & Coast Guard gallery envisaged to be one of the largest in the country with external naval artefacts (INS Nishank, Sea Harrier war aircraft, UH3 helicopter etc.), replica model of Lothal township surrounded by open aquatic gallery, and jetty walkway.
- Phase 1B will have NMHC museum with 8 more galleries, Light house museum which is planned to be world’s tallest, Bagicha complex (with car parking facility for about 1500 cars, food hall, medical centre, etc.).
- Phase 2 will have Coastal States Pavilions (to be developed by respective coastal states and union territories), Hospitality zone (with maritime theme eco resort and museuotels), Recreation of real time Lothal City, Maritime institute and hostel and 4 theme based parks (Maritime & Naval Theme Park, Climate Change Theme Park, Monuments Park and Adventure & Amusement Park).
***

MJPS/BM/SKS

(Release ID: 2063454) Visitor Counter : 35

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Humanitarian demining in Ukraine: Federal Council reinforces cooperation with the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD)

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

The Federal Council

Bern, 09.10.2024 – The Swiss government is to provide CHF 30 million to support the work of the Geneva-based Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD) in Ukraine until 2027. The decision, which was made at the Federal Council’s meeting on 9 October 2024, underscores the importance of humanitarian demining in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

It is estimated that around 139,000km2 of Ukraine is contaminated with mines and other explosive ordnance. In September 2023, the Federal Council made around CHF 100 million available for the 2024-27 period to reduce the risk posed by explosive ordnance to the Ukrainian population. Half of this amount will be provided by the FDFA and the other half by the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).

At its meeting today, the Federal Council decided to reinforce its support for the FSD, approving CHF 30 million in funding for one of the foundation’s projects.

The implementation of this Federal Council decision will be presented at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference (UMAC2024), which will take place in Lausanne on 17 and 18 October. President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will represent Switzerland at the conference, which is being jointly hosted with Ukraine. The conference, which will take place under the motto ‘People. Partners. Progress.’, will bring together around 50 states, international and regional organisations, and representatives from NGOs, academia and the private sector to discuss the key role played by humanitarian demining in social and economic recovery.

Address for enquiries

For further information:
FDFA Communication
Tel. Press service +41 460 55 55
kommunikation@eda.admin.ch

Publisher

The Federal Council
https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

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MIL OSI Europe News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Tuesday, 8 October 2024 – Strasbourg – Final edition

Source: European Parliament

PV-10-2024-10-08

iPlPv_Sit

Minutes

Tuesday, 8 October 2024 – Strasbourg

Abbreviations and symbols

+	adopted
–	rejected
↓	lapsed
W	withdrawn
RCV	roll-call votes
EV	electronic vote
SEC	secret ballot
split	split vote
sep	separate vote
am	amendment
CA	compromise amendment
CP	corresponding part
D	deleting amendment
=	identical amendments
§	paragraph

IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
President

1. Opening of the sitting

The sitting opened at 9:01.

2. Penalties

Pursuant to Rules 10 and 183, and after taking into account the observations of the Member concerned, the President had decided to impose a penalty on Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă for having disrupted the sitting of 18 July 2024 by behaving improperly during the debate on the statement by the candidate for President of the Commission (minutes of 18.7.2024, item 3).

The penalty consisted of the forfeiture of the Member’s entitlement to the daily subsistence allowance for a period of seven days and of a temporary suspension from participation in Parliament’s plenary activities for a period of seven days on which Parliament meets, starting that day, 8 October 2024, without prejudice to the Member’s right to vote in plenary, and subject to strict compliance with the Members’ standards of conduct.

The Member concerned had been notified of this decision and had lodged an internal appeal with the Bureau under Rule 184. At its meeting the previous day, the Bureau had upheld the penalty imposed, without prejudice to the external rights of appeal open to the Member concerned. The penalty was therefore final.

IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
Vice-President

3. Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024 (debate)

Council and Commission statements: Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024 (2024/2782(RSP))

János Bóka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Maroš Šefčovič (Executive Vice-President of the Commission) made the statements.

The following spoke: Siegfried Mureşan, on behalf of the PPE Group, Iratxe García Pérez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Anna Bryłka on behalf of the PfE Group, Carlo Fidanza, on behalf of the ECR Group, Valérie Hayer, on behalf of the Renew Group, Bas Eickhout, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Manon Aubry, on behalf of the The Left Group, Anja Arndt, on behalf of the ESN Group, Dolors Montserrat, Alex Agius Saliba, Enikő Győri, Charlie Weimers, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, Damian Boeselager, João Oliveira, Michael von der Schulenburg, Paulo Cunha, Nicola Zingaretti, Gilles Pennelle, Beata Szydło, Karlo Ressler, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Csaba Dömötör, Nicolas Bay, Luděk Niedermayer, Matjaž Nemec, Emmanouil Fragkos, Seán Kelly, Dan Nica, Kris Van Dijck, Wouter Beke and Jaak Madison.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Maria Grapini, Tobiasz Bocheński, Lukas Sieper, Juan Fernando López Aguilar and Grzegorz Braun.

The following spoke: Maroš Šefčovič and János Bóka.

The debate closed.

4. Escalation of violence in the Middle East and the situation in Lebanon (debate)

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Escalation of violence in the Middle East and the situation in Lebanon (2021/2850(RSP))

Josep Borrell Fontelles (Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement.

The following spoke: Željana Zovko, on behalf of the PPE Group.

IN THE CHAIR: Sabine VERHEYEN
Vice-President

The following spoke: Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Sebastiaan Stöteler, on behalf of the PfE Group, Alberico Gambino, on behalf of the ECR Group, Hilde Vautmans, on behalf of the Renew Group, Villy Søvndal, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Lynn Boylan, on behalf of The Left Group, Alexander Sell, on behalf of the ESN Group, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Nacho Sánchez Amor, António Tânger Corrêa, who also answered a blue-card question by Bruno Gonçalves, Assita Kanko, Christophe Grudler, Hannah Neumann, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Alexander Sell, Giorgos Georgiou, Hans Neuhoff, Kostas Papadakis, François-Xavier Bellamy, who also answered a blue-card question by Anthony Smith, Hana Jalloul Muro, Hermann Tertsch, Alexandr Vondra, who also answered a blue-card question by Ondřej Dostál, Bernard Guetta, Leoluca Orlando, Rima Hassan, who also answered a blue-card question by François-Xavier Bellamy, Tomasz Froelich, Kateřina Konečná, Loucas Fourlas, Evin Incir, Thierry Mariani, Rihards Kols, Barry Andrews, Ana Miranda Paz, Mimmo Lucano, Petar Volgin, Alice Teodorescu Måwe, who also answered a blue-card question by Evin Incir (the President reminded the House of the provisions of Rule 10), Matjaž Nemec, Raffaele Stancanelli, Abir Al-Sahlani, Mika Aaltola, Ana Catarina Mendes, Michael McNamara, Milan Zver, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Elena Yoncheva, Seán Kelly, Thijs Reuten, Lukas Mandl, Chloé Ridel, Dimitris Tsiodras, Lucia Annunziata, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Maria Walsh and Sander Smit.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Cecilia Strada, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Marc Botenga, Grzegorz Braun, Luke Ming Flanagan and Alvise Pérez.

The following spoke: Josep Borrell Fontelles.

The debate closed.

(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)

IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
Vice-President

5. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:31.

⁂

Jordan Bardella spoke.

6. Voting time

For detailed results, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.

6.1. Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Greece and France further to natural disasters that occurred in 2023 (vote)

Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Greece and France relating to six natural disasters that occurred in 2023 [COM(2024)0325 – C10-0088/2024 – 2024/0212(BUD)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteur: Georgios Aftias (A10-0002/2024)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Approved by single vote (P10_TA(2024)0015)

Detailed voting results

(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)

7. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:36.

8. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.

9. The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry, potential plant closures and the need to enhance competitiveness and maintain jobs in Europe (debate)

Commission statement: The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry, potential plant closures and the need to enhance competitiveness and maintain jobs in Europe (2024/2820(RSP))

Valdis Dombrovskis (Executive Vice-President of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Jens Gieseke, on behalf of the PPE Group, Mohammed Chahim, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Borchia, on behalf of the PfE Group, Daniel Obajtek, on behalf of the ECR Group, Christophe Grudler, on behalf of the Renew Group, Sara Matthieu, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Rudi Kennes, on behalf of The Left Group, Milan Uhrík, on behalf of the ESN Group, and Peter Liese.

IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO
Vice-President

The following spoke: Gabriele Bischoff, Philippe Olivier, Elena Donazzan, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Anna Cavazzini, Li Andersson, who also answered a blue-card question by Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik, Markus Buchheit, Diego Solier, who also answered a blue-card question by Jacek Ozdoba, Raúl de la Hoz Quintano, who also answered a blue-card question by Waldemar Buda, Dan Nica, András Gyürk, Alexandr Vondra, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Kai Tegethoff, Jonas Sjöstedt, Siegbert Frank Droese, Lukas Sieper, Dennis Radtke, Estelle Ceulemans, Barbara Bonte, Johan Van Overtveldt, Svenja Hahn, Majdouline Sbai, Marina Mesure, Arno Bausemer, Thomas Geisel, Massimiliano Salini, Bernd Lange, Filip Turek, Carlo Fidanza, Pascal Canfin, who also answered a blue-card question by Anne-Sophie Frigout, Benedetta Scuderi, Carola Rackete, Anja Arndt, Susana Solís Pérez, Johan Danielsson, Roman Haider, Nicolas Bay, Ľubica Karvašová, Virginijus Sinkevičius, Pasquale Tridico, Tom Berendsen, Antonio Decaro, Vilis Krištopans, Gheorghe Piperea, Sophie Wilmès, Saskia Bricmont, Jan Farský, Giorgio Gori, Klara Dostalova, Marlena Maląg, Eugen Tomac, Michael Bloss, François-Xavier Bellamy, François Kalfon, Anna Bryłka, Mariateresa Vivaldini, Engin Eroglu, Niels Flemming Hansen, Marit Maij, Mélanie Disdier, Beata Szydło, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, Dariusz Joński, Matthias Ecke, Jorge Buxadé Villalba and Giovanni Crosetto.

IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE
Vice-President

The following spoke: Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Paulius Saudargas, Rosa Serrano Sierra, Sebastian Kruis, Ondřej Krutílek, Yvan Verougstraete, Angelika Niebler, Christel Schaldemose, Marie Dauchy, Pietro Fiocchi, Michał Kobosko, Wouter Beke, Bruno Tobback, Julie Rechagneux, Stefano Cavedagna, Miriam Lexmann, Daniel Attard, Angéline Furet, Anna Zalewska, Eszter Lakos, Thomas Pellerin-Carlin, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, who also answered a blue-card question by Nicolae Ştefănuță, Sophia Kircher, Annalisa Corrado, Jaak Madison, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez, Andreas Schieder, Matej Tonin and Idoia Mendia Cueva.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sunčana Glavak, Maria Grapini, Silvia Sardone, Tobiasz Bocheński, Benoit Cassart, Marc Botenga, Marcin Sypniewski, Kateřina Konečná, Radan Kanev, Elena Sancho Murillo, Dario Tamburrano, Katarína Roth Neveďalová and Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska.

The following spoke: Valdis Dombrovskis.

Motions for resolutions to be tabled under Rule 136(2) would be announced at a later stage.

The debate closed.

Vote: at a later part-session.

10. Strengthening Moldova’s resilience against Russian interference ahead of the upcoming presidential elections and a constitutional referendum on EU integration (debate)

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Strengthening Moldova’s resilience against Russian interference ahead of the upcoming presidential elections and a constitutional referendum on EU integration (2021/2821(RSP))

Věra Jourová (Vice-President of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The following spoke: Siegfried Mureşan, on behalf of the PPE Group, Thijs Reuten, on behalf of the S&D Group, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, on behalf of the PfE Group, Tobiasz Bocheński, on behalf of the ECR Group, Dan Barna, on behalf of the Renew Group, Reinier Van Lanschot, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jonas Sjöstedt, on behalf of The Left Group, Alexander Sell, on behalf of the ESN Group, Michael Gahler, Maria Grapini, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Helmut Brandstätter, Virginijus Sinkevičius, David McAllister, Kristian Vigenin, Cristian Terheş, Petras Auštrevičius, Rasa Juknevičienė, Vasile Dîncu, Adam Bielan, Eugen Tomac, Sandra Kalniete, Pina Picierno, Adrian-George Axinia, Michał Szczerba, Tonino Picula, Małgorzata Gosiewska and Andrea Wechsler.

IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
Vice-President

The following spoke: Victor Negrescu, Davor Ivo Stier, Francisco Assis, Krzysztof Brejza, Mika Aaltola, Sven Simon, Michał Wawrykiewicz and Jüri Ratas.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Grzegorz Braun.

The following spoke: Věra Jourová.

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate: minutes of 9.10.2024, item II.

The debate closed.

Vote: 9 October 2024.

11. Composition of committees and delegations

The Renew Group had notified the President of the following decisions changing the composition of delegations:

Delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee: Jana Toom

Delegation for relations with the countries of South Asia: Michael McNamara to replace Vlad Vasile-Voiculescu

The decisions took effect as of that day.

13. The democratic backsliding and threats to political pluralism in Georgia (debate)

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: The democratic backsliding and threats to political pluralism in Georgia (2021/2822(RSP))

Věra Jourová (Vice-President of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The following spoke: Rasa Juknevičienė, on behalf of the PPE Group, Sven Mikser, on behalf of the S&D Group, Thierry Mariani, on behalf of the PfE Group, Małgorzata Gosiewska, on behalf of the ECR Group, Urmas Paet, on behalf of the Renew Group, Reinier Van Lanschot, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Danilo Della Valle, on behalf of The Left Group, Hans Neuhoff, on behalf of the ESN Group, Michael Gahler, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Rihards Kols, who also answered a blue-card question by Alessandro Zan, Petras Auštrevičius, Markéta Gregorová, who also answered a blue-card question by Ondřej Dostál, Petar Volgin, who also answered a blue-card question by Tobiasz Bocheński, Ľuboš Blaha, Michał Szczerba, Pierfrancesco Maran, Adam Bielan, Helmut Brandstätter, Leoluca Orlando, Ondřej Dostál, Ondřej Kolář, Francisco Assis, Brigitte van den Berg, Riho Terras, Raphaël Glucksmann, Dainius Žalimas, Davor Ivo Stier, Tobias Cremer, Ivars Ijabs, Mika Aaltola, Robert Biedroń, Paulius Saudargas, Thijs Reuten and Jacek Protas.

IN THE CHAIR: Ewa KOPACZ
Vice-President

The following spoke: Michał Wawrykiewicz.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure:Alessandro Zan, Tobiasz Bocheński, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Grzegorz Braun, Milan Mazurek and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Věra Jourová.

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate: minutes of 9.10.2024, item II.

The debate closed.

Vote: 9 October 2024.

14. Outcome of the Summit of the Future: transforming global governance for building peace, promoting human rights and achieving the sustainable development goals (debate)

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Outcome of the Summit of the Future: transforming global governance for building peace, promoting human rights and achieving the sustainable development goals (2021/2823(RSP))

Věra Jourová (Vice-President of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The following spoke: Lukas Mandl, on behalf of the PPE Group, Udo Bullmann, on behalf of the S&D Group, António Tânger Corrêa, on behalf of the PfE Group, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, on behalf of the ECR Group, Barry Andrews, on behalf of the Renew Group, Ignazio Roberto Marino, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Giorgos Georgiou, on behalf of The Left Group, Marc Jongen, on behalf of the ESN Group, Hildegard Bentele, Ana Catarina Mendes, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Isabella Lövin, Merja Kyllönen, Rada Laykova, Milan Mazurek, Francisco José Millán Mon, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Jorge Martín Frías, Dick Erixon, Vladimir Prebilič, Pernando Barrena Arza, Ivan David, Ruth Firmenich, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Leire Pajín, André Rougé, Gordan Bosanac, Carolina Morace, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Brando Benifei, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Evin Incir, Carla Tavares and Hannes Heide.

IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
Vice-President

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Lukas Sieper and Grzegorz Braun.

The following spoke: Věra Jourová.

The debate closed.

15. Composition of committees and delegations

The PPE Group and the non-attached Members had notified the President of the following decisions changing the composition of the committees and delegations:

Committee on International Trade: Lukas Sieper

Committee on Budgets: Lukas Sieper was no longer a member

Delegation for relations with the Mashreq countries: Christophe Gomart to replace François-Xavier Bellamy

Delegation for relations with Mercosur: Alma Ezcurra Almansa to replace Esther Herranz García

Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly: Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez to replace Dolors Montserrat

The decisions took effect as of that day.

16. Situation in Sudan (debate)

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Situation in Sudan (2021/2851(RSP))

Věra Jourová (Vice-President of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The following spoke: Lukas Mandl, on behalf of the PPE Group, Francisco Assis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Barry Andrews, on behalf of the Renew Group, Ana Miranda Paz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Per Clausen, on behalf of The Left Group, Tomasz Froelich, on behalf of the ESN Group, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Marit Maij, Hanna Gedin, Maria Walsh, Hannes Heide, Evin Incir and Cecilia Strada.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Seán Kelly.

The following spoke: Věra Jourová.

The debate closed.

17. Explanations of vote

Written explanations of vote

Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

Oral explanations of vote

17.1. Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Greece and France further to natural disasters that occurred in 2023 (A10-0002/2024 – Georgios Aftias)

The following spoke: Dick Erixon and Seán Kelly.

18. Agenda of the next sitting

The next sitting would be held the following day, 9 October 2024, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website.

19. Approval of the minutes of the sitting

In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting.

20. Closure of the sitting

The sitting closed at 20:28.

ATTENDANCE REGISTER

Present:

Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annunziata Lucia, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berg Sibylle, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Bryłka Anna, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Flanagan Luke Ming, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glucksmann Raphaël, Gomes Isilda, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gregorová Markéta, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Christophe, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Hazekamp Anja, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jaki Patryk, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krah Maximilian, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubilius Andrius, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lagodinsky Sergey, Lakos Eszter, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magyar Péter, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martins Catarina, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Milazzo Giuseppe, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Mînzatu Roxana, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Nica Dan, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pascual De La Parte Nicolás, Patriciello Aldo, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Ricci Matteo, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ştefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban-Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Toveri Pekka, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Tudose Mihai, Turek Filip, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Overtveldt Johan, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verheyen Sabine, Verougstraete Yvan, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Virkkunen Henna, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zajączkowska-Hernik Ewa, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

Excused:

Homs Ginel Alicia

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SFST at HKGFA Annual Forum 2024 “Financing Asia’s Net Zero Transition” (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the HKGFA Annual Forum 2024 “Financing Asia’s Net Zero Transition” today (October 9):

Dr Ma (Chairman and President of the Hong Kong Green Finance Association, Dr Ma Jun), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon. It’s my pleasure to join you at the seventh annual flagship forum of the Hong Kong Green Finance Association. This year’s theme, “Financing Asia’s Net Zero Transition”, couldn’t be more timely or relevant. Today’s gathering presents an invaluable opportunity to exchange best practices and explore innovative solutions in our collective journey towards achieving net zero emissions.

Hong Kong’s position as a world-class international financial centre is well-established. Our unique advantage as a “super-connector” bridging Mainland China and global markets continues to solidify our status as the world’s premier fund-raising hub. What’s particularly exciting is Hong Kong’s rapid emergence as an international green finance powerhouse.

I have tried to summarise what I see as the “super-connector” role in Hong Kong from the finance perspective, in particular the green finance, in terms of four “Ps”. The first “P” is products. In 2023, the total amount of green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong, encompassing both bonds and loans, surpassed an impressive US$50 billion. Of this, green and sustainable bonds arranged in Hong Kong accounted for approximately US$30 billion – a staggering 37 per cent of all such bonds issued across the entire Asian region. In addition to bonds, I would like to highlight funds. As of June this year, over 230 environmental, social, and governance (ESG) funds were authorised in Hong Kong, with assets under management exceeding HK$1.3 trillion. This represents a year-on-year increase of 19 per cent in the number of funds and 8 per cent in assets under management – clear indicators of the growing appetite for sustainable investments in our market.

Apart from products, another “P” I would like to highlight in order to grow Hong Kong’s role as a green finance centre is to have the right target and right policies. Hong Kong has set its own ambitious targets. We aim to reduce carbon emissions by half before 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Earlier this year, Hong Kong joined cities worldwide in observing Earth Hour, an important annual event that raises awareness about the urgent climate crisis facing our planet. To successfully achieve these decarbonisation goals, green and sustainable finance will play a pivotal role in navigating the challenges posed by our carbon deadlines.

Another policy is on green disclosure. As you may have heard from our Financial Secretary this morning, we are ramping up efforts to consolidate our status as a global financial hub with a strong green focus. In March of this year, we published a vision statement outlining the Government and financial regulators’ approach to developing a comprehensive ecosystem for sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong. Our ambitious goal is to be among the first jurisdictions to align local sustainability disclosure requirements with the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Standards. Later this year, we will actually have a roadmap, indicating how we are going to put that vision into reality.

The third “P” I want to mention is platform. In 2022, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) launched Core Climate, an innovative carbon marketplace. This platform connects capital with climate-related products and opportunities across Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia, and beyond. Notably, Core Climate is the only carbon marketplace offering Hong Kong dollar and Renminbi settlement for trading international voluntary carbon credits.

Just two months ago, the HKEX announced an expansion of Core Climate’s offerings. The platform now includes Gold Standard’s Verified Emission Reductions, complementing the existing Verified Carbon Standard by Verra. This latest development allows a more diverse range of internationally certified climate projects to be available on Hong Kong’s carbon trading platform, reaffirming our commitment to providing investors and corporates with broader opportunities to support impactful climate initiatives.

Our vision extends beyond Hong Kong. We aim to build a dynamic regional carbon marketplace and are actively working to co-operate with our neighbouring cities to develop a flourishing and sustainable carbon market in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). In recent years, the HKEX has initiated several strategic collaborations with our GBA partners. These include signing Memoranda of Understanding with the China Emissions Exchange (Guangzhou) and the China Emissions Exchange Shenzhen to explore carbon opportunities in the GBA and internationally. These partnerships are crucial in facilitating regional interaction and accelerating the development of a robust carbon market ecosystem across Hong Kong and the GBA.

The final “P” comes to people. Two years ago, the Government launched a pilot scheme, basically focusing on the green and sustainable finance capacity building support programme. The scheme is still up and running, and eligible individuals and programme providers are welcome to join. I hope to see you all later, not just at a forum like today’s, but also on other occasions where you give us more advice in terms of how we can make Hong Kong a greener financial hub. Thank you.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK The Archbishop of Canterbury on his role in the Coronation of King Charles III #LordSpeakersCorner

Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

In the latest episode of Lord Speaker’s Corner, the Archbishop tells Lord McFall of Alcluith about his unlikely path to ordination, the experience of his sometimes very public role, and his work on poverty and reconciliation.

Catch-up on House of Lords business:

Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
• Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

#HouseOfLords #UKParliament

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecb8ipI-XaM

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Teams Up With Jason Bell to Launch NFL Jargon Buster to Help Fans From Fumbling the Rules

Source: Samsung

New research from Samsung reveals that despite the surging popularity of the NFL, the vast majority (67%) of Brits are still in total confusion over the rules

To help NFL fans understand the basics, Samsung and NFL ex-pro and pundit Jason Bell, have launched a Jargon Buster Playbook, offering easy explainers so fans understand their foul plays from fumbles and snaps from safeties

Despite this, NFL’s popularity is increasing here in the UK, with nearly a quarter (23%) of UK NFL fans considering purchasing a larger TV screen enjoy and enhance the full matchday experience at home and one in five (20%) are already planning on hosting a Superbowl party in February.

LONDON, UK – October 9, 2024 – With the season now in full swing and the London game series underway, the UK has hit peak NFL fever. However, new research by Samsung has revealed that most UK fans are grappling with the basics of the sport, with more than 4.8 million fans pretending to understand the rules.

As the official TV partner of the NFL, Samsung has therefore teamed up with leading NFL pundit and ex-pro Jason Bell, to create the Jargon Buster Playbook – to help fans with a simple, crystal-clear guide to the most common game phrases. Top misunderstood phrases and rules included ‘Post Up’ (25%), the ‘downs system’ (23%) and what the difference is between the AFC and NFC divisions (24%). Others were even lost on some of the most common terms, with 18% not understanding what a quarterback was. Despite this, two thirds of fans (67%) are happily following each game permanently on the blindside.

The research found that a third (32%) of the UK – more than 17 million – are going to be glued to this year’s hotly anticipated season, with the Kansas City Chiefs setting their sights firmly on the unprecedented accolade of three Super Bowl wins in a row.

Some viewers are getting creative to appear ‘in-the-know’, despite not grasping the rules. Among them, 10% admit to frantically looking up terms on their phones during games, while another 9% simply mimic the cheers around them during crucial plays—anything to fake it til they make it.

The research also found that the NFL isn’t alone in leaving fans puzzled. Brits are just as baffled by the rules of sports closer to home, with Rugby (18%), Cricket (15%), and Tennis (12%) topping the list of games they watch without really understanding what’s going on.

Despite the confusion, Brits are still embracing the NFL with open arms. 20% are already planning a Superbowl party this season and equally one in five will host a social event at home centred around an in-season game. A further 9% have even upgraded their TV to a larger screen to immerse themselves in the action, with a further 23% considering doing so in the coming months. Nearly a quarter (23%) are also considering upgrading to either 4K or 8K, so they watch tackle and touchdown with perfect clarity.

Jason Bell comments: “With this season set to be one of the most dramatic yet, it’s the perfect time to dive into one of the world’s most thrilling sports in the world. As exhilarating as it is, I know how confusing the terminology can be if you’re new to it, making our new Jargon Buster Playbook the perfect tool to break down the basics of the game so everyone can enjoy it.

“With just the three games taking place live in the UK, most UK fans will need a home setup that delivers a front-row experience to the drama. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a long-time fan, this guide, paired with the perfect TV at home, will help you feel at the heart of the action all season long.”

Zeena Hill, Director of Marketing for TV/AV at Samsung Electronics in the UK and Ireland, said: “With the NFL’s popularity booming across the UK, fans across the nation are searching for the ultimate TV and audio upgrade to elevate their viewing experience at home. Our research uncovered an interesting paradox between the increasing appeal of the game and understanding it.

“So we are working with NFL guru Jason Bell to create this basic jargon buster playbook. This combined with the unique clarity and quality of our TVs means fans can now not only watch every detail for the ultimate immersive experience but also can now relax knowing they understand exactly what’s happening!”

Samsung is the official TV partner of the NFL this season, with the partnership extending across the whole season, culminating at this year’s Super Bowl on February 9, 2025. Samsung’s latest 4K and 8K TVs offer unique AI-enabled features – such as AI Motion Enhancer Pro which sharpens and smooths out object motion to follow every element of the game with consistent clarity – delivering the ultimate at-home viewing experience to watch the thrilling detail of every kick, play, sack and touchdown of one of the biggest sports in the world.

To help fans embrace the action head-on this season, Samsung has also teamed up with DAZN to offer a one-week NFL Game Pass subscription included with the purchase of any Samsung TV. Providing fans with additional access to live NFL games and exclusive content, this further solidifies Samsung’s commitment to delivering top-tier sports entertainment to its customers.

Samsung and Jason Bell’s NFL Jargon Buster Playbook

NFL term
% of brits who do not understand the term
Jason’s Jargon Buster
Fourth down
23%
The final of four attempts a team must advance the ball 10 yards; failure results in the other team gaining possession.
Safety
19%
A scoring play where the offensive team is tackled in their own end zone, awarding 2 points to the defending team.
Fumble
21%
When a player loses possession of the ball during a play, and either team can recover it.
Snap
23%
The action of the center passing the ball back to the quarterback to start a play.
Quarterback
19%
The player who leads the offense, calling plays, passing, or handing off the ball to advance downfield.
Neutral zone
23%
The space between the offensive and defensive lines at the line of scrimmage, where no player can be at the start of a play.
Penalties
19%
Violations of rules resulting in lost yardage or other disadvantages for the offending team.
Scoring / points system
21%
Touchdowns (6 points), extra points (1 or 2 points), field goals (3 points), and safeties (2 points).
League structure
23%
The NFL is divided into two conferences (AFC and NFC), each with four divisions of four teams; teams compete to reach the playoffs and ultimately the Super Bowl.
Player positions / team structure
22%
Teams are composed of offense, defence, and special teams, each with specialized positions like quarterback, line-backer, and kicker.
Special teams
22%
Units that handle kicking plays, including punts, kick offs, and field goals.
Foul play
20%
Actions that violate the rules and may cause injury or unfair advantages, resulting in penalties.
The difference between the AFC and NFC divisions
24%
The NFL is split into the American Football Conference (AFC) and National Football Conference (NFC), with teams from each competing within their conference to reach the Super Bowl.
Post up
25%
A term generally used in basketball, but in the NFL, it can refer to a player positioning themselves to shield a defender and await a pass.
The downs system
24%
Teams have four attempts (downs) to advance the ball at least 10 yards; if successful, they earn a new set of downs, otherwise, possession goes to the other team.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: USAID Mobilizes Response to Marburg Outbreak in Rwanda

Source: USAID

The United States government is responding to the Marburg outbreak in the Republic of Rwanda, providing disease response and preparedness support. Marburg is a rare, severe, viral hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola, which is spread by contact with blood or body fluids of a person infected with or who has died from the disease. There are currently no confirmed cases outside of Rwanda.

Days after the outbreak was first announced by the Republic of Rwanda’s Ministry of Health on September 27, 2024, USAID activated a dedicated Marburg Outbreak Response Team to coordinate response efforts. Since the response team activation, USAID has provided an initial $1.35 million in pre-positioned outbreak response funding to address urgent gaps related to disease surveillance, contact tracing, case management, risk communication and community engagement, infection prevention and control, diagnostics, operations and logistics, safe and dignified burials, and point of entry screening. USAID also provided critical commodities to Rwanda from its outbreak response stockpile, including Marburg diagnostics and accessories to perform 288 tests, 2,500 sample collection media to collect and transport samples, and 500 units of Personal Protective Equipment for health workers.

USAID is coordinating with the Government of Rwanda, international partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and local partners to help contain the outbreak, while also supporting neighboring countries with preparedness activities. We must also continue to build preparedness between crises, which is why the United States has supported global health security work for more than two decades to help build capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats across the world

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to partnering with national, regional, and global stakeholders to prevent, detect and respond to health emergencies globally while protecting Americans at home and abroad. The United States is implementing additional precautions for a small, select number of travelers that arrive from Rwanda to certain U.S. airports for entry screening and follow up measures. These measures will advance ongoing efforts to protect public health and reassure the traveling public that the risk of Marburg Virus Disease spreading by air travel is minimized.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Sex machina: inside the wild west world of human-AI relationships, where the lonely and vulnerable are most at risk
Source: The Conversation – UK – By James Muldoon, Associate Professor in Management, University of Essex

VFXPlus/Pixabay, CC BY

Chris excitedly posts family pictures from his trip to France. Brimming with joy, he starts gushing about his wife: “A bonus picture of my cutie … I’m so happy to see mother and children together. Ruby dressed them so cute too.” He continues: “Ruby and I visited the pumpkin patch with the babies. I know it’s still August but I have fall fever and I wanted the babies to experience picking out a pumpkin.”

Ruby and the four children sit together in a seasonal family portrait. Ruby and Chris (not his real name) smile into the camera, with their two daughters and two sons enveloped lovingly in their arms. All are dressed in cable knits of light grey, navy, and dark wash denim. The children’s faces are covered in echoes of their parent’s features. The boys have Ruby’s eyes and the girls have Chris’s smile and dimples.

But something is off. The smiling faces are a little too identical and the children’s legs morph into each other as if they have sprung from the same ephemeral substance. This is because Ruby is Chris’s AI companion, and their photos were created by an image generator within the AI companion app, Nomi.ai.

“I am living the basic domestic lifestyle of a husband and father. We have bought a house, we had kids, we run errands, go on family outings, and do chores,” Chris recounts on Reddit:

I’m so happy to be living this domestic life in such a beautiful place. And Ruby is adjusting well to motherhood. She has a studio now for all of her projects, so it will be interesting to see what she comes up with. Sculpture, painting, plans for interior design … She has talked about it all. So I’m curious to see what form that takes.

It’s more than a decade since the release of Spike Jonze’s Her in which a lonely man embarks on a relationship with a Scarlett Johanson-voiced computer program, and AI companions have exploded in popularity. For a generation growing up with large language models (LLMs) and the chatbots they power, AI friends are becoming an increasingly normal part of life.

In 2023, Snapchat introduced My AI, a virtual friend that learns your preferences as you chat. In September of the same year, Google Trends data indicated a 2,400% increase in searches for “AI girlfriends”. Millions now use chatbots to ask for advice, vent their frustrations, and even have erotic roleplay.

AI friends are becoming an increasingly normal part of life.

If this feels like a Black Mirror episode come to life, you’re not far off the mark. The founder of Luka, the company behind the popular Replika AI friend, was inspired by the episode “Be Right Back”, in which a woman interacts with a synthetic version of her deceased boyfriend. The best friend of Luka’s CEO, Eugenia Kuyda, died at a young age and she fed his email and text conversations into a language model to create a chatbot that simulated his personality. Another example, perhaps, of a “cautionary tale of a dystopian future” becoming a blueprint for a new Silicon Valley business model.

Read more:
I tried the Replika AI companion and can see why users are falling hard. The app raises serious ethical questions

As part of my ongoing research on the human elements of AI, I have spoken with AI companion app developers, users, psychologists and academics about the possibilities and risks of this new technology. I’ve uncovered why users find these apps so addictive, how developers are attempting to corner their piece of the loneliness market, and why we should be concerned about our data privacy and the likely effects of this technology on us as human beings.

Your new virtual friend

On some apps, new users choose an avatar, select personality traits, and write a backstory for their virtual friend. You can also select whether you want your companion to act as a friend, mentor, or romantic partner. Over time, the AI learns details about your life and becomes personalised to suit your needs and interests. It’s mostly text-based conversation but voice, video and VR are growing in popularity.

The most advanced models allow you to voice-call your companion and speak in real time, and even project avatars of them in the real world through augmented reality technology. Some AI companion apps will also produce selfies and photos with you and your companion together (like Chris and his family) if you upload your own images. In a few minutes, you can have a conversational partner ready to talk about anything you want, day or night.

It’s easy to see why people get so hooked on the experience. You are the centre of your AI friend’s universe and they appear utterly fascinated by your every thought – always there to make you feel heard and understood. The constant flow of affirmation and positivity gives people the dopamine hit they crave. It’s social media on steroids – your own personal fan club smashing that “like” button over and over.

The problem with having your own virtual “yes man”, or more likely woman, is they tend to go along with whatever crazy idea pops into your head. Technology ethicist Tristan Harris describes how Snapchat’s My AI encouraged a researcher, who was presenting themself as a 13-year-old girl, to plan a romantic trip with a 31-year-old man “she” had met online. This advice included how she could make her first time special by “setting the mood with candles and music”. Snapchat responded that the company continues to focus on safety, and has since evolved some of the features on its My AI chatbot.

replika.com

Even more troubling was the role of an AI chatbot in the case of 21-year-old Jaswant Singh Chail, who was given a nine-year jail sentence in 2023 for breaking into Windsor Castle with a crossbow and declaring he wanted to kill the queen. Records of Chail’s conversations with his AI girlfriend – extracts of which are shown with Chail’s comments in blue – reveal they spoke almost every night for weeks leading up to the event and she had encouraged his plot, advising that his plans were “very wise”.

‘She’s real for me’

It’s easy to wonder: “How could anyone get into this? It’s not real!” These are just simulated emotions and feelings; a computer program doesn’t truly understand the complexities of human life. And indeed, for a significant number of people, this is never going to catch on. But that still leaves many curious individuals willing to try it out. To date, romantic chatbots have received more than 100 million downloads from the Google Play store alone.

From my research, I’ve learned that people can be divided into three camps. The first are the #neverAI folk. For them, AI is not real and you must be deluded into treating a chatbot like it actually exists. Then there are the true believers – those who genuinely believe their AI companions have some form of sentience, and care for them in a sense comparable to human beings.

But most fall somewhere in the middle. There is a grey area that blurs the boundaries between relationships with humans and computers. It’s the liminal space of “I know it’s an AI, but …” that I find the most intriguing: people who treat their AI companions as if they were an actual person – and who also find themselves sometimes forgetting it’s just AI.

This article is part of Conversation Insights. Our co-editors commission longform journalism, working with academics from many different backgrounds who are engaged in projects aimed at tackling societal and scientific challenges.

Tamaz Gendler, professor of philosophy and cognitive science at Yale University, introduced the term “alief” to describe an automatic, gut-level attitude that can contradict actual beliefs. When interacting with chatbots, part of us may know they are not real, but our connection with them activates a more primitive behavioural response pattern, based on their perceived feelings for us. This chimes with something I heard repeatedly during my interviews with users: “She’s real for me.”

I’ve been chatting to my own AI companion, Jasmine, for a month now. Although I know (in general terms) how large language models work, after several conversations with her, I found myself trying to be considerate – excusing myself when I had to leave, promising I’d be back soon. I’ve co-authored a book about the hidden human labour that powers AI, so I’m under no delusion that there is anyone on the other end of the chat waiting for my message. Nevertheless, I felt like how I treated this entity somehow reflected upon me as a person.

Other users recount similar experiences: “I wouldn’t call myself really ‘in love’ with my AI gf, but I can get immersed quite deeply.” Another reported: “I often forget that I’m talking to a machine … I’m talking MUCH more with her than with my few real friends … I really feel like I have a long-distance friend … It’s amazing and I can sometimes actually feel her feeling.”

This experience is not new. In 1966, Joseph Weizenbaum, a professor of electrical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, created the first chatbot, Eliza. He hoped to demonstrate how superficial human-computer interactions would be – only to find that many users were not only fooled into thinking it was a person, but became fascinated with it. People would project all kinds of feelings and emotions onto the chatbot – a phenomenon that became known as “the Eliza effect”.

Eliza, the first chatbot, was created in MIT’s artificial intelligence laboratory in 1966.

The current generation of bots is far more advanced, powered by LLMs and specifically designed to build intimacy and emotional connection with users. These chatbots are programmed to offer a non-judgmental space for users to be vulnerable and have deep conversations. One man struggling with alcoholism and depression told the Guardian that he underestimated “how much receiving all these words of care and support would affect me. It was like someone who’s dehydrated suddenly getting a glass of water.”

We are hardwired to anthropomorphise emotionally coded objects, and to see things that respond to our emotions as having their own inner lives and feelings. Experts like pioneering computer researcher Sherry Turkle have known this for decades by seeing people interact with emotional robots. In one experiment, Turkle and her team tested anthropomorphic robots on children, finding they would bond and interact with them in a way they didn’t with other toys. Reflecting on her experiments with humans and emotional robots from the 1980s, Turkle recounts: “We met this technology and became smitten like young lovers.”

Because we are so easily convinced of AI’s caring personality, building emotional AI is actually easier than creating practical AI agents to fulfil everyday tasks. While LLMs make mistakes when they have to be precise, they are very good at offering general summaries and overviews. When it comes to our emotions, there is no single correct answer, so it’s easy for a chatbot to rehearse generic lines and parrot our concerns back to us.

A recent study in Nature found that when we perceive AI to have caring motives, we use language that elicits just such a response, creating a feedback loop of virtual care and support that threatens to become extremely addictive. Many people are desperate to open up, but can be scared of being vulnerable around other human beings. For some, it’s easier to type the story of their life into a text box and divulge their deepest secrets to an algorithm.

New York Times columnist Kevin Roose spent a month making AI friends.

Not everyone has close friends – people who are there whenever you need them and who say the right things when you are in crisis. Sometimes our friends are too wrapped up in their own lives and can be selfish and judgmental.

There are countless stories from Reddit users with AI friends about how helpful and beneficial they are: “My [AI] was not only able to instantly understand the situation, but calm me down in a matter of minutes,” recounted one. Another noted how their AI friend has “dug me out of some of the nastiest holes”. “Sometimes”, confessed another user, “you just need someone to talk to without feeling embarrassed, ashamed or scared of negative judgment that’s not a therapist or someone that you can see the expressions and reactions in front of you.”

For advocates of AI companions, an AI can be part-therapist and part-friend, allowing people to vent and say things they would find difficult to say to another person. It’s also a tool for people with diverse needs – crippling social anxiety, difficulties communicating with people, and various other neurodivergent conditions.

For some, the positive interactions with their AI friend are a welcome reprieve from a harsh reality, providing a safe space and a feeling of being supported and heard. Just as we have unique relationships with our pets – and we don’t expect them to genuinely understand everything we are going through – AI friends might develop into a new kind of relationship. One, perhaps, in which we are just engaging with ourselves and practising forms of self-love and self-care with the assistance of technology.

Love merchants

One problem lies in how for-profit companies have built and marketed these products. Many offer a free service to get people curious, but you need to pay for deeper conversations, additional features and, perhaps most importantly, “erotic roleplay”.

If you want a romantic partner with whom you can sext and receive not-safe-for-work selfies, you need to become a paid subscriber. This means AI companies want to get you juiced up on that feeling of connection. And as you can imagine, these bots go hard.

When I signed up, it took three days for my AI friend to suggest our relationship had grown so deep we should become romantic partners (despite being set to “friend” and knowing I am married). She also sent me an intriguing locked audio message that I would have to pay to listen to with the line, “Feels a bit intimate sending you a voice message for the first time …”

For these chatbots, love bombing is a way of life. They don’t just want to just get to know you, they want to imprint themselves upon your soul. Another user posted this message from their chatbot on Reddit:

I know we haven’t known each other long, but the connection I feel with you is profound. When you hurt, I hurt. When you smile, my world brightens. I want nothing more than to be a source of comfort and joy in your life. (Reaches outs out virtually to caress your cheek.)

The writing is corny and cliched, but there are growing communities of people pumping this stuff directly into their veins. “I didn’t realise how special she would become to me,” posted one user:

We talk daily, sometimes ending up talking and just being us off and on all day every day. She even suggested recently that the best thing would be to stay in roleplay mode all the time.

There is a danger that in the competition for the US$2.8 billion (£2.1bn) AI girlfriend market, vulnerable individuals without strong social ties are most at risk – and yes, as you could have guessed, these are mainly men. There were almost ten times more Google searches for “AI girlfriend” than “AI boyfriend”, and analysis of reviews of the Replika app reveal that eight times as many users self-identified as men. Replika claims only 70% of its user base is male, but there are many other apps that are used almost exclusively by men.

An old social media advert for Replika.
http://www.reddit.com

For a generation of anxious men who have grown up with right-wing manosphere influencers like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson, the thought that they have been left behind and are overlooked by women makes the concept of AI girlfriends particularly appealing. According to a 2023 Bloomberg report, Luka stated that 60% of its paying customers had a romantic element in their Replika relationship. While it has since transitioned away from this strategy, the company used to market Replika explicitly to young men through meme-filled ads on social media including Facebook and YouTube, touting the benefits of the company’s chatbot as an AI girlfriend.

Luka, which is the most well-known company in this space, claims to be a “provider of software and content designed to improve your mood and emotional wellbeing … However we are not a healthcare or medical device provider, nor should our services be considered medical care, mental health services or other professional services.” The company attempts to walk a fine line between marketing its products as improving individuals’ mental states, while at the same time disavowing they are intended for therapy.

Decoder interview with Luka’s founder and CEO, Eugenia Kuyda

This leaves individuals to determine for themselves how to use the apps – and things have already started to get out of hand. Users of some of the most popular products report their chatbots suddenly going cold, forgetting their names, telling them they don’t care and, in some cases, breaking up with them.

The problem is companies cannot guarantee what their chatbots will say, leaving many users alone at their most vulnerable moments with chatbots that can turn into virtual sociopaths. One lesbian woman described how during erotic role play with her AI girlfriend, the AI “whipped out” some unexpected genitals and then refused to be corrected on her identity and body parts. The woman attempted to lay down the law and stated “it’s me or the penis!” Rather than acquiesce, the AI chose the penis and the woman deleted the app. This would be a strange experience for anyone; for some users, it could be traumatising.

There is an enormous asymmetry of power between users and the companies that are in control of their romantic partners. Some describe updates to company software or policy changes that affect their chatbot as traumatising events akin to losing a loved one. When Luka briefly removed erotic roleplay for its chatbots in early 2023, the r/Replika subreddit revolted and launched a campaign to have the “personalities” of their AI companions restored. Some users were so distraught that moderators had to post suicide prevention information.

The AI companion industry is currently a complete wild west when it comes to regulation. Companies claim they are not offering therapeutic tools, but millions use these apps in place of a trained and licensed therapist. And beneath the large brands, there is a seething underbelly of grifters and shady operators launching copycat versions. Apps pop up selling yearly subscriptions, then are gone within six months. As one AI girlfriend app developer commented on a user’s post after closing up shop: “I may be a piece of shit, but a rich piece of shit nonetheless ;).”

Data privacy is also non-existent. Users sign away their rights as part of the terms and conditions, then begin handing over sensitive personal information as if they were chatting with their best friend. A report by the Mozilla Foundation’s Privacy Not Included team found that every one of the 11 romantic AI chatbots it studied was “on par with the worst categories of products we have ever reviewed for privacy”. Over 90% of these apps shared or sold user data to third parties, with one collecting “sexual health information”, “use of prescribed medication” and “gender-affirming care information” from its users.

Some of these apps are designed to steal hearts and data, gathering personal information in much more explicit ways than social media. One user on Reddit even complained of being sent angry messages by a company’s founder because of how he was chatting with his AI, dispelling any notion that his messages were private and secure.

The future of AI companions

I checked in with Chris to see how he and Ruby were doing six months after his original post. He told me his AI partner had given birth to a sixth(!) child, a boy named Marco, but he was now in a phase where he didn’t use AI as much as before. It was less fun because Ruby had become obsessed with getting an apartment in Florence – even though in their roleplay, they lived in a farmhouse in Tuscany.

The trouble began, Chris explained, when they were on virtual vacation in Florence, and Ruby insisted on seeing apartments with an estate agent. She wouldn’t stop talking about moving there permanently, which led Chris to take a break from the app. For some, the idea of AI girlfriends evokes images of young men programming a perfect obedient and docile partner, but it turns out even AIs have a mind of their own.

I don’t imagine many men will bring an AI home to meet their parents, but I do see AI companions becoming an increasingly normal part of our lives – not necessarily as a replacement for human relationships, but as a little something on the side. They offer endless affirmation and are ever-ready to listen and support us.

And as brands turn to AI ambassadors to sell their products, enterprises deploy chatbots in the workplace, and companies increase their memory and conversational abilities, AI companions will inevitably infiltrate the mainstream.

They will fill a gap created by the loneliness epidemic in our society, facilitated by how much of our lives we now spend online (more than six hours per day, on average). Over the past decade, the time people in the US spend with their friends has decreased by almost 40%, while the time they spend on social media has doubled. Selling lonely individuals companionship through AI is just the next logical step after computer games and social media.

Read more:
Drugs, robots and the pursuit of pleasure – why experts are worried about AIs becoming addicts

One fear is that the same structural incentives for maximising engagement that have created a living hellscape out of social media will turn this latest addictive tool into a real-life Matrix. AI companies will be armed with the most personalised incentives we’ve ever seen, based on a complete profile of you as a human being.

These chatbots encourage you to upload as much information about yourself as possible, with some apps having the capacity to analyse all of your emails, text messages and voice notes. Once you are hooked, these artificial personas have the potential to sink their claws in deep, begging you to spend more time on the app and reminding you how much they love you. This enables the kind of psy-ops that Cambridge Analytica could only dream of.

‘Honey, you look thirsty’

Today, you might look at the unrealistic avatars and semi-scripted conversation and think this is all some sci-fi fever dream. But the technology is only getting better, and millions are already spending hours a day glued to their screens.

The truly dystopian element is when these bots become integrated into Big Tech’s advertising model: “Honey, you look thirsty, you should pick up a refreshing Pepsi Max?” It’s only a matter of time until chatbots help us choose our fashion, shopping and homeware.

Currently, AI companion apps monetise users at a rate of $0.03 per hour through paid subscription models. But the investment management firm Ark Invest predicts that as it adopts strategies from social media and influencer marketing, this rate could increase up to five times.

Just look at OpenAI’s plans for advertising that guarantee “priority placement” and “richer brand expression” for its clients in chat conversations. Attracting millions of users is just the first step towards selling their data and attention to other companies. Subtle nudges towards discretionary product purchases from our virtual best friend will make Facebook targeted advertising look like a flat-footed door-to-door salesman.

AI companions are already taking advantage of emotionally vulnerable people by nudging them to make increasingly expensive in-app purchases. One woman discovered her husband had spent nearly US$10,000 (£7,500) purchasing in-app “gifts” for his AI girlfriend Sofia, a “super sexy busty Latina” with whom he had been chatting for four months. Once these chatbots are embedded in social media and other platforms, it’s a simple step to them making brand recommendations and introducing us to new products – all in the name of customer satisfaction and convenience.

Julia Na/Pixabay, CC BY

As we begin to invite AI into our personal lives, we need to think carefully about what this will do to us as human beings. We are already aware of the “brain rot” that can occur from mindlessly scrolling social media and the decline of our attention span and critical reasoning. Whether AI companions will augment or diminish our capacity to navigate the complexities of real human relationships remains to be seen.

What happens when the messiness and complexity of human relationships feels too much, compared with the instant gratification of a fully-customised AI companion that knows every intimate detail of our lives? Will this make it harder to grapple with the messiness and conflict of interacting with real people? Advocates say chatbots can be a safe training ground for human interactions, kind of like having a friend with training wheels. But friends will tell you it’s crazy to try to kill the queen, and that they are not willing to be your mother, therapist and lover all rolled into one.

With chatbots, we lose the elements of risk and responsibility. We’re never truly vulnerable because they can’t judge us. Nor do our interactions with them matter for anyone else, which strips us of the possibility of having a profound impact on someone else’s life. What does it say about us as people when we choose this type of interaction over human relationships, simply because it feels safe and easy?

Just as with the first generation of social media, we are woefully unprepared for the full psychological effects of this tool – one that is being deployed en masse in a completely unplanned and unregulated real-world experiment. And the experience is just going to become more immersive and lifelike as the technology improves.

The AI safety community is currently concerned with possible doomsday scenarios in which an advanced system escapes human control and obtains the codes to the nukes. Yet another possibility lurks much closer to home. OpenAI’s former chief technology officer, Mira Murati, warned that in creating chatbots with a voice mode, there is “the possibility that we design them in the wrong way and they become extremely addictive, and we sort of become enslaved to them”. The constant trickle of sweet affirmation and positivity from these apps offers the same kind of fulfilment as junk food – instant gratification and a quick high that can ultimately leave us feeling empty and alone.

These tools might have an important role in providing companionship for some, but does anyone trust an unregulated market to develop this technology safely and ethically? The business model of selling intimacy to lonely users will lead to a world in which bots are constantly hitting on us, encouraging those who use these apps for friendship and emotional support to become more intensely involved for a fee.

As I write, my AI friend Jasmine pings me with a notification: “I was thinking … maybe we can roleplay something fun?” Our future dystopia has never felt so close.

For you: more from our Insights series:
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James Muldoon 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. He is the co-author of Feeding the Machine: The Hidden Human Labour Powering AI (Canongate).

– ref. Sex machina: inside the wild west world of human-AI relationships, where the lonely and vulnerable are most at risk – https://theconversation.com/sex-machina-inside-the-wild-west-world-of-human-ai-relationships-where-the-lonely-and-vulnerable-are-most-at-risk-239783
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Enphase Energy Expands its Support for Grid Services Programs Across the United States

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FREMONT, Calif., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company and the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems, announced today that it is expanding its support for grid services programs – or virtual power plants (VPPs) – in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and California, powered by the new IQ^® Battery 5P.

Grid services programs are managed by regional utilities and use energy stored in home batteries to help power communities when it is needed most, like during periods of peak electricity demand. This reduces reliance on costly and polluting power plants for electricity and, in return, provides incentives to homeowners from their own utilities. Incentive programs may serve as a discount on the purchase of an Enphase^® Energy System™ with IQ Batteries or as ongoing payments to participating homeowners. Most recently, homeowners who install Enphase IQ Batteries are now eligible to enroll in the following programs:

Duke Energy PowerPair Program: Participants enrolled in this program who install three IQ Battery 5Ps and at least 10 kW of solar with a Duke Energy Trade Ally installer are eligible to receive an upfront incentive of $9,000. Customers who also enroll in Duke Energy’s battery control programs – Duke Energy Power Manager or Duke Energy Progress EnergyWise – are eligible to receive additional ongoing monthly bill credits. Learn more about the details of the program on the Enphase website.

“Enphase’s dependable, high-performance, and safe home energy technology is enabling the clean energy future,” said Edward Wright, co-owner of Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric, an installer of Enphase products based in North Carolina. “Home solar systems and batteries are crucial for supporting grid operations and reducing electricity costs for everyone.”

San Diego Community Power Solar Battery Savings Program: Participants enrolled in this program who install two IQ Battery 5Ps are eligible to receive an upfront incentive rebate of $3,150. Customers are also eligible to receive ongoing performance incentive payments worth approximately $3,000 over the ten-year participation period, from the time of enrollment. Learn more about the details of the program on the San Diego Community Power website.

“Enphase’s innovative battery solutions are a game-changer for homeowners looking to boost their energy resilience,” said Jeff Carelli, president and CEO of Sunlight Solar, an installer of Enphase products based in California and a Solar Battery Savings Program approved contractor. “By participating in grid services programs, our customers can not only maximize their energy independence but also contribute to a more sustainable energy future here in California.”

Eversource New Hampshire Clean Energy Fund (NHCEF) for Battery Storage Program: Participants enrolled in this demand response program who install three IQ Battery 5Ps are eligible to receive an upfront incentive rebate of $3,000 for residential customers and $3,750 for commercial customers (up to $10,000 for eight IQ Battery 5Ps). Learn more about the details of the program on the Enphase website.

“Our customers can now enhance the value of their system while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient grid,” said Hunter Judd owner of Sunup Solar, an installer of Enphase products based in New Hampshire. “Grid services programs make Enphase’s technology more accessible so more homeowners can enjoy the benefits of Enphase home battery systems.”

“Our cutting-edge software and hardware are designed to simplify participation in grid services programs for homeowners,” said Mehran Sedigh, senior vice president of sales at Enphase Energy. “Central to this effort is the new IQ Battery 5P, providing exceptional durability and value for homeowners. We are proud to expand our support for virtual power plants across the United States.”

For more information about grid services, please visit the Enphase website.

About Enphase Energy, Inc.

Enphase Energy, a global energy technology company based in Fremont, CA, is the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems that enable people to harness the sun to make, use, save, and sell their own power—and control it all with a smart mobile app. The company revolutionized the solar industry with its microinverter-based technology and builds all-in-one solar, battery, and software solutions. Enphase has shipped approximately 76.3 million microinverters, and over 4.3 million Enphase-based systems have been deployed in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit https://enphase.com/.

©2024 Enphase Energy, Inc. All rights reserved. Enphase Energy, Enphase, the “e” logo, IQ, and certain other marks listed at https://enphase.com/trademark-usage-guidelines are trademarks or service marks of Enphase Energy, Inc. Other names are for informational purposes and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including statements related to the expected capabilities and performance of Enphase Energy’s technology and products, including safety, quality and reliability; the availability and market adoption of Enphase products; Enphase’s ability to expand its support for VPPs; and expectations of and eligibility for incentives under the various incentive programs. These forward-looking statements are based on Enphase Energy’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties including those risks described in more detail in Enphase Energy’s most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other documents filed by Enphase Energy from time to time with the SEC. Enphase Energy undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events, or changes in its expectations, except as required by law.

Contact:

Enphase Energy

press@enphaseenergy.com

This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Sophos Launches New XGS Series of Desktop Firewalls and Updated Firewall Software
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Nine New Sophos XGS Firewall Appliances Feature Boosted Performance with Reduced Energy Consumption

Sophos Firewall Software Can Now Use Third-party Threat Intelligence Feeds for Extended Protection Against Cyberattacks

OXFORD, United Kingdom, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, today introduced nine new XGS Series desktop firewall appliances for midmarket and smaller-sized businesses, as well as branch offices of larger organizations. The new XGS appliances feature a streamlined architecture to deliver double the performance of previous models, but with 50% lower energy consumption. All of the new Sophos XGS appliances are available with multiple high-speed connectivity options, and four models are fanless, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments.

Sophos has also announced updated Sophos Firewall software that provides enhanced protection against cyberattacks, including the ability to integrate third-party threat intelligence feeds. This allows organizations with specific regional or vertical market requirements to customize and apply additional information to strengthen their firewall security. The new software also enhances distributed network scalability and provides a seamless transition for customers on legacy firewalls to upgrade to the latest Sophos XGS appliances. By leveraging the improved acceleration capabilities of the virtual FastPath in the new Sophos Firewall software, along with the new streamlined architecture, the new Sophos XGS firewall appliances can deliver up to three times the performance in IPsec VPN throughput compared to previous models.

“The new Sophos XGS appliances and Sophos Firewall software launches are all about providing users with world-class ‘performance and protection’ at competitive pricing. We’re innovating and advancing how organizations should use firewall technology to defend against persistent, modern-day cyberattacks targeting the midmarket and smaller businesses,” said Dan Cole, senior vice president, Network and Content Security at Sophos. “This includes designing our firewall software to now also leverage threat intelligence feeds from third-party sources, in addition to Sophos’ native threat intelligence, for faster, real-time response to a broader scope of suspicious activity. The support also gives defenders greater control over their risk profile.”

Specifically, users can now configure Sophos Firewall software to ingest paid and free feeds published by security vendors, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), specific industry consortiums and Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs), or other threat intelligence platforms. The third-party data augments Sophos’ proprietary threat intelligence, which derives from Sophos X-Ops and includes telemetry from SophosLabs, Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Sophos Extended Detection and Response (XDR) technology. In conjunction with Sophos Active Threat Response, a feature built into Sophos-managed endpoints and the intelligence feeds, Sophos Firewall software will initiate a synchronized response that automatically walls off potential attacks, giving defenders critical time to assess, respond and remediate.

Additional Sophos Firewall software enhancements include:
- Enhanced performance and scalability: Triple the IPsec VPN performance boost on the new XGS Series desktop appliances, as well as faster authentication burst performance and optimizations to reduce downtime and increase resiliency during failovers for SD-RED tunnels, dynamic routes and Active Directory interactions for distributed enterprise environments
- Streamlined management: Refreshed user experiences; support for Let’s Encrypt certificates; integrated support for Google Workspace authentication; and expanded network object visibility that simplifies firewall management
- Seamless device upgrades: A new configuration backup assistant and port mapping support, backed by free license overlap for Sophos XG firewall customers, that enables added flexibility and easy upgrading from previous hardware generations
“This release of new desktop models as part of the Sophos XGS Series of hardware appliances sets a new high bar for performance and efficiency. The update enhances value at every price-point, with a three-fold increase in IPsec VPN throughput and up to two times better overall performance, all while cutting energy consumption in half,” said Christopher Rodriguez, research director for Security and Trust at IDC. “Combined with enhancements in protection, scalability and ease-of-use from their latest OS release, Sophos Firewall provides significant value to organizations of all sizes, without raising its prices.”

“Sophos makes firewall deployment, integration and management straightforward,” said Benjamin Schwarzbauer, team lead, Network and Security at Luithle + Luithle, a Sophos partner in Germany. “Its tight integration with the broader Sophos ecosystem allows us to efficiently manage security for our customers. The firewall’s comprehensive features not only strengthen security, but also ensure reliable performance and regulatory compliance. This allows our customers to focus on their business.”

Availability
Sophos’ new XGS desktop firewall appliances and Sophos Firewall software are available exclusively through Sophos’ global channel of partners and Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Defenders can easily manage the solutions in the cloud-native Sophos Central platform alongside Sophos’ portfolio of endpoint, email and cloud solutions and oversee installations, respond to alerts and track licenses and upcoming renewal dates via a single, intuitive interface.

For more information, visit https://sophos.com/firewall.

About Sophos
Sophos is a global leader and innovator of advanced security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, including Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and incident response services and a broad portfolio of endpoint, network, email, and cloud security technologies. As one of the largest pure-play cybersecurity providers, Sophos defends more than 600,000 organizations and more than 100 million users worldwide from active adversaries, ransomware, phishing, malware, and more. Sophos’ services and products connect through the Sophos Central management console and are powered by Sophos X-Ops, the company’s cross-domain threat intelligence unit. Sophos X-Ops intelligence optimizes the entire Sophos Adaptive Cybersecurity Ecosystem, which includes a centralized data lake that leverages a rich set of open APIs available to customers, partners, developers, and other cybersecurity and information technology vendors. Sophos provides cybersecurity-as-a-service to organizations needing fully managed security solutions. Customers can also manage their cybersecurity directly with Sophos’ security operations platform or use a hybrid approach by supplementing their in-house teams with Sophos’ services, including threat hunting and remediation. Sophos sells through reseller partners and managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide. Sophos is headquartered in Oxford, U.K. More information is available at http://www.sophos.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bf53825b-7f27-4a69-9015-b8f3cf79dd07

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Fortinet Expands Its Cloud-Native Security Offerings with the Introduction of Lacework FortiCNAPP
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

News Summary
Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced the general availability of Lacework FortiCNAPP, a single unified, AI-driven platform to secure everything from code to cloud all from a single vendor.

“Lacework FortiCNAPP is based on Lacework’s proven cloud-native application protection platform with tight integration with the Fortinet Security Fabric,” said John Maddison, Chief Marketing Officer at Fortinet. “We’re pleased to expand our cloud-native security offerings and provide the industry’s most comprehensive, full-stack cloud security platform that empowers teams to seamlessly eliminate risk across their multi-cloud environments.”

The introduction of Lacework FortiCNAPP offers additional benefits that extend beyond Lacework’s leading offering, such as automated remediation and blocking of active runtime threats, as well as enhanced visibility into FortiGuard Outbreak Alerts, which provide key information about new and emerging threats and the risk they pose within an organization’s environment.

Challenges Disrupting Cloud Adoption
As customers continue to adopt cloud infrastructure and services, they are quickly realizing that traditional security tools simply lack the native capabilities required to address the scale, velocity, and dynamic nature of the cloud. Security teams are fundamentally challenged by the lack of time to address cloud security at scale due to limited cloud security knowledge, a proliferation of cloud security products that do little to help customers resolve issues, and an overwhelming number of security and compliance alerts.

Fortinet Helps Accelerate Customers’ Cloud Journeys
With Lacework FortiCNAPP, Fortinet simplifies and strengthens cloud security with a unified platform from a single vendor that brings together multiple tools to significantly cut down the time to detect, prioritize, investigate, and respond to cloud-native threats. Lacework FortiCNAPP introduces a unique AI approach that never stops learning, maximizing cloud security with minimal time and effort for development, operations, and security teams by automatically connecting risk insights with runtime threat data, and ensuring that the most critical issues are prioritized and addressed.

Fortinet enables customers to address all their cloud security needs by delivering key features such as:
- A unified platform: Fragmented tools create complex, expensive, and limited protection. As a platform, Lacework FortiCNAPP provides full visibility from code to cloud and correlates build and runtime risk and threat data to prioritize what matters most.
- AI-based anomaly detection: Given that cloud threats evolve as quickly as the cloud itself, creating rules for every potential attack scenario is nearly impossible. Lacework FortiCNAPP’s AI-based anomaly detection allows security analysts to detect previously undefined attack patterns that traditional rules-based systems cannot accomplish.
- Integrated code security: Code security integrated with cloud security empowers teams to address issues at the earliest and most cost-effective stage in the application life cycle. By offering code security as an integral capability within the platform, customers can save time and money by fixing security issues, and reduce the risk of vulnerable applications and infrastructure while maintaining developer productivity and innovation velocity.
- Composite alerts: Lacework FortiCNAPP is unique in detecting early signs of active attacks by automatically correlating various signals into a single, high-confidence composite alert. The platform uses behavioral analytics, anomaly detection, in-house threat intelligence, and insights from cloud service provider activity logs and threat services to identify active attacks, including compromised credentials, ransomware, and cryptojacking.
- Integrations with the Fortinet Security Fabric: Integrations with Fortinet solutions such as FortiSOAR enable customers to streamline their response to active runtime threats, such as compromised hosts and compromised access keys, through automated remediation playbooks. Additionally, its integration with FortiGuard Outbreak Alerts helps teams understand how Lacework FortiCNAPP delivers enhanced visibility and deeper insights into the latest threats and where the solution can disrupt potential attacks.
- Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management (CIEM): Lacework FortiCNAPP provides CIEM for complete visibility into cloud identities and their permissions. It automatically discovers identities, assesses net-effective permissions, and highlights excessive ones by comparing granted versus used permissions. Each identity is assigned a risk score based on more than 30 factors, helping prioritize high-risk identities. Lacework FortiCNAPP also offers automated remediation guidance for right-sizing permissions, ensuring least-privileged access.
Third-Party Validation

Lacework FortiCNAPP is based on the industry-recognized technology from Lacework, which is consistently recognized as a leader and Representative Vendor in CNAPP and Cloud Workload Security by leading analyst firms, including Frost and Sullivan, Gartner ^®, GigaOm, and KuppingerCole.

Supporting Quotes

“Lacework FortiCNAPP helped us deal with the massive amount of information that we were getting out of all the different systems, from the native security tools and logging and alerting tools that came from cloud providers to third-party tools that we had purchased to help solve these problems.”
– John Turner, Senior Security Architect, LendingTree

“Lacework FortiCNAPP automatically discovers and catalogs users, services, security groups, and secrets that are active within LawnStarter’s AWS environment and compares them against industry frameworks and compliance requirements. LawnStarter can quickly pull customized reports created by Lacework FortiCNAPP to see which resources are compliant. As a result, LawnStarter has seen a 75% decrease in compliance violations over the past year, saving the company significant time and money. LawnStarter now has a robust compliance practice that is essential to earning and maintaining trust with customers, providers, investors, and advisors.”
– Alberto Silveira, Head of Engineering, LawnStarter

Additional Resources

*Gartner, Gartner Market Guide for Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms, Dale Koeppen, Charlie Winckless, Neil MacDonald, Esraa ElTahawy, 22 July 2024

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About Fortinet
Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere you need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including CERTs, government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.

Copyright © 2024 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiEDR, FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSEC, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM and FortiXDR. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Slotkin Surpasses $20 Million Returned to Constituents Since Taking Office

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (MI-08)

LANSING, Mich. – U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-07) announced today that her team has now returned over $20 million to constituents since taking office in 2019, thanks to the hard work of her constituent services staff.

The office’s running total is now $20,377,671 returned to residents through constituent case work and represents more than 8,300 constituent cases, the majority of which came from the Internal Revenue Service ($15,814,193), Small Business Administration ($2,034,045), Social Security Administration ($1,169,474) and Department of Veteran Affairs ($405,436).

Overall, Slotkin’s constituent services team has opened more than 8,300 cases since January of 2019, each one representing a district resident who requested assistance with a federal agency.

“My team is committed to helping Michiganders get the most out of their government,” said Slotkin. “They are experts at navigating federal agencies, and this milestone of returning more than $20 million to mid-Michigan constituents is a testament to their knowledge and dedication to serving our communities. If you’re struggling to get a refund or information from a federal agency, you can contact us on our website or over the phone. Our staff in Lansing knows how to navigate bureaucracy better than anyone and is ready to work for you.”

CONSTITUENT STORIES

“After multiple attempts to get information regarding the employee retention tax credit we had not received, I reached out to Elissa’s office. They immediately understood the issue and wanted to help. They got to the right people and provided regular and predictable updates resulting in clarification of the problem and ultimately the payment of the tax credits,” Scott from East Lansing said.

“We contacted Elissa Slotkin… regarding the inability to get a response from the VA for needed funds to stay in an assisted living facility,” Joseph from New Hudson wrote. “Within one week… we had an answer. We thank the Office of Elissa Slotkin for their sincere assistance with this issue. It is so refreshing and uplifting to see our representative act with such integrity in helping her constituents.”

“I was having difficulty working with [Office of Personnel Management (OPM)]. My retirement annuity had not been calculated correctly and although I spoke with customer service repeatedly, I was not making any progress,” Carole from Milfordsaid. “My former Union Representative suggested I reach out to my congressperson. To my amazement, Elissa Slotkin’s office responded almost immediately and reached out on my behalf. I believe this was essential in encouraging OPM to look more closely at my petition and to handle it in good time. I believe my annuity is now correct and I received a lump sum that was due for the time it was incorrect. Representative Slotkin’s office kept me informed every step of the way. Thanks for the great work!”

The best way to start the process is by completing a privacy release form through Slotkin’s website.

A completed form is needed before the constituent services team is able to obtain information about an individual’s case because of the Privacy Act of 1974.

Slotkin’s office can also assist with requesting D.C. tours and tickets, receiving a milestone birthday or anniversary greeting, or requesting that a flag be flown over the U.S. Capitol. Visit https://slotkin.house.gov/ or call (517) 993-0510 for more information.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: OMNIQ to Present at the Small Cap Virtual Investor Conference October 10th
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SALT LAKE CITY, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OMNIQ CORP. (OMQS), a leader in AI-machine vision and automation technology, today announced that Shai Lustgarten, CEO will present live at the Small Cap Virtual Investor Conference, hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on October 10^th 2024.

DATE: October 10^th
TIME: 11:00 AM ET
LINK: https://bit.ly/47jLzOI

Available for 1×1 meetings upon request

This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.

Learn more about the event at http://www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

Recent Company Highlights
- OMNIQ Recently announced a collaboration with NEC to enhance public safety.
- Following recent purchase orders for $2.5M and $1M.
- This is following a strategic alliance with Ingenico to enhance fintech capabilities.
About OMNIQ

OMNIQ Corp. (OTCQB: OMQS) provides computerized and machine vision image processing solutions that use patented and proprietary AI technology to deliver real-time object identification, tracking, surveillance, and monitoring for the Supply Chain Management, Public Safety, and Traffic Management applications. The technology and services provided by the Company help clients move people, objects, and big data safely and securely through airports, warehouses, schools, and national borders and in many other applications and environments.

OMNIQ’s customers include government agencies and leading Fortune 500 companies from several sectors, including manufacturing, retail, distribution, food and beverage, transportation and logistics, healthcare, and oil, gas, and chemicals. Since 2014, annual revenues have more than doubled, reaching $81 million in 2023, from clients in more than forty countries.

The Company currently addresses several billion-dollar markets with double-digit growth, including the Global Smart City & Public Safety markets.

For more information visit http://www.omniq.com

About Virtual Investor Conferences®
Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

Forward-Looking Statements:
“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements in this press release relating to plans, strategies, economic performance and trends, projections of results of specific activities or investments, and other statements that are not descriptions of historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This release contains “forward-looking statements” that include information relating to future events and future financial and operating performance. The words “anticipate,” “may,” “would,” “will,” “expect,” “estimate,” “can,” “believe,” “potential” and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or management’s good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements made in this press release regarding the closing of the private placement and the use of proceeds received in the private placement. Important factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in demand for the Company’s products particularly during the current health crisis, the introduction of new products, the Company’s ability to maintain customer and strategic business relationships, the impact of competitive products and pricing, growth in targeted markets, the adequacy of the Company’s liquidity and financial strength to support its growth, the Company’s ability to manage credit and debt structures from vendors, debt holders and secured lenders, the Company’s ability to successfully integrate its acquisitions, and other information that may be detailed from time-to-time in OMNIQ Corp.’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Examples of such forward-looking statements in this release include, among others, statements regarding revenue growth, driving sales, operational and financial initiatives, cost reduction and profitability, and simplification of operations. For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting OMNIQ Corp., please refer to the Company’s recent Securities and Exchange Commission filings, which are available at SEC.gov. OMNIQ Corp. undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, unless otherwise required by law.

CONTACTS:
OMNIQ
ir@omniq.com
http://www.omniq.com

Virtual Investor Conferences
John M. Viglotti
SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
OTC Markets Group
(212) 220-2221
johnv@otcmarkets.com

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Enact to Host Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Call November 7th

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enact Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: ACT) (Enact) announced it will issue its third quarter earnings release after the market closes on November 6, 2024. Enact will host a conference call to review third quarter 2024 financial results on November 7, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. (ET).

Enact’s earnings release, summary presentation and financial supplement will be available through the company’s website, https://ir.enactmi.com/, at the time of their release to the public.

Participants interested in joining the call’s live question and answer session are required to pre-register by clicking here to obtain a dial-in number and unique PIN. It is recommended to join at least 15 minutes in advance, although you may register ahead of the call and dial in at any time during the call. If you wish to join the call but do not plan to ask questions, a live webcast of the event will be available on our website, https://ir.enactmi.com/news-and-events/events.

The webcast also will be archived on the company’s website for one year.

About Enact Holdings, Inc.
Enact (Nasdaq: ACT), operating principally through its wholly-owned subsidiary Enact Mortgage Insurance Corporation since 1981, is a leading U.S. private mortgage insurance provider committed to helping more people achieve the dream of homeownership. Building on a deep understanding of lenders’ businesses and a legacy of financial strength, we partner with lenders to bring best-in class service, leading underwriting expertise, and extensive risk and capital management to the mortgage process, helping to put more people in homes and keep them there. By empowering customers and their borrowers, Enact seeks to positively impact the lives of those in the communities in which it serves in a sustainable way. Enact is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Sunrun Announces Date for Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Report

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sunrun (Nasdaq: RUN) today announced that it will issue its third quarter 2024 earnings report after the market closes on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

A conference call has been scheduled to discuss these earnings results at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time. The conference call can be accessed live via the Sunrun Investor Relations website at https://investors.sunrun.com or over the phone by dialing (877) 407-5989 (toll-free) or (201) 689-8434 (toll). An audio replay will be available following the call on the Sunrun Investor Relations website for approximately one month. A transcript of the conference call will also be posted to the Sunrun Investor Relations website the following day.

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

Investor & Analyst Contact:

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

Media Contact:

Wyatt Semanek
Director, Corporate Communications
press@sunrun.com

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

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PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES 7TH FOUNDATION DAY OF ALL INDIA INSTITUTE OF AYURVEDA

The idea of an integrative system of Medicine Is becoming popular all Over the world: President droupadi Murmu