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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield’s ’locked vault’ gives up its nuclear secrets

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Sellafield’s ’locked vault’ gives up its nuclear secrets

    One of the most challenging puzzles in the UK’s nuclear clean-up programme is being solved.

    Operators in the control room of Sellafield’s Pile Fuel Cladding Silo

    Waste is now being routinely retrieved from one of the world’s oldest nuclear waste stores for the first time in its history.

    Sellafield’s Pile Fuel Cladding Silo has effectively been a locked vault since the 1970s. That was when waste stopped being tipped into its 6 compartments.

    After decades of work to figure out how to take waste from a building designed never to be emptied, retrievals teams are now doing exactly that.

    So far, enough waste to fill 18 storage boxes has been cleared.

    And some of the items recovered are not what you’d expect in an intermediate level nuclear waste store.

    Among them is a 1960s Electrolux vacuum cleaner.

    It’s believed the household hoover was used to suck up dust in the facility during its operational life in the 1950s and 60s.

    Because the dust was radioactive, when the vacuum was no longer needed, the only place to dispose of it was in the silo itself.

    The 1960s Electrolux vacuum cleaner discovered in Sellafield’s Pile Fuel Cladding Store

    Roddy Miller, Sellafield Ltd’s chief operating officer, said:

    It’s a fantastic achievement to get to the point where we’re routinely retrieving waste from the building.

    The scale of the challenge was immense. Remember, this was a facility that was not designed to be emptied.

    The vacuum cleaner is a great example of how challenging it is to clear this silo. We don’t know for sure what’s in there. They didn’t keep accurate records in those days.

    Anything taken into the building by the workforce of the day was likely to be contaminated because of the environment they were working in.

    There was no alternative disposal route for contaminated material, so everything just went into the silo.

    Ironically, a modern-day vacuum cleaner is also playing a part in the waste removal job, sucking up dust created when waste is dropped into storage boxes. It will eventually be consigned as waste itself, joining its 1960s predecessor.

    Removing waste from old buildings like the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo is Sellafield’s most important job today.

    Alongside it, there’s another silo and 2 ponds that need to be emptied. The ponds store used nuclear fuel underwater and were also not designed to be emptied.

    Each one of these buildings needs its own unique decommissioning plan. All of them will take decades to complete.

    You can read more about the plan for the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo here.

    Roddy added:

    For the first time in our history, we’re routinely retrieving waste from all 4 of our legacy ponds and silos.

    That’s an incredibly important milestone in our journey to clean up the site.

    But there’s a lot of work yet to do and these four facilities will continue to challenge for many years to come.

    Our focus now is to safely accelerate the pace of retrievals and ultimately eliminate the risk these historic buildings pose.

    Further reading

    Decommissioning the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo – progress so far

    People behind the progress blog

    Keep up to date with all our progress stories by saving our ‘Priorities and Progress’ page to your favourites – Sellafield Ltd priorities and progress – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 Files Investor Presentation Highlighting Proven Strategy, Board Strength and Path for Shareholder Value Creation

    Source: Phillips

    Outlines strong operational and financial performance driven by the Company’s transformative strategy
    Warns that Elliott’s high-risk proposals are misleading, based on flawed analysis and threaten long-term shareholder value
    Underscores the valuable skills and experiences Phillips 66’s Board and nominees have to drive shareholder value creation, superior to those of Elliott’s nominees

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) (the “Company”) today filed an investor presentation with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with its upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2025.
    In conjunction with the presentation, Phillips 66 published two new videos that showcase the skills and experiences the Company’s two new Board nominees, A. Nigel Hearne and Howard Ungerleider, would bring to the Board and how they would approach driving shareholder value as a potential Board member of Phillips 66.
    The presentation and the videos are available at www.phillips66delivers.com.
    Highlights of the investor presentation include:
    Phillips 66’s proven strategy has driven, and will drive, outperformance for shareholders
    Since Mark Lashier became President and CEO in 2022, Phillips 66 has delivered total shareholder returns of 67%1, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 Energy Index by 45%1 and the Company’s synthetic proxy peer median2 by 42%1
    In under three years, Phillips 66 has taken significant action, including returning over $14 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, rationalization of Refining assets, $3.5 billion in non-core asset divestitures, and opportunistic Midstream expansion through the Pinnacle and EPIC NGL acquisitions3
    Reduced Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs from $6.98/bbl in 2022 to $5.90/bbl4 in 2024 with a clear plan in place to further reduce costs and achieve $5.50/bbl by 20275
    Phillips 66’s transformative strategy is in its early innings and has significant room to deliver further value. This proven strategy will continue to drive long-term competitiveness in Refining, grow the NGL value chain, maintain the Company’s advantaged position in Chemicals, optimize profitability across all assets, and deliver consistent, compelling returns
    Phillips 66 has delivered Refining profitability on par with peers on a like-for-like basis, while outperforming them in overall Refining cost improvements since 2022 6. The Company remains focused on cost improvements with a focus on further enhancing market capture.
    Compared to 2021, our projected Midstream Adjusted EBITDA (post EPIC NGL) has grown by $1.9 billion, driven by an incremental 18% Cash Return on Capital Invested7, with additional organic growth opportunities in the future
    CPChem’s global scale and feedstock advantages result in a self-funding joint venture with stable, growing distributions that is constructing two world-scale projects coming online in late 2026

    The Company’s integrated model creates consistent and compelling long-term value for shareholders
    Compared to the weighted proxy peer average, the Company’s integrated model delivers higher returns for shareholders and lower volatility across cycles
    Phillips 66’s integrated structure creates $500 million in annual operating synergies8, as the Midstream business ensures reliable supply and integrated logistics for refineries and CPChem, ultimately improving flow assurance, feedstock quality, blending efficiency, and market flexibility
    Since the spinoff in 2012, we have grown our dividend at a 15% CAGR.9 Our annual dividend paid has increased every year – a rare achievement in the energy sector, especially through economic and commodity cycles
    Elliott, which has notable conflicts of interest, is attempting to mislead shareholders while pushing a short-sighted agenda that introduces undue risk and threatens to disrupt long-term shareholder returns
    Elliott has demonstrated a pattern of inconsistent engagement with the Company, including prolonged periods of no engagement followed by public presentations with new demands, not allowing the Board to interview its nominees and seeking to replace Bob Pease – a director who was appointed in mutual agreement with Elliott10
    Misleading shareholders has been a core focus of Elliott’s campaign – twisting quotes from management, describing their annual resignation proposal as voluntary despite the plain language of the proposalrequiringresignation, mischaracterizing Phillips 66’s business and comparing our performance to peers who report their metrics differently
    Elliott’s proposals ignore action already taken by Phillips 66 to reduce Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs
    Elliott’s calls to separate the Midstream business and CPChem are not only misguided and risky, but are underpinned by speculative valuations, ignore potentially large tax leakages and are driven by comparisons to other situations that are not applicable to Phillips 66
    Elliott’s subsidiary, Amber Energy, is in pursuit of CITGO – a direct competitor of Phillips 66 in a core operational corridor – and is being led by the same portfolio managers who are driving its proxy campaign against Phillips 66 and actively trying to undermine our strategy.Elliott’s public solicitation materials do not clearly mention its pursuit of CITGO, or that multiple members of the Amber Energy leadership team have been directly involved in soliciting Phillips 66 shareholders
    Phillips 66’s highly skilled and refreshed Board is a group of change agents with a track record of value creation, while Elliott’s nominees pose a risk to shareholder value
    Phillips 66’s Board composition is closely aligned with the Company’s strategy. Of our continuing Directors and our nominees, six have refining experience, five have chemicals experience and five have midstream experience. Nearly everyone has experience in business transformations, several have expertise in finance and a number are experts in supply chains11
    The Board consistently and rigorously evaluates the portfolio and other alternatives with a clear focus on maximizing long-term shareholder value – and remains prepared to take decisive action to achieve that goal
    Our Directors and nominees have overseen more than $300 billion in “breakup” or major divestiture transactions12 and consistently evaluate the portfolio for value-creating opportunities
    With five new directors appointed within the past four years, the Board has a strong track record of regular refreshment
    Compared to Phillips 66’s nominees, Elliott’s nominees bring less relevant expertise and have redundant backgrounds. They also have conflicts of interests and close ties to Elliott and Amber Energy, who are actively pursuing one of our direct competitors, CITGO
    Phillips 66’s nominees are significantly superior to Elliott’s in every category. Our nominees have experiences that are directly relevant to the Company’s strategy and have notably stronger track records of creating value at publicly traded companies when compared to Elliott’s nominees
    Elliott has put forth illegal corporate governance demands, masked by misleading communications
    As you know, the Board is fully committed to declassifying in accordance with our governing documents such that each of our directors is up for election each year. Our last attempt to do so received approval from 73% of outstanding shares. We encourage shareholders to vote FOR management’s declassification proposal
    In contrast, Elliott is asking us to devise a “workaround” to declassify the Board in a de facto manner, without obtaining the required stockholder vote to do so. Our charter and by-laws do not give us that power. Put simply, if implemented, Elliott’s annual resignation proposal would contravene Delaware law, our company’s charter and by-laws and our Board’s fiduciary duties to shareholders. These facts are totally irreconcilable with Elliott’s purported interest in good corporate governance. The SEC has a process for companies to be able to exclude 14a-8 shareholder proposals that are illegal to implement, but the manner Elliott chose to proceed with avoided that review as Elliott submitted a proposal and solicited on its own proxy card
    Elliott itself clearly realizes that an annual resignation requirement is not legal to implement, so Elliott keeps misleadingly suggesting that what it is asking for is simply voluntary. However, the plain text of Elliott’s proposal specifically asks the Board to adopt a policyrequiringour directors to resign each year
    Implementing Elliott’s proposal would expose the Company to costly litigation and reputational risks and set a dangerous precedent for conveniently disregarding governing documents
    Your Vote Matters
    Phillips 66’s Board of Directors urges shareholders to use only the WHITE proxy card to vote:
    “FOR” all four of the candidates proposed by the Company and not Elliott’s four nominees;
    “FOR” management’s proposal to approve the declassification of the Board of Directors; and
    “AGAINST” Elliott’s proposal requiring annual director resignations, which implementing would violate Delaware law and put your Board at significant legal and reputational risk
    The Board strongly recommends that shareholders safeguard their investment in Phillips 66 by casting their vote as soon as possible, regardless of plans to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on May 21, 2025.
    Shareholders may receive materials from Elliott Management that say “gold proxy card” or “gold voting instructions” or similar. Phillips 66 recommends that shareholders DISCARD any Gold voting materials they may receive from Elliott. Shareholders may cancel out any vote made using a Gold proxy card by voting again TODAY using the Company’s WHITE proxy card. Only the latest-dated vote will count.
    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies,” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
    Additional Information
    On April 8, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or any other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
    Certain Information Regarding Participants
    Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 8, 2025, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
    Non-GAAP Measures—This news release includes non-GAAP financial measures, including, “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods and to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Reconciliations to, or further discussion of, the most comparable GAAP financial measures can be found within or at the end of the news release materials.
    This news release also includes forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure estimates such as, but not limited to “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs” which, as used in certain places herein, are forward looking non-GAAP financial measures. These forward-looking estimates or targets depend on future levels of revenues and/or expenses, including amounts that could be attributable to non-controlling interests or related joint ventures, which are not reasonably estimable at this time. Accordingly, reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort. Below are definitions of these non-GAAP measures and identification of the most directly comparable GAAP measure.
    EBITDA is defined as estimated net income plus estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as estimated EBITDA plus the proportional share of selected equity affiliates’ estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization less the portion of estimated adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for the consolidated company and income before income taxes is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for operating segments. Refining adjusted controllable cost is the sum of operating and SG&A expenses forour Refining segment, plus our proportional share of operating and SG&A expenses of two refining equity affiliates that are reflected in equity earnings of affiliates. The per barrel amounts are based on total processed inputs, including our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate, for the respective period.
    References in this news release to shareholder distributions and returns to shareholders refer to the sum of dividends paid to Phillips 66 stockholders and proceeds used by Phillips 66 to repurchase shares of its common stock. References in this news release to “synergies” or “dis-synergies” are supported by management’s estimates and assumptions. These estimates are derived from the Company’s internal projections and other relevant data. However, because these synergies or dis-synergies are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), they cannot be directly reconciled to GAAP measures. The Company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide valuable insight into optimization benefits but cautions that such synergies or dis-synergies may not be realized in full or at all.
    Basis of News release—Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.
    1. Source: FactSet; market data as of March 31, 2025. Shown since June 30, 2022, one day prior to Mark Lashier’s appointment as CEO.
    2. Calculated as the weighted average of Refining (CVI, DINO, DK, MPC, PBF, VLO), Midstream (OKE, TRGP, WMB), and Chemicals (DOW, LYB, WLK) Performance by Proxy Peers’ TSR based on the weighting of consensus NTM EBIDTA estimates for PSX’s segments.
    3. Source: Company filings.
    4. Excludes adjusted turnaround costs. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure can be found here.
    5. Excluding adjusted turnaround expense, post-ceasing of operations at Los Angeles refinery.
    6. For additional details, see Slide 16 of Investor Presentation.
    7. Incremental Adjusted Cash Return on Capital Invested since 2021 calculated as $1.9 B of incremental Adjusted EBITDA from 2021 to Projected Post-EPIC NGL in 2024 divided by $10.6 B of capital invested ($0.4 B of cash used in the DCP restructuring with Enbridge, $3.8 B of cash used in the DCP acquisition, proportionate share of DCP’s debt and preferred equity outstanding as of June 30, 2023 of $2.9 B, $0.6 B of cash used in Pinnacle acquisition, $2.2 B, net of cash acquired, $2.7 B of Midstream growth + sustaining capital excluding acquisitions from 2021-2024, less $2.2 B of cash received from asset sales). For additional details, see Slide 19 of Investor Presentation. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure can be found here.
    8. $50 MM attributable to CPChem and $450 MM attributable to Midstream operations.
    9. Dividend CAGR calculated from initial dividend of $0.20 per share in 3Q 2012 to $1.15 per share in 4Q 2024.
    10. See section titled “Background of the Solicitation” in the definitive proxy statement filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC for a detailed summary of our engagement with Elliott.
    11. Source: Company filings, public filings.
    12. Source: Deal Point Data, Reuters, FactSet, Financial Times, RBC Capital Markets.

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Alex Ely has been appointed as Chair of the Museum of the Home

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Alex Ely has been appointed as Chair of the Museum of the Home

    The Secretary of State has appointed Alex Ely as the Chair of the Museum of the Home for a term of four years, which commenced on 23 March 2025.

    Alex Ely

    Alex is Founder Director of Mæ, an architecture and urban design studio based in London. Alex is a RIBA Chartered Architect and a Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute, he graduated from the Royal College of Art. Under his leadership, Mæ has gained international recognition for its innovative and socially responsive design approach, delivering acclaimed projects across masterplanning, housing, healthcare, and cultural buildings.

    Alex oversees Mæ’s design direction, and has won numerous accolades including the RIBA Stirling Prize 2023. He is a leading voice in the built environment, and has shaped national housing policy having advised the Government and the Mayor of London on urban and planning policy promoting an agenda of design excellence. He has taught at a number of UK Schools of Architecture, written several books, and exhibited internationally.

    Alex Ely quote:

     “I am delighted to be appointed by the Secretary of State as Chair of the Museum of the Home. The Museum plays a crucial role in the advancement of education and promoting debate about the importance of home in and for societies. As one of our foremost cultural institutions I look forward to helping advance its mission and build on its purpose to reveal and rethink the ways we live, in order to live better together.”

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    The Chair of the Museum of the Home is not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Alex has not declared any significant political activity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The list of key settlements consists of more than half small towns and villages

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    According to the Presidential Decree on the national development goals of the country, by 2030 the quality of the living environment in key settlements should increase by 30% and by 60% by 2036. This work is being carried out under the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, said Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The unified list of support centers includes 2,160 settlements. Taking into account the adjacent territories, they cover almost the entire country in terms of population. Among them are all agglomerations and administrative centers of regions – 212 settlements. Also included are 183 other centers where large investment projects are being implemented, 217 strategic settlements that ensure national security, as well as 1,548 settlements servicing the adjacent territory. Thus, more than half of the support centers are small towns, urban-type settlements and villages. All support settlements will be included in the development program aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    According to the Deputy Prime Minister, this program will cover 16 areas, including housing provision, resettlement of dilapidated buildings, improving the quality of public services, improving the condition of the road network and public transport, increasing transport connectivity, building social infrastructure, landscaping, connecting to gas, providing access to the Internet, and closing unauthorized landfills.

    Infrastructure bonds, treasury infrastructure loans, which will replace infrastructure budget and special treasury loans (IBK and STK), as well as a mechanism for writing off regional debt on budget loans, are provided for the development of key settlements.

    Ilshat Shagiakhmetov, General Director of the Territorial Development Fund, noted that during the period of validity of infrastructure budget and special treasury loans since 2022, regions have appreciated the convenience and flexibility of these instruments.

    “Today, in Russia, thanks to the IBC and SKK programs, operated by the fund, work has been completed on more than 630 objects and events. Residents of large cities and small towns receive better quality utilities, modern social institutions, renovated roads and public transport fleets. Moreover, the new infrastructure has a positive impact on other areas. Residential areas are developing, new jobs are appearing, more private investment is attracted. And this is an integral part of the socio-economic development of each region of our country. The new mechanism of treasury infrastructure loans will serve the same goals aimed at improving the quality of life in the regions,” Ilshat Shagiakhmetov emphasized.

    Different priorities are envisaged for different supporting settlements. Thus, small towns and villages require accelerated development of social infrastructure to reduce the outflow of population. Agglomerations and administrative centers need help with increasing the efficiency of the economy by strengthening agglomeration ties, increasing capital investments in scientific, technological and innovative development, and increasing the efficiency of infrastructure use. In strategic settlements, it is necessary to ensure a quality of living environment sufficient for maintaining and increasing the population, and to support projects to diversify the economy, which depends on the narrow specialization of city-forming enterprises. In the centers of implementation of large investment projects, accelerated development of transport, energy and utilities infrastructure is required, as well as housing construction to attract personnel.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Vanuatu communities growing climate resilience in wake of Cyclone Lola

    Communities in Vanuatu are learning to grow climate resilient crops, 18 months after Cyclone Lola devastated the country.

    The category 5 storm struck in October 2023, generating wind speeds of up to 215 kmph, which destroyed homes, schools, plantations, and left at least four people dead.

    It was all the worse for following twin cyclones Judy and Kevin earlier that year.

    Save the Children Vanuatu country director Polly Banks said they have been working alongside Vanuatu’s Ministry of Agriculture and local partners, supporting families through the Tropical Cyclone Lola Recovery Programme.

    “It really affected backyard gardening and the communities across the areas affected – their ability to pursue an income and also their own nutritional needs,” she said.

    She said the programme looked at the impact of the cyclone on backyard gardening and on people’s economic reliance on what they grow in their gardens, and developed a recovery plan to respond.

    “We trained community members and also provided them with the equipment to establish cyclone resilient nurseries.

    Ready for harsh weather
    “So for example, nurseries that can be put up and then pulled down when a harsh weather event – including cyclones but even heavy rainfall — is arriving.

    “There was a focus on these climate resilient nurseries, but also through that partnership with the Department of Agriculture, there was also a much stronger focus than we’ve had before on teaching community members climate smart agricultural techniques.”

    Banks said these techniques included open pollinating seed and learning skills such as grassing; and another part of the project was introducing more variety into people’s diets.

    She said out of the project has also come the first seed bank on Epi Island.

    “That seed bank now has a ready supply of seeds, and the community are adding to that regularly, and they’re taking those seeds from really climate-resilient crops, so that they have a cyclone secure storage facility,” she said.

    “The next time a cyclone happens — and we know that they’re going to become more ferocious and more frequent — the community are ready to replant the moment that the cyclone passes.

    Setting up seed bank
    “But in setting the seed bank up as well, the community have been taught how to select the most productive seeds, the seeds that show the most promise; how to dry them out; how to preserve them.”

    Banks said they were also working with the Department of Agriculture in the delivery of a community-based climate resilience project, which is funded by the Green Climate Fund.

    Rolled out across 282 communities across the country, a key focus of it is the creation of more climate-resilient backyard gardening, food preservation and climate resilient nurseries.

    “We’re also setting up early warning systems through the provision of internet to really remote communities so that they have better access to more knowledge about when a big storm or a cyclone is approaching and what steps to take.

    “But that particular project is still just a drop in the ocean in terms of the adaptation needs that communities have.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: ‘Consciously cruel’ – UK social security system is pushing people beyond the brink – new report

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Human rights in the UK in crisis as new report exposes crushing evidence of a social security system ruining lives 

    Discrimination and dehumanisation reported as rife as punitive system drives poverty by policy 

    ‘They told me to go in for an assessment, and my baby had passed away… not even two days before…. And they were like, well if you need the money, you will come in.  It’s not my fault your baby is dead’ – Claimant  

    ‘I would often be asked the same question three times to see if I’d change my answer. The process feels like you are on trial for murder, they act like they are trying to catch you out and that you are begging’ – Peter 

    ‘Lives are being ruined by a system that is consciously cruel – it erodes dignity by design. We are in a state of severe human rights violations’– Jen Clark, Amnesty 

    Amnesty International UK’s new report takes a deep dive into the murky and divisive world of the UK social security system. The unique research is an extensive look through the lens of human rights violations across our basic rights to housing, food, education, healthcare and social security.  

    The evidence delivers damning conclusions on how the system processes, punishes, harms and dehumanises people and fails to meet international legal obligations. Successive UK governments have ignored the UN’s pleas to take urgent action to fix this. 

    Poverty is a visible sign of a failing social security system. When the government knowingly makes choices to make poverty worse, it is deliberately violating basic human rights. We have moved from a society that supports people to a punitive system that drives poverty by policy. 

    The rate of poverty in the UK is now higher than at any point in the 21st century. Sixteen million people in the UK are living in families in poverty – almost a quarter of the UK*. Of these, 5.2 million are children, 9.2 million are working-age adults, and 1.5 million are pension-age adults.  

    For its report ‘Social Insecurity’ Amnesty’s collaborated with over 700 benefit claimants and advisors to provide a platform for the people most gravely affected and show how politicians are playing with people’s lives and ignoring our most basic rights. In 2024 86% of low-income families on Universal Credit went without essentials such as heating, food and clothing. 

    With the backdrop of the Spring Statement and devastating disability social security cuts, Amnesty’s report delivers a crushing blow of evidence on the UK’s social security system and political choices that have pushed people into poverty and centres real-life experiences throughout, demonstrating the depth of dehumanisation. 

    Recommendations from the report

    • System overhaul: A landmark, independent Social Security Commission with statutory powers to overhaul the UK’s broken benefits system—rooted in dignity and human rights. 
    • Urgent protection from harm: The UK Government to urgently reverse harmful social security cuts, sanctions and caps including the two-child limit and ensure upcoming reforms of PIP, ESA and Universal Credit, meet international human rights standards and are shaped by those most affected. 
    • Legal protections: The UK Government to put in place legal frameworks protecting economic, social and cultural rights to ensure everyone’s basic human rights to food, housing, and dignity are protected in law and prevent failures in social security policy from causing wider harms. 

    Sections of the report expose

    Systemic failures and lack of dignity and respect: Reports of hostile attitudes and judgmental behaviour within the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) illustrate systemic shortcomings. The current system fails to meet its obligations to treat claimants with humanity and compassion, contributing to distrust and trauma of vulnerable individuals.

    “Client had a Personal Independent Payment claim terminated as they would only offer a telephone appointment, despite them being profoundly deaf”. (Social Security Advisor) 

    “They told me to go in for an assessment, and my baby had passed away.  Like not even two days before…. And they were like, well if you need the money, you will come in.  It’s not my fault your baby is dead”. (Claimant) 

    Restricted access to Social Security and discriminatory practices

    There are discriminatory conditions that restrict access for marginalised groups, inadequate transparency in eligibility criteria, and insufficient efforts to ensure effective, fair and transparent appeal processes. 

    “Every time someone is assessed inappropriately for benefits, it takes extra time and money for the mistake to be corrected. Most often the claimants suffer, but the taxpayers also suffer owing to the additional administration and resolution costs which need to be met”. (Advisor) 

    Social Security advisors across the country described how difficult access to information about entitlements and processes are. 64% of advisors rated it very difficult or difficult to get access to information on Universal Credit, and 68% of advisors said the same for PIP and 58% for ESA.  

    Of 416 claimants who responded to the question, 52% rated access to Social Security schemes as difficult or very difficult.

    Unjust and ill-informed decisions on sanctions and deductions

    23% of the claimants who completed Amnesty research had experienced being sanctioned or having a deduction. Within this, 78% of people said it worsened their mental health.  55% told us they reduced the food they ate and 35% went without food. 47% of people stated that it worsened their physical health.  44% of people told us they were forced to borrow money to make ends meet.  

    “Client lost benefits and home after being turned down for not attending the assessment as he soiled himself on the train to assessment centre and had to go home”. (Advisor) 

    “I’ve been sanctioned loads of time because I’m working.  Borrowed off my sister and mother.  Without them, I would probably be dead in the gutter because I couldn’t afford to live” (Claimant) 

    “They look down on you when you walk into the job centre.  I had a panic attack in the job centre.  I couldn’t breathe, and she went “you better get upstairs now and see your work coach, or we are going to sanction you” (Claimant) 

    “The actual interview is on the phone when they talk to you.  They only give you one call…. If you missed that one call, they sanction that.  They should give at least 3 rings at least give you a chance.” (Claimant) 

    Jen Clark, Economic and Social Rights Lead at Amnesty International UK, said: 

    “Lives are being ruined by a system that is consciously cruel – it erodes dignity by design. We are in a state of severe human rights violations.  

    “The social security system is impenetrable, inadequate, and for some completely inaccessible. 

    “There can be no tinkering of the system – it has gone too far, and it is too late. There must be full reform. It is broken from start to finish and intentionally sets people up to fail. No-one would want political choices in this country to deliberately diminish dignity and perpetuate poverty.  

    “I’ve worked to highlight human rights violations for more than two decades and witnessed many awful situations. But never have I encountered such raw and widespread distress from people sharing their experiences in the UK. 

    “We need a landmark, independent Social Security Commission with statutory powers to overhaul the UK’s broken benefits system. It must be rooted in dignity and human rights and designed by and for the people. This must protect us all – be that today or in the future where we all may need it.” 

    Voices of the campaign

    John, 60’s, from Hampshire was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) quite late on in life – in his 60s. It progressed much faster than he could have ever expected. “In August 2021, before I even knew what was happening to me, I was still working at the Ministry of Defence as a Policy Advisor. I was deployed to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation. Before my diagnosis, I had spent years working and contributing, and I never once thought I would be in a position where I needed to rely on benefits.” 

    In speaking about the experience of applying for Personal Independence Payment (PiP), John said:  

    “Applying was a nightmare. The process was so difficult and one-sided. When I finally received my assessment, DWP had scored me zero for the impact MS had on my daily life. Zero. If they had at least acknowledged some of the difficulties, if they had scored me a five or six or even a seven instead of the eight, I needed, I might have accepted it. But to say that MS had no impact on my life at all? That was infuriating.   

    “There is a bus stop 100 meters from my house. Usain Bolt could get there in less than 10 seconds whereas it takes me 10 minutes, but we would both score a zero for impact of MS on our lives. It’s ridiculous.”  

    Carly, 39, London is a single mother to a young son. She was recently receiving Universal credit, with contributions towards housing and her son’s childcare costs. Despite having good knowledge of the process from a prior job, she found navigating the social security system difficult. 

    In speaking about Universal Credit and the challenges that occur when benefits are wrongly cancelled, Carly said: 

    “As a single parent, working in a temporary role, I was not earning enough to cover private rental fees. My son had just started nursery, and I had a lot of expenses that my salary couldn’t cover. I applied for benefits with a five week wait – which was a very difficult time.   

    “When my role was made permanent, I got a lump sum of holiday pay in my paycheck – meaning I was paid more that month than usual. Unexpectedly, this led to my benefits claim being incorrectly cancelled. I wasn’t contacted about this and had no idea until the money didn’t appear in my bank account. I was crying on the phone telling my landlord I couldn’t pay my rent. I had a terrible ten-week wait until my social security payments started again and had to borrowed money from friends and family. I was offered an advance before the claim came through – but I’d already had one to pay for nursery fees and didn’t want to get into further debt. 

    “I did lodge a complaint about the cancellation of my benefits, but the claim wasn’t upheld, and I felt I didn’t have the time or energy to fight it.   

    “The hardest thing about the social security system is the uncertainty and insecurity around it all. It was very mentally challenging to not know when or how much my payments would be. I lived in fear of uploading the wrong information and having my benefits cancelled again. The worst part is the feeling like you have no control over anything. You always feel insecure. I was always relieved when universal credit went in, and it was the amount you were expecting.  

    “The stigma is real, navigating the system only amplifies it, making an already difficult situation even harder. You have no autonomy, no choice, there’s nothing you can do. It creates a feeling that you aren’t deserving or worthy – that you should be grateful and not challenge anything.” 

    Philip from Leeds   

    “I lost my job suddenly in September 2023. I did my applications early to get ahead, but I didn’t realise the claim automatically starts from the day you fill the form in, and you can’t change the date. It made my claim invalid which meant I missed my initial payment. I also never received the support I was due towards my home costs, despite chasing and asking many times. When I contacted the Job Centre to request a face-to-face appointment with a work coach, but it took me over a month to be able to get the appointment and sadly, it wasn’t helpful at all.  

    “Around this time, my father was ill with dementia. I live far from my parents and don’t drive, and being on such a low income meant I didn’t have the funds to travel there by public transport. I couldn’t afford to visit my father in his final days, and he passed away in November 2023. Not being able to see him before he died was extremely difficult and after going to my GP, I was put on anti-depressants.

    “Having to chase my social security claim and not getting responses or offers to the jobs I was applying for, alongside with the grief I was experiencing, had a huge effect on my mental health and made things very difficult. I was struggling to cope.” 

    Additional case studies

    Valerie*

    “Being on benefits in the UK can feel almost taboo- something to keep private and feel embarrassed about. This is sad, because the vast majority of us are just normal people trying to live life the best way we can, raise our families and find whatever happiness there is in life despite the hardships we face.”   

    Peter

    “I started receiving social security in 2021, just after I finished university. I applied for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) due to a long-term health condition. The PIP application process was atrocious and ultimately took over a year.   

    “I had to deal with a lack of understanding about my condition. One of the interviewers mislabelled and misunderstood the medical equipment I use and even went as far as to lecture me about my own illness. I had to get my doctor to write a letter just to confirm what I’d said.    

    “I would often be asked the same question three times to see if I’d change my answer. The process feels like you are on trial for murder, they act like they are trying to catch you out and that you are begging.  

    “The PIP application needs to be renewed every couple of years or so – despite my disability being due to a long-term health condition that won’t improve over time. Itt’s like I am starting over again each time.   

    “Watching my friends from Uni live their lives makes me feel like I am missing out on a lot.  I would like to be able to do more things, to get out and about a bit more – perhaps take a day trip to a local area. Even to travel locally is hard as the buses are too expensive and I can’t afford a car. I don’t want to be on benefits, I’d love to be able to work but I simply can’t.”    

    Steve

    “I had to stop working 15 years ago. I’d been struggling with severe pain in my right knee for about two years before finally having surgery. That’s when I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis. I somehow managed to keep working through the pain, but eventually, it just became too much. I’ve now developed Osteoarthritis throughout my whole body.  

    “I use a crutch indoors and both crutches whenever I go outside. Getting around is incredibly difficult, but I push myself because if I didn’t get out at all, I’d feel down and alone.  

    “Appling for Universal Credit and PIP was tough. Being on benefits doesn’t feel great. I’m in a small studio flat and most days I’m by myself. Going out for shopping is the only time I see anyone. Prices have gone up too, which makes things harder.  

    “Losing my mum in 2020, just before lockdown, hit me hard.  I still miss her so much. And visiting and being with my dad brings me comfort. It makes things much better for me. Visiting my dad is really hard with my condition. He’s 92 now and lives over three and a half hours away. My sister moved closer to him to help out. I try to go see them when I can, but the journey is a lot. I have to get a train into London, struggle through the underground to catch another train, then a bus, and finally a taxi to his place. Before COVID, I used to take the National Express coach straight to his, then just a taxi. But that route’s been cancelled and it’s now so much longer and more exhausting.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Tunisia: Crackdown on dissent intensifies with arrest of human rights lawyer following verdict in sham trial

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Tunisian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release lawyer Ahmed Souab and drop all charges against him, as they stem solely from his exercise of his right to freedom of expression and his professional duties as a lawyer, Amnesty International said today.

    Souab, a lawyer and former judge, was arrested on 21 April 2025, by the anti-terrorism brigade following comments he made criticizing the “conspiracy case” trial during a press conference held by lawyers outside the courthouse. On 19 April a Tunisian court sentenced 37 people including prominent opposition figures, lawyers, and human rights defenders, to prison terms ranging from four to 74 years following a sham trial. Amnesty International is calling for the verdict to be quashed and the charges against all 40 defendants in the case to be dropped.

    “Ahmed Souab’s arbitrary detention is a blatant act of reprisal for his condemnation of flaws in the ‘conspiracy case’ trial. It also marks a further chilling escalation in the Tunisian authorities’ assault on justice and makes clear their determination to silence those who dare to speak out against the authorities’ repressive policies,” said Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.

    “Like other lawyers, he is being targeted solely for exercising his right to freedom of expression and for representing his clients. He should be immediately and unconditionally released.”

    Ahmed Souab’s arbitrary detention is a blatant act of reprisal for his condemnation of flaws in the ‘conspiracy case’ trial

    Sara Hashash, MENA Deputy Regional Director

    Souab, who represents two of the defendants in the conspiracy case, Ghazi Chaouachi and Ridha Belhaj, had denounced the trial as a “farce” and highlighted numerous procedural violations and baseless accusations. His remarks, during which he used a figure of speech about the pressure on the presiding judge, were deliberately taken out of context on pro-government social media accounts, leading to calls for his arrest on false accusations that he had threatened the judge. 

    Within hours of his arrest, the prosecution announced that Souab was being charged under counter-terrorism legislation, including preposterous accusations of “forming a terrorist organization,” “supporting terrorist crimes,” and “threatening to commit terrorist crimes” in addition to “disseminating false news,” according to Decree Law 54. Following his arrest, he was placed in police custody and initially denied access to his family and lawyers for 48 hours.

    On 23 April, the investigative judge at the anti-terrorism judicial division summoned Souab for a hearing but imposed arbitrary restrictions on his legal representation, limiting the presence of his defense team to four lawyers despite dozens being present to represent him. Souab’s legal team boycotted the investigation in protest but the the judge proceeded to order his pre-trial detention for six months and Souab was transferred to the Mornaguia prison in Tunis.  Another hearing session with the judge was scheduled for Monday 28 April.

    The “conspiracy case” trial was marred by egregious fair trial violations. Lawyers highlighted that some defendants were never even formally notified of the indictment against them.

    The first hearing on 4 March, proceeded without the defendants present after the court vaguely cited a “real danger” and insisted on online participation from prison, a decision vehemently opposed by the detainees and their lawyers. In the second hearing, on 18 April, observers from civil society, embassies, international NGOs, and independent media were barred from attending the session, with only one family member per defendant allowed entry.

    The third and final hearing on 18 April lasted less than a minute, with no opportunity for the defendants to be heard, no statements from the defense lawyers or cross-examinations allowed. In an unprecedented move, during the session the judge removed the names of three defendants from the list of defendants in this case and deferred their trials.

    Among those given exorbitant sentences were businessman Kamel Ltaeif (74 years), and opposition figures Noureddine Bhiri (43 years), Khayyam Turki (38 years), Jaouhar Ben Mbarek, Issam Chebbi, Ghazi Chaouachi, and Chaima Issa (all 18 years), Abdelhamid Jelassi, Sahbi Atig, Said Ferjani (all 13 years) in addition to human rights defenders such as Bochra Bel Haj Hmida (43 years) and Ayachi Hammami (eight years).

    “The farcical nature of this trial, evidenced by the lack of respect of the presumption of innocence, the absence of the accused, the exclusion of observers, and the denial of any meaningful opportunity for defense illustrates a blatant disregard of human rights, including the right to a fair trial that Tunisia is obligated to uphold,” said Sara Hashash.

    Amnesty International has documented a worrying trend of targeting lawyers representing members of political opposition groups, activists, and human rights defenders in Tunisia, including those involved in the defense of the conspiracy case detainees. Disturbingly, President Kais Saied himself appeared to interfere with the judicial process, publicly stating in February 2023 that history had proven the detainees guilty before the courts and warning against anyone who might exonerate them. Such statements undermine the independence of the judiciary and have a direct effect on the work of defense lawyers. 

    “Undermining the independence of the legal profession and targeting lawyers who represent victims of human rights violations represents yet another serious setback to the right to legal defense and other fair trial guarantees in Tunisia,” said Sara Hashash.

    “Legal professionals should be able to carry out their duties and express themselves freely without intimidation, harassment, or fear of retaliation.” 

    Tunisian authorities must end the harassment and intimidation of lawyers and ensure they can perform their professional functions without fear of reprisal, in line with international standards, including the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers.

    Authorities must also quash the unjust convictions and sentences in the “conspiracy case” and cease the politically motivated prosecutions of critics, political opponents, and human rights defenders. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Sweeps into Action to Protect Child from Tren De Aragua Parents 

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Sweeps into Action to Protect Child from Tren De Aragua Parents 

    The child’s father, Maiker Espinoza-Escalona is a lieutenant of Tren De Aragua who oversees homicides, drug sales, kidnappings, extortion, sex trafficking and operates a torture house

    The child’s mother, Yorely Escarleth Bernal Inciarte oversees recruitment of young women for drug smuggling and prostitution

    These criminal illegal aliens entered the country illegally and had final orders of removal from a judge

    Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, both of these criminal gang members have been removed from our country

    In partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, the child was taken off the deportation flight manifest for her safety and welfare

    The child remains in the care and custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement and is currently placed with a foster family

    The previous administration allowed many children who came across the border unaccompanied to be placed with sponsors who were actually smugglers and sex traffickers

    In less than 100 days, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have already reunited over 5,000 unaccompanied children with a relative or safe guardian

    Statement attributable to a senior DHS official: 

    “Thanks to President Trump, these Tren De Aragua gang members have been removed from our country

    Due to the violent criminal activities of the parents including operating a torture house, sex trafficking, and kidnapping the child was removed from their custody

    We will not allow this child to be abused and continue to be exposed to criminal activity that endangers her safety

    President Trump and Secretary Noem take their responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement and the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that children are safe from abuse, sexual exploitation, and trafficking

    ”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Milwaukee Judge Obstructed Arrest of Illegal Alien Accused of Strangulation, Battery, and Domestic Abuse

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Milwaukee Judge Obstructed Arrest of Illegal Alien Accused of Strangulation, Battery, and Domestic Abuse

    On April 18, 2025, ICE assisted by deputized FBI law enforcement officials carried out a targeted operation to arrest Ruiz at the Milwaukee County Courthouse

    Judge Dugan intentionally misdirected ICE agents away from this criminal illegal alien to obstruct the arrest and try to help him evade arrest

    Thankfully, our FBI partners chased down this illegal alien, arrested him and removed him from American communities

    Image

    Statement From Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin: 

    “This criminal illegal alien has a laundry list of violent criminal charges including strangulation and suffocation, battery, and domestic abuse

    Ruiz illegally entered the US twice

    “Since President Trump was inaugurated, activist judges have tried to obstruct President Trump and the American people’s mandate to make America safe and secure our homeland— but this judge’s actions to shield an accused violent criminal illegal alien from justice is shocking and shameful

    “We are thankful for our partners at the FBI for helping remove this accused criminal from America’s streets

    If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you and lock you up

    That’s a promise

    ” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lunar Space Station for NASA’s Artemis Campaign to Begin Final Testing

    Source: NASA

    NASA continues to mark progress on plans to work with commercial and international partners as part of the Gateway program. The primary structure of HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost) arrived at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Gilbert, Arizona, where it will undergo final outfitting and verification testing.
    HALO will provide Artemis astronauts with space to live, work, and conduct scientific research. The habitation module will be equipped with essential systems including command and control, data handling, energy storage, power distribution, and thermal regulation.
    Following HALO’s arrival on April 1 from Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy, where it was assembled, NASA and Northrop Grumman hosted an April 24 event to acknowledge the milestone, and the module’s significance to lunar exploration. The event opened with remarks by representatives from Northrop Grumman and NASA, including NASA’s Acting Associate Administrator for Exploration Systems Development Lori Glaze, Gateway Program Manager Jon Olansen, and NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik. Event attendees, including Senior Advisor to the NASA Administrator Todd Ericson, elected officials, and local industry and academic leaders, viewed HALO and virtual reality demonstrations during a tour of the facilities.

    While the module is in Arizona, HALO engineers and technicians will install propellant lines for fluid transfer and electrical lines for power and data transfer. Radiators will be attached for the thermal control system, as well as racks to house life support hardware, power equipment, flight computers, and avionics systems. Several mechanisms will be mounted to enable docking of the Orion spacecraft, lunar landers, and visiting spacecraft.
    Launching on top of HALO is the ESA (European Space Agency)-provided Lunar Link system which will enable communication between crewed and robotic systems on the Moon and to mission control on Earth. Once these systems are installed, the components will be tested as an integrated spacecraft and subjected to thermal vacuum, acoustics, vibration, and shock testing to ensure the spacecraft is ready to perform in the harsh conditions of deep space.
    In tandem with HALO’s outfitting at Northrop Grumman, the Power and Propulsion Element – a powerful solar electric propulsion system – is being assembled at Maxar Space Systems in Palo Alto, California. Solar electric propulsion uses energy collected from solar panels converted to electricity to create xenon ions, then accelerates them to more than 50,000 miles per hour to create thrust that propels the spacecraft.
    The element’s central cylinder, which resembles a large barrel, is being attached to the propulsion tanks, and avionics shelves are being installed. The first of three 12-kilowatt thrusters has been delivered to NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland for acceptance testing before delivery to Maxar and integration with the Power and Propulsion Element later this year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Jones Road Wildfire in New Jersey

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>New York, N.Y. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 2 Acting Regional Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on April 24 at 9:27 p.m. to assist the state of New Jersey in combating the Jones Road Wildfire, currently burning in Ocean County, New Jersey.
    On April 24, the state of New Jersey submitted a request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, approximately 15,000 acres were burning. 
    The fire threatened approximately 1.845 structures in the state, including approximately 1,320 homes located mostly within Lacey and Ocean Townships, in Ocean County, combined population of more than 38,000. The fire started on April 22, 2025, and has burned in excess 15,000 acres of state and private land. 
    The authorization makes federal funding available to pay up to 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.
    FMAGs are provided through the Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Building the new northern section of the A33 motorway through a Natura 2000 site – E-001537/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001537/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

    Germany is planning to build a new northern section of the A33 motorway in the Osnabrück area. Building that section is termed a motorway completion measure. The plan is for the section to run from the current motorway endpoint in Belm municipality and link up with the A1 motorway at Bramsche. The motorway will run through predominantly agricultural areas in Belm municipality and through residential parts of the village of Rulle in Wallenhorst municipality. The new section will cross a Natura 2000 site: the Wiehengebirge bat habitat near Osnabrück (EEA-ID DE3614334). As a Natura 2000 site will be affected by construction of the new section, the Commission’s approval is required.

    • 1.When Germany applies for authorisation, does the Commission intend to check whether there is sufficient provision for the requisite coherence measures?
    • 2.In the Commission’s view, can a Natura 2000 site be called into question at all by Member States and, if so, how does the Commission intend to ensure that equivalent sites are designated in the immediate vicinity of the Natura 2000 site affected that afford precisely the same protected status?
    • 3.If Germany’s application is approved, does the Commission intend to press for a speed limit to be introduced so as to safeguard the Natura 2000 site, since the types of habitat there are subject to nitrogen pollution, which is very high in some instances, and a speed limit might possibly provide a remedy?

    Submitted: 15.4.2025

    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom on new DOGE action to dismantle AmeriCorps: ‘We will serve the federal government with a lawsuit’

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 25, 2025

    What you need to know: DOGE is ramping up its work to dismantle AmeriCorps. California will sue to stop it.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement after California received notice from the federal government of termination of its AmeriCorps grant programs which support volunteer and service efforts.

    The federal government is giving the middle finger to service. We will serve them with a lawsuit.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Last week, Governor Newsom announced that as the Trump Administration dismantles the AmeriCorps service program, California will both challenge the illegal action in court and accelerate recruitment for the California Service Corps program — already the largest service corps in the nation, surpassing the size of the Peace Corps.

    When the devastating fires struck Los Angeles earlier this year, AmeriCorps members were on the ground, distributing supplies and supporting families. The agency’s shutdown hamstrings these efforts.

    California Service Corps is the largest service force in the nation, consisting of four paid service programs:   

    Combined, it is a force larger than the Peace Corps and is mobilized at a time when California is addressing post-pandemic academic recovery, rebuilding from the LA fires and planning for the future of the state’s workforce. The federal government provides more than half of the funding for California Climate Action Corps and about 5% of College Corps, while the state fully funds the Youth Service Corps.

    In the 2023-24 service year, 6,264 AmeriCorps members in California: 

    • Provided 4,397,674 hours of service
    • Tutored/mentored 73,833 students
    • Supported 17,000 foster youth with education and employment  
    • Planted 39,288 trees

    Members helped 26,000 households impacted by the LA fires and packed 21,000 food boxes.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 25, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Suzanne Martindale, of Oakland, has been appointed Chief Deputy Commissioner at the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. Martindale has been the Senior Deputy…

    Apr 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: More Californians than ever are connecting with earthquake warning services as the MyShake app reaches over 4 million downloads. SACRAMENTO – During Earthquake Preparedness Month, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced a major milestone: the…

    Apr 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is working with state, local, and federal agencies in a historic project to repopulate the North Yuba River with native fish and help protect the state’s waterways and ecosystems.  MARYSVILLE – Governor Gavin Newsom announced a…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Led with Compassion During COVID-19, Sharing 300 Million Vaccines Globally: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India

    India Led with Compassion During COVID-19, Sharing 300 Million Vaccines Globally: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal addresses World Health Summit Regional Meeting in New Delhi

    India’s vaccine diplomacy and Ayushman Bharat show commitment to global health equity, says Union Minister

    Govt committed towards ensuring public health, more than 620 million people are now eligible for free healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat scheme: Shri Goyal

    Posted On: 27 APR 2025 8:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal addressed the World Health Summit (WHS) Regional Meeting Asia 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Shri Goyal highlighted India’s proactive and compassionate global response during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Vaccine Maitri initiative, India provided nearly 300 million vaccine doses to less developed and vulnerable countries — many free of cost — ensuring no nation was left behind. Shri Goyal emphasized that unlike many other nations that imposed export controls during COVID-19, India prioritized equitable access for all, staying true to its ancient ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the world is one family.”

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Goyal expressed gratitude that the first WHS Regional Meeting in Asia was focused on “Scaling Access to Ensure Health Equity”. He noted that access to quality healthcare is a critical part of sustainable development and shared India’s journey in achieving greater healthcare access for all.

    The Minister recalled personal interactions with global leaders during the pandemic, noting how India ensured the supply of critical medicines at fair prices, resisting the trend of profit-making from global health crises.

    Addressing the theme of Health Equity, Shri Goyal strongly criticized attempts to extend pharmaceutical patents through minor incremental innovations, which, he said, could deprive millions of access to affordable medicines. He urged the WHS delegates to experience firsthand India’s efforts to deliver quality healthcare even in remote regions.

    Shri Goyal highlighted that more than 620 million people are now eligible for free healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the world’s largest government-sponsored health insurance program, emphasizing that India’s commitment was never driven by profit but by compassion.

    Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shri Goyal said, “For us, healthcare is not just curing a sick patient. Healthcare is preventive healthcare, it is wellness, it is mental healthcare, and it means bridging society under the umbrella of a better lifestyle and a better future.”

    He elaborated on India’s holistic approach to human welfare, highlighting the Swachh Bharat Mission which ensures dignity and sanitation, especially for women; the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, with over 40 million homes already built and millions more underway; the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has expanded tap water access from 30 million to 160 million rural homes; the Ujjwala Yojana, providing free cooking gas connections to protect women from indoor air pollution; and the distribution of free food grains to 800 million citizens during and beyond the pandemic.

    Shri Goyal asserted that physical health, mental wellness, clean environments, quality education, digital connectivity, and economic empowerment together form the basis of a truly healthy society.

    He closed by reaffirming India’s commitment to the global health agenda and called upon all nations to work together towards a healthier, more equitable future for every citizen of the world.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijjith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2124745) Visitor Counter : 109

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Five property owners fined over $470,000 in total for not complying with statutory orders

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Five property owners were convicted and fined over $470,000 in total by the court this month for failing to comply with statutory orders issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123).

    The first case involved an unauthorised structure with an area of about 24 square metres on a flat roof and an opening formed at an enclosure wall of a common corridor of a residential building on Boundary Street, Kowloon. The unauthorised building works (UBWs) and the alteration works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD) and affected the fire-resisting construction of the building, which contravened the BO and the Building (Construction) Regulation. Therefore, a removal order was served on the two co-owners under section 24(1) of the BO.

    Failing to comply with the removal order, the two co-owners were prosecuted by the BD and were fined $103,800 in total, of which $93,800 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on April 9. 

    The second case involved an alteration of four units into mini-storages in an industrial building at Kin Wing Lane, Tuen Mun, while the third case involved the alteration of five units into mini-storages in an industrial building at Ng Fong Street and Sze Mei Street, Kowloon. These alteration and addition works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the BD and obstructed the means of escape and access for fire fighting and rescues, while affecting the fire-resisting construction of the building, which contravened the Building (Planning) Regulations and the Building (Construction) Regulation. The alterations also rendered the building as dangerous, therefore removal orders and repair orders were served on the owners concerned under section 24(1) and section 26 of the BO.

    Failing to comply with the removal orders and the repair orders, the two owners in the second case were prosecuted by the BD and were fined $259,500 in total, of which $151,500 was the fine for the number of days that the offences continued, upon conviction at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on April 11, whereas the owner of the third case was fined $114,440 in total, of which $88,440 was the fine for the number of days that the offences continued, upon conviction at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on April 16.

    A spokesman for the BD said today (April 28), “UBWs, including unauthorised alterations causing obstruction to the means of escape and means of access for fire fighting and rescues, or affecting the fire-resisting construction of a building, may lead to serious consequences. The owners concerned must comply with the statutory orders issued by the BD without delay. The BD will continue to take enforcement action against owners who fail to comply with statutory orders, including instigation of prosecution, to ensure building safety.”

    Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $20,000 for each day that the offence continues. Moreover, failure to comply with a repair order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of level 5 ($50,000 at present) and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $5,000 for each day that the offence continues.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Syria: Fragile Transition and Humanitarian Crisis Demand Immediate Action | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Following the raising of Syria’s new three starred flag at United Nations Headquarters, the Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, today (25 Apr) told the Security Council that “the legacy of misrule, conflict, abuses and poverty from which Syria is trying to emerge is one of the heaviest that any state or people anywhere has had to face in modern times”, which means “that the situation is inherently still extremely fragile.”

    Pedersen said, “it’s only four and a half months since the fall of the former regime and the opening of a new chapter in Syria’s history,” and saluted the Syrian people, “who amidst continued suffering and many uncertainties and dangers show overwhelmingly that they want this political transition to succeed.”

    He told Council members that Syria “expanded and more diverse” cabinet “is indeed an improvement from what went before, yet it is still not fully inclusive framework for a political transition.”

    Pedersen said, “this leaves many Syrians unsure of their place in the new emerging new Syria.

    He informed the Council that he had met with members of Syria’s Alawite community, “who conveyed their deep concerns and presented harrowing accounts of violence.”

    During his talks with Syrian President Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, Pedersen said, this issue was discussed “at length.”

    The Special Envoy told the Council that “the sense of grievance still exists on both sides. A deep feeling of exclusion from the political process and the public sector, on one side, but also profound grievances towards persons associated with the former regime on the other.”

    He said the interim authority “needs to ensure that all segments of Syrian society are not only protected but also feel that they will be full participants in political life and state structures, including in terms of security.”

    For her part, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Joyce Msuya told the Council that nearly three quarters of the population in Syria are in need and seven million of them are displaced.

    She said, “we need to sustain momentum for investment in Syria’s recovery and development. Without this, this scale of humanitarian needs will far exceed our ability to respond to them. Millions of refugees and internally displaced persons who have expressed their desire to return home will continue to be dissuaded by a lack of basic services in livelihood opportunities, and the hope to seize this critical opportunity to build a more prosperous future risks slipping away.”

    Since the start of the year, 960 trucks have delivered aid through the cross-border operation from Türkiye – that’s more trucks than during the whole of 2024.

    Syria’s new Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani – who was present during the raising of the new flag, said, “this day came only after great sacrifices. After a march of blood and tears. Hundreds of thousands have been killed and disappeared. Disappeared without a trace in the prisons of the Assad regime. This day is theirs as it is ours. We will never forget them. And we will continue to work tirelessly to achieve peace and justice for them.”

    Outside the Council, talking to reporters, Pedersen said, “we need to see more inclusiveness on the side of the government. That’s sort of what they need to do. And then the international community needs really to get its act together on sanctions and humanitarian assistance, because as you heard from the new Foreign Minister, he emphasised very clearly that Syrians do not want to be dependent on foreign aid, they want to see it developing their own economy.”

    The key challenge, he said, are “the American sanctions,” and welcomed contacts between, the new Syrian government and the American administration.

    Pedersen said, “let’s hope that that will lead to some positive developments on this, because, as you rightly said, it’s absolutely critical.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bStb01IqjA0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes smuggled goods worth about $4 million (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs seizes smuggled goods worth about $4 million  
    Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs discovered that criminals intended to use ocean-going vessels to smuggle goods. Enforcement operations were thus formulated, with two suspicious containers scheduled to depart from Hong Kong to Iraq and Malaysia via ocean-going vessels being selected for inspection.
     
    Customs inspected the two abovementioned containers that were declared as carrying shoes, clothes and bags, and metal copper plate and integrated circuit parts on April 11 and 17. Upon examinations, Customs officers found large batches of suspected smuggled goods, including household products, small electrical appliances, kitchenware and printed circuit boards in the containers.

    An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.
     
    Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to disrupt relevant crimes.
     
    Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 17:16

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Office of Licensing Authority of Home Affairs Department steps up enforcement actions against unlicensed guesthouses during Easter holidays and before Labour Day holidays (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Office of Licensing Authority of Home Affairs Department steps up enforcement actions against unlicensed guesthouses during Easter holidays and before Labour Day holidays (with photo) 
    A spokesman for the OLA said, “Based on intelligence gathered, the OLA carried out surprise inspections on 12 premises. Ten premises were suspected of operating unlicensed hotels or guesthouses. The OLA will initiate prosecution on cases with sufficient evidence after completion of the investigation.”
     
    The spokesman stressed, “Operating unlicensed hotels or guesthouses is a criminal offence, and such an offence leads to a criminal record upon conviction. According to the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance, an offender is liable to three years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $500,000. A fine of $20,000 for each day can also be imposed during which the offence continues. A six-month closure order may also be issued for a hotel or guesthouse involved in a repeated offence.”
     
    Apart from conducting special operations during festive seasons, the OLA also steps up efforts to combat unlicensed guesthouses via online platforms. The OLA has strengthened its intelligence collection by forming a dedicated team to browse webpages, mobile applications, social media, discussion forums, etc, to search for information and intelligence on suspected unlicensed guesthouses. The OLA’s law enforcement officers will initiate follow-up investigations when information of unlicensed guesthouses advertised via online platforms is found. The OLA also conducts publicity work on Internet search engines outside Hong Kong to enable tourists’ access to the information provided by the OLA in the course of planning their trips to Hong Kong.
     
    Tourists and members of the public can make use of the search functions on the OLA’s website to check whether the hotel or guesthouse concerned is licensed or not. Any suspected unlicensed hotel or guesthouse should be reported to the OLA by the hotline (Tel: 2881 7498), by email (hadlaenq@had.gov.hkIssued at HKT 17:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Communications Authority grants consent to CMHK to cease its 3G services

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Communications Authority grants consent to CMHK to cease its 3G services 
         Having considered various relevant factors, the CA approved the application pursuant to Special Condition 10.4 of CMHK’s Unified Carrier Licence. These include the very low proportion of customers affected (including customers of 3G pre-paid services and those who are still using 3G handsets/devices for connection to CMHK’s network), and CMHK’s provision of support services for the affected customers such as offers to upgrade service plans or to replace handsets/devices. For customers who choose not to continue the service or not to replace their handsets/devices, CMHK has made reasonable service termination arrangements and provided them with sufficient advance notification and customer service support. Moreover, the CA has required CMHK to maintain satisfactory 3G services until the scheduled service cessation date.
     
         Affected customers may refer to the relevant press releaseIssued at HKT 16:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Provident Financial Holdings Reports Third Quarter of Fiscal Year 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Net Income of $1.86 million in the March 2025 Quarter, Up 113% from the Sequential Quarter and Up 24% from the Comparable Quarter Last Year

    Net Interest Margin of 3.02% in the March 2025 Quarter, Up 11 Basis Points from the Sequential Quarter and 28 Basis Points from the Comparable Quarter Last Year

    Loans Held for Investment of $1.06 Billion at March 31, 2025, Up 1% from June 30, 2024

    Total Deposits of $901.3 Million at March 31, 2025, Up 2% from June 30, 2024

    Non-Performing Assets to Total Assets Ratio of 0.11% at March 31, 2025, Down from 0.20% at June 30, 2024

    RIVERSIDE, Calif., April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Provident Financial Holdings, Inc. (“Company”), NASDAQ GS: PROV, the holding company for Provident Savings Bank, F.S.B. (“Bank”), today announced earnings for the third quarter of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

    The Company reported net income of $1.86 million, or $0.28 per diluted share (on 6.73 million average diluted shares outstanding), for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, up 24 percent from net income of $1.50 million, or $0.22 per diluted share (on 6.94 million average diluted shares outstanding), in the comparable period a year ago. The increase was due primarily to a $653,000 increase in net interest income and a $391,000 recovery of credit losses (in contrast to a $124,000 provision for credit losses in the comparable period a year ago), partly offset by a $688,000 increase in non-interest expense (primarily attributable to higher salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses).

    “The operating environment for Provident has improved over the course of this fiscal year. Our net interest margin has improved each quarter subsequent to June 30, 2024, loan and deposit balances have grown for two consecutive quarters, borrowings have declined for two consecutive quarters, and credit quality remains strong,” stated Donavon P. Ternes, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. “We remain active in our stock repurchase plan and continue to maintain our quarterly cash dividend at a consistent level,” concluded Ternes.

    Return on average assets was 0.59 percent for the third quarter of fiscal 2025, compared to 0.28 percent in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 and 0.47 percent for the third quarter of fiscal 2024. Return on average stockholders’ equity for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was 5.71 percent, compared to 2.66 percent for the second quarter of fiscal 2025 and 4.57 percent for the third quarter of fiscal 2024.

    On a sequential quarter basis, the $1.86 million net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 reflects a 113 percent increase from $872,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2025. The increase was primarily attributable to a $391,000 recovery of credit losses (in contrast to a $586,000 provision for credit losses in the prior sequential quarter), and a $453,000 increase in net interest income (primarily due to a higher net interest margin). Diluted earnings per share for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 were $0.28 per share, up 115 percent from $0.13 per share in the second quarter of fiscal 2025.

    For the nine months ended March 31, 2025, net income decreased $769,000, or 14 percent, to $4.63 million from $5.40 million in the comparable period in fiscal 2024. Diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended March 31, 2025 decreased 12 percent to $0.68 per share (on 6.80 million average diluted shares outstanding) from $0.77 per share (on 6.98 million average diluted shares outstanding) for the comparable nine-month period last year. The decrease was primarily attributable to a $1.81 million increase in non-interest expense (primarily due to an increase in salaries and employee benefits, premises and occupancy, equipment and other operating expenses), partly offset by a $451,000 higher recovery of credit losses, a $177,000 increase in non-interest income and a $115,000 increase in net interest income.

    In the third quarter of fiscal 2025, net interest income increased $653,000 or eight percent to $9.21 million from $8.56 million for the same quarter last year. The increase in net interest income was due to a higher net interest margin, partly offset by a lower average balance of interest-earning assets. The net interest margin for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 increased 28 basis points to 3.02 percent from 2.74 percent in the same quarter last year. The increase in net interest margin was due to increased yields on interest-earning assets outpacing increased funding costs. The average yield on interest-earning assets increased 32 basis points to 4.73 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from 4.41 percent in the same quarter last year. In contrast, our average funding costs increased by five basis points to 1.91 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from 1.86 percent in the same quarter last year. The average balance of interest-earning assets decreased two percent to $1.22 billion in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $1.25 billion in the same quarter last year, primarily due to decreases in the average balance of investment securities and loans receivable, partly offset by an increase in interest-earning deposits.

    Interest income on loans receivable increased $685,000, or five percent, to $13.37 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $12.68 million in the same quarter of fiscal 2024. The increase was due to a higher average loan yield, partly offset by a lower average loan balance. The average yield on loans receivable increased 32 basis points to 5.06 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from 4.74 percent in the same quarter last year. Adjustable-rate loans of approximately $130.9 million repriced downward in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 by approximately four basis points, from a weighted average rate of 7.56 percent to 7.52 percent. However, the overall increase in average yield was driven by an upward repricing of adjustable mortgage loans during the last 12 months. The average balance of loans receivable decreased $14.6 million, or one percent, to $1.06 billion in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $1.07 billion in the same quarter last year. Total loans originated for investment in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 were $27.9 million, up 53 percent from $18.2 million in the same quarter last year, while loan principal payments received in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 were $23.0 million, down 19 percent from $28.5 million in the same quarter last year.

    Interest income from investment securities decreased $58,000, or 11 percent, to $459,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $517,000 for the same quarter of fiscal 2024. This decrease was attributable to a lower average balance, partly offset by a higher average yield. The average balance of investment securities decreased $23.0 million, or 16 percent, to $118.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $141.4 million in the same quarter last year. The decrease in the average balance was due to scheduled principal payments and prepayments of investment securities. The average yield on investment securities increased nine basis points to 1.55 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from 1.46 percent for the same quarter last year. The increase in the average yield was primarily attributable to a lower premium amortization during the current quarter in comparison to the same quarter last year ($86,000 vs. $124,000) due to lower total principal repayments ($5.3 million vs. $5.7 million) and, to a lesser extent, the upward repricing of adjustable-rate mortgage-backed securities.

    In the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the Bank received $213,000 in cash dividends from the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) – San Francisco stock and other equity investments, up one percent from $210,000 in the same quarter last year, resulting in an average yield of 8.30 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to 8.84 percent in the same quarter last year. The average balance of FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $10.3 million, up from $9.5 million in the same quarter of fiscal 2024.

    Interest income from interest-earning deposits, primarily cash deposited at the Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) of San Francisco, was $389,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, down $8,000 or two percent from $397,000 in the same quarter of fiscal 2024. The decrease was due to a lower average yield, partly offset by a higher average balance. The average yield earned on interest-earning deposits in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was 4.42 percent, down 98 basis points from 5.40 percent in the same quarter last year. The decrease in the average yield was due to a lower average interest rate on the FRB’s reserve balances resulting from decreases in the targeted federal funds rate during the comparable periods. The average balance of the Company’s interest-earning deposits increased $6.1 million, or 21 percent, to $35.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $29.1 million in the same quarter last year.

    Interest expense on deposits for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $2.75 million, an increase of $71,000 or three percent from $2.68 million for the same period last year. The increase was attributable to higher rates paid on deposits, partly offset by a lower average balance. The average cost of deposits was 1.26 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, up eight basis points from 1.18 percent in the same quarter last year, primarily due to a greater proportion of time deposits, including brokered certificates of deposit which carry higher interest rates. The average balance of deposits decreased $25.8 million, or three percent, to $885.0 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $910.8 million in the same quarter last year.

    Transaction account balances, or “core deposits,” decreased $23.1 million, or four percent, to $591.4 million at March 31, 2025 from $614.5 million at June 30, 2024, while time deposits increased $36.0 million, or 13 percent, to $309.9 million at March 31, 2025 from $273.9 million at June 30, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, brokered certificates of deposit (which amounts are reflected in time deposits above) totaled $129.8 million, down $2.0 million or two percent from $131.8 million at June 30, 2024. The weighted average cost of brokered certificates of deposit was 4.34 percent and 5.18 percent (including broker fees) at March 31, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively.

    Interest expense on borrowings, consisting of FHLB advances, for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 decreased $102,000, or four percent, to $2.47 million from $2.57 million for the same period last year. The decrease was primarily the result of a lower average cost and, to a lesser extent, a lower average balance. The average cost of borrowings decreased 11 basis points to 4.52 percent in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from 4.63 percent in the same quarter last year. The average balance of borrowings decreased $1.8 million, or one percent, to $221.8 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $223.6 million in the same quarter last year.

    At March 31, 2025, the Bank had approximately $269.8 million of remaining borrowing capacity at the FHLB. Additionally, the Bank has a remaining borrowing facility of approximately $151.0 million with the FRB of San Francisco and an unused unsecured federal funds borrowing facility of $50.0 million with its correspondent bank. The total available borrowing capacity across all sources totaled approximately $470.8 million at March 31, 2025.

    During the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the Company recorded a recovery of credit losses totaling $391,000, which included a $12,000 recovery related to unfunded loan commitment reserves. This compares to a $124,000 provision for credit losses in the same quarter last year and a $586,000 provision in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (sequential quarter). The recovery of credit losses recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was primarily attributable to improved qualitative factors related to single-family residential collateral, partly offset by a lengthening of the average loan life due to lower estimated loan prepayments as of March 31, 2025, compared to December 31, 2024.

    Non-performing assets, comprised solely of non-accrual loans secured by properties located in California, decreased $1.2 million or 46 percent to $1.4 million, which represented 0.11 percent of total assets at March 31, 2025, compared to $2.6 million, which represented 0.20 percent of total assets at June 30, 2024. At March 31, 2025, non-performing loans were comprised of seven single-family loans and one multi-family loan, while at June 30, 2024, non-performing loans were comprised of 10 single-family loans. At both dates, the Bank had no real estate owned and no loans 90 days or more past due that were still accruing interest. Additionally, there were no loan charge-offs during the quarters ended March 31, 2025 and 2024.

    The January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles, California did not have a material impact on the Company’s operations or the Bank’s customers. The Bank’s branches and facilities remained operational throughout the wildfire events, and there were no significant disruptions to customer services or business activities. Additionally, the Bank did not have any significant credit exposure or financial impact attributable to the wildfires.

    Classified assets were $6.8 million at March 31, 2025, consisting of $1.7 million of loans in the special mention category and $5.1 million of loans in the substandard category. Classified assets at June 30, 2024 were $5.8 million, consisting of $1.1 million of loans in the special mention category and $4.7 million of loans in the substandard category.

    The allowance for credit losses on loans held for investment was $6.6 million, or 0.62 percent of gross loans held for investment, at March 31, 2025, down from $7.1 million, or 0.67 percent of gross loans held for investment, at June 30, 2024. The decrease in the allowance for credit losses was due primarily to improved qualitative factors related to single-family residential collateral, partially offset by an increase in the estimated average life of the loan portfolio, reflecting lower loan prepayment expectations as of March 31, 2025. Management believes, based on currently available information, the allowance for credit losses is sufficient to absorb expected losses inherent in loans held for investment at March 31, 2025.

    Non-interest income increased by $59,000, or seven percent, to $907,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $848,000 in the same period last year, due primarily to a $43,000 increase in loan servicing and other fees and a $55,000 increase in other fees (primarily attributable to an increase in the unrealized gain on other equity investments). These increases were partly offset by decreases of $26,000 and $13,000 in card and processing fees and deposit account fees, respectively, primarily due to lower transaction volumes and reduced customer activity. On a sequential quarter basis, non-interest income increased $63,000, or seven percent, primarily due to an increase in loan servicing and other fees.

    Non-interest expense increased $688,000, or 10 percent, to $7.86 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 from $7.17 million for the same quarter last year, primarily due to a $236,000 increase in salaries and employee benefits expenses and a $235,000 increase in other operating expenses. The higher salaries and employee benefits expenses was primarily due to higher compensation expenses, a higher accrual adjustment for the supplemental executive retirement plan expense, higher group insurance expenses and higher equity incentive expenses, partly offset by a decrease in retirement plan benefit expenses. The increase in other operating expenses was primarily attributable to a $239,000 litigation settlement expense. On a sequential quarter basis, non-interest expense increased $62,000, or one percent as compared to $7.79 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, due primarily to the litigation settlement expense, partly offset by decreases in salaries and employee benefits expenses, premises and occupancy expenses and professional expenses.

    The Company’s efficiency ratio, defined as non-interest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and non-interest income, in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was 77.64 percent, a slight increase from 76.20 percent in the same quarter last year but an improvement from 81.15 percent in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (sequential quarter). The increase in the efficiency ratio during the current quarter in comparison to the comparable quarter last year was due to higher non-interest expense relative to total net interest income plus non-interest income.

    The Company’s provision for income taxes was $797,000 for the third quarter of fiscal 2025, up 29 percent from $620,000 in the same quarter last year and up 126 percent from $352,000 for the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (sequential quarter). The increase during the current quarter compared to both the sequential quarter and same quarter last year was due to an increase in pre-tax income. The effective tax rate in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was 30.0 percent as compared to 29.3 percent in the same quarter last year and 28.8 percent for the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (sequential quarter).

    The Company repurchased 51,869 shares of its common stock at an average cost of $15.30 per share during the quarter ended March 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2025, a total of 293,132 shares remained available for future purchase under the Company’s current repurchase program.

    The Bank currently operates 13 retail/business banking offices in Riverside County and San Bernardino County (Inland Empire).

    The Company will host a conference call for institutional investors and bank analysts on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (Pacific) to discuss its financial results. The conference call can be accessed by dialing 1-800-715-9871 and referencing Conference ID number 7361828. An audio replay of the conference call will be available through Tuesday, May 6, 2025 by dialing 1-800-770-2030 and referencing Conference ID number 7361828.

    For more financial information about the Company please visit the website at www.myprovident.com and click on the “Investor Relations” section.

    Safe-Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that the Company believes are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance or business. You should not place undue reliance on these statements as they are subject to various risks and uncertainties. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind these risks and uncertainties, as well as any cautionary statements the Company may make. Moreover, you should treat these statements as speaking only as of the date they are made and based only on information then actually known to the Company.

    There are a number of important factors that could cause future results to differ materially from historical performance and these forward-looking statements. Factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: adverse economic conditions in our local market areas or other markets where we have lending relationships; effects of employment levels, labor shortages, inflation, a recession or slowed economic growth; changes in the interest rate environment, including the increases and decreases in the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Board (the “Federal Reserve”) benchmark rate and the duration of such levels, which could adversely affect our revenues and expenses, the value of assets and obligations, and the availability and cost of capital and liquidity; the impact of inflation and the Federal Reserve monetary policy; the effects of any Federal government shutdown; credit risks of lending activities, including loan delinquencies, write-offs, changes in our allowance for credit losses (“ACL”), and provision for credit losses; increased competitive pressures, including repricing and competitors’ pricing initiatives, and their impact on our market position, loan, and deposit products; quality and composition of our securities portfolio and the impact of adverse changes in the securities markets; fluctuations in deposits; secondary market conditions for loans and our ability to sell loans in the secondary market; liquidity issues, including our ability to borrow funds or raise additional capital, if necessary; expectations regarding key growth initiatives and strategic priorities; the impact of bank failures or adverse developments at other banks and related negative press about the banking industry in general on investor and depositor sentiment; results of examinations of us by regulatory authorities, which may the possibility that any such regulatory authority may, among other things, institute a formal or informal enforcement action against us or our bank subsidiary which could require us to increase our ACL, write-down assets, change our regulatory capital position or affect our ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase deposits or impose additional requirements or restrictions on us, any of which could adversely affect our liquidity and earnings; legislative and regulatory changes, including changes in banking, securities and tax law, in regulatory policies and principles, or the interpretation of regulatory capital or other rules; use of estimates in determining the fair value of assets, which may prove incorrect; disruptions or security breaches, or other adverse events, failures or interruptions in or attacks on our information technology systems or on our third-party vendors; the potential for new or increased tariffs, trade restrictions or geopolitical tensions that could affect economic activity or specific industry sectors; staffing fluctuations in response to product demand or corporate implementation strategies; our ability to pay dividends on our common stock; environmental, social and governance goals; effects of climate change, severe weather events, natural disasters, pandemics, epidemics and other public health crises, acts of war or terrorism, civil unrest and other external events; and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other reports filed with and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which are available on our website at www.myprovident.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    We do not undertake and specifically disclaim any obligation to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. These risks could cause our actual results for fiscal 2025 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements by, or on behalf of us and could negatively affect our operating and stock price performance.

             

    Contacts:

    		   Donavon P. Ternes   Haryanto L. Sunarto
        President and   Interim Chief Financial Officer
        Chief Executive Officer   (951) 686-6060
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
    (Unaudited –In Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Information)
                                   
        March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
        2025
    		   2024
    		   2024
    		   2024
    		   2024
    Assets                              
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 50,915     $ 45,539     $ 48,193     $ 51,376     $ 51,731  
    Investment securities – held to maturity, at cost with no allowance for credit losses     113,617       118,888       124,268       130,051       135,971  
    Investment securities – available for sale, at fair value     1,681       1,750       1,809       1,849       1,935  
    Loans held for investment, net of allowance for credit losses of $6,577, $6,956, $6,329, $7,065 and $7,108, respectively; includes $1,032, $1,016, $1,082, $1,047 and $1,054 of loans held at fair value, respectively     1,058,980       1,053,603       1,048,633       1,052,979       1,065,761  
    Accrued interest receivable     4,263       4,167       4,287       4,287       4,249  
    FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments, includes $721, $650, $565, $540 and $0 of other equity investments at fair value, respectively     10,289       10,218       10,133       10,108       9,505  
    Premises and equipment, net     9,388       9,474       9,615       9,313       9,637  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     11,047       11,327       10,442       12,237       11,258  
    Total assets   $ 1,260,180     $ 1,254,966     $ 1,257,380     $ 1,272,200     $ 1,290,047  
                                   
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                              
    Liabilities:                              
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   $ 89,103     $ 85,399     $ 86,458     $ 95,627     $ 91,708  
    Interest-bearing deposits     812,216       782,116       777,406       792,721       816,414  
    Total deposits     901,319       867,515       863,864       888,348       908,122  
                                   
    Borrowings     215,580       245,500       249,500       238,500       235,000  
    Accounts payable, accrued interest and other liabilities     14,406       13,321       14,410       15,411       17,419  
    Total liabilities     1,131,305       1,126,336       1,127,774       1,142,259       1,160,541  
                                   
    Stockholders’ equity:                              
    Preferred stock, $.01 par value (2,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding)     —       —       —       —       —  
    Common stock, $.01 par value; (40,000,000 shares authorized; 18,229,615, 18,229,615, 18,229,615, 18,229,615 and 18,229,615 shares issued respectively; 6,653,822, 6,705,691, 6,769,247, 6,847,821 and 6,896,297 shares outstanding, respectively)     183       183       183       183       183  
    Additional paid-in capital     99,096       98,747       98,711       98,532       99,591  
    Retained earnings     211,701       210,779       210,853       209,914       208,923  
    Treasury stock at cost (11,573,793, 11,523,924, 11,460,368, 11,381,794, and 11,333,318 shares, respectively)     (182,121 )     (181,094 )     (180,155 )     (178,685 )     (179,183 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax     16       15       14       (3 )     (8 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     128,875       128,630       129,606       129,941       129,506  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 1,260,180     $ 1,254,966     $ 1,257,380     $ 1,272,200     $ 1,290,047  
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Unaudited – In Thousands, Except Per Share Information)
                             
        For the Quarter Ended   Nine Months Ended
           March 31,      March 31,
           2025
    		      2024      2025
    		      2024
    Interest income:                        
    Loans receivable, net   $ 13,368     $ 12,683   $ 39,441     $ 37,368  
    Investment securities     459       517     1,412       1,565  
    FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments     213       210     636       586  
    Interest-earning deposits     389       397     1,036       1,295  
    Total interest income     14,429       13,807     42,525       40,814  
                             
    Interest expense:                        
    Checking and money market deposits     46       90     150       219  
    Savings deposits     127       97     356       208  
    Time deposits     2,573       2,488     7,738       6,406  
    Borrowings     2,471       2,573     7,694       7,509  
    Total interest expense     5,217       5,248     15,938       14,342  
                             
    Net interest income     9,212       8,559     26,587       26,472  
    (Recovery of) provision for credit losses     (391 )     124     (502 )     (51 )
    Net interest income, after (recovery of) provision for credit losses     9,603       8,435     27,089       26,523  
                             
    Non-interest income:                        
    Loan servicing and other fees     135       92     299       195  
    Deposit account fees     276       289     856       876  
    Card and processing fees     291       317     911       1,003  
    Other     205       150     585       400  
    Total non-interest income     907       848     2,651       2,474  
                             
    Non-interest expense:                        
    Salaries and employee benefits     4,776       4,540     14,235       13,223  
    Premises and occupancy     880       835     2,748       2,641  
    Equipment     417       329     1,139       962  
    Professional     386       321     1,224       1,203  
    Sales and marketing     181       167     541       516  
    Deposit insurance premiums and regulatory assessments     195       190     568       596  
    Other     1,021       786     2,718       2,227  
    Total non-interest expense     7,856       7,168     23,173       21,368  
    Income before income taxes     2,654       2,115     6,567       7,629  
    Provision for income taxes     797       620     1,938       2,231  
    Net income   $ 1,857     $ 1,495   $ 4,629     $ 5,398  
                             
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.28     $ 0.22   $ 0.69     $ 0.77  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.28     $ 0.22   $ 0.68     $ 0.77  
    Cash dividends per share   $ 0.14     $ 0.14   $ 0.42     $ 0.42  
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations – Sequential Quarters
    (Unaudited – In Thousands, Except Per Share Information)
                                   
        For the Quarter Ended
        March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
           2025
    		      2024      2024
    		      2024
    		      2024
    Interest income:                              
    Loans receivable, net   $ 13,368     $ 13,050   $ 13,023     $ 12,826     $ 12,683
    Investment securities     459       471     482       504       517
    FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments     213       213     210       207       210
    Interest-earning deposits     389       287     360       379       397
    Total interest income     14,429       14,021     14,075       13,916       13,807
                                   
    Interest expense:                              
    Checking and money market deposits     46       51     53       71       90
    Savings deposits     127       117     112       105       97
    Time deposits     2,573       2,506     2,659       2,657       2,488
    Borrowings     2,471       2,588     2,635       2,632       2,573
    Total interest expense     5,217       5,262     5,459       5,465       5,248
                                   
    Net interest income     9,212       8,759     8,616       8,451       8,559
    (Recovery of) provision for credit losses     (391 )     586     (697 )     (12 )     124
    Net interest income, after (recovery of) provision for credit losses     9,603       8,173     9,313       8,463       8,435
                                   
    Non-interest income:                              
    Loan servicing and other fees     135       60     104       142       92
    Deposit account fees     276       282     298       278       289
    Card and processing fees     291       300     320       381       317
    Other     205       203     177       666       150
    Total non-interest income     907       845     899       1,467       848
                                   
    Non-interest expense:                              
    Salaries and employee benefits     4,776       4,826     4,633       4,419       4,540
    Premises and occupancy     880       917     951       945       835
    Equipment     417       379     343       347       329
    Professional     386       412     426       327       321
    Sales and marketing     181       187     173       193       167
    Deposit insurance premiums and regulatory assessments     195       190     183       184       190
    Other     1,021       883     814       757       786
    Total non-interest expense     7,856       7,794     7,523       7,172       7,168
    Income before income taxes     2,654       1,224     2,689       2,758       2,115
    Provision for income taxes     797       352     789       805       620
    Net income   $ 1,857     $ 872   $ 1,900     $ 1,953     $ 1,495
                                   
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.28     $ 0.13   $ 0.28     $ 0.28     $ 0.22
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.28     $ 0.13   $ 0.28     $ 0.28     $ 0.22
    Cash dividends per share   $ 0.14     $ 0.14   $ 0.14     $ 0.14     $ 0.14
                                   
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited – Dollars in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Information)
                               
        As of and For the  
        Quarter Ended   Nine Months Ended  
        March 31,   March 31,  
           2025      2024      2025      2024  
    SELECTED FINANCIAL RATIOS:                          
    Return on average assets     0.59 %   0.47 %   0.50 %   0.56 %
    Return on average stockholders’ equity     5.71 %   4.57 %   4.72 %   5.51 %
    Stockholders’ equity to total assets     10.23 %   10.04 %   10.23 %   10.04 %
    Net interest spread     2.82 %   2.55 %   2.74 %   2.64 %
    Net interest margin     3.02 %   2.74 %   2.92 %   2.80 %
    Efficiency ratio     77.64 %   76.20 %   79.26 %   73.82 %
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities     110.25 %   110.28 %   110.38 %   110.24 %
                               
    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA:                          
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.28   $ 0.22   $ 0.69   $ 0.77  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.28   $ 0.22   $ 0.68   $ 0.77  
    Book value per share   $ 19.37   $ 18.78   $ 19.37   $ 18.78  
    Shares used for basic EPS computation     6,679,808     6,919,397     6,753,060     6,968,353  
    Shares used for diluted EPS computation     6,732,794     6,935,053     6,796,743     6,981,223  
    Total shares issued and outstanding     6,653,822     6,896,297     6,653,822     6,896,297  
                               
    LOANS ORIGINATED FOR INVESTMENT:                          
    Mortgage loans:                          
    Single-family   $ 22,163   $ 8,946   $ 74,195   $ 30,058  
    Multi-family     4,087     5,865     15,772     17,586  
    Commercial real estate     1,135     2,172     2,760     8,047  
    Commercial business loans     500     1,250     550     1,250  
    Total loans originated for investment   $ 27,885   $ 18,233   $ 93,277   $ 56,941  
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited – Dollars in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Information)
                                     
        As of and For the  
        Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter  
        Ended   Ended   Ended   Ended   Ended  
           03/31/25      12/31/24      09/30/24      06/30/24      03/31/24  
    SELECTED FINANCIAL RATIOS:                                
    Return on average assets     0.59 %   0.28 %   0.61 %   0.62 %   0.47 %
    Return on average stockholders’ equity     5.71 %   2.66 %   5.78 %   5.96 %   4.57 %
    Stockholders’ equity to total assets     10.23 %   10.25 %   10.31 %   10.21 %   10.04 %
    Net interest spread     2.82 %   2.74 %   2.66 %   2.54 %   2.55 %
    Net interest margin     3.02 %   2.91 %   2.84 %   2.74 %   2.74 %
    Efficiency ratio     77.64 %   81.15 %   79.06 %   72.31 %   76.20 %
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities     110.25 %   110.52 %   110.34 %   110.40 %   110.28 %
                                     
    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA:                                
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.28   $ 0.13   $ 0.28   $ 0.28   $ 0.22  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.28   $ 0.13   $ 0.28   $ 0.28   $ 0.22  
    Book value per share   $ 19.37   $ 19.18   $ 19.15   $ 18.98   $ 18.78  
    Average shares used for basic EPS     6,679,808     6,744,653     6,833,125     6,867,521     6,919,397  
    Average shares used for diluted EPS     6,732,794     6,792,759     6,863,083     6,893,813     6,935,053  
    Total shares issued and outstanding     6,653,822     6,705,691     6,769,247     6,847,821     6,896,297  
                                     
    LOANS ORIGINATED FOR INVESTMENT:                                
    Mortgage loans:                                
    Single-family   $ 22,163   $ 29,583   $ 22,449   $ 10,862   $ 8,946  
    Multi-family     4,087     6,495     5,190     4,526     5,865  
    Commercial real estate     1,135     365     1,260     1,710     2,172  
    Construction     —     —     —     1,480     —  
    Commercial business loans     500     —     50     —     1,250  
    Total loans originated for investment   $ 27,885   $ 36,443   $ 28,949   $ 18,578   $ 18,233  
    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited – Dollars in Thousands)
                                     
           As of      As of      As of      As of      As of  
        03/31/25   12/31/24   09/30/24   06/30/24   03/31/24  
    ASSET QUALITY RATIOS AND DELINQUENT LOANS:                                
    Recourse reserve for loans sold   $ 23   $ 23   $ 23   $ 26   $ 31  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans held for investment   $ 6,577   $ 6,956   $ 6,329   $ 7,065   $ 7,108  
    Non-performing loans to loans held for investment, net     0.13 %   0.24 %   0.20 %   0.25 %   0.21 %
    Non-performing assets to total assets     0.11 %   0.20 %   0.17 %   0.20 %   0.17 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to gross loans held for investment     0.62 %   0.66 %   0.61 %   0.67 %   0.67 %
    Net loan charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans receivable (annualized)     — %   — %   — %   — %   — %
    Non-performing loans   $ 1,395   $ 2,530   $ 2,106   $ 2,596   $ 2,246  
    Loans 30 to 89 days delinquent   $ 199   $ 3   $ 2   $ 1   $ 388  
                                   
           Quarter      Quarter      Quarter      Quarter      Quarter
        Ended   Ended   Ended   Ended   Ended
        03/31/25   12/31/24   09/30/24   06/30/24   03/31/24
    (Recovery) recourse provision for loans sold   $ —     $ —   $ (3 )   $ (5 )   $ —
    (Recovery of) provision for credit losses   $ (391 )   $ 586   $ (697 )   $ (12 )   $ 124
    Net loan charge-offs (recoveries)   $ —     $ —   $ —     $ —     $ —
                           
           As of      As of      As of      As of      As of  
        03/31/2025   12/31/2024   09/30/2024   06/30/2024   03/31/2024  
    REGULATORY CAPITAL RATIOS (BANK):                      
    Tier 1 leverage ratio   9.85 % 9.81 % 9.63 % 10.02 % 9.70 %
    Common equity tier 1 capital ratio   19.01 % 18.60 % 18.36 % 19.29 % 18.77 %
    Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio   19.01 % 18.60 % 18.36 % 19.29 % 18.77 %
    Total risk-based capital ratio   20.03 % 19.67 % 19.35 % 20.38 % 19.85 %
                           
        As of March 31,  
           2025      2024  
           Balance      Rate(1)      Balance      Rate(1)  
    INVESTMENT SECURITIES:                      
    Held to maturity (at cost):                      
    U.S. SBA securities   $ 328   4.85 % $ 458   5.85 %
    U.S. government sponsored enterprise MBS     109,718   1.60     131,711   1.54  
    U.S. government sponsored enterprise CMO     3,571   2.13     3,802   2.16  
    Total investment securities held to maturity   $ 113,617   1.62 % $ 135,971   1.57 %
                           
    Available for sale (at fair value):                      
    U.S. government agency MBS   $ 1,119   4.72 % $ 1,274   3.72 %
    U.S. government sponsored enterprise MBS     482   6.91     570   6.05  
    Private issue CMO     80   6.10     91   4.96  
    Total investment securities available for sale   $ 1,681   5.41 % $ 1,935   4.46 %
    Total investment securities   $ 115,298   1.68 % $ 137,906   1.61 %

    (1) Weighted-average yield earned on all instruments included in the balance of the respective line item.

    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited – Dollars in Thousands)
                           
        As of March 31,  
           2025      2024  
           Balance      Rate(1)      Balance      Rate(1)  
    LOANS HELD FOR INVESTMENT:                      
    Mortgage loans:                      
    Single-family (1 to 4 units)   $ 545,377     4.66 % $ 517,039     4.39 %
    Multi-family (5 or more units)     429,547     5.47     457,401     5.14  
    Commercial real estate     75,349     6.63     83,136     6.36  
    Construction     837     11.00     2,745     8.81  
    Other     89     5.25     99     5.25  
    Commercial business loans     4,255     9.52     2,835     9.79  
    Consumer loans     52     17.50     60     18.50  
    Total loans held for investment     1,055,506     5.15 %   1,063,315     4.89 %
                           
    Advance payments of escrows     519           371        
    Deferred loan costs, net     9,532           9,183        
    Allowance for credit losses on loans     (6,577 )         (7,108 )      
    Total loans held for investment, net   $ 1,058,980         $ 1,065,761        
    Purchased loans serviced by others included above   $ 1,721     5.72 % $ 1,999     5.80 %

    (1) Weighted-average yield earned on all instruments included in the balance of the respective line item.

                           
        As of March 31,  
           2025      2024  
           Balance      Rate(1)      Balance      Rate(1)  
    DEPOSITS:                      
    Checking accounts – noninterest-bearing   $ 89,103   — % $ 91,708   — %
    Checking accounts – interest-bearing     248,392   0.04     275,920   0.04  
    Savings accounts     232,308   0.24     247,847   0.17  
    Money market accounts     21,640   0.16     26,715   0.41  
    Time deposits     309,876   3.57     265,932   3.89  
    Total deposits(2)(3)   $ 901,319   1.30 % $ 908,122   1.21 %
                           
    Brokered CDs included in time deposits above   $ 129,770   4.34 % $ 130,900   5.19 %
                           
    BORROWINGS:                      
    Overnight   $ 20,000   4.65 % $ —   — %
    Three months or less     22,500   4.17     59,500   5.28  
    Over three to six months     5,000   5.33     33,000   5.34  
    Over six months to one year     108,000   4.65     70,000   4.51  
    Over one year to two years     45,000   4.66     42,500   4.62  
    Over two years to three years     80   4.50     15,000   4.87  
    Over three years to four years     15,000   4.41     —   —  
    Over four years to five years     —   —     15,000   4.41  
    Over five years     —   —     —   —  
    Total borrowings(4)   $ 215,580   4.60 % $ 235,000   4.86 %

    (1) Weighted-average rate paid on all instruments included in the balance of the respective line item.
    (2) Includes uninsured deposits of approximately $162.2 million (of which, $57.1 million are collateralized) and $136.4 million (of which, $9.2 million are collateralized) at March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
    (3) The average balance of deposit accounts was approximately $37 thousand and $34 thousand at March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
    (4) The Bank had approximately $269.8 million and $269.2 million of remaining borrowing capacity at the FHLB – San Francisco, approximately $151.0 million and $172.7 million of borrowing capacity at the FRB of San Francisco and $50.0 million and $50.0 million of borrowing capacity with its correspondent bank at March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    PROVIDENT FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited – Dollars in Thousands)
                             
        For the Quarter Ended   For the Quarter Ended  
        March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024  
           Balance      Rate(1)      Balance      Rate(1)  
    SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS:                        
                             
    Loans receivable, net   $ 1,056,441     5.06 % $ 1,071,004   4.74 %
    Investment securities     118,431     1.55     141,390   1.46  
    FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments     10,268     8.30     9,505   8.84  
    Interest-earning deposits     35,182     4.42     29,099   5.40  
    Total interest-earning assets   $ 1,220,322     4.73 % $ 1,250,998   4.41 %
    Total assets   $ 1,251,168         $ 1,281,975      
                             
    Deposits(2)   $ 885,032     1.26 % $ 910,781   1.18 %
    Borrowings     221,787     4.52     223,632   4.63  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities(2)   $ 1,106,819     1.91 % $ 1,134,413   1.86 %
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 130,081         $ 130,906      

    (1) Weighted-average yield earned or rate paid on all instruments included in the balance of the respective line item.
    (2) Includes the average balance of noninterest-bearing checking accounts of $88.4 million and $91.0 million during the quarters ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The average balance of uninsured deposits of $131.2 million and $139.0 million in the quarters ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

                             
        Nine Months Ended   Nine Months Ended  
           March 31, 2025      March 31, 2024  
           Balance      Rate(1)      Balance      Rate(1)  
    SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS:                        
                             
    Loans receivable, net   $ 1,050,748     5.00 % $ 1,072,741   4.64 %
    Investment securities     123,983     1.52     147,445   1.42  
    FHLB – San Francisco stock and other equity investments     10,186     8.33     9,505   8.22  
    Interest-earning deposits     28,404     4.79     31,538   5.38  
    Total interest-earning assets   $ 1,213,321     4.67 % $ 1,261,229   4.31 %
    Total assets   $ 1,243,635         $ 1,291,902      
                             
    Deposits(2)   $ 876,176     1.25 % $ 921,905   0.99 %
    Borrowings     223,087     4.59     222,206   4.50  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities(2)   $ 1,099,263     1.93 % $ 1,144,111   1.67 %
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 130,911         $ 130,686      

    (1) Weighted-average yield earned or rate paid on all instruments included in the balance of the respective line item.
    (2) Includes the average balance of noninterest-bearing checking accounts of $88.4 million and $98.9 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The average balance of uninsured deposits of $127.5 million and $139.1 million in the nine months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    ASSET QUALITY:

                                   
           As of      As of      As of      As of      As of
        03/31/25   12/31/24   09/30/24   06/30/24   03/31/24
    Loans on non-accrual status                              
    Mortgage loans:                              
    Single-family   $ 925   $ 2,530   $ 2,106   $ 2,596   $ 2,246
    Multi-family     470     —     —     —     —
    Total     1,395     2,530     2,106     2,596     2,246
                                   
    Accruing loans past due 90 days or more:     —     —     —     —     —
    Total     —     —     —     —     —
                                   
    Total non-performing loans (1)     1,395     2,530     2,106     2,596     2,246
                                   
    Real estate owned, net     —     —     —     —     —
    Total non-performing assets   $ 1,395   $ 2,530   $ 2,106   $ 2,596   $ 2,246

    (1) The non-performing loan balances are net of individually evaluated or collectively evaluated allowances, specifically attached to the individual loans.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Web3 Giants Bitget and Avalanche Join Forces to Boost Web3 Ecosystem in India

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW DELHI, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading crypto exchange and web3 company announced a strategic collaboration with Avalanche®, the fastest and most reliable smart contracts platform in the world. Bitget and Avalanche are leaders in the field of digital asset trading and blockchain technology respectively and the partnership is aimed at leveraging the combined strength of both global brands to enable grassroots adoption of web3 technology.

    Avalanche is investing aggressively in the Indian region, working closely with more government agencies on welfare projects and rolling out a mini grants program to encourage builders of all stages to build on their platforms. Bitget’s Blockchain4youth program has pledged $10 million over 5 years offering scholarships, workshops and hackathons to the web3 community in India and across the globe. Bitget’s Blockchain4Her initiative is aimed at supporting women-led web3 projects in India and across the globe.

    The first leg of the program kicked off with the ‘HODL ON’ tour which conducted their first 2 meetup events in Delhi & Bangalore with the mutual agenda to boost education & knowledge about blockchain & cryptocurrencies in the region.

    Commenting on the development, Devika Mittal, Regional Head at Ava Labs, said India has a very robust web3 community. Our goal with events is to provide a space to any web3 enthusiast – whether in Delhi or Varanasi or anywhere else – to connect and build. She emphasized that in 2025 down the year lots of L1s are launching on avalanche & promising very strong activity from builders across the board is expected.

    Commenting on the development Jyotsna Hridyani, South Asia Head at Bitget, said “Empowering users with the right knowledge is essential to unlocking the full potential of blockchain in India’s digital future. At Bitget, we’re committed to bridging this gap through community programs, partnerships with universities, and accessible learning tools.”

    The goal of the partnership is to widen the reach for awareness across cities in India via more such events & workshops to educate the youth on the potential benefits & applications of blockchain technology. Bitget and Avalanche both have committed to partner for more such initiatives & investments for the rest of 2025.

    Global companies like Bitget and Avalanche are betting big on India as it is the world’s top nation in terms of crypto adoption and the second-largest market for web3 developers. India’s tech talent is capable of delivering world class web3 applications if supported by timely grants, experienced mentorship and global exposure. India is home to more than 1000 web3 startups and Bitget’s mission is to double this number in 2025 through dedicated funding and mentorship channels. The ‘HODL ON’ tour offers a unique platform for web3 startups in India to showcase their work and secure funding to succeed in their respective field.

    Commenting on the success of Delhi and Bangalore chapter Akshay Aggarwal, Co-founder & Leading Contributor, Blockchained India, added, “India, with its scale and digital depth, has a unique opportunity to shape how Web3 delivers real value — especially across consumer and enterprise applications. At Blockchained India, we’ve always believed that relevance is earned through consistent action — not noise. This is an inflection point. Let’s continue building with those who see long-term value and are committed to shaping what Web3 can truly become for the masses.”

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    About Avalanche
    Avalanche® is the fastest, most reliable smart contracts platform in the world. Its revolutionary consensus protocol and novel L1s enable Web3 developers to easily launch highly-scalable solutions. Deploy on the EVM, or use your own custom VM. Build anything you want, any way you want, on the eco-friendly blockchain designed for Web3 devs. Avalanche® is an open-source platform for launching decentralized finance applications and enterprise blockchain deployments in one interoperable, highly scalable ecosystem. Avalanche uses Proof-of-Stake, which allows tens of thousands of validators to have a first-hand say in the system while consuming minimal energy. For more information, visit https://www.avax.network/

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36d45783-de7b-416e-90f7-362c8ccc1c3f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Malta: Victoria Busby

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Change of British High Commissioner to Malta: Victoria Busby

    Mrs Victoria Busby OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Malta.

    Mrs Victoria Busby OBE

    Mrs Victoria Busby OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Malta in succession to Ms Katherine Ward LVO OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mrs Busby will take up her appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Victoria Alice Markland Busby

    Year Role
    2020 to present FCDO, Director of Protocol and Vice-Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps
    2019 to 2020 Cabinet Office, Chief Operating Officer, COP26
    2012 to 2019 No10, Deputy Director, Events and Visits
    2010 to 2012 DCMS, Head of Communication, Government Olympic Executive
    2009 to 2010 Home Office, Senior Communications Manager, Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism
    2008 to 2009 Ministry of Defence, Senior PR Manager
    2006 to 2008 Department for Work and Pensions, Marketing Manager
    2006 Joined Civil Service
    2005 to 2006 Head London (communications consultancy), Account Manager
    2003 to 2005 Christie’s (auction house), Proposals Writer

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sweden supports WFP critical nutrition programmes for vulnerable mothers and children in Afghanistan

    Source: World Food Programme

    KABUL – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan welcomes a US$2.2 million contribution from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). With this contribution, WFP will provide over 550 metric tons of specialized nutritious food to 125,000 Afghan mothers and children for three months to prevent malnutrition.

    “This year, in Afghanistan, 1.2 million pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are suffering from malnutrition while 3.5 million young children are expected to be malnourished, the sharpest surge in malnutrition ever recorded in the country,” said Mutinta Chimuka, WFP Country Director a.i. in Afghanistan. “It is critical to support mothers and their young children to stay healthy and well-nourished, for their own futures and that of their families.”

    Last year, WFP supported over 2.3 million pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and young children with specialized nutritious food to prevent them from falling into malnutrition. They received ready to use fortified supplementary food, enriched with protein and vitamins, helping them become healthy again. Of those assisted, over 1.5 million were children and nearly 800,000 were Afghan mothers.

    WFP is often the last lifeline for women and girls in Afghanistan. Two-thirds of women-headed households cannot afford basic nutrition – a rate nearly 20 percent higher than that of men-headed families. In 2024, WFP reached nearly 12 million people in Afghanistan through all activities, more than half of them were women and girls.

    The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) has been a steadfast partner in supporting WFP operations in Afghanistan. Between 2021 and 2024, SIDA’s contributions exceeded US$30 million, ranking among WFP’s top ten donors in the country in 2025.

    #                    #                       #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter: @wfp_media @WFP_Afghanistan

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: Labor to slash more consultant costs and increase visa charges to pay for fresh election commitments

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The government has dug out last-minute savings of more than
    A$7 billion, to ensure its election commitments are more than offset in every year of the forward estimates.

    Its costings, released Monday, include savings of $6.4 billion from further reducing spending on consultants, contractors and labour hire, as well as non-wage expenses including travel, hospitality and property.

    The second saving is $760 million from increasing the visa application fee for primary student visa applicants to $2000 from July 1.

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers told a news conference Labor’s costings “show that we will more than offset our election campaign commitments in every year of the forward estimates”.

    “We will finish this election campaign with the budget in a stronger position than at the start of the election campaign”.

    “We have improved the budget position by more than $1 billion, comparing the pre-election outlook to the costings that we release today,” he said.

    With its costings out, Labor is piling the pressure onto the opposition to produce its numbers.

    “We call on the Coalition now to come clean on their cuts. We’ve made it very clear what our costs are and how we will pay for the commitments that we have made in this election campaign,” Chalmers said.

    The opposition “need to come clean on what their secret cuts for nuclear reactors means for Medicare, for pensions and payments, for skills and housing and other essential investments.

    “They have committed more than $60 billion in this election campaign and in their policy commitments, and that’s before we get to their $600 billion of nuclear reactors.”

    Chalmers said if the opposition costings did not include the cost of the nuclear reactors they “will not be worth the paper they are written on”.

    Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor said opposition costings, coming later this week, would project a stronger budget position than Labor’s. He also said if the Coalition was elected it would have an economic statement later this year.

    As the costings war ramps up, ratings agency S&P warned Australia’s AAA credit rating could be threatened if election promises resulted in larger structural deficits, and debt and interest expenses increased more than expected.

    Given deficits and international circumstances, “how the elected government funds its campaign pledges and rising spending will be crucial for maintaining the rating”, the agency said.

    Asked about the comments, Chalmers said: “I say to that particular agency, indeed, all of the ratings agencies, that in our time in office, we’ve engineered the biggest positive turnaround in a budget of any parliamentary term ever”. He pointed to the improvement in the budget numbers during the campaign to underline Labor’s credentials.

    The fresh impact of Labor’s promises on the bottom line has also been limited because most of them were already factored into the budget.

    After the savings and spends are netted out the deficit for 2025-26 is estimated to be $41.9 billion compared to the $42.2 billion in the pre-election economic and fiscal outlook.

    Chalmers says Dutton to build nuclear reactor in his own seat

    Jim Chalmers must carry off the prize for the most brazen “scare” of a campaign full of attempted scares.

    Chalmers picked up on Anthony Albanese’s question to Peter Dutton in Sunday’s debate, when the PM asked the opposition leader whether he’d be willing to have a nuclear power plant in his seat of Dickson. Dutton said he would.

    Chalmers’ message to voters in “that wonderful part of southeast Queensland” is: “your local member wants to build a nuclear reactor in your suburbs.”

    “[The Labor candidate,] Ali France, is not going to build a nuclear reactor in your local community but Peter Dutton wants to.

    “I would encourage you to think about that […] as you choose your local member,” Chalmers told his news conference.

    The treasurer kept a straight face while delivering this warning to Dickson voters.

    Dutton questions Welcome to Country ceremonies at Anzac Dawn services

    Peter Dutton has widened his criticism of the extent of Welcome to Country ceremonies by saying he does not believe they belong at Anzac Day dawn services.

    He said that listening to veterans, “I think the majority view would be that they don’t want it on that day”. But he said it was an individual decision up to the RSLs.

    Discussion of the Welcome to Country ceremonies has come to the fore after a group of neo-Nazis heckled the ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance service on Friday. It also came up in Sunday’s debate between the leaders, when Dutton said the ceremonies should be reserved for significant occasions such as the opening of parliament.

    Questioned by reporters on Monday, Dutton said the acknowledgment to country given by Qantas when planes landed was “over the top”.

    “We are all equal Australians,” he said. “I believe we should stand behind one flag united to help Indigenous Australians deal with disparity around health outcomes, around education outcomes, around housing, around safety […] I want to provide support for practical reconciliation. The prime minister’s policy is to please inner city Greens, which is not something we signed up to.”

    Michelle Grattan 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. Election Diary: Labor to slash more consultant costs and increase visa charges to pay for fresh election commitments – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-labor-to-slash-more-consultant-costs-and-increase-visa-charges-to-pay-for-fresh-election-commitments-255386

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK astronaut Tim Peake addresses Lords Space Committee

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

    Watch live as Tim Peake, the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station and complete a spacewalk, addresses peers in the House of Lords on Monday 28 April about the UK’s space policy.

    Find out more about the committee and this inquiry: https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/773/uk-engagement-with-space-committee

    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:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • 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=BcZNdSZpvlQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leading metal supplier expands to Dunsbury Park

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) completed the letting of Unit 500 to Righton Blackburns at Dunsbury Park, a 33,205 sq ft Grade A warehouse on behalf of Portsmouth City Council with joint agents at Colliers.

    Righton Blackburns are a leading UK stockholder and distributor of high-quality metals and plastics. The new site is part of the company’s expansion from Fareham, supported by Solent Freeport incentives.

    The letting of this final speculative unit, follows successful lettings to Inchcape and Percussion Play. Righton Blackburns have secured the space to accommodate growth and enhance operational efficiency.

    Dunsbury Park is a 100-acre business and manufacturing park adjacent to the A3(M), already home to major occupiers including Fat Face, DPD, and Breeze Motor Group. The park continues to attract investment, with recent developments including a 120,000 sq ft high-tec facility for Bio-Pure. There is still ongoing demand for pre-let opportunities ranging from 40,000 to 200,000 sq ft marketed by LSH.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, who own Dunsbury Park, said: “It’s great to see the growing business community at Dunsbury Park continuing to flourish.

    “The products that Righton Blackburn supply are essential to the local supply chain for Portsmouth’s aerospace and defence industries, so it’s encouraging to see them expand their operations locally to take advantage of the Freeport incentives on offer.”

    Dan Rawlings, Director at Lambert Smith Hampton, added: “We are delighted to have reached full occupancy at Unit 500, bringing in a well-established business that will support local jobs and economic growth utilising the freeport benefits. The high-quality, Grade A, sustainable design delivered by Portsmouth City Council enabled us to secure two lettings during construction and quickly complete the final deal.”

    Lambert Smith Hampton acted on behalf of the landlord, Portsmouth City Council, in this transaction alongside joint agents at Colliers.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: APO Group joins forces with AFRICA24 Group, Africa’s leading TV and digital media company

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    APO Group joins forces with AFRICA24 Group, Africa’s leading TV and digital media company All text, images, video and audio content distributed by APO Group will be published on AFRICA24 Group’s website in English and French PARIS, France, April 28, 2025/APO Group/ — APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, today announced a content agreement with Africa’s leading TV and digital media company (www.Africa24TV.com). The partnership means that all text, images, video and audio content distributed by APO Group will be published on AFRICA24’s website in English and French. Watch the video: https://apo-opa.co/42w8uFD Launched in 2009 by its founder Constant Nemale, a reference in the media and communications industry, the AFRICA24 Group is the world leader in news and television on Africa, with a global daily audience of more than 80 million households on the continent and in the global African diaspora.  The AFRICA24 Group is the only media conglomerate focused on Africa, with 4 high-audience television & digital channels available on leading operators: – AFRICA24 TV: (French), world leader in Francophone African news – AFRICA24 English: the reference for news in English – AFRICA24 Sport: leader in African sports news and competitions – AFRICA24 infinity: leader in creative industries, culture, music and art The AFRICA24 Group is regularly ranked in the Top 5 of television channels most watched by African policy makers, business executives and leaders – providing leadership alongside channels such as CNN, BBC World News and Al Jazeera. Available worldwide on all the major operators: Canal+, Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Bell, etc. AFRICA24 has been the most watched French-speaking African channel for over 15 years without interruption. The AFRICA24 Group has innovated on the digital front with the launch of the myafrica24 application, the first and only HD streaming platform on Africa available on all digital media (smartphone, tablet, computer, SmartTV). A leader in digital, the AFRICA24 Group has a substantial online audience with 1 million subscribers on Facebook, 1 million subscribers on X (Twitter), and 802,000 on YouTube. The AFRICA24 Group has the largest online catalogue on Africa with its replay offer accessible on the www.Africa24TV.com website, which has become a key vector, accounting for hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. For several years now, Africa’s leading institutions have chosen the AFRICA24 Group as their partner of reference:

    • African Union: In 2019, the continent’s leading institution signs an MOU that will make AFRICA24 Group the one and only official media partner of the prestigious African Union. The two organisations have joined forces to produce and broadcast content aimed at promoting Africa’s image and its development narrative. The AFRICA24 group launched in 2022, with huge success the weekly magazine ‘African Union Journal’ the first and only exclusive weekly television programme providing news, features, interviews and analysis and on the activities of the African Union organisation and its member states.
    • AfCFTA: In 2024, the AFRICA24 Group was chosen by AfCFTA, the African Union body responsible for promoting the Free Trade Area, to promote African economic integration through high-impact initiatives. The AFRICA24 Group thus becomes the one and only flagship media chosen to promote a single common market of 1.5 million inhabitants and Africa’s economic prosperity.

    The AFRICA24 Group is also the official media partner of many leading institutions and companies such as Afreximbank, UBA, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations for Africa (UNECA), the World Bank, the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Organisation mondiale de la Francophonie (OIF), the Attijariwafa Bank Group, the OCP Group, etc. The partnership with APO Group gives AFRICA24 Group access to authoritative content from all over Africa, from more than 300 multinational companies operating in Africa, as well as major international institutions, sports organisations and African governments, which will be published on www.Africa24TV.com. APO Group is thus completing a cycle of partnerships with leading African and international media that enable it to constantly improve the reach of its press release distribution service. These partnerships are mutually beneficial. Through a significant increase in the impact and visibility of content for APO Group’s clients, but also through access for media such as those of AFRICA24 Group to a qualitative flow of information from the largest organisations operating in Africa. Content distributed by APO Group is automatically published on more than 320 African news sites and on international platforms such as Bloomberg Terminal, Thomson Reuters Eikon, Lexis Nexis and Factiva. AFRICA24 Group and APO Group share a common vision of Africa. APO Group worked closely with the African Union, providing pro bono support to the African Union Commission through a full range of strategic communications services for the duration of the Dubai World Expo. “APO Group is the undisputed leader in high-quality news and certified content from organisations operating in Africa,’ said Constant Nemale, founder and chairman of AFRICA24 Group. ‘We are delighted to be able to strengthen our online presence by publishing some of the most important and relevant information about Africa.” “APO Group is always committed to offering its customers direct access to the heart of Africa and beyond,’ said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), founder and chairman of APO Group. ‘The AFRICA24 Group has the most dominant African television channels in their segment. The AFRICA24 Group enjoys the confidence of Africa’s political decision-makers and business leaders, as well as Africa’s international partners. We share the same vision of changing the narrative about Africa and bringing positive African news to new audiences around the world.” This is a joint press release by APO Group and AFRICA24 media group. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: APO Group marie@apo-opa.com AFRICA24 infos@africa24tv.com Follow on: Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4lGn4BU Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/44cDpIh YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3GuCQzR About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. We assist private and public organizations in sharpening their reputation and increasing their brand equity in target countries across Africa. Our role as a trusted partner is to leverage the power of media and build bespoke strategies that enable organisations to produce a real, measurable impact in Africa and beyond. The trust and recognition granted to APO Group by global and multinational companies, governments, and NGOs inspires us to continuously enhance our value proposition within Africa to better cater to our clients’ needs. Among our prestigious clients: Facebook, Dangote Group, Nestle, GE, NBA, Canon, Coca-Cola, DHL, Marriott Group, Ecobank, Siemens, Standard Chartered, Orange, Jack Ma Foundation, African Development Bank, World Health Organization, Islamic Development Bank, Liquid Telecom, Rotary International, Kaspersky, Greenpeace… Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland | Offices in Senegal, Dubai and Hong Kong For further information, please visit our website: https://www.APO-opa.com About AFRICA24: AFRICA24 is the first African-owned global news channel and was launched in 2009. The network is devoted to news about Africa, and broadcasts 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week to audiences in Africa, North America, the Middle East and Europe. AFRICA24 embodies the leading continental media which endows Africa its own tribune in the international media scene. Since its launch in 2009, AFRICA24 has been the reference for African news. AFRICA24 is the reference media partner of the Continent’s institutions and major events such United Nations, African Union, US Africa Business Summit… AFRICA24 is the reference media for all leaders across the world to address Africa related topics. AFRICA24 group will launched new channel, full HD, 24/24,  starting in 2022 : AFRICA24 English, AFRICA24 infinity (Music, fashion, Culture…) and AFRICA24 Sport. Headquarters: Dubaï, UAE | Offices in Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Cameroon. Find out more by visiting www.Africa24TV.com.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Euro area economic and financial developments by institutional sector: fourth quarter of 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    28 April 2025

    • Euro area net saving was broadly unchanged at €838 billion in 2024, compared with four quarter period ending on third quarter of 2024
    • Household debt-to-income ratio decreased to 82.1% in 2024 from 85.0% one year earlier
    • Non-financial corporations’ debt-to-GDP ratio (consolidated measure) decreased to 67.2% in 2024 from 68.7% one year earlier

    Total euro area economy

    Euro area net saving was broadly unchanged at €838 billion (6.9% of euro area net disposable income) in 2024 compared with the four quarter period ending on the third quarter of 2024. Euro area net non-financial investment decreased to €434 billion (3.6% of net disposable income), due to decreased investment by households and non-financial corporations which more than offset increased net investments by financial corporations and general government (see Chart 1).

    Euro area net lending to the rest of the world was broadly unchanged at €431 billion reflecting the broadly unchanged net saving and the decrease in net non-financial investment being broadly matched by a decrease in net capital transfers. Net lending of non-financial corporations decreased to €173 billion (1.4% of net disposable income) from €202 billion while that of financial corporations was unchanged at €147 (1.2% of net disposable income). Net lending by households increased to €579 billion (4.8% of net disposable income) from €574 billion. Net borrowing by general government decreased, contributing less negatively to euro area net lending (-€469 billion or ‑3.9% of net disposable income, after -€489 billion).

    Chart 1

    Euro area saving, investment and net lending to the rest of the world

    (EUR billions, four-quarter sums)

    Sources: ECB and Eurostat.

    * Net saving minus net capital transfers to the rest of the world (equals change in net worth due to transactions).

    Data for euro area saving, investment and net lending to the rest of the world (Chart 1)

    Financial transactions can be presented with a counterpart sector breakdown for deposits, loans, debt securities, listed shares and investment fund shares (see Table 1). In 2024 the largest aggregated transactions in these financial instruments were interbank operations as other MFIs[1] reduced deposits with the Eurosystem (-€556 billion) while increasing investments with the rest of the world (€513 billion). Financial investment of households involved to a large extent transactions vis-à-vis other MFIs (€361 billion), mostly in the form of deposits, as well as net purchases of investment fund shares (€150 billion). Non-financial corporations’ largest financing component was from within the NFC sector (€117 billion), mostly in the form of loans and often reflecting intra-group transactions, while financing from other MFIs amounted to €102 billion. The financing of general government from the rest of the world, mostly in the form of debt securities, increased (€404 billion).

    Table 1

    Selected financial transactions* between sectors and with the rest of the world

    (EUR billions, four-quarter sums, 2024)

    Source: ECB.

    * Financial instruments for which the counterpart sector breakdown is available: deposits, loans, debt securities, listed shares and investment fund shares/units.

    Households

    Household financial investment increased at a broadly unchanged rate of 2.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Among its components, investment in currency and deposits (2.9%, after 2.5%) and investment in shares and other equity (1.9%, after 0.7%) grew at higher rates – the latter due to investment fund shares – while investment in debt securities increased at a lower rate (7.7%, after 16.4%).

    Households continued to purchase, in net terms, mainly debt securities issued by general government, MFIs, other financial institutions and the rest of the world (i.e. debt securities issued by non-euro area residents). Households were overall net buyers of listed shares, buying listed shares issued by non-financial corporations and the rest of the world, while selling predominantly listed shares of MFIs. Households increased their purchases of euro area investment fund shares, including those issued by MFIs (money market funds) and by non-money market investment funds, and continued to purchase investment fund shares issued by the rest of the world (see Table 2 below and Table 2.2. in the Annex).

    Table 2

    Financial investment and financing of households, main items

    (annual growth rates)

    Financial transactions

    2023 Q4

    2024 Q1

    2024 Q2

    2024 Q3

    2024 Q4

    Financial investment*

    1.9

    1.9

    2.2

    2.3

    2.4

    Currency and deposits

    0.7

    1.5

    2.3

    2.5

    2.9

    Debt securities

    55.2

    39.7

    28.9

    16.4

    7.7

    Shares and other equity**

    0.1

    0.0

    0.2

    0.7

    1.9

    Life insurance

    -0.5

    -0.0

    0.3

    1.0

    1.2

    Pension schemes

    2.0

    2.1

    2.1

    2.2

    2.2

    Financing***

    0.8

    0.9

    1.2

    1.4

    1.8

    Loans

    0.5

    0.5

    0.5

    0.9

    1.3

    Source: ECB.

    * Items not shown include: loans granted, prepayments of insurance premiums and reserves for outstanding claims and other accounts receivable.

    ** Includes investment fund shares.

    *** Items not shown include: financial derivatives’ net liabilities, pension schemes and other accounts payable.

    Data for financial investment and financing of households (Table 2)

    Chart 2 below shows the stock of selected financial assets held by households (in dark blue) vis-à-vis counterpart sectors, at the end of 2024, and with holdings of investment fund shares/units (14% of households’ financial assets) broken down by underlying asset and counterpart sector.[2] Households’ financial assets were mostly issued by financial intermediaries such as MFIs (42% of households’ financial assets), insurance corporations (23%), pension funds (12%) and the rest of the world (11%). Holdings of financial assets vis-à-vis non-financial corporations (8%), government (3%) and other financial institutions (2%), mainly in the form of listed shares and debt securities, represented much lower proportions of households’ financial assets.

    Chart 2

    Households’ financial assets by counterpart sector; selected financial instruments*

    Source: ECB.

    Notes: Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

    This chart refers to financial instruments for which the counterpart sector breakdown is available: deposits, loans, debt securities, listed shares and investment fund shares/units. In addition, the counterpart sector breakdown for insurance, pension and standardised guarantee schemes (F.6) is an estimate. (See the methodological note on the ECB’s website: Extension of the who-to-whom presentation to insurance and pension assets).

    The household debt-to-income ratio[3] decreased to 82.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 85.0% in the fourth quarter of 2023. The household debt-to-GDP ratio declined to 51.5% in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 52.8% in the fourth quarter of 2023 (see Chart 3).

    Chart 3

    Debt ratios of households and non-financial corporations

    (percentages of GDP)

    Source: ECB and Eurostat.

    * Outstanding amount of loans, debt securities, trade credits and pension scheme liabilities.
    ** Outstanding amount of loans and debt securities, excluding debt positions between non-financial corporations.
    *** Outstanding amount of loan liabilities.

    Data for debt ratios of households and non-financial corporations (Chart 3)

    Non-financial corporations

    Financing of NFCs increased at a broadly unchanged annual rate of 0.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to the previous quarter. Net issuance of debt securities grew at a lower rate (1.4% after 2.3%) while financing via trade credits increased at a higher rate (3.9% after 2.8%). Financing via shares and other equity (0.4 after 0.6%) and loans (1.2% after 1.4%) increased at lower rates. Loans granted to NFCs by MFIs increased at a broadly unchanged rate (1.6%), and loans granted by other NFCs grew at an unchanged rate (2.4%). Loans granted by other financial institutions declined at a more negative rate (‑3.5% after -0.6%) mostly due to captive financial institutions (see Table 3 below and Table 3.2 in the Annex).

    Non-financial corporations’ debt-to-GDP ratio (consolidated measure) decreased to 67.2% in the fourth quarter of 2024, from 68.7% in the fourth quarter of 2023; the non-consolidated, wider debt measure decreased to 138.8% from 140.6% (see Chart 3).

    Table 3

    Financing and financial investment of non-financial corporations, main items

    (annual growth rates)

    Financial transactions

    2023 Q4

    2024 Q1

    2024 Q2

    2024 Q3

    2024 Q4

    Financing*

    0.8

    0.9

    1.0

    1.0

    0.9

    Debt securities

    1.3

    1.9

    2.9

    2.3

    1.4

    Loans

    1.6

    1.5

    1.3

    1.4

    1.2

    Shares and other equity

    0.3

    0.4

    0.7

    0.6

    0.4

    Trade credits and advances

    1.2

    1.5

    2.5

    2.8

    3.9

    Financial investment**

    1.6

    1.8

    2.0

    2.1

    1.8

    Currency and deposits

    -1.3

    0.2

    2.7

    1.7

    2.4

    Debt securities

    19.9

    8.5

    5.8

    1.7

    -0.1

    Loans

    4.1

    3.8

    3.7

    3.3

    2.6

    Shares and other equity

    0.9

    1.2

    1.0

    1.3

    0.9

    Source: ECB.

    * Items not shown include: pension schemes, other accounts payable, financial derivatives’ net liabilities and deposits.

    ** Items not shown include: other accounts receivable and prepayments of insurance premiums and reserves for outstanding claims.

    Data for financing and financial investment of non-financial corporations (Table 3)

    Chart 4 below shows the main components of the non-financial corporations’ debt (in dark blue) vis-à-vis counterpart sectors. At the end of 2024, the non-financial corporations’ debt in the form of loans and debt securities was held primarily by non-financial corporations (36%), MFIs (33%), other financial institutions (11%), and the rest of the world (11%).

    Chart 4

    The main components of NFC debt (loans and debt securities) by counterpart sector

    (2024 end of period stocks)

    Source: ECB.

    Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

    For queries, please use the statistical information request form.

    Notes

    • These data come from a second release of quarterly euro area sector accounts for the fourth quarter of 2024 by the European Central Bank (ECB) and Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. This release incorporates revisions and completed data for all sectors compared with the first quarterly release on “Euro area households and non-financial corporations” of 4 April 2025.
    • The euro area and national financial accounts data of non-financial corporations and households are available in an interactive dashboard.
    • The debt-to-GDP (or debt-to-income) ratios are calculated as the outstanding amount of debt in the reference quarter divided by the sum of GDP (or income) in the four quarters to the reference quarter. The ratio of non-financial transactions (e.g. savings) as a percentage of income or GDP is calculated as sum of the four quarters to the reference quarter for both numerator and denominator.
    • The annual growth rate of non-financial transactions and of outstanding assets and liabilities (stocks) is calculated as the percentage change between the value for a given quarter and that value recorded four quarters earlier. The annual growth rates used for financial transactions refer to the total value of transactions during the year in relation to the outstanding stock a year before.
    • Hyperlinks in the main body of the statistical release lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data as at the time of the current release.
    • The ECB publishes experimental Distributional Wealth Accounts (DWA) for the household sector. The release of results for the fourth quarter of 2024 is planned for 30 May 2025 (tentative date).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s best seafood spots, as voted by you

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Want to eat your seafood with a side of beautiful views? Snapper and Co is the picture-perfect spot. Image: Tourism Australia

    In Brief:

    • We asked Canberrans on the @WeAreCBR Instagram account where to find the best seafood in Canberra.
    • This list includes different locations you can find seafood.

    Canberra might be missing a beach, but there is no shortage of delicious spots to grab some seafood.

    We asked on the @WeAreCBR Instagram account where to find the best local seafood, whether it’s your classic fish and chips, or something a little more fancy like paella.

    Here are the top recommendations:

    Seafood buffet at the Hyatt Hotel

    Wanting to load up a plate with fresh seafood goodies? And maybe go back for more? The Hyatt Hotel offers Friday and Saturday evening seafood buffets, and you can even grab a cheeky dessert while you’re at it.

    Seafood at Med

    Med in Barton is serving up numerous seafood dishes. Kingfish, octopus and king prawns are all available, plus many more delicious dishes.

    Octopus at Saint Malo

    Dive headfirst into this delicious Mediterranean cuisine! There are various seafood dishes on the menu, but the standout is the octopus with black garlic and kipfler potatoes.

    Seafood and a view and Snapper & Co

    Visit Canberra’s iconic lakeside and snap up some fish and chips. With views of Telstra Tower and Lake Burley Griffin, this is one to add to your summer bucket list.

    Kickin Inn

    Looking to have a bit of everything? Kickin Inn is Canberra’s home to the famous seafood boil bags! Get everything mixed into a bag with your choice of sauce and add-ons, dig in and enjoy! But don’t forget your bib.

    Calamari Salad from Space Kitchen

    Looking to add some fresh greens into your seafood? This calamari is served with a Thai style salad and fresh papaya.

    Seafood at Water’s Edge

    Dine in a dome right on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. With various seafood options ranging from crab to the fish of the day, you’re sure to enjoy this meal with a view!

    Oysters at Corella

    Like the finer things in life? The Appellation oysters at Corella are a fan favourite. Served with a lemon myrtle vinegar and the choice of half a dozen or the full dozen.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The potting robot bringing colour to the streets of Leeds

    Source: City of Leeds

    Two million spring and summer plants are being potted by a state-of-the-art robot at The Arium, in preparation for being planted across the city.

    The Leeds City Council-run garden centre and plant nursery is the largest local authority nursery in the country. Most of the plants they sell are grown in the massive 19,000 square metre glasshouses on the premises, and the site provides flowers and plants to be displayed across Leeds.  

    How they manage to get millions of plants ready to bring springtime to the city is thanks to the state-of-the-art potting robot that has been in place since 2017. Working wirelessly, the robot lifts young plants from their seed tray and pots them into their final tray in one action.

    The plants will soon be in bloom across Leeds in the city’s parks, roundabouts and flowerbeds.

    Several hundreds of thousands of plants are also sold to the public at the nursery every year, which is home to a café with a view over the growing space, and a large play area. The play area, very popular with younger visitors, hosts a showstopper castle with a double tower, bridge and multiple levels.

    Leeds City Council has been running a plant nursery since 1956, initially at the Red Hall Nursery in Whinmoor. As the nursery’s national reputation grew it helped Leeds become one of the most floral cities in the UK, but this also meant the site reached growing capacity. In October 2017, the site relocated to its new home on the outskirts of Thorner and rebranded as The Arium. They can now keep up with demand from local residents, the city’s own flower displays, as well as grow plants for other local authorities, universities and hospitals.

    The glasshouse growing areas are not open to the public, however the site offers guided tours during the last two weeks of April and first week in May, and for two weeks in September. They also host workshops where visitors can learn skills such as designing a hanging basket and making a Christmas wreath.

    Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “Leeds is quite unique in having the local authority run a brilliant plant nursery and garden centre, and we are very proud of it. The glasshouses are an impressive sight to behold and I’d recommend booking in for a tour if you get a chance.

    “The Arium is a way for people to invest back in their city when they shop for their homes and gardens and that is very special.”

    Read more about the Arium at https://www.theariumleeds.co.uk/. To book a guided tour of the glasshouses, email arium@leeds.gov.uk.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –