Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI: Beam Global (Europe) Announces Record Orders in the First Two Months of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beam Global, (Nasdaq: BEEM), a leading provider of innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions for the electrification of transportation and energy security, today announced record sales for the first two months of 2025, in Europe. Beam Global has achieved a 79% increase in new contracted orders in its European division, compared to the same period in 2024, demonstrating that the European market represents a significant growth and diversification opportunity for the Company.

    Since the beginning of the year, contracted product sales have increased to a new record, driven by strong demand for street lighting and other infrastructure products.

    “Our expansion into Europe has created opportunities for sales growth, both in our renewably energized EV charging and energy security products, as well as in our smart cities and street lighting portfolios,” said Desmond Wheatley, CEO of Beam Global. “While the new administration has created uncertainty around U.S. government EV adoption, EV sales were actually up 30% in the U.S. in January compared to 2024, according to Cox Automotive, and 34% in Europe, according to EuroNews. We intend to focus heavily on growing sales through our European operations while continuing to support the growth of EV charging requirements in the U.S. Congratulations to our European team for setting this new January and February sales record.”

    To foster growth and diversify revenue streams beyond the U.S, Beam Global is expanding its European presence through aggressive sales strategies. Most recently, Beam Global CEO, Desmond Wheatley, along with members of the European sales team, met with prospective customers, government officials, airport representatives, EV charging and e-bike sharing companies, and others in the UK, France, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Greece.

    Greater Europe represents the largest automobile market in the world, with over 405 million cars. A 2035 EU mandate bans the sale of internal combustion vehicles in less than ten years, while the EU also mandated a reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions of at least 55% by 2030. As a result, interest in Beam Global’s innovative and sustainable EV ARC™, BeamSpot™ BeamBike™ and BeamPatrol™ products are growing significantly in the region.

    About Beam Global
    Beam Global is a clean technology innovator which develops and manufactures sustainable infrastructure products and technologies. We operate at the nexus of clean energy and transportation with a focus on sustainable energy infrastructure, rapidly deployed and scalable EV charging solutions, safe energy storage and vital energy security. With operations in the U.S. and Europe, Beam Global develops, patents, designs, engineers and manufactures unique and advanced clean technology solutions that power transportation, provide secure sources of electricity, save time and money and protect the environment. Beam Global is headquartered in San Diego, CA with facilities in Chicago, IL and Belgrade and Kraljevo, Serbia. Beam Global is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol BEEM. For more information visit BeamForAll.comLinkedInYouTube, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This Beam Global Press Release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements in this Press Release other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by terms or phrases such as “estimate,” “project,” “predict,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “plan,” “intend,” “seek,” “goal,” “will,” “should,” “may,” or other words and similar expressions that convey the uncertainty of future events or results. These statements relate to future events or future results of operations. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause Beam Global’s actual results to be materially different from these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, Beam Global expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    Media Contact
    Andy Lovsted
    +1-858-335-8465
    Press@BeamForAll.com

    Investor Relations
    Luke Higgins
    +1-858-799-4583
    IR@BeamForAll.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc. (TSX-V: PINK; OTCQX: PYNKF), a commercial stage medical technology company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

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

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

    “Many of our shareholders are based in the United States and the U.S. is the primary target market for our current S-Series OCT system, as well as our upcoming AI-enabled B-Series product,” said Perimeter’s Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Mendes. “Accordingly, this upgrade to OTCQX from the Pink® market is a natural evolution for Perimeter, which should increase our visibility and complement our efforts to broaden our U.S. shareholder base.”

    About Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc.
    Based in Toronto, Canada and Dallas, Texas, Perimeter Medical Imaging AI (TSX-V: PINK) (OTC: PYNKF) is a company driven to transform cancer surgery with ultra-high-resolution, real-time, advanced imaging tools to address areas of high unmet medical need. Available across the U.S., our FDA-cleared Perimeter S-Series OCT system provides real-time, cross-sectional visualization of excised tissues at the cellular level. The breakthrough-device-designated investigational Perimeter B-Series OCT with ImgAssist AI represents our next-generation artificial intelligence technology that has recently been evaluated in a pivotal clinical trial, with support from a grant of up to US$7.4 million awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. The company’s ticker symbol “PINK” is a reference to the pink ribbons used during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

    Perimeter B-Series OCT is limited by U.S. law to investigational use and not available for sale in the United States. Perimeter S-Series OCT has 510(k) clearance under a general indication and has not been evaluated by the U.S. FDA specifically for use in breast tissue, breast cancer, other types of cancer, margin evaluation, and reducing re-excision rates. The safety and effectiveness of these uses has not been established. For more information, please visit www.perimetermed.com/disclosures.

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

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

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

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

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: All-India House Price Index (HPI) for Q3:2024-25

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Today, the Reserve Bank released its quarterly house price index (HPI)1 (base: 2010-11=100) for Q3:2024-25, based on transaction-level data received from the registration authorities in ten major cities2. Time series data on all-India and city-wise HPIs are available at the Bank’s database on Indian economy (DBIE) portal (https://data.rbi.org.in/DBIE/#/dbie/home> Statistics > Real Sector > Prices & Wages).

    Highlights:

    • All-India HPI increased by 3.1 per cent (y-o-y) in Q3:2024-25 as compared with 4.3 per cent growth in the previous quarter and 3.8 per cent growth a year ago; annual HPI growth varied widely across the cities – ranging from a high growth of 8.1 per cent (Kolkata) to 0.1 per cent (Kanpur).

    • On a sequential (q-o-q) basis, all-India HPI increased by 0.4 per cent in Q3:2024-25; Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur and Kochi  recorded a sequential rise in house prices during the latest quarter.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2265


    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 27 February 2025 Integrating NCD diagnosis into remote primary care in the Maldives

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Faafu Atoll, Maldives: At the age of 46, Saira Ibrahim was diagnosed with diabetes in one of her NCD health checkups. Her father, in contrast, rarely had a checkup. Only his upcoming pilgrimage which mandated a complete health checkup revealed his diabetes at 76 years old. Her granddaughter on the other hand, at just 23 years, already has had multiple NCD focused checkups, with no symptoms and no diagnosis.

    The difference in awareness and accessibility of health checks across all three generations is a result of their home, Faafu Atoll in the Maldives, being chosen as a demonstration site for the integration of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) into primary health care (PHC), which means accessing health care services became easier for residents. It encouraged and enabled people like Saira and her daughter to be checked regularly for multiple NCDs and use the primary health care facilities as needed. 

    Reorientating the health care system

    The project is a collaboration between World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health Maldives, emphasizing a people centred care throughout their lifetime.

    The reorientation of the primary health care system in Maldives includes a comprehensive set of services, including testing for selected NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes, lifestyle counselling services, identification and referral for common cancers, and selected mental health conditions.

    In the beginning, the scheme revealed over 90% of the eligible population had been tested for diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and NCD risk factors such as raised blood pressure, increased blood glucose, elevated blood lipids and obesity. The result shows that 9% of the people are living with diabetes and 88% of whom were put on treatment.

    Over 14% of those people examined have hypertension and 95% of them are on treatment. Over 22% are living with high cholesterol and 73% of these are on treatment.

    Saira Ibrahim says: “Under the changes through PHC, if there are any identified changes to the patients’ health, the health centre brings the patients in for advice and gives them information on doing further investigations… They bring us into the health centre to give information too”.

    Launch of the Faafu Atoll PHC demonstration site on 18 December 2022 by the Ministry of Health and WHO. Credit: WHO

    Noncommunicable diseases in Maldives

    In recent decades, health outcomes have improved substantially in the Maldives. However, the country’s health sector faced challenges due to changing demographics, and lifestyles, including the emergence of NCDs. NCDs are estimated to account for 84% of all deaths in Maldives; diabetes is one of the leading four causes of death, alongside cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney diseases, and respiratory conditions.

    In common with other Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Maldives face pressure from commercial determinants such as tobacco marketing and a reliance on food imports, making it vulnerable to global price changes and the increasing use of ultra processed foods.

    In response, World Health Organization is supporting the Ministry of Health Maldives in reorientating health systems to ensure access to high quality, affordable, comprehensive primary health care, a step towards achieving universal health coverage.

    The impact can be seen in the Saira’s life. Since her diagnosis she needs insulin twice a day. Insulin is free of charge and usually available in the island pharmacy, each inhabited island in Faafu Atoll has both a pharmacy and a health facility. When out of stock, the insulin can be ordered from the capital, covered by health insurance.

    Areal view of Maldives islands. Credit: WHO/Vismita Gupta-Smith

    The use of technology

    A major component of the project depends on information. After any NCD diagnosis, advice is given on how to manage one’s lifestyle and take medications for that disease if needed. Health workers also do house visits, call, and encourage people to go to the health centres.

    Saira works as an attendant in a health centre. She cannot remember how she first heard about diabetes, but now, a Facebook group is one of her main sources of information. The group she is on has dozens of members, but the administrator is the island council. This gives an extra layer of reassurance that the information is up to date. There is a similar Viber group aimed at her daughter’s generation.

    Technology is also being used to support the development of an online, real time, primary health care register, which was used for early testing and monitoring of patients at the demonstration site and to build an island health profile database. The system has already been developed and implemented at the Faafu Atoll PHC demonstration site and uses the District Health Information System. Basic information such as patient history, demographic data, risk factors for NCDs, treatment given, follow up, and referral can be used to determine the health status of each island. This information along with risk of NCDs is calculated based on the WHO Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions (PEN) package. The system has monitoring dashboards for island, atoll, and national levels.

    Expansion

    Plans are underway to expand the pilot scheme to other atolls. This expansion aims to significantly reduce the need for patients to travel to the capital city for treatment and specialized care. This system can be easily adopted by other small island developing states.

    Strengthening the integration of diagnosis and treatment of noncommunicable diseases into primary health care systems in the Faafu Atoll can provide a working model, not only for other islands in Maldives but for other small island developing states around the world.” Dr Bente Mikkelsen, Director. Department of Noncommunicable. Diseases, Rehabilitation and Disability.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 27 February 2025 Statement Third meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of mpox 2024 – Temporary recommendations

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), following the third meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of mpox 2024, held on 25 February 2025, from 12:00 to 17:00 CET, concurs with its advice that the event continues to meet the criteria of a public health emergency of international concern and, considering the advice of the Committee, he is hereby issuing a revised set of temporary recommendations.

    The WHO Director-General expresses his most sincere gratitude to the Chair, Members, and Advisors of the Committee. The proceeding of the third meeting of the Committee will be shared with States Parties to the IHR and published in the coming days.

    ———

    Temporary recommendations

    These temporary recommendations are issued to States Parties experiencing the transmission of monkeypox virus (MPXV), including, but not limited to, those where there is sustained community transmission, and where there are clusters of cases or sporadic travel-related cases of MPXV clade Ib.

    They are intended to be implemented by those States Parties in addition to the current  standing recommendations for mpox, which will be extended until 20 August 2025. 

    In the context of the global efforts to prevent and control the spread of mpox disease outlined in the  WHO Strategic framework for enhancing prevention and control of mpox- 2024-2027, the aforementioned  standing recommendations apply to all States Parties

    All current WHO interim technical guidance can be accessed on this page of the WHO website. WHO evidence-based guidance has been and will continue to be updated in line with the evolving situation, updated scientific evidence, and WHO risk assessment to support States Parties in the implementation of the WHO Strategic Framework for enhancing mpox prevention and control. 

    Pursuant to Article 3 Principle of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR), the implementation of these temporary recommendations, as well as of the standing recommendations for mpox, by States Parties shall be with full respect for the dignity, human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons, in line with the principles set out in Article 3 of the IHR. 

    ———

    Note: The text in backets next to each temporary recommendation indicates the status with respect to the set of temporary recommendations issued on 27 November 2024.

    Emergency coordination

    • Secure political commitment, engagement and adequate resource allocation to intensify mpox prevention and response efforts for the lowest administrative and operational level reporting mpox cases in the prior 4 weeks (referred to as “hotspots”). (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Establish or enhance national and local emergency prevention and response coordination arrangements as recommended in the WHO Mpox global strategic preparedness and response plan (2024), and its upcoming iteration, and in line with the WHO Strategic framework for enhancing prevention and control of mpox (2024-2027) to maintain.  (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Establish or enhance coordination among all partners and stakeholders engaged in or supporting mpox prevention and response activities through cooperation, including by introducing accountability mechanisms. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Establish a mechanism to   monitor the effectiveness of mpox prevention and response measures implemented at lower administrative levels, so that such measures can be adjusted as needed. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Strengthen coordination and response mechanisms, particularly in humanitarian and conflict-affected areas, by engaging local and national authorities and implementing partners to ensure integrated mpox surveillance and care delivery in support of vulnerable populations, especially in areas with population displacement and inadequate access to essential services. (MODIFIED)

    Collaborative surveillance

    • Enhance mpox surveillance, by increasing the sensitivity of the approaches adopted and ensuring comprehensive geographic coverage. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Expand access to accurate, affordable and available diagnostics to test for mpox, including through strengthening arrangements for the transport of samples, the decentralization of testing and arrangements to differentiate MPXV clades and conduct genomic sequencing. (EXTENDED) 
    • Identify, monitor and support the contacts of persons with suspected, clinically-diagnosed or laboratory-confirmed mpox to prevent onward transmission. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing) 
    • Scale up efforts to thoroughly investigate cases and outbreaks of mpox to better understand the modes of transmission and transmission risk, and prevent its onward transmission to contacts and communities. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing) 
    • Report to WHO suspect, probable and confirmed cases of mpox in a timely manner and on a weekly basis. (EXTENDED)

    Safe and scalable clinical care

    • Provide clinical, nutritional and psychosocial support for patients with mpox, including, where appropriate and possible, isolation in care centres and/or access to materials and guidance for home-based care. (EXTENDED) 
    • Develop and implement a plan to expand access to optimized supportive clinical care for all patients with mpox, including children, patients living with HIV, and pregnant women. This includes prompt identification and effective management of endemic co-infections, such as malaria, chickenpox or measles. This also includes offering HIV tests to adult patients who do not know their HIV status and to children as appropriate, testing and treatment for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among cases linked to sexual contact and referral to HIV/STIs treatment and care services when indicated. (MODIFIED)
    • Strengthen health and care workers’ capacity, knowledge and skills in clinical and infection and prevention and control pathways – screening, diagnosis, isolation, environmental cleaning, discharge of patients, including post discharge follow up for suspected and confirmed mpox –, and provide health and care workers with personal protective equipment (PPE). (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Enhance infection prevention and control (IPC) measures and availability of water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) and waste management services and infrastructure in healthcare facilities and treatment and care centers to ensure quality healthcare service delivery and protection of health and care workers and patients. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)

    International traffic

    • Establish or strengthen cross-border collaboration arrangements for surveillance, management and support of suspected cases and contacts of mpox, and for the provision of information to travellers and conveyance operators, without resorting to travel and trade restrictions that unnecessarily impact local, regional or national economies. (EXTENDED)

    Vaccination

    • Prepare for and implement the integrated targeted use of vaccine for “Phase 1-Stop the outbreak” (as defined in the WHO Mpox global strategic preparedness and response plan (2024) and its upcoming iteration) through identification of the lowest administrative level reporting cases (hotspots) to interrupt sustained community transmission. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Develop and implement plans for vaccination in the context of an integrated response at the lowest administrative level reporting cases for people at high risk of exposure (e.g., contacts of cases of all ages, including sexual contacts, health and care workers, key populations, and other groups at risk in endemic and non-endemic areas). This entails a targeted integrated response, including active surveillance and contact tracing; agile adaptation of immunization strategies and plans to the local context including the availability of vaccines and supplies; proactive community engagement to generate and sustain demand for and trust in vaccination; close monitoring of mpox vaccination activities and coverage, and the collection of data during vaccination activities according to implementable research protocols. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)

    Community protection

    • Strengthen risk communication and community engagement systems with affected communities and local workforces for outbreak prevention, response and vaccination strategies, particularly at the lowest administrative levels reporting cases, including through training, mapping high risk and vulnerable populations, social listening and community feedback, and managing misinformation. This entails, inter alia, communicating effectively the uncertainties regarding the natural history of mpox, updated information about mpox including about the efficacy of mpox vaccines, the uncertainties regarding duration of protection following vaccination, and any relevant information about clinical trials to which the local population may have access, as appropriate. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Address stigma and discrimination of any kind via meaningful community engagement, particularly in health services and during risk communication activities. (EXTENDED)
    • Promote and implement IPC measures and basic WASH and waste management services in household settings, congregate settings (e.g. prisons, internally displaced persons and refugee camps, etc.), schools, points of entry and cross border transit areas. (EXTENDED)

    Governance and financing

    • Galvanize and scale up national funding and explore external opportunities for targeted funding of mpox prevention, readiness and response activities, advocate for release of available funds and take steps to identify potential new funding partners for emergency response. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Integrate mpox prevention and response measures, including enhanced surveillance, in existing programmes for prevention, control and treatment of other endemic diseases – especially HIV, as well as STIs, malaria, tuberculosis, other vaccine-preventable diseases including COVID-19, and/or non-communicable diseases – striving to identify activities which will benefit the programmes involved and lead to better health outcomes overall. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)

    Addressing research gaps

    •  Invest in field studies to better understand animal hosts and zoonotic spillover in the areas where MPXV is circulating, in coordination with the animal health sector and One Health partners. (EXTENDED, with re-phrasing)
    • Strengthen and expand use of genomic sequencing to characterize the epidemiology and chains of transmission of MPXV to better inform control measures. (EXTENDED)

    Reporting on the implementation of temporary recommendations

    • Report quarterly to WHO on the status of, and challenges related to, the implementation of these temporary recommendations, using a standardized tool and channels that will be made available by WHO. (EXTENDED)

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI: Outbrain Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reports another quarter of accelerated growth and profitability, achieved Q4 guidance on Ex TAC gross profit and Adjusted EBITDA, and generated strong cash flow

    Closed acquisition of Teads in February 2025; Combined company operating under the name Teads

    NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Outbrain Inc. (Nasdaq: OB), which is operating under the new Teads brand, announced today financial results for the quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Key Financial Metrics:

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
    (in millions USD)   2024       2023     % Change     2024       2023     % Change
    Revenue $ 234.6     $ 248.2       (5 )%   $ 889.9     $ 935.8       (5 )%
    Gross profit   56.1       53.2       5  %     192.1       184.8       4  %
    Net (loss) income   (0.2 )     4.1       (104 )%     (0.7 )     10.2       (107 )%
    Net cash provided by operating activities   42.7       25.5       67 %     68.6       13.7       399  %
                                   
    Non-GAAP Financial Data*                              
    Ex-TAC gross profit   68.3       63.8       7  %     236.1       227.4       4  %
    Adjusted EBITDA   17.0       14.0       21  %     37.3       28.5       31  %
    Adjusted net income (loss)   3.5       4.3       (20 )%     4.1       (3.9 )     205  %
    Free cash flow   37.6       21.0       79  %     51.3       (6.5 )   NM

    _____________________________

    NM Not meaningful

    * See non-GAAP reconciliations below

    “Continued momentum in our growth areas helped drive accelerated growth and profitability, with a record level of cash flow” said David Kostman, CEO of Outbrain.

    “A few weeks post closing of our merger with Teads, I am even more excited about combining the category-leading branding and performance capabilities of Outbrain and Teads into one of the largest Open Internet platforms. We believe the new Teads will better serve enterprise brands and agencies, as well as mid-market and direct response advertisers, by delivering elevated outcomes from branding to performance across curated, quality media environments from digital to CTV,” added Kostman.

    Recent Developments

    On February 3, 2025, we completed the acquisition of Teads, for total value of approximately $900 million, comprised of $625 million in cash and 43.75 million shares of Outbrain common stock. The combined company will operate under the name Teads.

    In connection with the acquisition:

    • On February 3, 2025, entered into a credit agreement with Goldman Sachs Bank, U.S. Bank Trust Company, and certain other lenders, which provided, among other things, for a new $100.0 million super senior secured revolving credit facility maturing on February 3, 2030, which may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.
    • On February 11, 2025, completed the private offering of $637.5 million in aggregate principal amount of 10.0% senior secured notes due 2030 at an issue price of 98.087% of the principal amount in a transaction exempt from registration. The proceeds were used, together with cash on hand, to repay in full and cancel a bridge credit facility used to finance the cash consideration paid at closing.
    • Terminated the existing revolving credit facility with the Silicon Valley Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank & Trust Company, dated as of November 2, 2021.
    • We expect to realize approximately $65 million to $75 million of annual synergies in 2026 with further opportunities for expanded synergies. Of this amount, approximately $60 million relates to cost synergies, including approximately $45 million of compensation-related expenses, with approximately 70% of the estimated compensation-related synergies already actioned in February.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Business Highlights:

    • Continued acceleration of year-over-year growth of Ex-TAC gross profit, improvement in Ex-TAC gross margin, and growth in Adjusted EBITDA.
    • Fifth consecutive quarter of year-over-year RPM growth.
    • Strong initial reception of our Moments offering, launched in Q3 and live on over 40 publishers, including New York Post, NewsCorp Australia, RTL and Rolling Stone.
    • Continued growth in advertiser spend on Outbrain DSP (previously known as Zemanta), by approximately 45% in FY 2024, as compared to the prior year.
    • Continued supply expansion outside of traditional feed product representing approximately 30% of our revenue in Q4 2024, versus 26% in Q4 2023.
    • Premium supply competitive wins include Penske Media (US) and Prensa Ibérica (Spain), and renewals including Spiegel (Germany), Il Messaggero (Italy), and Grape (Japan).

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights:

    • Revenue of $234.6 million, a decrease of $13.6 million, or 5%, compared to $248.2 million in the prior year period, including net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $1.8 million.
    • Gross profit of $56.1 million, an increase of $2.9 million, or 5%, compared to $53.2 million in the prior year period. Gross margin increased 250 basis points to 23.9%, compared to 21.4% in the prior year period.
    • Ex-TAC gross profit of $68.3 million, an increase of $4.5 million, or 7%, compared to $63.8 million in the prior year period, as lower revenue was more than offset by our Ex-TAC gross margin improvement of approximately 340 basis points to 29.1%, compared to 25.7% in the prior year period.
    • Net loss of $0.2 million, compared to net income of $4.1 million in the prior year period. Net loss in the current period includes acquisition-related costs of $3.6 million, net of taxes.
    • Adjusted net income of $3.5 million, compared to adjusted net income of $4.3 million in the prior year period.
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $17.0 million, compared to Adjusted EBITDA of $14.0 million in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA included net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $0.8 million.
    • Generated net cash provided by operating activities of $42.7 million, compared to $25.5 million in the prior year period. Free cash flow was $37.6 million, as compared to $21.0 million in the prior year period.
    • Cash, cash equivalents and investments in marketable securities were $166.1 million, comprised of cash and cash equivalents of $89.1 million and short-term investments in marketable securities of $77.0 million as of December 31, 2024.

    Full Year 2024 Financial Results:

    • Revenue of $889.9 million, a decrease of $45.9 million, or 5%, compared to $935.8 million in the prior year period, including net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $2.4 million.
    • Gross profit of $192.1 million, an increase of $7.3 million, or 4%, compared to $184.8 million in the prior year period, including net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $1.3 million. Gross margin increased 190 basis points to 21.6% in 2024, compared to 19.7% in 2023.
    • Ex-TAC gross profit of $236.1 million, an increase of $8.7 million, or 4%, compared to $227.4 million in the prior year period, including net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $1.3 million.
    • Net loss of $0.7 million, including net one-time expenses of $4.8 million, compared to net income of $10.2 million, including net one-time benefits of $14.1 million in the prior year. See non-GAAP reconciliations below for details of one-time items.
    • Adjusted net income of $4.1 million, compared to adjusted net loss of $3.9 million in the prior year.
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $37.3 million, compared to $28.5 million in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA included net unfavorable foreign currency effects of approximately $1.2 million.
    • Generated net cash provided by operating activities of $68.6 million, compared to net cash provided $13.7 million in the prior year. Free cash flow was $51.3 million, compared to a use of cash of $6.5 million in the prior year.

    Share Repurchases:

    There were no share repurchases during the three months ended December 31, 2024. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, we repurchased 1,410,001 shares for $5.8 million, including related costs, under our $30 million stock repurchase program authorized in December 2022. The remaining availability under the repurchase program was $6.6 million as of December 31, 2024.

    2025 Full Year and First Quarter Guidance

    The following forward-looking statements reflect our expectations for 2025, including the contribution from Teads.

    For the first quarter ending March 31, 2025, which includes the results for the legacy Outbrain business plus the addition of operating results for legacy Teads beginning on February 3, 2025, we expect:

    • Ex-TAC gross profit of $100 million to $105 million
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $8 million to $12 million

    For the full year ending December 31, 2025, we expect:

    • Adjusted EBITDA of at least $180 million

    The above measures are forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures for which a reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is not available without unreasonable efforts. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below. In addition, our guidance is subject to risks and uncertainties, as outlined below in this release.

    Conference Call and Webcast Information

    Outbrain will host an investor conference call this morning, Thursday, February 27 at 8:30 am ET. Interested parties are invited to listen to the conference call which can be accessed live by phone by dialing 1-877-497-9071 or for international callers, 1-201-689-8727. A replay will be available two hours after the call and can be accessed by dialing 1-877-660-6853, or for international callers, 1-201-612-7415. The passcode for the live call and the replay is 13750872. The replay will be available until March 13, 2025. Interested investors and other parties may also listen to a simultaneous webcast of the conference call by logging onto the Investors Relations section of the Company’s website at https://investors.outbrain.com. The online replay will be available for a limited time shortly following the call.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to GAAP performance measures, we use the following supplemental non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate our business, measure our performance, identify trends, and allocate our resources: Ex-TAC gross profit, Ex-TAC gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted net income (loss), and adjusted diluted EPS. These non-GAAP financial measures are defined and reconciled to the corresponding GAAP measures below. These non-GAAP financial measures are subject to significant limitations, including those we identify below. In addition, other companies in our industry may define these measures differently, which may reduce their usefulness as comparative measures. As a result, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant as a substitute for revenue, gross profit, net income (loss), diluted EPS, or cash flows from operating activities presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Because we are a global company, the comparability of our operating results is affected by foreign exchange fluctuations. We calculate certain constant currency measures and foreign currency impacts by translating the current year’s reported amounts into comparable amounts using the prior year’s exchange rates. All constant currency financial information that may be presented is non-GAAP and should be used as a supplement to our reported operating results. We believe that this information is helpful to our management and investors to assess our operating performance on a comparable basis. However, these measures are not intended to replace amounts presented in accordance with GAAP and may be different from similar measures calculated by other companies.

    The Company is also providing fourth quarter and full year guidance. These forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures are calculated based on internal forecasts that omit certain amounts that would be included in GAAP financial measures. The Company has not provided quantitative reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures because it is unable, without unreasonable effort, to predict with reasonable certainty the occurrence or amount of all excluded items that may arise during the forward-looking period, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Such excluded items could be material to the reported results individually or in the aggregate.

    Ex-TAC Gross Profit

    Ex-TAC gross profit is a non-GAAP financial measure. Gross profit is the most comparable GAAP measure. In calculating Ex-TAC gross profit, we add back other cost of revenue to gross profit. Ex-TAC gross profit may fluctuate in the future due to various factors, including, but not limited to, seasonality and changes in the number of media partners and advertisers, advertiser demand or user engagements.

    We present Ex-TAC gross profit, Ex-TAC gross margin (calculated as Ex-TAC gross profit as a percentage of revenue), and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Ex-TAC gross profit, because they are key profitability measures used by our management and board of directors to understand and evaluate our operating performance and trends, develop short-term and long-term operational plans, and make strategic decisions regarding the allocation of capital. Accordingly, we believe that these measures provide information to investors and the market in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. There are limitations on the use of Ex-TAC gross profit in that traffic acquisition cost is a significant component of our total cost of revenue but not the only component and, by definition, Ex-TAC gross profit presented for any period will be higher than gross profit for that period. A potential limitation of this non-GAAP financial measure is that other companies, including companies in our industry, which have a similar business, may define Ex-TAC gross profit differently, which may make comparisons difficult. As a result, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant as a substitute for revenue or gross profit presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before gain on convertible debt; interest expense; interest income and other income (expense), net; provision for income taxes; depreciation and amortization; stock-based compensation; and other income or expenses that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance, including but not limited to, merger and acquisition costs, regulatory matter costs, and severance costs related to our cost saving initiatives. We present Adjusted EBITDA as a supplemental performance measure because it is a key profitability measure used by our management and board of directors to understand and evaluate our operating performance and trends, develop short-term and long-term operational plans and make strategic decisions regarding the allocation of capital, and we believe it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period.

    We believe that Adjusted EBITDA provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. However, our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information of other companies. Adjusted EBITDA should be considered as a supplemental measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any measures of our financial performance that are calculated and reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted Diluted EPS

    Adjusted net income (loss) is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income (loss) excluding items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance, including but not limited to gain on convertible debt, merger and acquisition costs, regulatory matter costs, and severance costs related to our cost saving initiatives. Adjusted net income (loss), as defined above, is also presented on a per diluted share basis. We present adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted diluted EPS as supplemental performance measures because we believe they facilitate performance comparisons from period to period. However, adjusted net income (loss) or adjusted diluted EPS should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income (loss) or diluted earnings per share reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Free Cash Flow

    Free cash flow is defined as cash flow provided by (used in) operating activities less capital expenditures and capitalized software development costs. Free cash flow is a supplementary measure used by our management and board of directors to evaluate our ability to generate cash and we believe it allows for a more complete analysis of our available cash flows. Free cash flow should be considered as a supplemental measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any measures of our financial performance that are calculated and reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements generally relating to possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives, and statements relating to our recently completed acquisition of Teads S.A., a public limited liability company(société anonyme) incorporated and existing under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“Teads”). You can generally identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “foresee,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions or are not statements of historical fact. We have based these forward- looking statements largely on our expectations and projections regarding future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors including, but not limited to: the ability of Outbrain to successfully integrate Teads or manage the combined business effectively; our ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the acquisition, including, among other things, operating efficiencies, revenue synergies and other cost savings; our due diligence investigation of Teads may be inadequate or risks related to Teads’ business may materialize; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the acquisition; the outcome of any securities litigation, stockholder derivative or other litigation related to the acquisition; our ability to raise additional financing in the future to fund our operations, which may not be available to us on favorable terms or at all; the volatility of the market price of our common stock and any drop in the market price of our common stock following the acquisition; our ability to attract and retain customers, management and other key personnel; overall advertising demand and traffic generated by our media partners; factors that affect advertising demand and spending, such as the continuation or worsening of unfavorable economic or business conditions or downturns, instability or volatility in financial markets, and other events or factors outside of our control, such as U.S. and global recession concerns, geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing war between Ukraine-Russia and conditions in Israel and the Middle East, tariffs and trade wars, supply chain issues, inflationary pressures, labor market volatility, bank closures or disruptions, the impact of challenging economic conditions, political and policy changes or uncertainties in connection with the new U.S. presidential administration, and other factors that have and may further impact advertisers’ ability to pay; our ability to continue to innovate, and adoption by our advertisers and media partners of our expanding solutions; the success of our sales and marketing investments, which may require significant investments and may involve long sales cycles; our ability to grow our business and manage growth effectively; our ability to compete effectively against current and future competitors; the loss or decline of one or more of our large media partners, and our ability to expand our advertiser and media partner relationships; conditions in Israel, including the sustainability of the recent cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and any conflicts with other terrorist organizations; our ability to maintain our revenues or profitability despite quarterly fluctuations in our results, whether due to seasonality, large cyclical events, or other causes; the risk that our research and development efforts may not meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technology market; any failure of our recommendation engine to accurately predict attention or engagement, any deterioration in the quality of our recommendations or failure to present interesting content to users or other factors which may cause us to experience a decline in user engagement or loss of media partners; limits on our ability to collect, use and disclose data to deliver advertisements; our ability to extend our reach into evolving digital media platforms; our ability to maintain and scale our technology platform; our ability to meet demands on our infrastructure and resources due to future growth or otherwise; our failure or the failure of third parties to protect our sites, networks and systems against security breaches, or otherwise to protect the confidential information of us or our partners; outages or disruptions that impact us or our service providers, resulting from cyber incidents, or failures or loss of our infrastructure; significant fluctuations in currency exchange rates; political and regulatory risks in the various markets in which we operate; the challenges of compliance with differing and changing regulatory requirements; the timing and execution of any cost-saving measures and the impact on our business or strategy; and the risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the year ended December 31, 2023, in our definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on October 31, 2024 and in subsequent reports filed with the SEC. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as an indication of future performance. We cannot assure you that the results, events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur, and actual results, events, or circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation and do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About The Combined Company

    Outbrain Inc. (Nasdaq: OB) and Teads combined on February 3, 2025 and are operating under the new Teads brand. The new Teads is the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, driving full-funnel results for marketers across premium media. With a focus on meaningful business outcomes, the combined company ensures value is driven with every media dollar by leveraging predictive AI technology to connect quality media, beautiful brand creative, and context-driven addressability and measurement. One of the most scaled advertising platforms on the open internet, the new Teads is directly partnered with more than 10,000 publishers and 20,000 advertisers globally. The company is headquartered in New York, with a global team of nearly 1,800 people in 36 countries.

    Media Contact

    press@outbrain.com

    Investor Relations Contact

    IR@outbrain.com

    (332) 205-8999

    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (In thousands, except for share and per share data)
     
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
      (Unaudited)
    Revenue $ 234,586     $ 248,229     $ 889,875     $ 935,818  
    Cost of revenue:              
    Traffic acquisition costs   166,247       184,425       653,731       708,449  
    Other cost of revenue   12,277       10,572       44,042       42,571  
    Total cost of revenue   178,524       194,997       697,773       751,020  
    Gross profit   56,062       53,232       192,102       184,798  
    Operating expenses:            
    Research and development   9,434       8,369       37,080       36,402  
    Sales and marketing   25,736       25,254       97,498       98,370  
    General and administrative   18,357       13,899       70,162       58,665  
    Total operating expenses   53,527       47,522       204,740       193,437  
    Income (loss) from operations   2,535       5,710       (12,638 )     (8,639 )
    Other income (expense), net:              
    Gain on convertible debt               8,782       22,594  
    Interest expense   (699 )     (965 )     (3,649 )     (5,393 )
    Interest income and other income, net   1,522       2,060       9,209       7,793  
    Total other income, net   823       1,095       14,342       24,994  
    Income before income taxes   3,358       6,805       1,704       16,355  
    Provision for income taxes   3,525       2,748       2,415       6,113  
    Net (loss) income $ (167 )   $ 4,057     $ (711 )   $ 10,242  
                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:              
    Basic   49,767,704       50,076,364       49,321,301       50,900,422  
    Diluted   49,767,704       50,108,460       52,709,356       56,965,299  
                   
    Net income (loss) per common share:              
    Basic $ 0.00     $ 0.08     $ (0.01 )   $ 0.20  
    Diluted $ 0.00     $ 0.08     $ (0.11 )   $ (0.06 )
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (In thousands, except for number of shares and par value)
     
      December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
      (Unaudited)    
    ASSETS:      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 89,094     $ 70,889  
    Short-term investments in marketable securities   77,035       94,313  
    Accounts receivable, net of allowances   149,167       189,334  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   27,835       47,240  
    Total current assets   343,131       401,776  
    Non-current assets:      
    Long-term investments in marketable securities         65,767  
    Property, equipment and capitalized software, net   45,250       42,461  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net   15,047       12,145  
    Intangible assets, net   16,928       20,396  
    Goodwill   63,063       63,063  
    Deferred tax assets   40,825       38,360  
    Other assets   24,969       20,669  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 549,213     $ 664,637  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 149,479     $ 150,812  
    Accrued compensation and benefits   19,430       18,620  
    Accrued and other current liabilities   113,630       119,703  
    Deferred revenue   6,932       8,486  
    Total current liabilities   289,471       297,621  
    Non-current liabilities:      
    Long-term debt         118,000  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   11,783       9,217  
    Other liabilities   16,616       16,735  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 317,870     $ 441,573  
           
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Common stock, par value of $0.001 per share − one billion shares authorized; 63,503,274 shares issued and 50,090,114 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024; 61,567,520 shares issued and 49,726,518 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023   64       62  
    Preferred stock, par value of $0.001 per share − 100,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023          
    Additional paid-in capital   484,541       468,525  
    Treasury stock, at cost − 13,413,160 shares as of December 31, 2024 and 11,841,002 shares as of December 31, 2023   (74,289 )     (67,689 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (9,480 )     (9,052 )
    Accumulated deficit   (169,493 )     (168,782 )
    TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   231,343       223,064  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 549,213     $ 664,637  
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (In thousands)
     
      Three Months Ended December 31,   Twelve Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
      (Unaudited)
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:              
    Net (loss) income $ (167 )   $ 4,057     $ (711 )   $ 10,242  
    Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:              
    Gain on convertible debt               (8,782 )     (22,594 )
    Stock-based compensation   3,974       2,988       15,461       12,141  
    Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment   1,658       1,720       6,312       6,915  
    Amortization of capitalized software development costs   2,477       2,372       9,758       9,633  
    Amortization of intangible assets   850       853       3,409       4,154  
    Provision for credit losses   55       1,931       3,006       8,008  
    Non-cash operating lease expense   1,305       1,092       5,130       4,453  
    Deferred income taxes   (664 )     (1,478 )     (5,095 )     (4,312 )
    Amortization of discount on marketable securities   (396 )     (729 )     (2,235 )     (3,604 )
    Other   665       (483 )     47       (717 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:              
    Accounts receivable   4,471       (16,939 )     35,905       (12,946 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   9,291       2,409       18,412       843  
    Accounts payable and other current liabilities   18,867       27,127       (11,696 )     (1,228 )
    Operating lease liabilities   (1,223 )     (1,018 )     (5,092 )     (4,297 )
    Deferred revenue   555       1,524       (1,496 )     1,621  
    Other non-current assets and liabilities   945       51       6,228       5,434  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   42,663       25,477       68,561       13,746  
                   
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:              
    Acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired         (77 )     (181 )     (389 )
    Purchases of property and equipment   (2,712 )     (2,257 )     (7,380 )     (10,127 )
    Capitalized software development costs   (2,321 )     (2,243 )     (9,913 )     (10,107 )
    Purchases of marketable securities   (34,436 )     (44,658 )     (90,602 )     (131,543 )
    Proceeds from sales and maturities of marketable securities   31,068       35,228       175,325       221,878  
    Other   (15 )     (63 )     (96 )     (72 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities   (8,416 )     (14,070 )     67,153       69,640  
                   
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:              
    Repayment of long-term debt obligations               (109,740 )     (96,170 )
    Payment of deferred financing costs   (598 )           (1,099 )      
    Treasury stock repurchases and share withholdings on vested awards   (210 )     (5,270 )     (6,600 )     (18,521 )
    Principal payments on finance lease obligations         (353 )     (263 )     (1,830 )
    Payment of contingent consideration liability up to acquisition-date fair value                     (547 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (808 )     (5,623 )     (117,702 )     (117,068 )
                   
    Effect of exchange rate changes   (1,400 )     564       634       (1,004 )
                   
    Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 32,039     $ 6,348     $ 18,646     $ (34,686 )
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — Beginning   57,686       64,731       71,079       105,765  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — Ending $ 89,725     $ 71,079     $ 89,725     $ 71,079  
    OUTBRAIN INC.
    Non-GAAP Reconciliations
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     

    The following table presents the reconciliation of Gross profit to Ex-TAC gross profit and Ex-TAC gross margin, for the periods presented:

    Three Months Ended December 31,   Twelve Months Ended December 31,
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Revenue $ 234,586     $ 248,229     $ 889,875     $ 935,818  
    Traffic acquisition costs   (166,247 )     (184,425 )     (653,731 )     (708,449 )
    Other cost of revenue   (12,277 )     (10,572 )     (44,042 )     (42,571 )
    Gross profit   56,062       53,232       192,102       184,798  
    Other cost of revenue   12,277       10,572       44,042       42,571  
    Ex-TAC gross profit $ 68,339     $ 63,804     $ 236,144     $ 227,369  
                   
    Gross margin (gross profit as % of revenue)   23.9 %     21.4 %     21.6 %     19.7 %
    Ex-TAC gross margin (Ex-TAC gross profit as % of revenue)   29.1 %     25.7 %     26.5 %     24.3 %

    The following table presents the reconciliation of net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA, for the periods presented:

    Three Months Ended December 31,   Twelve Months Ended December 31,
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net (loss) income $ (167 )   $ 4,057     $ (711 )   $ 10,242  
    Interest expense   699       965       3,649       5,393  
    Interest income and other income, net   (1,522 )     (2,060 )     (9,209 )     (7,793 )
    Gain on convertible debt               (8,782 )     (22,594 )
    Provision for income taxes   3,525       2,748       2,415       6,113  
    Depreciation and amortization   4,985       4,945       19,479       20,702  
    Stock-based compensation   3,974       2,988       15,461       12,141  
    Regulatory matter costs                     742  
    Acquisition-related costs   5,469             14,256        
    Severance and related costs         361       742       3,509  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 16,963     $ 14,004     $ 37,300     $ 28,455  
                   
    Net (loss) income as % of gross profit   (0.3 )%     7.6 %     (0.4 )%     5.5 %
    Adjusted EBITDA as % of Ex-TAC Gross Profit   24.8 %     21.9 %     15.8 %     12.5 %

    The following table presents the reconciliation of net income (loss) and diluted EPS to adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted diluted EPS, respectively, for the periods presented:

    Three Months Ended December 31,   Twelve Months Ended December 31,
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net loss (income) $ (167 )   $ 4,057     $ (711 )   $ 10,242  
    Adjustments:              
    Gain on convertible debt               (8,782 )     (22,594 )
    Regulatory matter costs                     742  
    Acquisition-related costs   5,469             14,256        
    Severance and related costs         361       742       3,509  
    Total adjustments, before tax   5,469       361       6,216       (18,343 )
    Income tax effect   (1,844 )     (97 )     (1,438 )     4,234  
    Total adjustments, after tax   3,625       264       4,778       (14,109 )
    Adjusted net income (loss) $ 3,458     $ 4,321     $ 4,067     $ (3,867 )
                   
    Basic weighted-average shares, as reported   49,767,704       50,076,364       49,321,301       50,900,422  
    Restricted stock units   793,713       32,096       519,729        
    Adjusted diluted weighted average shares   50,561,417       50,108,460       49,841,030       50,900,422  
                   
    Diluted net income (loss) per share – reported $     $ 0.08     $ (0.11 )   $ (0.06 )
    Adjustments, after tax   0.07       0.01       0.19       (0.02 )
    Diluted net income (loss) per share – adjusted $ 0.07     $ 0.09     $ 0.08     $ (0.08 )

    The following table presents the reconciliation of net cash provided by (used in) operating activities to free cash flow, for the periods presented:

      Three Months Ended December 31,   Twelve Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 42,663     $ 25,477     $ 68,561     $ 13,746  
    Purchases of property and equipment   (2,712 )     (2,257 )     (7,380 )     (10,127 )
    Capitalized software development costs   (2,321 )     (2,243 )     (9,913 )     (10,107 )
    Free cash flow $ 37,630     $ 20,977     $ 51,268     $ (6,488 )

    Teads
    Non-IFRS Reconciliations
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)

    The below information is presented for informational purposes only. The acquisition of Teads closed in February 2025. Therefore, its results are not included in Outbrain Inc.’s consolidated results of operations for any periods in 2024. The following is a summary of Teads’ non-IFRS financial measures, as calculated based on Teads’ historical financial statements, which we may publicly present from time to time, and which differ from US GAAP. Non-IFRS financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, Teads’ historical financial results prepared in accordance with IFRS. The financial information set forth below for the three months and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 is preliminary and is subject to change. Actual financial results may differ from these preliminary estimates due to the completion of Teads’ annual audit and are subject to adjustments and other developments that may arise before such results are finalized.

    Ex-TAC Gross Profit is defined as gross profit plus other cost of revenue. The following table presents the reconciliation of Ex-TAC Gross Profit to gross profit for the periods presented:

    Three Months
    Ended
    March 31,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    June 30,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    September 30,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Twelve Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024
    (in thousands)
    Revenue $ 125,372     $ 153,734     $ 149,376     $ 188,953     $ 617,435  
    Traffic acquisition costs   (46,939 )     (55,716 )     (59,085 )     (69,091 )     (230,831 )
    Other cost of revenue(a)   (26,387 )     (26,721 )     (26,865 )     (26,441 )     (106,414 )
    Gross profit   52,046       71,297       63,426       93,421       280,190  
    Other cost of revenue(a)   26,387       26,721       26,865       26,441       106,414  
    Ex-TAC Gross Profit $ 78,433     $ 98,018     $ 90,291     $ 119,862     $ 386,604  

    __________________________________
    (a) Other cost of revenue for Teads is subject to accounting policy alignment with Outbrain, with no impact to Ex-TAC Gross Profit included in the above table.

    Teads defines Adjusted EBITDA as profit (loss) for the year/period before income tax expense, finance costs, other financial income and expenses, depreciation and amortization, other expenses and income (capital gains, non-recurring litigation, restructuring costs) and share-based compensation. This may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Further, this measure should not be considered as an alternative for net income as the effects of income tax expense, finance costs, other financial income and expenses, depreciation and amortization, other expenses and income (such as severance costs, and merger and acquisition costs) and share-based compensation excluded from Adjusted EBITDA do affect the operating results. Teads believes that Adjusted EBITDA is a useful supplementary measure for evaluating the operating performance of Teads’ business. The following table provides a reconciliation of profit (loss) for the period to Adjusted EBITDA, the most directly comparable IFRS measure, for the periods presented:

    Three Months
    Ended
    March 31,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    June 30,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    September 30,
    2024
      Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Twelve Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024
    (in thousands)
    (Loss) profit for the period   (36,551 )     23,323       32,933     $ 46,158     $ 65,863  
    Finance Costs   250       277       532       117       1,176  
    Other financial (income) and expenses   20,531       (12,432 )     (20,529 )     (19,967 )     (32,397 )
    Provision for income taxes   716       10,800       10,597       17,637       39,750  
    Depreciation and amortization   3,180       3,350       3,277       3,027       12,834  
    Share-based compensation   25,612       5,760       (3,284 )     (134 )     27,954  
    Severance costs   281       520       398       394       1,593  
    Merger and acquisition costs   323       763       (125 )     4,929       5,890  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 14,342     $ 32,361     $ 23,799     $ 52,161     $ 122,663  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 11 years since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    11 years since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea: UK statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland comments on the eleventh anniversary of Russia’s illegal annexation of Ukraine, a violation of international law, and the campaign of systematic human rights violations and abuse against its people that followed.

    Thank you, Mr Chair.  This month marks 11 years since Russia illegally annexed Crimea —a violation of international law.

    Yesterday marked the Day of Resistance, commemorating the courage and resilience of Ukrainians who continue to stand against Russian occupation of Crimea. On that day in 2014, thousands of Ukrainians gathered peacefully in Simferopol, defending Ukraine’s territorial integrity and their democratic rights.

    Since 2014, the situation in Crimea has deteriorated significantly. Russia’s occupation has been characterised by systematic human rights abuses and a campaign to suppress dissent, erase Ukrainian cultural identity, and silence those who speak out.

    The UN reports that the Crimean Tatar community continues to face serious persecution, including arbitrary detentions, forced disappearances, and the closure of media outlets. It concludes that their cultural and political rights have been violated.

    OHCHR reports that at least 219 Ukrainians from Crimea, including 133 Crimean Tatars, have been arbitrarily detained in Russia since Russia’s annexation of Crimea. At least 40 of these are being denied the urgent medical care they need — among them, human rights defenders Tofik Abdulhaziiev and Enver Ametov.

    Religious freedoms are also under attack. Communities that refuse to conform to the Russian Orthodox Church, including Ukrainian Orthodox believers, Muslims, and Jehovah’s Witnesses face harassment, surveillance, and unjustified legal action. These actions violate fundamental human rights, including the freedom of religion and belief, which are enshrined in international law.

    And since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s repressive measures in Crimea have become the blueprint for the restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms in the newly occupied territories.

    Russia’s attempts to legitimise its occupation of sovereign Ukrainian territory through sham referenda and forced passportisation are equally concerning. These actions attempt to manipulate the demographic and political landscape of Ukraine, further isolating the occupied regions from Ukraine and the international community. The UK rejects these measures as unlawful.

    We call for the immediate release of all those arbitrarily detained by Russia in Ukraine, including the three members of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission—Vadym Golda, Maxim Petrov, and Dmytro Shabanov—who have been unjustly held since 2022 for performing their official duties. International human rights monitoring bodies be granted full and unrestricted access to Crimea. Justice must be served for victims of human rights abuses, including those forcibly disappeared or tortured.

    The UK reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, including Crimea. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, and we will continue to work with our international partners to hold the Russian authorities accountable.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: OPSS warning on dangerous UPP e-bike batteries

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    OPSS warning on dangerous UPP e-bike batteries

    Repeat warning to stop using UPP batteries linked to multiple serious fires.

    The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is warning consumers to stop using dangerous models of UPP batteries in their e-bikes. These batteries have been linked to multiple serious fires.

    OPSS previously issued a warning about these UPP batteries in January 2024 when it took action to require online marketplaces to stop selling them.

    The specific models affected are UPP (Unit Pack Power) U004 and U004-1.

    These models should not be used as they are dangerous and can cause a serious fire or explosion that spreads rapidly, and which can lead to serious injury or death.

    Read the Product Safety Report on UPP batteries.

    Owners of e-bikes are advised to take the following steps:

    1. Check that your e-bike, particularly any second-hand model or e-bike conversion, does not contain UPP battery model U004 or U004-1.
    2. If it does, stop using it immediately and do not charge the UPP battery.
    3. Dispose of the UPP battery at any local household recycling centre that accepts this type of battery.
    4. Contact the seller for redress.

    Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS said:

    Unsafe e-bikes batteries are still in use around the country. When they are being charged, they can catch fire with horrific force, threatening the lives of those who use them, their families and their neighbours. While OPSS takes action to remove these wherever we can, it is vital that consumers are aware of the risks and that they check that their own e-bike, or any e-bike they see for sale online, does not contain these UPP batteries. If anyone finds one, don’t use it and contact the seller.

    The Government advises that consumers should only buy safe e-bikes from reputable sellers, only replace parts with products recommended by the manufacturer and always seek professional help when converting or repairing an e-bike.

    Further Government advice is available on the steps you can take to reduce the risk of e-bike fires, as well as a basic checklist for looking after your e-bike or e-scooter.

    Find out more about Buy Safe, Be Safe: avoid e-bike and e-scooter fires.

    Follow these five steps to protect yourself from e-bike fire risks

    Follow these five steps to protect yourself from e-bike fire risks: Welsh

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA warns of potential second norovirus wave

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA warns of potential second norovirus wave

    People who have already had the virus this winter could be at risk again, as new data shows shift in circulating strains.

    The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows norovirus cases continue to rise across the country, with laboratory reports at the highest levels since reporting data this way began in 2014.

    Laboratory confirmed cases in the 2 weeks from 3 to 16 February 2025 were 29.4% higher than the previous fortnight and more than double the 5-season average (168.0%) for the same 2-week period. The impact is particularly severe in hospitals and care homes, with cases highest among people aged 65 and over. Cases usually start to decline around this time of year as the weather gets warmer, but it is too soon to conclude whether or not norovirus has peaked this season.

    The increased activity this season is associated with the recently emerged GII.17 genotype. However, the latest data shows that a different, but commonly seen genotype (GII.4) is now increasing. Prior to the emergence of GII.17, GII.4 is the genotype that most commonly detected and increased each winter. While the GII.17 genotype remains dominant, accounting for 59% of cases, its prevalence has dropped from 76% since November. Meanwhile, the GII.4 strain has sharply risen, now representing 29% of cases compared to just 10% three months ago.

    This means that people who have already had norovirus this season may catch it again, as having one genotype does not fully protect against the other. However, at present there is no indication that either GII.17 or GII.4 leads to more severe illness.

    Common symptoms of norovirus include:

    • nausea and vomiting
    • diarrhoea
    • high temperature
    • abdominal pain
    • aching limbs

    Some people, particularly young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe symptoms, which can cause dehydration. Anyone with these symptoms should drink plenty of fluids.

    Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

    Norovirus levels are still exceptionally high and now with multiple genotypes spreading at the same time, people could end up getting infected more than once this season.

    We are seeing the biggest impacts in health and social care settings, such as hospitals and care homes. Symptoms of norovirus can be more severe in older adults, young children and those who are immunocompromised. If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, please do not visit hospitals and care homes or return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped. And don’t prepare food for others, as you can still pass on the virus during this time.

    Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus. Wash your hands with soapy warm water and clean surfaces with bleach-based products where possible to help stop infections from spreading.

    While it is likely the GII.17 genotype has driven up norovirus cases this season due to a lack of previous immunity, the higher numbers we are seeing may also reflect UKHSA’s improved testing capabilities and changing patterns of infection since the COVID-19 pandemic. Norovirus also spreads more easily in lower temperatures as people spend more time indoors and typically peaks during winter months.

    UKHSA experts estimate that reported cases represent only a small fraction of actual infections. For every case reported to national surveillance, approximately 288 cases occur in the community, suggesting around 3 million cases annually in the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sharandeep is named Good Citizen

    Source: City of Coventry

    A young carer has been presented with a Good Citizen Award by Coventry’s Lord Mayor for the support she has given to the community.

    Sharandeep Sahota has cared for her disabled relatives since age seven and founded the Young Carers’ Council with the Carers Trust Heart of England, to ensure young carers like her in the city, are represented.

    In 2023, Sharandeep was named as the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s “Change Maker of the Year as well as being nominated for a Coronation Champions Award. She also has had a special mention for being a young carer, volunteering and creating packages for the homeless in the Carer’s Trust  ‘Who cares wins, Young Hero’ category.

    Sharandeep has a strong volunteering ethos which includes speaking to students about volunteering at the Birmingham Youth Summit, helping at the International Children’s Games, teaching at the Streetlaw Project, campaigning about knife crime and fundraising with the National Citizen Service.

    Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Mal Mutton, said: “We have so many wonderful young carers in the city who look after loved ones and I am delighted that Sharandeep has been named a Good Citizen. To think that she has also found the time in her young and busy life to volunteer to help Coventry host the International Children’s Games and support the work to combat knife crime, is truly inspiring. Congratulations to her, and many thanks on behalf of the city of Coventry.”

    If you would like to nominate someone who you feel should receive a Good Citizen Award in Coventry, complete an online form coventry.gov.uk/GoodCitizen .

    Published: Thursday, 27th February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement on Occupied Palestinian Territories

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement on Occupied Palestinian Territories

    UK Statement at the 58 Human Rights Council during the Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Delivered by Eleanor Sanders, Human Rights Ambassador.

    High Commissioner, thank you for your update.

    Back on 7 October 2023, Israel suffered the worst terror attack in its history at the hands of Hamas: the hostages have suffered an unbearable trauma. 

    The people of Gaza, so many of whom have lost their lives, homes or loved ones, have also experienced a living nightmare.

    We’ve been crystal clear. Palestinian civilians must be permitted to return to their communities and rebuild. It is for Palestinians to determine the future of Gaza. And international humanitarian law must be respected.

    In the West Bank, the UK is deeply concerned at the expansion of Israel’s war aims and operations. Civilians must be protected.

    But let me be clear, the UK is opposed to the existence of item 7. The UK wants to see all countries face appropriate scrutiny of their human rights record but opposes the disproportionate focus of this item. 

    Mr President,

    The UK has urged all parties to sustain the ceasefire deal, implement the agreement in full, and support efforts to move to phase two and a sustainable peace.

    Indeed, let me reaffirm, once again, our support for a credible pathway towards a peaceful future for both Palestinians and Israelis, based on a two-state solution where they live side-by-side in peace, dignity and security. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Statement at the UN HRC on Occupied Palestinian Territories

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UK Statement at the UN HRC on Occupied Palestinian Territories

    UK Human Rights Ambassador Eleanor Sander’s statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

    High Commissioner, thank you for your update.

    Back on 7 October 2023, Israel suffered the worst terror attack in its history at the hands of Hamas: the hostages have suffered an unbearable trauma. 

    The people of Gaza, so many of whom have lost their lives, homes or loved ones, have also experienced a living nightmare.

    We’ve been crystal clear. Palestinian civilians must be permitted to return to their communities and rebuild. It is for Palestinians to determine the future of Gaza. And international humanitarian law must be respected.

    In the West Bank, the UK is deeply concerned at the expansion of Israel’s war aims and operations. Civilians must be protected.

    But let me be clear, the UK is opposed to the existence of item 7. The UK wants to see all countries face appropriate scrutiny of their human rights record but opposes the disproportionate focus of this item. 

    Mr President,

    The UK has urged all parties to sustain the ceasefire deal, implement the agreement in full, and support efforts to move to phase two and a sustainable peace.

    Indeed, let me reaffirm, once again, our support for a credible pathway towards a peaceful future for both Palestinians and Israelis, based on a two-state solution where they live side-by-side in peace, dignity and security. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £230m DHL investment in Coventry to create hundreds of local jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £230m DHL investment in Coventry to create hundreds of local jobs

    DHL Group has announced a £230 million e-commerce hub investment in Coventry creating up to 600 local jobs.

    • Major £230m investment in new state-of-the-art e-commerce hub in Coventry will create up to 600 local jobs.
    • New hub near Coventry Airport can handle up to 1 million parcels a day and is part of DHL e-Commerce’s wider £482m investment into the UK.
    • Minister Justin Madders will open the hub today, celebrating the latest in a series of job-boosting investments across the country.

    Logistics giant DHL has invested £230 million in a new state-of-the-art e-commerce hub in Coventry which will create up to 600 local jobs, in the latest in a series of job-boosting investments across the UK. 

    Today (27 February), Business Minister Justin Madders will formally open the new hub which covers 25,000 m² of space and can handle up to a million parcels a day, speeding up delivery times for UK consumers in a major win to the Coventry and wider West Midlands economy. 

    During his visit, the Minister will meet with DHL Group’s senior leadership, including CEO of DHL eCommerce Pablo Ciano, tour the new site to see the latest e-commerce technologies in action, and learn about how the new hub will benefit not only Coventry but the wider West Midlands.

    This announcement comes as the latest research shows the UK is expected to reach a turnover in e-commerce of £176 billion by 2029, leading all European economies. The latest figures from the Department for Business & Trade also show the West Midlands region landed 133 foreign direct investments in 2023/24, generating 7,581 new jobs.

    Securing investment is central to the Government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off as part of our Plan for Change.

    Since entering office, the Government has been focused on restoring economic stability – which is the foundation of growth – to give businesses the confidence to invest and expand in the UK, and today’s announcement from DHL is a major vote of confidence in the UK’s investment environment.  

    Business Minister Justin Madders said:

    The West Midlands is a powerhouse for investment, and this state-of-the-art hub in Coventry will not only create hundreds of local jobs but give a major boost to our logistics sector and speed up delivery times for consumers. 

    The UK is open for business, and DHL’s investment is the latest vote of confidence in the country which will deliver economic growth and raise living standards, showing our Plan for Change is working.

    Stuart Hill, CEO of DHL eCommerce UK said:

    As e-commerce continues to shape the way we live and work, this expansion will enable us to meet growing demand. The investment reflects our confidence in British business and our dedication to helping our customers thrive in the digital marketplace through innovation and best-in-class service delivery.

    By increasing our capacity with a state-of-the-art operation, we’re creating long-term jobs, growth opportunities for our customers and a blueprint for more sustainable logistics.

    DHL’s cutting-edge new site will help to grow UK e-commerce businesses and improve delivery to consumers across the UK, as well as improving export logistics for businesses in the region. The hub features secure bonded storage and customs capabilities to support international e-commerce, making it quicker and easier to dispatch parcels internationally.  

    The hub also provides EV charging points and 7,000m² of solar panels along with LED lighting. This minimises the site’s environmental impact and preserves the area’s natural biodiversity – supporting the government’s ambitions to make the UK a clean energy superpower. 

    Economic growth is the foundation of our Plan for Change, and DHL’s vote of confidence will play a vital role in not only unlocking further investment but turbocharging the UK’s logistics sector. 

    DHL’s announcement today is the latest in a series of recent investment wins for the UK, including: 

    • Creating nearly 38,000 jobs across the UK following our record-breaking International Investment Summit last October, with £63 billion worth of investment secured by companies such as Amazon Web Services, Iberdrola and Octopus Energy.
    • Car manufacturer Nissan, and the Japan Automatic Transmission Company (JATCO) securing a £50 million investment deal in partnership with the government to create a new manufacturing plant in Sunderland.
    • US company Knighthead’s £3 billion regeneration project in East Birmingham, creating 8,400 new jobs annually, paving the way for a new 60,000-seater stadium alongside a sports campus of training facilities, a new academy, and community pitches.
    • Rolls Royce investing £300m in the expansion of their Goodwood facility to meet the growing demand for bespoke upgrades.
    • JLR investing £500 million in its Halewood facility to enable the production of electric vehicles, alongside existing combustion and hybrid models.
    • Blackstone’s £10 billion investment to create the biggest AI data centre in Europe, creating 4000 jobs.
    • Eren Holding investing £1 billion in the redevelopment of Shotton Mill in North Wales, safeguarding 147 jobs and creating a further 220 jobs.
    • Heathrow Airport announcing a multibillion-pound investment programme to expand the airport, including new terminal buildings, aircraft stands, passenger infrastructure and work towards its third runway.

    Background:

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

    Gene Hackman, an acting titan of 1970s and ‘80s Hollywood with more than 80 screen credits to his name, has died at 95. He was found dead in his home with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and his dog.

    Hackman had a rugged, dominating and commanding presence on screen, known for his emotionally honest, raw and fierce performances. Always the tough guy, never the romantic lead, off camera he was shy and enjoyed the quiet life.

    I first saw Hackman as a child in The Poseidon Adventure (1972). My dad put the film on for the upside-down ocean liner disaster sequences, but it was Hackman who left a lasting impression. I vividly remember being so moved by his final speech berating God for deserting the ship’s passengers and crew while he hangs from a pressure valve door over flames.

    There is no actor who comes close to conveying authority with such humanity and reserve.

    He was often referred to as the actor’s actor and mentioned by Hollywood A-listers such as Kevin Costner as the best actor they’ve ever worked with. Clint Eastwood, once Hackman retired, described him as “too good not to be performing”.

    Hackman will leave a legacy to be studied and appreciated for years to come.

    Finding a foot in show business

    Born in San Bernardino, California, on January 30 1930, Hackman’s family moved to Danville, Illinois, when he was three. Hackman’s father left when he was 13, which he described to James Lipton on Inside the Actors Studio as his father “driving by with a casual wave goodbye”.

    Hackman joked to Lipton the departure of his father at an early age made him a better actor.

    Hackman left Danville at the age of 16 to join the marines, where he spent roughly four years. He was a rebellious child, but as Peter Shelley detailed in his biography of Hackman, the marine corps was the first time he gave in to authority.

    After the marine corps, Hackman moved to New York wanting to become an actor, telling people he was inspired by tough guy James “Jimmy” Cagney.

    In New York, Hackman struggled making a living as an artist while waiting for his breakthrough (his uncle told him to give up and get an honest job). Moving to California, he became friends early on with Dustin Hoffman (they finally appeared opposite each other in Hackman’s penultimate film, 2003’s Runaway Jury).

    After struggling for years, Hackman landed his first credited screen role in 1964’s Lilith at the age of 34. He played a small part opposite upcoming star Warren Beatty.

    As Hackman recounted to Lipton, Beatty told director Arthur Penn how great Hackman was in a scene they did together. That landed Hackman his breakthrough role playing Buck Barrow opposite Beatty and Faye Dunaway in the 1967 hit Bonnie and Clyde, earning him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.

    Breaking through in the 1970s

    It wasn’t until the 1970s that Hackman began his leading role career, starring in The French Connection (1971) as the unforgettable hard-boiled New York detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle. This role earned him his first Academy Award, for best actor.

    He was to wait more than 20 years for his second and final Academy Award, for playing the ruthless Little Bill Daggett opposite Clint Eastwood in Unforgiven (1992).

    Throughout the 1970s, Hackman was gaining huge popularity on screen, sharing records with the likes of Robert Redford and Harrison Ford as the highest grossing stars at the box office.

    There are too many great Hackman performances to mention, but my favourites are Unforgiven, The French Connection, The Poseidon Adventure, The Conversation (1974), Hoosiers (1986), Mississippi Burning (1988) and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).

    The French Connection’s director, William Friedkin, said in an interview Hackman was anti-authority and anti-racism because of his upbringing in an area known for its large Ku Klux Klan presence, and his absent father.

    Hackman almost pulled out of The French Connection one week into shooting because he didn’t like “beating on people” for a four-month shoot. He told Friedkin “I don’t think I can do this,” but Friedkin refused to let him go.

    Hackman recalled he was eternally grateful Friedkin didn’t, as it was “the start of [his] career”.

    Hackman said his character Popeye Doyle was a “bigot, an antisemitic, and whatever else you wanted to call him”, and he famously struggled to say the N-word in one key scene. He initially protested the line but eventually went with it, believing “that’s who the guy is […] you couldn’t really whitewash him”.

    Hackman often played the character who had the greatest authority on the surface but slipped up, whether he was playing the hero or the villain. Even for a role such as Reverend Scott in The Poseidon Adventure, in which Hackman played a self-righteous preacher onboard the capsized SS Poseidon, he questions his religion as he leads the entire band of escapees to safety.

    A life after acting

    Hackman retired from acting in 2004 at age 74.

    There are many stories about why he retired, like, as Shelley writes, not wanting to play Hollywood “grandfathers” and his “heart wasn’t in shape”, but his life after acting gives a strong hint: he had other interests.

    Over the past 20 years, Hackman wrote three historical fiction novels, was a keen painter, and enjoyed exercise such as cycling. Married to classical pianist Arakawa from 1991 until their death, they lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he designed his own home (yes, he also loved architecture!).

    A man of many talents who played a kaleidoscopic range of authoritative roles, Hackman will almost certainly be remembered mainly for his tough-guy performance in The French Connection – though many will also remember him as the Hollywood actor’s actor.

    Will Jeffery 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. Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor – https://theconversation.com/gene-hackman-will-be-remembered-as-the-hollywood-actors-actor-233109

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Leaders Unite to Mobilize African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063

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

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, February 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    On the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, African Heads of State, Government and Business Leaders convened for a Presidential Breakfast Dialogue to address the continent’s financing and investment gaps. The event was held under the theme “Africa at the Forefront: Mobilizing African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063”.

    The dialogue, which was hosted by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana and Champion on African Union Financial Institutions, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to accelerating self-reliant, sustainable economic development.

    In his keynote address, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of strengthening Africa’s financial independence through domestic resource mobilization, concessional financing, and strategic public-private partnerships. “Africa must harness its own financial and investment capacities to drive the transformative vision of Agenda 2063. We cannot continue to rely on external financing mechanisms that do not align with our long-term development goals,” he stated.

    Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the need for Africans to take charge of their own development by shifting mindsets and strengthening financial self-sufficiency.

    She Said, “The Africa Club is a crucial step toward looking inward and harnessing our own potential. However, we need to focus on four key priorities for Africa’s financial and economic transformation: Firstly, strengthening African financial institutions – If we are to finance our continent’s development, we must capitalize our own financial institutions, including national development banks, ensuring they have the resources to support Africa’s needs. Secondly, let’s address debt challenges to attract investment – we must focus on attracting and retaining investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), and implementing coordinated strategies to leverage equity financing. Instead of relying on aid, Africa should push for partnerships that channel financial resources into investments. Thirdly, let’s leverage domestic resources – with over $250 billion in pension funds on the continent, we must tap into these resources for development. Strengthening our capital markets, integrating African financial institutions, and utilizing diaspora bonds can significantly boost Africa’s financial resilience. Lastly, let’s drive trade and economic growth – sustainable financing hinges on Africa’s ability to grow its economies, trade more, and add value to its products. Without economic expansion, the resources needed to bridge financing gaps will remain out of reach.”

    Speaking during the dialogue, H.E. Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, highlighted Africa’s immense potential and the critical role of collaboration. “This is an exciting time for Africa, which has been stretching and renewing itself economically, politically, and socially in recent years. Only the grumpiest pessimists will bet against this new era of ‘Africa Time’ for its economic and social transformation as envisioned under Agenda 2063.”

    Dr. Nsanzabaganwa urged investors to seize the opportunities within Africa’s evolving economic landscape. “You will be right to have faith and believe in investing in Africa. The continent is perceived as the ‘new frontier,’ the ‘future paradise’ that sharpens a race to markets by an increasing number of investors.”

    Speaking on behalf of AAMFI, Prof. Benedict O. Oramah, Chairperson of AAMFI’s Governing Council and President of Afreximbank, underscored the significance of African financial institutions leading the charge in development finance. “AAMFI represents Africa’s collective financial strength, and through coordinated action, we will mobilize resources at scale to achieve Agenda 2063,” he stated. He further emphasized Africa’s need for financial solidarity in debt resolution: “We have developed a platform that will make it possible to jointly invest in projects that are impactful to the continent. There is no reason why the bridge across Congo Brazzaville and Congo Kinshasa should not be built, the cost is a mere US$500 million; there is no reason why railways cannot be built across Africa, at best they cost about US$1-2Bn. We cannot call for a reform of the international financial architecture on weak legs, no one will listen to us if they view us as mere beggars. We must rely on our own institutions and use this platform to leverage our individual and collective resources to transform our continent. Let’s strengthen our alliance to meet our set objectives.”

    The dialogue featured a high-level panel of distinguished leaders and finance experts, including: Dr. Donald Kaberuka, African Union (AU) High Representative for Financing of the Union and the Peace Fund; Samaila Zubairu, 1st Vice Chairperson, AAMFI and President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC); Dr. Corneille Karekezi, 2nd Vice Chairperson AAMFI and Group Managing Director & CEO, African Reinsurance Corporation; Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, UNDP; and H.E. Amb. Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals, African Union Commission.

    Discussions centered on innovative strategies for mobilizing African capital, strengthening financial institutions, and leveraging the role of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AMFIs) in financing critical development sectors such as infrastructure, industrialization, and trade.

    The event also witnessed special investment announcements:

    • African Trade Transformation Fund (ATTF), a groundbreaking USD5 billion concessional finance window initiative by Afreximbank to provide concessional financing to unlock new opportunities for African businesses and governments.
    • Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) introduced the Catalytic Capital Replenishment Fund to bridge the housing and urban infrastructure gap in Africa which is reported to be a 53-million-unit deficit requiring $1.3 trillion to bridge. 
    • The African Reinsurance Corporation (Africa Re) Group has pledged $1 million to the African Union Peace Fund. Additionally, the Corporation donated $500,000 to the Africa CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic and has now authorized the use of the balance for Mpox response efforts. The Group Managing Director further stated that Africa Re has committed 2% of its net profits to the African Re Foundation, which will allocate funds to support various initiatives across the continent, including disaster risk financing.
    • The African Solidarity Fund (ASF) established two key partnerships: a $320 million Guarantee Line to enhance access to housing credit and a $240 million Credit Line Guarantee to support women and youth empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship in the WAEMU.
    • Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) launched a Debt for Equity initiative to support the capitalization of African Multilateral Financial Institutions by mobilizing resources from the Arab world towards sub-Saharan Africa. 

    African Heads of State & Government, including leaders from Angola, Nigeria, Mauritania, Rwanda, Zambia, Libya, Kenya, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, and Equatorial Guinea, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Africa’s financial ecosystem and supporting the growth of AAMFIs as key instruments of economic transformation.

    The event concluded with a unified call to action for African governments, financial institutions, and the private sector to strengthen coordination and build strategic partnerships to accelerate Africa’s development by His Excellency Ambassador Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry at the African Union Commission.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: London leaders unveil Growth Plan to turbocharge productivity and add more than £100bn to London’s economy

    Source: Mayor of London

    • London Growth Plan aims to put an extra £11k a year in the pocket of every Londoner and provide £27bn extra tax revenue to fund vital public services in the capital and across the country  
    • The plan targets restoring London’s productivity growth back to 2% per year – making London’s economy £107bn larger by 2035 
    • Plan’s inclusive growth ambitions include a 20% rise in household income for the lowest earning 20% of Londoners 
    • £21m additional funding this year will revitalise local high streets  
    • The Mayor and London Councils issue joint call on UK Government for more investment and devolution to boost local and national growth 

     

    The Mayor of London and London Councils have come together today (Thursday 27 February 2025) with local leaders from business, education and the voluntary sector to launch a bold new plan to turbocharge economic growth and increase prosperity across the capital.

     

    Developed together with London & Partners – in collaboration with businesses, trade unions and London’s communities – the London Growth Plan sets out a blueprint to kickstart the capital’s productivity, which has flatlined since the 2008 global financial crisis.

     

    The plan aims to restore productivity growth to an average of two per cent a year in the next decade, which would make London’s economy £107bn* larger by 2035 and put an extra £11,000 on average in the pockets of the near-nine million Londoners. This would also mean the capital contributing an extra £27.5bn in taxes to the Treasury in 2035, providing vital revenues for investment in public services.

     

    London’s productivity grew by an average of 3.16 per cent each year between 1998 and 2007, but between 2008 and 2022, average productivity growth was just 0.12 per cent a year. Growing productivity is the key to higher wages, higher living standards and increased investment in public services in London and across the UK.

     

    The new plan focuses on inclusive economic growth to make sure that more Londoners can contribute to and benefit from the capital’s success. Helping more Londoners into work, bringing down housing costs and improving public transport are all vital to reducing poverty in London, improving living standards and driving growth. The plan aims to achieve a 20 per cent rise in the household weekly income (after housing costs) of the lowest earning 20 per cent of Londoners – which would mean more than a million London households would have an extra £50 to spend each week, on average, after paying for housing costs. 

     

    The London Growth Plan outlines huge opportunities for turbocharging the capital’s economy and harnessing the growth potential of sectors such as AI, life sciences, robotics, clean tech, quantum computing and the creative industries. Key drivers to deliver the plan’s growth ambitions for the capital include a renewed focus on nurturing world-class talent, helping Londoners get the skills they need for productive careers, backing business innovation with new investment and technology, taking a bolder approach to housing and infrastructure, and reinvigorating London’s local high streets. 

     

    A long-term strategic relationship between London and the UK Government will be a crucial part of delivering the plan. London is the engine of the UK economy and, with national support, this plan can harness its economic power and potential for the benefit of all Londoners and the whole country, helping to fund investment in public services across Britain.

     

    Priorities in the London Growth Plan include:  

     

    • Backing business: London government will help to power ‘industrial innovation corridors’ around the capital – supporting new space, facilities and infrastructure to ensure innovation can thrive. This will build on the potential of the WestTech Corridor (anchored in White City going through Old Oak and Park Royal), the UK Innovation Corridor (anchored in the Knowledge Quarter going towards Cambridge) and the Thames Estuary (anchored in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park going out to Essex and Kent).  A new proposed London Tech and Inclusive Growth Fund could provide up to £100m loan and equity funding for high-growth small and midsize enterprises.  
    • Talent and skills: An Inclusive Talent Strategy will build the capital’s skilled workforce to unleash the potential of Londoners and – in turn – London’s economy. This will help create at least 150,000 high quality jobs, with a focus on fair pay and good work, to deliver Mayoral manifesto commitments. As well as supporting more people into work and ensuring all Londoners can get the skills or training needed to progress their careers, the strategy will help attract world-class talent to study and work in the capital. New rent-controlled Key Worker Homes will also help London to attract and retain its essential workforce. 
    • Housing and infrastructure: Local leaders will work with UK Government to extend and upgrade London’s public transport network, prioritising transformational projects to unlock new affordable homes and growth – including the Docklands Light Railway extension to Thamesmead, the Bakerloo line extension and the West London Orbital. The plan also calls for more devolution of London’s suburban rail services. This will be reinforced by the next London Plan, which will prioritise growth, increase housing delivery and ensure better digital connectivity.  
    • Inward investment and promotion: London will take the lead in implementing national reforms to the Local Government Pension Scheme, exploring the development of a major joint fund to invest in places that encourage innovation, including venture capital. The plan will also support London’s goal to be a net-zero city by 2030, attracting significant institutional capital for green infrastructure. There will be support to set up a new quantum tech incubator, London Life Sciences Week will be backed to become a key global event for the sector, and London leaders will explore a new business visitor centre to promote the capital’s world-leading offer by bringing companies together with agencies and developers.  
    • High streets and local economies: £21m additional funding this year will support boroughs with town centre regeneration, including potentially creating a publicly owned High Street Estate Agency to bring empty properties back into use. The plan also reiterates the Mayor’s commitment to revitalising neighbourhood policing so that the capital’s high streets always feel welcoming and safe.  

     

    Delivering the London Growth Plan will be a genuine partnership between the Mayor, local government leaders and central government, working in coalition with universities, incubators, accelerators, venture capitalists, innovation districts, corporate innovators, capital markets and international investors.  

     

    London’s leaders want central government to help unleash the capital’s economic potential by giving the Mayor and boroughs more freedoms to fund their own growth priorities, and the flexibility to spend money in the best way to drive good growth. This is on top of continuing to lobby the Government to secure agreements with our biggest international trading partners that ensure London’s key sectors can continue to grow and thrive.  

     

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This growth plan provides a golden opportunity to turbocharge growth and unlock London’s full potential – for the benefit of all Londoners and the whole country.  

     

    “It’s a blueprint for how we can help to create 150,000 good jobs, build more affordable homes, deliver major new transport upgrades and skill up Londoners for the well-paid jobs of tomorrow. From AI, life sciences and climate tech to our financial and creative industries, London is home to many of the best businesses in the world, which we want to back to grow and thrive over the next decade. 

     

    “Ultimately, growth means little if people cannot feel the benefits or see the positive change it brings to their area. So our goal is to deliver economic growth in every corner of our city that helps to raise living standards, puts more money in people’s pockets and enables us to invest in our public services, as we continue to build a fairer and more prosperous London for all.” 

     

    Cllr Claire Holland, leader of London Councils, added: “The London Growth Plan is a blueprint to drive inclusive economic growth in the capital and across the UK, boosting productivity and ensuring more Londoners can feel the benefits of growth.

     

    “It sets out our ambitions to unleash growth in the industries of the future, deliver new housing and infrastructure to support the London economy, and develop a new Inclusive Talent Strategy, helping more people to get into work and get the skills they need to progress.

     

    “Boroughs are resolutely pro-growth and are committed to working with business, the Mayor of London and national government to turbocharge growth in every corner of our city.” 

     

    Laura Citron, chief executive of London & Partners, concluded: “This is a huge moment for our city: a shared vision, a clear plan, and now the momentum to make it happen. As the capital’s growth agency, we’ll be working closely with investors, entrepreneurs, partners, and places across the city to drive growth for London and Londoners – attracting investment, scaling our businesses, bringing in visitors and world-class events, while telling London’s story brilliantly. Our city is built on reinvention, and this is our next big chapter.”

    London’s universities and research institutes will be key partners in nurturing the talent and innovation required to deliver the Plan’s growth targets. The Plan highlights University College London’s Person-Environment-Activity Research Laboratory and Imperial’s recent purchase of the Victoria Industrial Estate in the proposed WestTech innovation corridor as examples of the specialist spaces needed to support inclusive growth. 

    Prof Hugh Brady, President of Imperial College London, said: “Universities like Imperial play a critical role in attracting and nurturing world-class talent, fuelling inclusive growth, and strengthening London’s position as a global leader in innovation. That’s why the best innovation ecosystems have world-renowned research universities at their heart.

    “The WestTech Corridor, anchored by Imperial College London, will be central to delivering the Mayor’s ambitious London Growth Plan, driving a vibrant innovation ecosystem in West London and acting as a powerful engine for investment, economic growth and job creation across the UK and the wider world.”

    Dr Michael Spence, President and Provost at UCL, said: “Innovation, driven by universities working with local government and businesses, has huge potential to spur growth and create jobs in London. The London Growth Plan reflects the importance of universities like UCL in helping to attract, nurture and realise inclusive growth in our capital city.

    “UCL’s campuses are at the heart of London’s innovation corridors, driving the talent pipeline alongside our cutting-edge facilities delivering world class research. Within ten minutes of our Bloomsbury campus, one of the world’s largest and most collaborative innovation districts is taking shape in the Knowledge Quarter, with huge potential to bring together life science, technology, healthcare and academia in one place. On Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, UCL East is at the heart of the UK’s newest culture and learning quarter at East Bank, a driving force behind cultural and creative industries innovation and regeneration in London.”

    The newly published London Growth Plan has also been welcomed by leading voices from across the capital’s business community.  

    Karim Fatehi OBE, Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “LCCI welcomes the Mayor’s London Growth Plan to maximise London’s economic potential and maintain its position as the best city in the world to do business. Businesses of all sizes are the lifeblood of the London economy, and measures such as the London Tech and Inclusive Growth fund will help them grow and attract investment.

    “We especially welcome the Growth Plan’s focus on skills – giving Londoners access to industry-relevant training, employment and careers support. This inclusive strategy will ensure London’s economic success means prosperity for all Londoners.”

    Laura Timm, London Policy Representative at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “FSB is delighted to see a strong, ambitious and upbeat Growth Plan that hones in on three key FSB drivers for small business growth—namely, access to targeted finance, cultivating a high-functioning skills system, and presenting opportunities for small firms to win public procurement contracts.

    “Over 99 per cent of all firms in the capital are small in size but significant in growth potential. We look forward to working with the Mayor of London, the Deputy Mayor for Business and other stakeholders in implementing the Growth Plan – which we hope will create the environment that helps a local small firm take on their first apprentice, seal an exporting opportunity, and tackle the scourge of business crimes up and down our high streets.”

    John Dickie, Chief Executive of Business LDN, said: “The bold ambitions set out in the London Growth Plan rightly focus on unlocking the city’s full potential so that businesses can succeed and Londoners thrive. Delivering on this agenda will require the city to double down on existing efforts to tackle barriers to inclusive growth such as housing and skills where we have the agency to act.

    “The Government needs to ensure London has the tools it needs to turbocharge growth and help the UK get out of the economic slow lane. This means stepping up by providing long-term, flexible funding to unlock vital infrastructure and affordable housing so that the city remains an attractive place to live, work, visit and do business.”

    Read more at www.growthplan.london.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council sets budget and vows to invest for residents

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    That’s the commitment from Council Leader Stephen Simkins after budget plans for 2025/26 were agreed last night (Wednesday 27 February, 2025).

    Councillor Simkins said that by managing its financial challenge well, the council could continue to deliver excellent services and invest in what matters most to residents.

    He said: “We’re delighted to set a budget for next year that allows us to invest in our residents and city. We take great pride in getting the basics right as a council but remain very ambitious.

    “We prioritise looking after vulnerable adults and providing care for children in need while improving educational achievement. We’re also boosting the city’s economy with hundreds of millions of pounds of investment in new homes, new roads, new jobs, leisure activities and more.

    “As well as delivering excellent front line services like waste collections and road maintenance programmes, we’re using technology to crack down on issues like fly tipping and spending an extra £500,000 to help fix potholes and maintain highways – that’s on top of the £9.2m already earmarked for our city highways next year.

    “We’re also investing in a more vibrant city centre, providing people with opportunities to get into employment and supporting residents with the cost of living.”

    The budget for 2025/26 was approved at last night’s meeting of Full Council. The meeting heard how the council has cut its savings target by almost half, reducing the amount it needs to save over the next 2 years from £32.6 million to £17.2 million by 2026/2027.

    Councillor Louise Miles, Cabinet Member for Resources, said the budget demonstrated the council’s ability to manage its finances well.

    She said: “Despite significant financial challenges, we have once again set a balanced budget, showing how this is a well run council that looks after taxpayers’ money well.  

    “It is thanks to the hard work of everyone involved that we’ve been able to deliver savings across the council and reduce our deficit.  

    “We know the financial challenge hasn’t gone away and we won’t shirk the difficult decisions ahead, but we will always continue to deliver for our residents and have a positive impact on their lives.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nearly fifty thousand extra pensioners receiving vital Pension Credit support following surge in claims processed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Nearly fifty thousand extra pensioners receiving vital Pension Credit support following surge in claims processed

    New figures published today [Thursday 27 February] show a significant spike in Pension Credit applications following a DWP campaign to boost uptake, the highest since comparisons began in 2020.

    • Record high number of Pension Credit applications with updated online claim form taking an average 16 minutes to complete
    • DWP processing record number of claims a week, bringing down outstanding applications and giving the poorest pensioners vital support
    • Support comes as the State Pension is set to rise by up to £1,900 for millions thanks to the government’s commitment to the Triple Lock

    The department has now processed a record number of claims, reducing the number of applications yet to be cleared from its peak of 85,500 to just 33,700 by 23 February, which is in line with normal levels of Pension Credit claims waiting to be processed.

    This has resulted in a record 117,800 applications being awarded – an increase of 45,800, or 64% – since the Chancellor’s announcement compared to the same period last year.

    The department has also successfully boosted the numbers applying for Pension credit with a record 300,000 Pension Credit applications received this year alone. In response to the surge in applications, the DWP deployed 500 additional support staff to process them, resulting in a near doubling of cleared claims between 29 July 2024 and 23 February 2025.

    The Pension Credit campaign and commitment to the Triple Lock deliver on this government’s Plan for Change, demonstrating our commitment to raise living standards for pensioners and provide security in retirement. 

    Building on the success of the campaign last autumn to boost Pension Credit applications, DWP is exploring further options to drive up claims by reaching the most isolated and poorest pensioners who are eligible for support, including:

    • Writing to all pensioners who make a new claim for Housing Benefit and who appear to be entitled to Pension Credit – directly targeting this group to make a claim
    • Starting new research on the triggers and motivations that encourage people to apply for Pension Credit and to understand what the barriers to claiming are – interviewing pensioners to hear their views and learn from their experiences
    • Working across departments including HMRC to access databases with detail on household income, enabling us to identify pensioner households most likely to be eligible for Pension Credit and targeting them directly.

    Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall said: 

    I’m delighted we’ve been able to reach so many pensioners who need to be on Pension Credit, which can be a lifeline to so many on low incomes.

    The record high number of claims awarded follows months of work to drive awareness of Pension Credit and then to process the huge spike in applications we received, and now thousands more pensioners are accessing the range of support on offer.

    We won’t stop there. We are absolutely committed to ensuring every pensioner is supported in their retirement – whether through our ongoing Pension Credit campaign, extending the Household Support Fund and our commitment to the Triple Lock on the State Pension.

    Pension Credit provides a lifeline in retirement to pensioners on low incomes, providing access to additional support, including housing costs, council tax and the Winter Fuel Payment.

    The online claim form – updated by the Work and Pensions Secretary after listening to the views of pensioners– means it now takes just 16 minutes on average to apply for Pension Credit and be eligible for up to £4,300, with 90 percent of new customers applying using the simple online form, or over the phone. 

    The Government is forecast to spend £174.8 billion on benefits for pensioners in Great Britain in 2025-26. This includes spending on the State Pension which is forecast to be £146.6 billion in 2025-26. Crucially the government’s commitment to the Triple Lock for the entirety of this Parliament means that spending on people’s State Pensions is forecast to rise by over £31 billion.

    Sarah Pennells, consumer finance specialist at Royal London said: 

    There was a lot of focus on December’s deadline to claim Pension Credit in order to qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment for 2024, but people can apply for Pension Credit any time, and it could be worth over £4,000 a year. 

    Our research shows that many people are missing out because they haven’t checked to see if they qualify.  Three in ten people over State Pension age who were on a low income hadn’t checked to see if they were entitled to Pension Credit, while one in ten pensioners who had been told they qualified for Pension Credit have yet to apply.  

    You can backdate your claim for Pension Credit by up to three months, and the sooner you claim, the sooner you could start receiving payments. Not only that, but, if you’re entitled to Pension Credit, you’ll be able to get extra help with costs such as rent and Council Tax, which could make a big difference.

    Anyone who knows a low-income pensioner who may be isolated and needs support has been urged to remind or assist family members and friends to check their eligibility and apply today. Eligible claims can also be backdated by up to 3 months, ensuring pensioners do not miss out on the support they are entitled to.

    To better support DWP customers, State Pension and Pension Credit teams have been working more closely together to support customers. When someone contacts the State Pension claim line, DWP staff identify those with potential eligibility for Pension Credit and take a claim there and then. This means customers don’t have to call both claim lines, getting new pensioners onto Pension Credit as soon as they are eligible.

    Further information:

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Threats, political repatriations and kidnap dominate the crisis management landscape, according to Willis

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 26% of all incidents reported by clients last year to Alert:24 – the in-house risk advisory and crisis support service provided by Willis, a WTW business – were related to threats against individuals or client assets. Closely following, at 21% each, were emergency political repatriations of employees or family members and kidnaps for ransom, according to its latest Crisis Management Annual Review.

    In a record year for the number of elections in 2024, incumbents in many of the world’s leading democracies faced significant declines in vote share, with nearly 80% losing ground compared to previous elections. The trend was driven by poor economic performance, with high inflation being a major concern for voters. While some incumbents formed minority coalitions to stay in power, many were ousted. The year saw significant protests and political turmoil in both free and authoritarian countries.

    Looking ahead to 2025, rising populism, divisive rhetoric, and socio-economic tensions will drive continued violence and unrest in Europe, but the security agenda will remain dominated by terrorism threats and geopolitical challenges. Acts of violence directed against European officials surged in 2024, a trend which is expected to continue in 2025. Terrorism in North America and Europe will highly likely continue to stem from lone-wolf actors inspired by radical ideologies and involve low sophistication tactics and techniques.

    Civil unrest and political violence are also a possibility amid growing social tensions in the US.

    In Asia-Pacific, the threat of active assailant incidents has come to the fore over the past year and will remain a trend to watch.

    Other key takeaways include:

    • Persistent trends: In the US, the number of active assailant attacks remains higher than the pre-COVID-19 average, with a continued prevalence of workplace violence and mass shootings. The threat of lone-wolf terrorism also persists, with radicalization taking place online. In Latin America, organized crime continues to be pervasive, with highly operational criminal enterprises often intertwining with political structures to advance their interests and destabilize democratic institutions. Consequently, there has been a surge in kidnapping, in particular express kidnappings, with notifications to the Crisis Support Team for this type of incident originating in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.
    • Sustained level of conflict: Overall, client incident notifications reduced by 21% in 2024 in comparison to the prior year, reflecting a 2023 characterized by a sustained level of conflict and catastrophes. While major events, such as the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the Sudanese Civil War, continue to fuel demand for risk mitigation services to protect operations, assets and personnel in affected areas, no new crises of a similar scale have emerged in 2024.
    • Regional distribution of incidents: Africa led the tally with 27% of total incidents reported to Alert:24 by clients, all of them in Sub-Saharan Africa, with no single country accounting for a disproportionate share. Latin America was not far behind, more than doubling its share of incidents from 13% to 24%. Haiti was particularly notable as it accounted for approximately 20% of the events in Latin America, after not having registered any incidents during the previous year. Europe saw a reduction of total incidents from 14% to 8%.

    Overall, the past few years have seen instances of political unrest that have significantly impacted the shape of global commerce. Much uncertainty lies ahead across the world, as even just one event could have resounding global trade repercussions. Those organizations able to quickly identify and rapidly respond to changes in political risks to their global supply chains are likely to have a competitive advantage over their peers.

    Jo Holliday, global head of crisis management, said: “We continue to see clients impacted by a wide range of incident types across a broad geographical footprint, impacting both their people and physical assets. Looking ahead, political instability and the consequences of it are likely to continue and those clients that accurately assess, manage and then act on it are likely to navigate the volatile risk environment more effectively. Combining relevant insight and research, risk identification and quantification analytics as well as proactive crisis management is crucial for companies looking to ensure stability and resilience and are key to navigating these challenging times effectively.”

    The report can be downloaded here.

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you.

    Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media contact

    Sarah Booker:
    Sarah.Booker@wtwco.com / +44 7917 722040

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Rhombus Acquires Cloud Cost Analytics Company Dashdive

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rhombus, a leader in cloud-managed physical security, today announced the acquisition of Dashdive, a SaaS platform specializing in monitoring and analyzing multi-tenant cloud service costs. The acquisition enables Rhombus to optimize cloud expenses and deliver more cost-effective solutions to its global, cross-industry customer base.

    Rhombus had been using Dashdive’s technology to gain deeper insights into its cloud costs on a per-camera and per-customer basis. This acquisition allows Rhombus to fully integrate Dashdive’s powerful cost management capabilities into its operations, supporting the company’s mission to deliver enterprise-grade cloud-based camera, sensor, access control, and alarm monitoring systems at competitive price points.

    “As we’ve scaled to more than 50,000 locations worldwide, understanding our cloud infrastructure costs at a granular level becomes increasingly critical,” said Brandon Salzberg, VP of Engineering. “Dashdive has already played a critical role helping us optimize cloud expenses. By bringing the technology in-house with this acquisition, we’re strengthening our operational efficiency and passing those benefits on to our customers through more competitive pricing and enhanced service delivery.”

    Dashdive, a Y-Combinator-backed company, developed sophisticated tools that break down multi-tenant cloud costs by feature—providing organizations with deep visibility into their cloud spending. “Joining forces with Rhombus is the perfect next step for Dashdive,” said Adam Shugar, CTO and co-founder of Dashdive. “Seeing how Rhombus has leveraged our platform to enhance their services validates our vision, and we’re excited to continue this journey as part of the Rhombus team.”

    The acquisition comes at a time of significant growth for Rhombus, which serves over 3,000 customers—from school districts to manufacturers to Fortune 500 enterprises. Rhombus’ cloud-based approach to physical security has already modernized legacy and inflexible physical security systems. With the addition of Dashdive’s expertise in cloud cost management, Rhombus is positioned to further accelerate innovation while maintaining its commitment to providing scalable, future-proof solutions.

    The Dashdive team will join Rhombus, ensuring continuity and expertise as the companies integrate their technologies.

    About Rhombus

    Rhombus is an open, cloud-managed physical security platform that brings security cameras, access control, sensors, alarm monitoring, and integrations together under a single pane of glass. Backed by NightDragon, Bluestone Equity Partners, Cota Capital, Caden Capital, Tru Arrow Partners, and Uncorrelated Ventures, Rhombus is on a mission to make the world safer with simple, smart, and powerful physical security solutions. To learn more, visit www.rhombus.com

    Contact

    Kyle Peterson
    kyle@clementpeterson.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

    Gene Hackman, an acting titan of 1970s and ‘80s Hollywood with more than 80 screen credits to his name, has died at 95. He was found dead in his home with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and his dog.

    Hackman had a rugged, dominating and commanding presence on screen, known for his emotionally honest, raw and fierce performances. Always the tough guy, never the romantic lead, off camera he was shy and enjoyed the quiet life.

    I first saw Hackman as a child in The Poseidon Adventure (1972). My dad put the film on for the upside-down ocean liner disaster sequences, but it was Hackman who left a lasting impression. I vividly remember being so moved by his final speech berating God for deserting the ship’s passengers and crew while he hangs from a pressure valve door over flames.

    There is no actor who comes close to conveying authority with such humanity and reserve.

    He was often referred to as the actor’s actor and mentioned by Hollywood A-listers such as Kevin Costner as the best actor they’ve ever worked with. Clint Eastwood, once Hackman retired, described him as “too good not to be performing”.

    Hackman will leave a legacy to be studied and appreciated for years to come.

    Finding a foot in show business

    Born in San Bernardino, California, on January 30 1930, Hackman’s family moved to Danville, Illinois, when he was three. Hackman’s father left when he was 13, which he described to James Lipton on Inside the Actors Studio as his father “driving by with a casual wave goodbye”.

    Hackman joked to Lipton the departure of his father at an early age made him a better actor.

    Hackman left Danville at the age of 16 to join the marines, where he spent roughly four years. He was a rebellious child, but as Peter Shelley detailed in his biography of Hackman, the marine corps was the first time he gave in to authority.

    After the marine corps, Hackman moved to New York wanting to become an actor, telling people he was inspired by tough guy James “Jimmy” Cagney.

    In New York, Hackman struggled making a living as an artist while waiting for his breakthrough (his uncle told him to give up and get an honest job). Moving to California, he became friends early on with Dustin Hoffman (they finally appeared opposite each other in Hackman’s penultimate film, 2003’s Runaway Jury).

    After struggling for years, Hackman landed his first credited screen role in 1964’s Lilith at the age of 34. He played a small part opposite upcoming star Warren Beatty.

    As Hackman recounted to Lipton, Beatty told director Arthur Penn how great Hackman was in a scene they did together. That landed Hackman his breakthrough role playing Buck Barrow opposite Beatty and Faye Dunaway in the 1967 hit Bonnie and Clyde, earning him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.

    Breaking through in the 1970s

    It wasn’t until the 1970s that Hackman began his leading role career, starring in The French Connection (1971) as the unforgettable hard-boiled New York detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle. This role earned him his first Academy Award, for best actor.

    He was to wait more than 20 years for his second and final Academy Award, for playing the ruthless Little Bill Daggett opposite Clint Eastwood in Unforgiven (1992).

    Throughout the 1970s, Hackman was gaining huge popularity on screen, sharing records with the likes of Robert Redford and Harrison Ford as the highest grossing stars at the box office.

    There are too many great Hackman performances to mention, but my favourites are Unforgiven, The French Connection, The Poseidon Adventure, The Conversation (1974), Hoosiers (1986), Mississippi Burning (1988) and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).

    The French Connection’s director, William Friedkin, said in an interview Hackman was anti-authority and anti-racism because of his upbringing in an area known for its large Ku Klux Klan presence, and his absent father.

    Hackman almost pulled out of The French Connection one week into shooting because he didn’t like “beating on people” for a four-month shoot. He told Friedkin “I don’t think I can do this,” but Friedkin refused to let him go.

    Hackman recalled he was eternally grateful Friedkin didn’t, as it was “the start of [his] career”.

    Hackman said his character Popeye Doyle was a “bigot, an antisemitic, and whatever else you wanted to call him”, and he famously struggled to say the N-word in one key scene. He initially protested the line but eventually went with it, believing “that’s who the guy is […] you couldn’t really whitewash him”.

    Hackman often played the character who had the greatest authority on the surface but slipped up, whether he was playing the hero or the villain. Even for a role such as Reverend Scott in The Poseidon Adventure, in which Hackman played a self-righteous preacher onboard the capsized SS Poseidon, he questions his religion as he leads the entire band of escapees to safety.

    A life after acting

    Hackman retired from acting in 2004 at age 74.

    There are many stories about why he retired, like, as Shelley writes, not wanting to play Hollywood “grandfathers” and his “heart wasn’t in shape”, but his life after acting gives a strong hint: he had other interests.

    Over the past 20 years, Hackman wrote three historical fiction novels, was a keen painter, and enjoyed exercise such as cycling. Married to classical pianist Arakawa from 1991 until their death, they lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he designed his own home (yes, he also loved architecture!).

    A man of many talents who played a kaleidoscopic range of authoritative roles, Hackman will almost certainly be remembered mainly for his tough-guy performance in The French Connection – though many will also remember him as the Hollywood actor’s actor.

    Will Jeffery 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. Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor – https://theconversation.com/gene-hackman-will-be-remembered-as-the-hollywood-actors-actor-233109

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Eugene Doyle: Yellow Peril!  Red Peril! ‘We cannot hide anymore’. Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea. 

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific.

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    The Western media went into overdrive this week to work the laconic Kiwis into a mild frenzy over three Chinese naval vessels conducting exercises in the Tasman Sea a few thousand kilometres off our shores.

    What was really behind this orchestrated campaign?

    The New Zealand government led the rhetorical charge over the Hengyang, the Zunyi and the Weishanhu in mare nostrum (“Our Sea”, as the Romans liked to call the Mediterranean).

     “We cannot hide at this end of the world anymore,” Defence Minister Judith Collins said in light of three Chinese boats in the Tasman.

    Warrior academics were next . “We need to go to the cutting edge, and we need to do that really, really fast,” the ever-reliable China hawk Anne-Marie Brady of Canterbury University said, telling 1 News the message of the live-firing exercises was that China wants to rule the waves.

    The British Financial Times chimed in with a warning that “A confronting strategic future is arriving fast”.

    Could this have anything to do with the fact we are fast approaching the New Zealand government’s 2025 budget and that they — and their Australian, US and UK allies — are intent on a major increase in Kiwi defence funding, moving from around 1.2 percent of GDP to possibly two percent? A long-anticipated Defence Capability Review is also around the corner and is likely to come with quite a shopping list of expensive gear.

    The New Zealand government led the rhetorical charge over the Hengyang, the Zunyi and the Weishanhu in mare nostrum (“Our Sea”, as the Romans liked to call the Mediterranean). Image: www.solidarity.co.nz

    What’s good for the goose . . .
    It is worth pointing out that New Zealand and Australian warships sailed through the contested Taiwan Strait and elsewhere in the South China Sea as recently as September 2024. What’s good for the goose is good for the Panda.

    And, of course, at any one time about 20 US nuclear submarines are prowling in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea. Each can carry missiles the equivalent of over 1000 Hiroshima bombs — truly apocalyptic.

    Veteran New Zealand peace campaigner Mike Smith (a friend) was not in total disagreement with the hawks when it came to the argy-bargy in the Tasman.

    “The emergence apparently from nowhere of a Chinese naval expedition in our waters I think may be intended to demonstrate that they have a large and very capable blue water navy now and won’t be penned in by AUKUS submarines when and if they arrive off their coast.

    “I think the main message is to the Australians: if you want to homebase nuclear-capable B-52s we have more than one way to come at you. That was also the message of the ICBM they sent into the Pacific: Australia is no longer an unsinkable aircraft carrier.”

    According to the Asia Times, China fired the ICBM — the first such shot into the Pacific by China — just days after HMNZS Aotearoa sailed through the Taiwan Strait with Australian vessel HMAS Sydney.

    Smith says our focus should be on building positive relationships in the Pacific on our terms. “Buying expensive popguns will not save us.”

    China Scare a page out of Australia’s Red Scare playbook
    For people good at pattern recognition this week’s China Scare was obviously a page or two out of the same playbook that duped a majority of Australians into believing China was going to invade Australia. They were lulled into a false sense of insecurity back in 2021 — the mediascape flooded with Red Alert, China panic stories about imminent war with the rising Asian power.

    As a sign of how successful the mainstream media can be in generating fear that precedes major policy shifts: research by Australia’s Institute of International & Security Affairs showed that more Australians thought that China would soon attack Australia than Taiwanese believed China would attack Taiwan!

    Once the population was conditioned, they woke one morning in September 2021 with the momentous news that Australia had ditched a $90 billion submarine defence deal with France and the country was now part of a new anti-Chinese military alliance called AUKUS. This was the playbook that came to mind last week.

    There are strong, rational arguments that could be made to increase our spending at this time. But I loathe and decry this kind of manipulation, this manufacturing of consent.

    I also fear what those billions of dollars will be used for. Defending our coastlines is one thing; joining an anti-Chinese military alliance to please the US is quite another.

    Prime Minister Luxon has called China — our biggest trading partner — a strategic competitor. He has also suggested, somewhat ludicrously, that our military could be a “force multiplier” for Team AUKUS.

    We are hitching ourselves to the US at the very time they have proven they treat allies as vassals, threatened to annex Greenland and the Panama Canal, continue to commit genocide in Gaza, and are now imposing an unequal treaty on Ukraine.


    Australia’s ABC News on Foreign Minister Winston Peter’s talks in China. Video: ABC

    Whose side – or calmer independence?
    Whose side should we be on? Or should we return to a calmer, more independent posture?

    And then there’s the question of priorities. The hawks may convince the New Zealand population that the China threat is serious enough that we should forgo spending money on child poverty, fixing our ageing infrastructure, investing in health and education and instead, as per pressure from our AUKUS partners, spend some serious coin — billions of dollars more — on defence.

    Climate change is one battle that is being fought and lost. Will climate funding get the bullet so we can spend on military hardware? That would certainly get a frosty reaction from Pacific nations at the front edge of sea rise.

    The government in New Zealand is literally taking the food out of children’s mouths to fund weapons systems. The Ka Ora, Ka Ako programme provides nutritious lunches every day to a quarter of a million of New Zealand’s most needy children.

    Its funding has recently been slashed by over $100 million by the government despite its own advisors telling it that such programmes have profound long-term wellbeing benefits and contribute significantly to equity. In the next breath we are told we need to boost funding for our military.

    The US appears determined to set itself on a collision course with China but we don’t have to be crash test dummies sitting alongside them. Prudence, preparedness, vigilance and risk-management are all to be devoutly wished for; hitching our fate to a hostile US containment strategy is bad policy both in economic and defence terms.

    In the absence of a functioning media — one that showcases diverse perspectives and challenges power rather than works hand-in-glove with it — populations have been enlisted in the most abhorrent and idiotic campaigns: the Red Peril, the Jewish Peril and the Black Peril (in South Africa and the southern states of the USA), to name three.

    Our media-political-military complex is at it again with this one — a kind of Yellow Peril Redux.

    New Zealand trails behind both Australia and China in development assistance to the Pacific. If we wish to “counter” China, supporting our neighbours would be a better investment than encouraging an unwinnable arms race.

    In tandem, I would advocate for a far deeper diplomatic and cultural push to understand and engage with China; that would do more to keep the region peaceful and may arrest the slow move in China towards seeking other markets for the high-quality primary produce that an increasingly bellicose New Zealand still wishes to sell them.

    Let’s be friends to all, enemies of none. Keep the Pacific peaceful, neutral and nuclear-free.

    Eugene Doyle is a community organiser and activist in Wellington, New Zealand. He received an Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian award in 2023 for community service. His first demonstration was at the age of 12 against the Vietnam War. This article was first published at his public policy website Solidarity and he is a regular contributor to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific.

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IPMET has been transformed: modern classrooms await students

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    As part of the StroimNashDom project, large-scale renovation work to re-equip the academic building at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade (50 Novorossiyskaya St.) has been completed. On February 26, the grand opening of the renovated first floor of the academic building, equipped with modern and comfortable classrooms for students, took place.

    The transformed floor is the result of the painstaking work of the builders and the enormous work of the university and IPMET staff to equip the classrooms with modern equipment. The total area of the renovated space was 2,242 m².

    The main goal of the renovation was to create the most favorable environment for learning and research. And this was certainly a success. 19 rooms with 320 seats are ready for work. Particular attention was paid to the computerization of the educational process.

    “It’s nice to see how the space here is being transformed. It’s very comfortable here. I think that students and teachers will spend not only their study time here, but also their extracurricular time,” noted Lyudmila Pankova, Vice-Rector for Educational Activities at SPbPU, during the opening ceremony. “This space can become a second home for our graduates. For example, we can invite former students here to give lectures to the students.”

    “We understand that the future of education is in technology,” emphasized Vladimir Shchepinin, Director of IPMEiT. “That is why we focused on creating modern computer classes, equipping classrooms with projection equipment, and updating the laboratory base for quality management. Now there are six computer classes for 159 seats, equipped with modern technology. In addition, students can expect four classrooms for 140 seats, as well as a specialized educational laboratory for “Qualimetry and Modeling in Quality Management.”

    In total, 190 computers have been installed and prepared for the educational process. Each classroom is equipped with projection equipment and connected to the Internet. Moreover, all rooms and corridors have access to high-speed Wi-Fi.

    In addition to the classrooms, the spaces for employees and utility rooms have also been renovated. For the convenience of students, the corridors have been equipped with rest areas.

    “We are very happy that we now have the opportunity to study in such wonderful conditions,” said first-year student Stepan Orlov. “Modern equipment and a comfortable environment will undoubtedly help us better absorb the material and achieve greater success in our studies.”

    The opening of the renovated building is an important step in the development of the institute and an investment in the future of students. Modern classrooms with the latest equipment will allow teachers to use innovative teaching methods, and students to gain knowledge that meets the requirements of the modern labor market.

    Photo archive

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RSH publishes its quarterly survey for Q3 2024-25

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    RSH publishes its quarterly survey for Q3 2024-25

    The regulator’s latest quarterly survey is published today.

    The Regulator of Social Housing has today (27 February 2025) published the results of its latest quarterly survey of private registered providers’ financial health. The report covers the period 1 October 2024 to 31 December 2024.

    Landlords invested £3.9 billion on building and acquiring new homes (up from £3.2 billion in the previous quarter), though the year to December 2024’s investment of £13.7 billion was £0.9 billion lower than the year to December 2023.  

    Social landlords are making vital improvements to tenants’ homes and building new homes for the future.  They continue to invest record amounts in new and existing stock, though there are indications that development spend has peaked.    

    Spend on repairs and maintenance totalled £2.3 billion in the quarter. In the year to December a total of £8.7 billion was spent, with a further £9.8 billion forecast for the next 12 months. 

    Over the next year, they plan to spend a further £14.8 billion on development, only £10.5 billion of which is currently committed.  This is a reduction from £15.6 billion of planned spend and £10.9 billion of committed spend forecast in the previous quarter, meaning forecasts are now at the lowest amount since the start of the pandemic. 

    Lending to the sector remains robust, with £2.6 billion of new finance arranged in the quarter.  

    However, a high level of debt drawdowns resulted in a decrease in undrawn available facilities and cash balances remain at historically low levels.  

    Total cash and undrawn facilities of £33.4 billion are still enough to cover forecast interest costs, loan repayments and development for the next year.  

    Aggregate cash interest cover (excluding sales) stood at 82% for the 12 months to December 2024 and forecasts show a further deterioration is expected.  

    Performance varies among individual landlords. Some of the lowest levels of interest cover are driven by high levels of spend on existing stock by some large providers. 

    RSH continues to monitor and engage with landlords, particularly those that have a reliance on sales to support their cashflows. 

    Will Perry, Director of Strategy at RSH, said: 

    “Social landlords continue to face pressures on multiple fronts. 

    “The sector is building substantial numbers of new homes for the future,  with actual and forecast development spend close to pre-pandemic levels. 

    “That said, there has been a notable drop in forecast development spend as landlords continue to invest record amounts on existing stock, including on vital work to improve fire safety and damp and mould.  

    “Our regulation is key for investor confidence and we will continue to scrutinise the sector’s financial performance and its ability to manage risk through these surveys, alongside our inspections and stability check programme.” 

    Notes to editors 

    1. The report is based on the financial regulatory returns from 203 private registered providers (housing associations and other  private registered providers, including for-profits), who own or manage more than 1,000 homes. 

    2. Through its annual stability checks, RSH considers whether each provider’s current viability grade is consistent with the information contained in their regulatory returns. RSH focuses on indicators of financial robustness and evidence of any significant changes in risk profile. 

    3. RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.

    4. For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Albanese falls victim to a Chinese burn

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

    As the Albanese government struggles to stay on its political feet, who would have thought the China issue would suddenly insert itself into the campaign, leaving the prime minister looking, at best, flat-footed?

    Improving and stabilising what had become a toxic bilateral relationship under Scott Morrison has been one of the Albanese government’s major pluses in its foreign and trade policy.

    China has taken off all of the roughly $20 billion in barriers it had enacted on Australian exports. Australian lobsters are back on Chinese menus. And who can forget the PM’s visit to China, when he was lauded as “a handsome boy”.

    But now, almost on the eve of the election campaign, a Chinese military exercise in the Tasman Sea has not just reminded Australians of Chinese military power, but has left the PM appearing poorly informed. Or not wanting to offend the Chinese.

    Of course, China did not set out to force Anthony Albanese into what were publicly misleading comments. That was all his own doing.

    The China incident was on the morning of Friday last week, when its navy commenced the live-fire exercise.

    Albanese was briefed on Friday afternoon. Later in the day, a reporter asked him about an ABC report of “commercial pilots [being] warned about a potential hazard in airspace” where three Chinese warships had been sailing.

    The PM said: “China issued, in accordance with practice, an alert that it would be conducting these activities, including the potential use of live fire”. This told, at best, a sliver of what was a rather alarming story.

    The government says the Chinese had acted in accordance with the law but the amount of notice they’d given (which was not provided directly to Australia) was inadequate. Representations about this were made by Foreign Minister Penny Wong to the Chinese.

    It took evidence before Senate estimates hearings this week to paint a full picture of what happened.

    On Monday, Rob Sharp, CEO of Airservices Australia (the country’s civil air navigation services provider) told senators: “We became aware at two minutes to ten on Friday morning – and it was, in fact, a Virgin Australia aircraft that advised one of our air traffic controllers – that a foreign warship was broadcasting that they were conducting a live firing 300 nautical miles east off our coast. So that’s how we first found out about the issue.”

    Initially, “we didn’t know whether it was a potential hoax or real”.

    Meanwhile, a number of commercial planes were in the air and some diverted their routes.

    On Wednesday, Australian Defence Force Chief David Johnston was asked at another estimates hearing whether Defence was only notified of what was happening from a Virgin flight and Airservices Australia 28 minutes after the Chinese operation firing window commenced. Johnston’s one-word reply was “Yes”.

    Australia does not know whether the Chinese ships, which proceeded towards Tasmania, intend to circumnavigate the continent, or whether they have been accompanied by a submarine.

    Relations with China won’t be a first-order issue with most voters at this cost-of-living election. But these events play to the Dutton opposition, for whom national security is home-ground territory.

    They reinforce the broader impression, which has taken hold, of Albanese being poor with detail.

    Dutton said on Sydney radio on Thursday, “I don’t know whether he makes things up, but he seems to get flustered in press conferences. You hear it – the umming and ahing, and at the end of it, you don’t know what he’s actually said.

    “But what we do know is that he is at odds with the chief of the Defence force, and he needs to explain why, on such a totemic issue, he either wasn’t briefed, that he’s made up the facts, that he’s got it wrong.”

    Wong hit back, “We have been very clear China is going to keep being China, just as Mr Dutton isn’t going to stop being Mr Dutton – the man who once said it was inconceivable we wouldn’t go to war is going to keep beating the drums of war.

    “The Labor government will be calm and consistent; not reckless and arrogant.”

    There’s one political complication for Dutton in seeking to exploit the China issue. Despite his natural hawkishness, in recent times he has been treading more softly on China, with an eye to the importance of voters of Chinese heritage in some seats.

    The Trump administration has dramatically increased the uncertainty of the international outlook that the Australian government, whether Labor or Coalition, will face during the next parliamentary term.

    Defence Minister Richard Marles this week talked up the US administration’s policy in the region. “We are very encouraged by the focus that the Trump Administration is giving in terms of its strategic thinking to the Indo Pacific.”

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who was in Washington lobbying for a tariff exemption was also, declared that “the alliance and the economic partnership between Australia and the US is as strong as it’s ever been.”

    Whether we get that exemption will be an early indication of where we stand in terms of the special relationship with the US. But who knows what the US might want in return.

    A volatile world and perhaps pressure from the US may push Australia into spending more on defence, which on present planning is due to tick past 2% of GDP.

    Dutton has already said he would put more funding into defence, although, like most other aspects of opposition policy, the amount is vague. The Coalition says when it produces its costing (which will be in the last days before the election) there will be more precision.

    We’ve yet to see how the crucial US-China relationship evolves. That trajectory will have implications for Australia, positive or negative. On the very worst scenario, if China, encouraged by US President Donald Trump’s benign attitude to Russia, moves on Taiwan, the security of which the president has refused to guarantee, that could produce a dire situation in the region.

    Australia remains confident of continuing American support for AUKUS. But if Trump becomes even more arbitrary and adventurous, AUKUS could become a lot less popular not in America but in Australia.

    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. Grattan on Friday: Albanese falls victim to a Chinese burn – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-albanese-falls-victim-to-a-chinese-burn-251029

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Diamond Mining Drives Angola’s Economic Growth Agenda

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

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, February 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Angola is aiming to increase diamond production to 17.53 million carats by 2027 as part of its National Development Plan 2023–2027, planning to leverage mining revenues to boost food security, employment creation and poverty reduction. 

    The country expects diamond revenue to rise from $1.4 billion in 2024 to $2.1 billion in 2025, increasing the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP. With over 24 operational diamond mines, 54 exploration projects and strong governmental support for industry expansion, Angola’s diamond sector presents an opportunity for economic transformation. 

    The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier event for the mining sector – will showcase lucrative diamond prospects in both well-established and emerging markets across Africa, including in Angola. 

    Unlocking Angola’s Untapped Potential 

    Recent discoveries, project launches and foreign investments underscore Angola’s potential as a global diamond mining powerhouse. According to state diamond firm ENDIAMA, the country holds over 732 million carats (https://apo-opa.co/4gU61Zy) of untapped diamond reserves valued at more than $140 billion. To capitalize on these resources, ENDIAMA will launch a diamond production and processing pilot at the Luachimba facility in 2025, reinforcing the sector’s contribution to sustainable development. Additionally, mine development and feasibility studies at the Xamacanda facility are underway as ENDIAMA seeks to expand independent production. 

    Strategic Investments and Global Partnerships 

    In November 2024, Maden International Group, a subsidiary of the Sovereign Fund of the Sultanate of Oman, entered the Angolan market by acquiring stakes in Catoca and Luele Mines from Russia’s Alrosa. The milestone introduces fresh capital and expertise, potentially unlocking Angola’s greater diamond production and GDP expansion. Further affirming Angola’s potential, De Beers announced in October 2024 the discovery of eight new diamond project targets as part of its ongoing exploration activities. The discovery follows a strategic partnership with ENDIAMA, Angola’s National Agency of Mineral Resources, Sodiam and the Institution of Geologists in Angola, to conduct airborne surveys, drilling and testing of new kimberlite targets. Angola is also assessing new diamond and critical mineral prospects in partnership with Rio Tinto. 

    High-Grade Diamond Discoveries 

    In August 2024, Lucapa Diamond Company discovered a 176-carat diamond at the Lulo Mine – one of the world’s largest – marking the fifth diamond over 100 carats found at the site in 2024. The discovery underscores Angola’s potential for high-grade diamond production, following 20 significant discoveries at Lulo in 2022. 

    Amid these market developments, AMW represents an ideal platform for global investors and mining stakeholders to connect with Angolan regulatory authorities and projects to explore the country’s vast diamond potential. AMW will facilitate investment discussions, deal signings and strategic partnerships, reinforcing Angola’s position as one of the world’s highly attractive diamond investment destinations. 

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2025 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4ieTYqQ) from October 1 -3. in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 26 February 2025 Departmental update WHO unveils updated global database of air quality standards

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), has unveiled the updated 2025 Air Quality Standards database. This resource compiles national air quality standards for major pollutants and other airborne toxics from countries worldwide. This latest update provides an overview of global efforts towards achieving the WHO global air quality guidelines, with 17% more countries now implementing standards for pollutants that pose a risk to human health.

    “The updated WHO Air Quality Standards database is a crucial tool highlighting global progress in setting air quality regulations to protect public health,” says Dr Maria Neira, Director, Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization. “It provides essential data for evidence based policymaking, helping to reduce air pollutions impacts on communities worldwide.”

    Building on previous efforts, the updated database now includes data from approximately 140 countries from all WHO regions, showcasing their air pollution regulatory efforts aimed at protecting public health.

    The database is presented as an interactive tool, providing values for both the short and long-term standards for particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO). These values are based on averaging times that align with WHO’s global air quality guidelines.

    WHO air quality guidelines as a tool to protect health

    The WHO guidelines were published in 2021 to reflect new evidence of the health effects of air pollution. The guidelines recommend lower air quality levels to protect populations, underscoring the need for countries to implement stricter standards and policies to mitigate air pollution and its associated health risks.

    The health sector has a critical role to play to promote public health protection through effective air quality governance. Involving the health community in the development of national air quality standards as well as in processes ensuring that air quality standards are embedded in legislation is key to maximize public health protection.

    Adopting air quality standards as best buys to prevent noncommunicable diseases

    Environmental risks account for a quarter of the disease burden worldwide – with air pollution alone being responsible for almost 7 million deaths. Many of these deaths are preventable through policies in the energy, transport, agriculture, household, industry and other sectors. Air pollution has been recognized as a major risk for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), impacting not only the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, but many more other organs and systems.

    The costs of air pollution on the health systems are substantial, and it jeopardizes the health of the most vulnerable such as children, who are affected throughout their entire life course, as well as people with pre-existing diseases.

    By compiling national air quality standards into a single, comprehensive database, WHO aims to empower stakeholders such policy makers, public health officials, researchers and other civil society and health organizations with the information necessary to monitor progress, drive policy changes and support the implementation of effective interventions to improve air quality and safeguard public health.

    Time to commit for clean air and health

    Adopting stricter air quality standards embedded in legislation is the first step – a required best buy – countries can do to commit to combat NCDs and other health outcomes. The upcoming 2nd WHO Conference on Air Pollution and Health will provide an opportunity for countries to commit to tackling air pollution, supported by the health community call for clean air action.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific Regiment. Student Katya Petrova’s Memories of War and Study

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    When talking about contemporaries of the Great Patriotic War, the first to be remembered are the participants in the military operations, and they do not forget about home front workers, scientists and teachers, but stories about ordinary students are rare. They did not throw themselves under tanks, defending their native land, did not stand two shifts in a row at the machine, did not organize production and did not save lives in hospitals, but they also lived their war years and remembered them forever – they performed a small student feat, receiving an education in a difficult time for the country and using it for the benefit of the Motherland in the post-war years. Today we will tell you about such a person in the “Scientific Regiment” section.

    Ekaterina Valerianovna Petrova is a candidate of economic sciences, professor of the statistics department at the Moscow Institute of Economics and Management, and an Honorary Worker of Higher Professional Education of the Russian Federation. She was awarded the medal of the Order of Merit for the Fatherland, 2nd degree, the Order of Valiant Labor in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, and other medals.

    Ekaterina Petrova entered the mechanical engineering department of the Moscow Engineering and Economics Institute named after Sergo Ordzhonikidze (now the State University of Management) in 1940. After completing her first year, the war began and she and her family had to evacuate to the Saratov region for two years, where she worked as an accountant on a state farm. In October 1943, the institute called Ekaterina back to Moscow, where she was able to live independently due to the fact that students were given work cards for food, orders for clothing and footwear, and a stipend was paid to all students, and not just excellent students or those with low incomes, as was the case before the war. In this way, the state invested in the future even in the most difficult years. Despite all the difficulties, the management of the Moscow Engineering and Economics Institute tried to provide comfortable living conditions in the dormitories, replenished the institute’s material resources whenever possible, arranged a normal life, and even organized festive evenings with the participation of artists.

    The dean of the mechanical engineering faculty at that time was Khadzhi-Murat Timurovich Aldakov, who at the beginning of the war was deputy head of the construction of defensive lines near Moscow.

    “At first, Hadji-Murat Timurovich gave the impression of being a withdrawn, somewhat gloomy person, so at first the students were afraid of him,” recalls Ekaterina Valerianovna. “However, having met him on business once or twice, everyone understood that he treated the students very kindly and fairly. I was able to see for myself that he was also an excellent teacher, since I completed my diploma project under his supervision.”

    According to Ekaterina Valerianovna, everyone studied with great enthusiasm and tried not to miss lectures. The shortage of textbooks also had an impact on attendance – often only one manual was given to three or four students, and for some subjects there were none at all, so they prepared for exams only from their own lecture notes. Accordingly, teachers approached teaching with full responsibility and explained the subject until the students fully understood it. For example, Professor of the Department of Organization and Planning of Production Eduard Adamovich Satel had a manner of conducting, as they would say now, interactive lectures – he asked students questions about how they would solve various problems of production processes.

    Ekaterina Petrova especially remembers the associate professor of the department of production organization and planning, Yuri Osipovich Lyubovich, who, thanks to his sensitive attitude towards students, goodwill and gentle humor, became a true friend of his students.

    “His imposing appearance, velvety voice and artistic abilities captivated the audience and worked genuine miracles. The students listened with admiration to every word when the material of deep scientific content was presented. And, what is most surprising, these wonderful lectures, thanks to the art of reading, could be easily recorded,” says Ekaterina Valerianovna.

    There were practically no vacations during the war years, instead students worked in the Moscow suburban subsidiary farm of the Moscow Institute of Power Engineering, in haymaking, in logging, at vegetable warehouses. No one even thought about being released from work, everyone worked for the needs of the country and the front.

    In May 1945, the maximum concentration of efforts of the entire state led to the Great Victory over Nazi Germany and its allies. Of course, the difficulties did not end there; a long period of restoration of the country lay ahead. Ekaterina Petrova graduated from MIEI in 1947, continued her education in graduate school, and since 1950 began teaching at her native university, which she never left, having trained thousands of specialists over many years.

    Yes, the years of the Great Patriotic War were much harder physically and morally than our days. However, the feelings that students of those years experienced, judging by the words of Ekaterina Valerianovna, were the same:

    “The student years, which coincided for my generation with the war years, were nevertheless the happiest: there was the joy of victories at the front, the joy of communicating with teachers and friends, the joy of youth and the expectation of all the best ahead.”

    Students of those years forged victory with knowledge and labor in the rear, bringing a bright future closer. Today, when our country is once again facing challenges, students of the State University of Management continue to study and develop, making their contribution to supporting the country and preserving the future. The stories of these generations are separated by time, but united by a common desire for knowledge and love for the Motherland.

    #Scientific regiment

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/27/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Indonesia: Flogging of gay men a horrifying act of discrimination

    Source: Amnesty International

    Responding to the flogging of two university students in Indonesia’s Aceh province for having consensual same-sex sexual relations, Amnesty International Deputy Regional Director Montse Ferrer said:

    “Indonesia’s flogging of two gay men is a horrifying act of discrimination. Intimate sexual relations between consenting adults should never be criminalized, and no one should be punished because of their real or perceived sexual orientation.

    “Having already had their privacy brutally invaded when they were ambushed by members of the public while having sex, these men were then humiliated in public today and physically harmed.

    “These flogging punishments are cruel, inhuman and degrading, and may amount to torture. Aceh and Indonesian central government authorities must take immediate action to halt these practices and revoke the bylaws that allow them to take place.

    “Such laws must be brought in line with international human rights law and standards, and with Indonesia’s obligations under its own Constitution. Aceh’s regional autonomy, which is its basis to apply Sharia law, must not come at the expense of human rights.”

     

    Background

     

    Two university students were publicly flogged in the city of Banda Aceh for having consensual same-sex relations. One of the men was flogged 77 times while his partner received a slightly higher punishment of 82 lashes for providing a place for their consensual sexual activities.

    According to media reports, the two were seized on 7 November 2024 by locals who forcefully entered their rented room in Banda Aceh and later took them to the Sharia police for investigation.

    Citizen’s arrests are common in Aceh due to the implementation of Sharia law, which allows locals to turn people over to the Sharia police for investigation.Aceh is the only province in Indonesia that criminalizes consensual same-sex acts due to the special autonomy status that has allowed it to apply the Islamic Criminal Code since 2015.

    Sharia bylaws have been in force in Aceh since the enactment of the province’s Special Autonomy Law in 2001 and are enforced by Islamic courts.

     

    These laws in some cases provide for up to 200 lashes as punishment for offences including consensual intimacy or sexual activity for unmarried couples, consensual sex outside marriage, same-sex sexual relations, the consumption and sale of alcohol, and gambling.

     

    Under international human rights law all forms of corporal punishment are prohibited as they constitute cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment and often torture.

     

    This year so far, 15 people have been sentenced to flogging in Aceh for various violations under Sharia law, in addition to a total 135 individuals receiving similar punishments in 2024.

     

    In a separate case, on 4 February 2025, Sharia police in the city of Lhokseumawe, Aceh, raided a house and arrested four men who they claimed were engaged in same-sex relations after receiving a tip-off from locals. After the arrest, local officials in Aceh said that they would patrol the province to monitor “LGBTI activities”, including in beauty salons where many transwomen make a living in Aceh. Subsequently, on 15 February, locals raided a rented room in Banda Aceh, turning one transwoman and a man over to Sharia police for investigation.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues USD 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    27 February 2025 at 10:00 am (EET)

    Municipality Finance issues USD 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Municipality Finance Plc issues USD 20 million notes on 28 February 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 28 February 2035. MuniFin has a right, but no obligation, to redeem the notes early on 28 February 2027. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.305% per annum.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 28 February 2025.

    UBS Europe SE acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The company is owned by Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland.
    The Group’s balance sheet total is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network