Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests, removes Dominican alien charged with drug crimes, assaulting a police officer in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested an illegally present Dominican national charged with drug trafficking crimes and assaulting a police officer. Officers with ICE Boston arrested Daniel Encarnacion-Sanchez, 20, in Boston Feb. 7.

    “Daniel Encarnacion-Sanchez illegally entered the United States and has been charged with trafficking poison in our Massachusetts community and assaulting an officer of the law,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He represents a significant threat to our residents that we will not tolerate. ICE Boston remains dedicated to our mission to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from New England neighborhoods.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez Nov. 21, 2023, after he illegally entered the United States. The Border Patrol served Encarnacion-Sanchez a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.

    The Malden District Court arraigned Encarnacion-Sanchez Nov. 27, 2024, for trafficking a controlled substance and possession to distribute drugs.

    ICE Boston lodged an immigration detainer against Encarnacion-Sanchez Dec. 3, 2024, with the Middlesex County House of Corrections.

    The Boston Police Department arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez Feb. 6, and charged him with assault and battery on a police officer causing injury and trafficking drugs, heroin and crack. The next day, the Dorchester District Court, released Encarnacion-Sanchez on personal recognizance.

    Officers with ICE Boston arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez, after release from Dorchester District Court in Boston Feb. 7.

    ICE removed Encarnacion-Sanchez to the Dominican Republic March 16.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Memphis Man Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to 2024 Carjacking

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

    Memphis, TN – A Memphis man recently pled guilty to charges brought against him related to a carjacking committed in Memphis, Tennessee in May of 2024.  Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

    According to the information presented in court, on May 16, 2024, Jaylen Simpson, 23, hid in a Memphis resident’s backyard and confronted the resident when he was outside his home.  Simpson almost immediately shot the victim in the stomach before taking his car keys and driving off in the victim’s 2017 Kia Cadenza which had been parked in the driveway of the residence.

    After the carjacking, officers with the Memphis Police Department located Simpson and the stolen vehicle and gave chase.  Simpson eventually abandoned the Kia Cadenza and fled on foot. The MPD officers then apprehended Simpson and found a loaded semi-automatic pistol in his backpack.

    On April 15, 2025, after a day of jury selection, Simpson pled guilty to the federal crime of carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury and of the separate crime of using a firearm during a crime of violence.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16, 2025 and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for the discharge of the firearm up to life in prison.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. 

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Memphis Police Department Violent Crime Unit investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Ashleigh Atasoy, of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, and Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hall, of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, prosecuted the case.

    ###

    For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Memphis Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Possession of a Machinegun and Possession of 121 Grams of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute

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

    Memphis, TN – Christopher Young, aka Christopher Minnis, 35, has been sentenced to 132 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession of a machinegun, possession of 121 grams of Fentanyl with the intent to distribute, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.  Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

    According to the information presented in court, on December 9, 2021, officers with the Memphis Police Department observed the defendant near Cottonwood Road and Cherry Road driving erratically in a Black Chevrolet Corvette with fraudulent tags that had expired on October 14, 2021. When Young parked the car, the officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but Young fled on foot. Police gave chase, and Young was apprehended in his neighbor’s back yard. At the time of his arrest, Young had 121.81 grams of Fentanyl and a Glock 9mm caliber pistol with an extended magazine in his possession. The Glock also had an attached Machinegun Conversion Device (commonly referred to as a “switch”), which made the gun fully automatic. The gun was loaded with 1 round in the chamber and 23 rounds in the extended magazine.

    On January 6, 2025, Young pled guilty before United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker.  Young was sentenced on April 10, 2025 to 132 months in federal prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    Assistant United States Attorney Raney Irwin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.  The Memphis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case.

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    For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Port Meadow incident: appeal for information following death of foal

    Source: City of Oxford

    Published: Thursday, 24 April 2025

    Oxford City Council is appealing to the public for information following two serious incidents involving powered paragliders disturbing livestock on Port Meadow.

    On 10 April, a powered paraglider was seen flying low and erratically over the Meadow, causing distress to a group of horses. Tragically, a young foal was injured during this incident. Despite the best efforts of those caring for it, the foal did not recover from its injuries and has since been put to sleep. 

    A second incident occurred on 20 April, at approximately 7:30pm, when three paragliders were seen swooping low and noisily over the Meadow, causing further distress to the animals on site. Witnesses reported that the horses were visibly panicked, running erratically around the area in fear. 

    Both incidents have been reported to Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Team, which is now gathering evidence. The matter is being taken extremely seriously, and legal action will be pursued against those responsible. 

    We are urging anyone with information about these incidents, or who may know the identity of the individuals involved, to come forward. 

    Please report any relevant details to the Police Rural Crime Team by calling 101. 

    Comment 

    “These reckless actions have not only caused significant distress to the animals and local residents but may have also resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of a foal. We are asking those responsible to stop this dangerous behaviour immediately, and for the public’s help in identifying them. 

    “The safety of the animals, residents, and visitors to Port Meadow is of utmost importance, and we will continue to work closely with the police and community to prevent further incidents. 
    Tom Hook, Deputy Chief Executive 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: Acting U.S. Attorney Promotes DEA Drug Take Back Day

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Law enforcement from across the Northern District of West Virginia will participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

    Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard encourages residents to use this opportunity to rid their homes of unused and unneeded prescription medications, reducing the risk of misuse.

    “The Drug Take Back program is an excellent opportunity to take inventory of the leftover and outdated prescription drugs that are stored in your home,” stated Bernard. “Providing the unused drugs to the DEA as part of the program is a great way to make your home a safe place for those you love. It safeguards our children and prevents abuse of the drugs by others.  It also keeps the discarded drugs out of landfills and our water.”

    Law enforcement will accept tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids, such as cough syrups, must remain tightly sealed in their original containers. Take Back Day locations will accept vaping devices and cartridges if the lithium batteries are removed. Syringes, sharps, and illicit substances will not be collected.

    There are 4,500 collection sites nationwide. To find one near you, go to https://www.dea.gov/takebackday

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississippi Man Guilty of Possession of Machine Guns

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMES HARRIS (“HARRIS”), age 33, of Mississippi, pled guilty on April 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, to being in possession of machine guns, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o)() and 924(a)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

    According to court documents, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) identified individuals involved in trafficking firearms in New Orleans.  Between September 2023 and November 2023, agents communicated with HARRIS about purchasing machine guns and firearms.  On November 15, 2023, HARRIS sold machine guns and firearms to undercover ATF agents in the eastern District of Louisiana.

    HARRIS is scheduled for sentencing on August 13, 2025.  HARRIS faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following imprisonment and, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The prosecution is being handed by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Thomas Barnes Joins Monarch Private Capital’s #Bestinclass Renewable Energy Team

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monarch Private Capital (Monarch), a nationally recognized impact investment firm that develops, finances, and manages a diversified portfolio of projects generating both federal and state tax credits, is pleased to welcome Thomas Barnes as Manager, Renewable Energy.

    In this newly-created role, Barnes will facilitate all aspects of investment execution, including onboarding, investment alignment, fund documentation, underwriting/closing, and subsequent fundings. He serves as a key liaison between Monarch’s investors and developer partners, working with internal placement, project management, operations, and asset management teams—ensuring a seamless and #bestinclass transaction process.

    Barnes brings extensive tax credit structuring and legal experience to Monarch. Prior to joining the firm, he held several roles within the renewable energy division at U.S. Bank, most recently serving as Syndications Project Manager. In that role, he led investor communications and due diligence efforts, negotiated transaction documents, and facilitated the closing of tax credit investments. Earlier in his tenure at U.S. Bank, Barnes served as an Asset Manager, overseeing a portfolio of renewable energy investments and supporting risk mitigation efforts across legal, tax, and credit functions. Before transitioning into renewable energy finance, Barnes practiced law for nearly a decade, focusing on corporate transactions and contract negotiation for a wide range of clients and industries.

    “Thomas brings a rare combination of legal acumen and transaction execution experience to our already strong team,” said Bryan Didier, Partner and Managing Director of Renewable Energy at Monarch Private Capital. “His ability to manage complexity, collaborate across functions, and drive high-quality outcomes for our investors will undoubtably enhance our #everbetter, #bestinclass execution process.”

    In addition to his transaction responsibilities, Barnes will contribute to process innovation, cross-functional collaboration, and risk management strategies across Monarch’s clean energy portfolio.

    “Monarch is known for its thoughtful, high-performing culture, and I’m excited to be a part of a team that prioritizes excellence and investor success,” said Barnes. “I look forward to contributing to a strong foundation that enables the firm to continue scaling with impact.”

    Barnes earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of St. Thomas. Committed to giving back, he has volunteered with organizations including Catholic Charities, Feed the Children, and Project Offstreets, and has mentored and coached youth in both Minneapolis and Denver.

    For more information about Monarch Private Capital, visit www.monarchprivate.com.

    About Monarch Private Capital

    Monarch Private Capital manages impact investment funds that positively impact communities by creating clean power, jobs, and homes. The funds provide predictable returns through the generation of federal and state tax credits. The Company offers innovative tax credit equity investments for affordable housing, historic rehabilitations, renewable energy, film, and other qualified projects. Monarch Private Capital has long-term relationships with institutional and individual investors, developers, and lenders participating in these federal and state programs. Headquartered in Atlanta, Monarch has offices and professionals located throughout the United States.

    CONTACT
    Jane Rafeedie
    Monarch Private Capital
    Jrafeedie@monarchprivate.com
    470-283-8431

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11639d57-4ef6-4162-9d83-aa2972dbe120

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: ClearScale Signs New Strategic Collaboration Agreement with AWS to Empower Small and Medium-Sized Businesses to Accelerate Value in the Cloud

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClearScale, an AWS Premier Tier Services Partner and cloud consulting company, announced today it has signed a multi-year strategic collaboration agreement (SCA) with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as part of the recently introduced Small Business Acceleration Initiative (SBAI), an initiative designed to drive small and medium-sized business digital customer transformation at scale.

    Through this agreement, ClearScale will partner with SBAI teams to drive innovation and propel customers who are experiencing rapid growth and dynamic business environments, to realize the value of AWS.

    “We are expanding our collaboration with AWS to empower small and medium sized customers to realize and experience the benefits of building cloud native applications, retire legacy debt and harness the power of Data and Analytics to scale their rapidly growing businesses,” said Rich Janson, CRO of ClearScale. “Having led 400+ successful Migration and Modernization engagements across today’s most demanding industries, our goal is to take companies who are experiencing exponential growth and empower them to realize the value of AWS to achieve their business goals.”

    ClearScale meets customers where they are on their cloud adoption journey, partnering with them through all phases—from business case creation and modernization inception to execution and optimization—aligning data, analytics, and generative AI data readiness with their desired business outcomes to drive growth.

    “Through our collaboration with ClearScale, we developed a scalable, AI-powered mobile app that delivers tailored legal advice in under 30 seconds — making legal insights accessible to those who need it most. Leveraging AWS technologies like Amazon Bedrock, we created a cutting-edge solution capable of supporting up to 250,000 monthly users with room for growth,” Dave Smith, Newton’s Law CEO.

    ClearScale helps SMB customers across various industries achieve their business goals through cloud adoption. Our broad service portfolio, industry knowledge, and modernization expertise enable us to accelerate their cloud journey and ensure their continued success.

    For more information on ClearScale and their Migration/Modernization portfolio please visit: ClearScale

    About ClearScale

    ClearScale is a professional services company and an all-in AWS Premier Tier Services Partner that helps business leaders create clear business value at speed and scale. We combine our expertise in workload migrations, cloud-native systems integration, strategic consulting, application development, modernization, data, and AI to empower leaders in solving their most critical business challenges and positioning their organizations for growth.

    As an industry-leading AWS Premier Tier Services Partner, ClearScale delivers award-winning experience and expertise across AWS industries and competencies. Our core service areas include AWS Foundations & Migrations, Cloud-Native Application Development, Infrastructure & DevOps Modernization, Data Modernization & Analytics, Application Modernization, Artificial Intelligence & MLOps, and Generative AI.

    Contact:
    Kevin Wolf
    kevin@tgprllc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Entrepreneur and Renowned Poet Sekou Andrews to be the Keynote Speaker at Duck Creek Formation ’25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duck Creek Technologies, the global intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, welcomes Sekou Andrews as its Formation ’25 keynote speaker. Andrews is a thought leader, award-winning entrepreneur, and the Founder/CEO of SekouWorld, Inc., the innovator of “Poetic Voice” and one of the most successful spoken word poets in the world. Formation, Duck Creek’s annual user conference, attracts the world’s brightest minds in the insurance and technology industries and will take place in Orlando, Florida on May 19-21, 2025.

    Formation ’25 will provide the P&C and general insurance community with insights, technology, and tools to help shape how the industry leads as it adapts to today’s challenges including: climate change, cybersecurity risks and ever-changing technology and regulatory trends. Industry leaders will share how they are propelling the industry forward by delivering innovative solutions to minimize risk and deliver better customer experiences. The agenda offers general and breakout sessions led by company leaders, customers, partners, and industry analysts, who all share the passion and expertise to accelerate the evolution of the insurance industry.

    “Sekou Andrews is an influential speaker and poet that has inspired many organizations and individuals with his powerful poetry to embrace change, spark innovation, and think boldly,” said Mike Jackowski, Chief Executive Officer of Duck Creek Technologies. “We are thrilled to have him share his inspirational words and style at Formation ’25, as we continue to innovate, adapt and lead across our industry to create meaningful engagements and customer experiences.”

    Sekou’s keynote address, “The Audacity of What If?”, will focus on how game-changing ideas start with two words: “What if?” Exploring how audacity fuels innovation, he will discuss how through the power of bold questions and unconventional thinking, leaders can challenge the status quo, spark transformation, and drive their industries forward.

    “Poetry is about creating a voice that breaks through the noise and leads with its simplicity and ability to adapt on the fly,” said Sekou Andrews. “I’m excited to be a part of this conference and to inspire its audience to lead, adapt and innovate in new and profound ways.”

    Formation ’25 – Learn More and Register Now

    Sekou Andrews is the Founder/CEO of SekouWorld, Inc., the innovator of “Poetic Voice” and one of the most successful spoken word poets in the world. On any given day, this school-teacher-turned-entrepreneur, who built a 7-figure company on poetry, can be found keynoting at a Fortune 500 company, inspiring thousands at a concert, or performing for Barack Obama in Oprah’s backyard. Sekou is the creator of “poetic voice” – a cutting-edge speaking category that seamlessly fuses inspirational speaking with spoken word poetry, like “Hamilton” meets “TED”. This innovative blend of strategic storytelling, thought leadership, spoken word, theater and comedy humanizes content, making it entertaining, moving and memorable. Sekou’s accomplishments include an ABA “Entrepreneur of the Year” award, two Independent Music Awards, two National Poetry Slam championships, three Helen Hayes Awards, six CLIO awards, the most JPF music awards in history, and the first GRAMMY nomination for “Best Spoken Word Album” awarded to a spoken word poet in over 30 years. With all the innovation and inspiration that is poetic voice, Sekou Andrews is accomplishing the seemingly impossible – bringing spoken word poetry to the world’s largest stages, while redefining the notion of what a speaker is, and what a poet can be.

    About Duck Creek Technologies   
    Duck Creek Technologies is the global intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information – LinkedIn and X.

    Media Contacts:   
    Marianne Dempsey/Tara Stred   
    duckcreek@threeringsinc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Arrest – Death – Nightcliff

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have now arrested an 18-year-old male in relation to the death in Nightcliff yesterday afternoon.

    At 12:35am this morning, an 18-year-old male handed himself into the Palmerston Police Station and was taken into custody.

    Police can confirm the 18-year-old was on bail with conditions to remain in a remote Territory community and did not have an electronic monitoring bracelet as a condition of his bail.

    Charges are yet to be laid. 

    Detectives are urging anyone who has information to make contact on 131 444 or make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, and quote reference P25111518.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal Crash – Lake Bennett

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating after a fatal crash occurred near Lake Bennett overnight.

    Around 8pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a collision between two vehicles travelling in opposite directions on the Stuart Highway between Bachelor and Acacia Hills.

    Emergency services attended and initial first aid was provided before both drivers, a 25-year-old female and 35-year-old male, were both declared deceased.

    A crime scene was established, and the Major Crash Investigation Unit is investigating. Traffic diversions were in place for most of the night and the highway has since re-opened.

    Police urge anyone with information or with dash cam footage in the area to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25111702.

    Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    The Lives lost on Territory roads for 2025 now stands at 8.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Security: The FBI Released Its Internet Crime Report 2024

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    TLANTA—The FBI released its Internet Crime Report 2024. It shows Internet-related complaints and crimes continued to increase significantly in Georgia and across the country.

    In 2024, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received 859,532 complaints with related losses topping $16.6 billion. That is a 33% increase in losses from 2023.

    Georgia ranked 11th in complaints filed by state in 2024 (13th in 2023) with reported potential losses at $420 million. That is a 40% increase year to year.

    Nationally, the top three cybercrimes, by the number of complaints reported in 2024, were: phishing/spoofing, extortion, and personal data breaches. In terms of losses, cryptocurrency-related losses by far exceed any other category.

    “While the top threats facing Georgia and the nation from cyber criminals and fraudsters continue to evolve, their main goal remains stealing your hard-earned money,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “The cornerstone of the FBI’s mission remains to protect American citizens. The men and women of FBI Atlanta will not stop working to prevent losses and minimize the harm to Georgia residents.”

    Criminals continue to target the elderly (Age 60+) at a high rate. In Georgia, complaints by seniors increased 71% year over year (2114 to 3622). Reported losses in Georgia by seniors increased 89% ($92 million in 2023 to $174 million in 2024). Georgia’s rank in reported losses by state rose from 10th to 7th.

    Reports of cryptocurrency-related crimes jumped in Georgia by 122% (1590 in 2023 to 3533 in 2024). Estimated losses to cryptocurrency-related crimes in the state increased by 66 % ($118,750,468 in 2023 to $197,647,537 in 2024).

    The 2024 IC3 annual report can be found at IC3.gov.

    In the fight against increasingly savvy criminals, the FBI also relies on you. Without the information you report to us through IC3, we simply cannot piece together the puzzle of this ever-shifting threat landscape. If ever you suspect you’re a victim of cyber-enabled crime, do not hesitate to let us know. We want to be there for you, and what you report will help us help others.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Marquette National Corporation Declares a Dividend of $0.31 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marquette National Corporation (OTCQX: MNAT) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.31 per share. The dividend will be payable on July 1, 2025 to shareholders of record on June 20, 2025. As of March 31, 2025, Marquette had 4,367,449 shares issued and outstanding.

    Marquette National Corporation is a diversified bank holding company with total assets of $2.2 billion. The Company’s banking subsidiary, Marquette Bank, is a full-service, community bank that serves the financial needs of communities in Chicagoland, offering an extensive line of financial solutions, including retail banking, real estate lending, trust, insurance, investments, wealth management and business banking to consumers and commercial customers. Marquette Bank has 20 branches located in: Chicago, Bolingbrook, Bridgeview, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Lemont, New Lenox, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Summit and Tinley Park, Illinois. For more information visit: https://emarquettebank.com

    Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements. 
    This document contains, and future oral and written statements of the Company and its management may contain, forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of the Company. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “bode”, “predict,” “suggest,” “project”, “appear,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” ”annualize,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “likely,” “might,” “potential,” “continue,” “annualized,” “target,” “outlook,” as well as the negative forms of those words, or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.
    A number of factors, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in its forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: (i) the strength of the local, state, national and international economies and financial markets (including effects of inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints); (ii) effects on the U.S. economy resulting from the implementation of policies proposed by the new presidential administration, including tariffs, mass deportations and tax regulations; (iii) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats and attacks, widespread disease or pandemics, acts of war or threats thereof (including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East), or other adverse events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets, and the response of the local, state and national governments to any such adverse external events; (iv) new or revised accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; (v) changes in local, state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning the Company’s general business and any changes in response to the bank failures in 2023; (vi) the imposition of tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the value of products produced by the Company’s commercial borrowers; (vii) increased competition in the financial services sector, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies, and the inability to attract new customers; (viii) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (ix) unexpected results of acquisitions which may include failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisitions and the possibility that transaction costs may be greater than anticipated; (x) the loss of key executives and employees, talent shortages and employee turnover; (xi) changes in consumer spending; (xii) unexpected outcomes and costs of existing or new litigation or other legal proceedings and regulatory actions involving the Company; (xiii) the economic impact on the Company and its customers of climate change, natural disasters and exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, floods and blizzards; (xiv) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; (xv) credit risk and risks from concentrations (by type of borrower, geographic area, collateral and industry) within our loan portfolio and large loans to certain borrowers (including CRE loans); (xvi) the overall health of the local and national real estate market; (xvii) the ability to maintain an adequate level of allowance for credit losses on loans; (xviii) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and who may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xix) the ability to successfully manage liquidity risk, which may increase dependence on non-core funding sources such as brokered deposits, and may negatively impact the Company’s cost of funds; (xx) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xxi) interruptions involving our information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (xxii) the occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our third-party vendors’ information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents, including as a result of sophisticated attacks using artificial intelligence and similar tools or as a result of insider fraud; (xxiii) changes in the interest rates and repayment rates of the Company’s assets; (xxiv) the effectiveness of the Company’s risk management framework, and (xxv) the ability of the Company to manage the risks associated with the foregoing as well as anticipated. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

    For more information:
    Patrick Hunt
    EVP & CFO
    708-364-9019
    phunt@emarquettebank.com

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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nasdaq Reports First Quarter 2025 Results; Diversified Business Model Driving Broad-Based Revenue Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq: NDAQ) today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2025.

    • First quarter 2025 net revenue1 was $1.2 billion, an increase of 11% over the first quarter of 2024, or up 12.5% on an adjusted2 basis. This included Solutions3 revenue growing 9%, or up 11% on an adjusted basis.
    • Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR)4 of $2.8 billion increased 8% over the first quarter of 2024, or up 9% on an organic basis. Annualized SaaS revenue increased 14% and represented 37% of ARR.
    • Financial Technology revenue of $432 million increased 10% over the first quarter of 2024 with Financial Crime Management Technology revenue up 21%.
    • Index revenue of $193 million grew 14%, or 26% on an adjusted basis, with $86 billion of net inflows over the trailing twelve months and $27 billion in the first quarter of 2025.
    • GAAP diluted earnings per share grew 69% in the first quarter of 2025. Non-GAAP5 diluted earnings per share grew 24% in the first quarter of 2025.
    • In the first quarter of 2025, the company returned $138 million to shareholders through dividends and $115 million through repurchases of common stock. The company also repurchased $279 million of senior unsecured notes in the quarter.

    First Quarter 2025 Highlights

    (US$ millions, except per share) 1Q25 YoY change % Adjusted YoY
    change %
    Organic6YoY
    change %
    Solutions revenue $947 9% 11% 9%
    Market Services net revenue $281 19% 19% 19%
    Net revenue $1,237 11% 12% 11%
    Non-GAAP operating income $682 15% 17% 14%
    ARR $2,831 8% 9% 9%
    GAAP diluted EPS $0.68 69%    
    Non-GAAP diluted EPS $0.79 24%   24%

    Adena Friedman, Chair and CEO said, “Nasdaq’s first quarter results underscore the resilience of our business model and our ability to deliver growth across our divisions in a rapidly shifting environment.

    As a trusted partner and platform company, we are empowering our clients to address their most pressing risks and challenges and confidently navigate complex macroeconomic conditions. With our portfolio of complementary, mission-critical solutions, we are well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth through 2025 and the medium-term.”

    Sarah Youngwood, Executive Vice President and CFO said, “Nasdaq delivered one of its strongest quarters yet, with all three divisions achieving robust revenue growth and contributing to stellar EPS growth. We demonstrated strong operating leverage and our high level of cash flow enabled us to make meaningful progress on our capital allocation strategy of investing in organic growth, reducing debt, and repurchasing shares.

    We are grateful for our clients’ trust and remain focused on supporting them in these times of uncertainty, executing on our growth opportunities, and continuing to delever while making focused strategic investments to capitalize on our compelling organic growth opportunity.”

    FINANCIAL REVIEW

    • First quarter 2025 net revenue was $1,237 million, reflecting 11% growth versus the prior year period. Adjusted net revenue growth was 12.5%.
    • Solutions revenue was $947 million in the first quarter of 2025, up 9% versus the prior year period, or up 11% on an adjusted basis, reflecting strong growth from Index and Financial Technology.
    • ARR grew 8% year-over-year, or 9% on an organic basis, in the first quarter of 2025 with 11% ARR growth for Financial Technology, or 12% on an organic basis, and 5% ARR growth for Capital Access Platforms.
    • Market Services net revenue was $281 million in the first quarter of 2025, up 19% versus the prior year period.
    • First quarter 2025 GAAP operating expenses were $690 million, a decrease of 3% versus the prior year period. The decrease in the first quarter was primarily due to lower expenses related to general and administrative expenses, lower restructuring costs, and lower compensation and benefits, partially offset by an increase in merger and strategic initiative costs.
    • First quarter 2025 non-GAAP operating expenses were $555 million, reflecting 6% growth versus the prior year period, or 7% growth on an organic basis. The organic increase for the quarter reflected growth driven by increased investments in technology and people to drive innovation and long-term growth, partially offset by the benefit of synergies.
    • Cash flow from operations was $663 million for the first quarter enabling the company to make continued progress on its deleveraging plan. In the first quarter of 2025, the company returned $138 million to shareholders through dividends and $115 million through repurchases of common stock. As of March 31, 2025, there was $1.6 billion remaining under the board authorized share repurchase program. The company also repurchased $279 million of senior unsecured notes for a net purchase price of $257 million in the first quarter of 2025.

    2025 EXPENSE AND TAX GUIDANCE UPDATE7

    • The company is updating its 2025 non-GAAP operating expense guidance to a range of $2,265 million to $2,325 million, and is maintaining its 2025 non-GAAP tax rate guidance in the range of 22.5% to 24.5%.

    STRATEGIC AND BUSINESS UPDATES

    • Financial Technology delivered durable and broad-based ARR growth. The One Nasdaq go to market strategy is elevating client engagement and driving product adoption resulting in robust ARR growth. FinTech ARR grew 12% on an organic basis in the first quarter with 40 new clients, 92 upsells, and 2 cross-sells. First quarter highlights included:
      • Financial Crime Management Technology revenue growth reflects momentum across both enterprise and small-and-medium bank (SMB) clients. Nasdaq Verafin secured several strategic first quarter wins including a cross-sell to a Tier 2 AxiomSL client and an upsell to a Tier 2 bank client, reflecting early progress on its land and expand enterprise client strategy. The business also added 35 new SMB clients in the first quarter, a 25% increase in new client signings over the prior year quarter. Nasdaq Verafin’s ongoing client growth is contributing to the growth and power of its data consortium, which now includes clients holding more than $10 trillion in total assets.
      • Regulatory Technology achieved solid ARR growth as our solutions helped clients navigate elevated market activity. AxiomSL signed a new large digital bank client and continued its momentum with existing clients with 22 upsells in the first quarter, including a strategic deal with a large Tier 1 U.S. financial institution. The Tier 1 client expanded its suite of AxiomSL services by incorporating a broker-dealer solution alongside their existing U.S., European, and Asian reporting modules. Surveillance signed 4 new clients in the quarter, including a European regulator, a crypto marketplace, an energy trading firm, and a broker-dealer.
      • Capital Markets Technology signed multiple strategic deals amid the market modernization megatrend. Strong execution and secular tailwinds are fueling new wins across the subdivision with Calypso completing 25 upsells and Market Technology signing 17 upsells in the first quarter. Market Technology also had a cross-sell to nuam, a consolidated market operator spanning Peru, Chile, and Colombia. In the first quarter, nuam selected Nasdaq’s newly launched trade, clearing, and central securities depositories (CSD) intelligence solution after signing Nasdaq’s Trade Multi Matching Engine in late 2023 and its member countries standardizing on Nasdaq’s CSD platform in December 2024.
    • Investments in Index powered alpha-driven revenue growth. Index had $27 billion in net inflows in the first quarter with average ETP AUM reaching $662 billion, to achieve a sixth consecutive record quarter, despite a more volatile market backdrop. Index’s performance reflects ongoing execution of its growth strategy of new product innovation, international diversification, and institutional client expansion. In the first quarter, Nasdaq launched 30 new Index products, including 10 international products, 7 in the institutional insurance annuity space, and 16 launched in partnership with new Index clients. New product launches have been a strong growth driver for Index and products launched since 2020 have accounted for 33% of net inflows over the last 5 years.
    • Nasdaq maintained listing leadership and passed $3 trillion of market value in cumulative transfers. During the quarter, Nasdaq welcomed 45 operating company listings that raised nearly $5 billion of proceeds, contributing to an 82% win rate of eligible operating companies in the quarter. First quarter wins included 3 of the quarter’s top 5 offerings, CoreWeave, SailPoint, and Smithfield Foods. In the first quarter, the company exceeded $3 trillion in combined market value for total listing transfers since Nasdaq first launched its switch program in 2005. Nasdaq welcomed 7 high-profile transfers in the quarter, including Shopify, Thomson Reuters, and Domino’s Pizza, that added over $230 billion in market value.
    • Market Services delivered record net revenues with record cash equities and derivatives volumes in the U.S. Within the recent market volatility, Nasdaq achieved U.S. record volumes in cash equities and equity options, including index options, in the first quarter. Nasdaq also extended its leadership in on-exchange trading with U.S. cash equities market share increasing year-over-year and sequentially. During the first quarter, Nasdaq’s North American markets experienced extraordinary message traffic, which reached a record of more than 425 billion messages8 in a day.
    • Nasdaq aims to expand U.S. market access to 24/5 trading in the second half of 2026. The planned launch of 24-hour trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market will broaden investor access and wealth-building opportunities globally, including in Asia, where demand for Nasdaq-listed stocks is accelerating. Nasdaq’s timeline is subject to regulatory approval and alignment with the industry participants.
    • Nasdaq and Amazon Web Services signed an enhanced agreement to amplify their prior partnership. The partnership aims to benefit both the Market Services and Financial Technology divisions and advance Nasdaq’s vision to be the trusted fabric of the world’s financial system. Nasdaq plans to offer its financial services clients new cloud-based solutions in phases. The initial phase focuses on providing market operators with public and hybrid cloud infrastructure, software, and services offerings that mitigate transformation risk, retain data sovereignty, and optimize performance, latency, security, and resilience. Nasdaq’s Nordic markets will be among the first markets to leverage the infrastructure powered by the new partnership, subject to regulatory approval. Nasdaq also has expanded its modernization partnerships with both the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and Mexico’s Grupo BMV.
    • Nasdaq is executing on its 2025 strategic priorities — Integrate, Innovate, Accelerate — positioning the company to capitalize on opportunities for sustainable, scalable, and resilient growth.
      • Integrate – Nasdaq is on track to action its $140 million expanded net expense efficiency program by year-end, with over $100 million actioned as of the end of the first quarter. Moody’s upgraded Nasdaq’s senior unsecured debt rating from Baa2 to Baa1 on March 31.
      • Innovate – Nasdaq continued to amplify innovation across the company as the team rolled out new AI-powered features to our solutions and product offerings and launched new Index products. Client usage of Nasdaq Verafin’s Co-Pilot tool grew 20% sequentially in the first quarter, highlighting the value and efficiency the offering provides to clients. Currently, more than 1,200 clients are leveraging the co-pilot to expedite their alert reviews.
      • Accelerate – The company continues to execute on its One Nasdaq strategy securing 19 cross-sell wins since the Adenza acquisition across key solutions including Surveillance, AxiomSL, and Verafin. Nasdaq remains on track to surpass $100 million in run-rate revenue from cross-sells by the end of 2027. At the end of the first quarter, cross-sells accounted for over 15% of Financial Technology’s sales pipeline.

    ____________
    1 Represents revenue less transaction-based expenses.
    2Adjusted period over period change reflects non-GAAP results, adjusted to include revenue for AxiomSL on-premises contracts to reflect adjustment for ratable recognition for 1Q24 and to exclude the impacts of foreign currency and the previously announced one-time revenue benefit in our Index business in 1Q24.
    3 Constitutes revenue from our Capital Access Platforms and Financial Technology segments.
    4 Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) for a given period is the current annualized value derived from subscription contracts with a defined contract value. This excludes contracts that are not recurring, are one-time in nature or where the contract value fluctuates based on defined metrics. ARR is currently one of our key performance metrics to assess the health and trajectory of our recurring business. ARR does not have any standardized definition and is therefore unlikely to be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. ARR should be viewed independently of revenue and deferred revenue and is not intended to be combined with or to replace either of those items. For AxiomSL and Calypso recurring revenue contracts, the amount included in ARR is consistent with the amount that we invoice the customer during the current period. Additionally, for AxiomSL and Calypso recurring revenue contracts that include annual values that increase over time, we include in ARR only the annualized value of components of the contract that are considered active as of the date of the ARR calculation. We do not include the future committed increases in the contract value as of the date of the ARR calculation. ARR is not a forecast and the active contracts at the end of a reporting period used in calculating ARR may or may not be extended or renewed by our customers.
    5 Refer to our reconciliations of U.S. GAAP to non-GAAP net income attributable to Nasdaq, diluted earnings per share, operating income, operating expenses and organic impacts included in the attached schedules.
    6 Organic changes (i) reflect adjustments to remove the impact of period-over-period changes in foreign currency exchange rates and (ii) includes revenue for AxiomSL on-premises contracts to reflect adjustment for ratable recognition for 1Q24. As it relates to ARR, organic changes only exclude the impact of period-over-period changes in foreign currency exchange rates as the AxiomSL ratable recognition adjustment had no impact on ARR.
    7 U.S. GAAP operating expense and tax rate guidance are not provided due to the inherent difficulty in quantifying certain amounts due to a variety of factors including the unpredictability in the movement in foreign currency rates, as well as future charges or reversals outside of the normal course of business.
    8 Message count represents the number of records across Nasdaq’s U.S. Options, U.S. and Canadian equities markets, trade reporting facilities, and bond exchange that are recorded into Nasdaq’s data warehouse on a daily basis.

    ABOUT NASDAQ

    Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a global technology company serving corporate clients, investment managers, banks, brokers, and exchange operators as they navigate and interact with the global capital markets and the broader financial system. We aspire to deliver world-leading platforms that improve the liquidity, transparency, and integrity of the global economy. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software, exchange capabilities, and client-centric services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence. To learn more about the company, technology solutions and career opportunities, visit us on LinkedIn, on X @Nasdaq, or at www.nasdaq.com.

    NON-GAAP INFORMATION

    In addition to disclosing results determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Nasdaq also discloses certain non-GAAP results of operations, including, but not limited to, non-GAAP net income attributable to Nasdaq, non-GAAP diluted earnings per share, non-GAAP operating income, and non-GAAP operating expenses, that include certain adjustments or exclude certain charges and gains that are described in the reconciliation table of U.S. GAAP to non-GAAP information provided at the end of this release. Management uses this non-GAAP information internally, along with U.S. GAAP information, in evaluating our performance and in making financial and operational decisions. We believe our presentation of these measures provides investors with greater transparency and supplemental data relating to our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we believe the presentation of these measures is useful to investors for period-to-period comparisons of results as the items described below in the reconciliation tables do not reflect ongoing operating performance.

    These measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, U.S. GAAP, and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition, other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate such measures differently, which reduces their usefulness as a comparative measure. Investors should not rely on any single financial measure when evaluating our business. This information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant as a substitute for our operating results in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We recommend investors review the U.S. GAAP financial measures included in this earnings release. When viewed in conjunction with our U.S. GAAP results and the accompanying reconciliations, we believe these non-GAAP measures provide greater transparency and a more complete understanding of factors affecting our business than U.S. GAAP measures alone.

    We understand that analysts and investors regularly rely on non-GAAP financial measures, such as those noted above, to assess operating performance. We use these measures because they highlight trends more clearly in our business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on U.S. GAAP financial measures, since these measures eliminate from our results specific financial items that have less bearing on our ongoing operating performance.

    Organic revenue and expense growth, organic change and organic impact are non-GAAP measures that reflect adjustments for: (i) the impact of period-over-period changes in foreign currency exchange rates, and (ii) the revenue, expenses and operating income associated with acquisitions and divestitures for the twelve month period following the date of the acquisition or divestiture. Reconciliations of these measures are described within the body of this release or in the reconciliation tables at the end of this release.

    Foreign exchange impact: In countries with currencies other than the U.S. dollar, revenue and expenses are translated using monthly average exchange rates. Certain discussions in this release isolate the impact of year-over-year foreign currency fluctuations to better measure the comparability of operating results between periods. Operating results excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations are calculated by translating the current period’s results by the prior period’s exchange rates.

    Restructuring programs: In the fourth quarter of 2023, following the closing of the Adenza acquisition, our management approved, committed to and initiated a restructuring program to optimize our efficiencies as a combined organization. We further expanded this program in the fourth quarter of 2024 to accelerate our momentum and further optimize our efficiencies (efficiency program). We have incurred costs principally related to employee-related costs, contract terminations, asset impairments and other related costs and expect to incur additional costs in these areas in an effort to accelerate efficiencies through location strategy and enhanced AI capabilities. Actions taken as part of this program will be complete by the end of 2025, while certain costs may be recognized in the first half of 2026. We expect to achieve benefits primarily in the form of expense synergies. In October 2022, following our September announcement to realign our segments and leadership, we initiated a divisional realignment program with a focus on realizing the full potential of this structure. As of September 30, 2024, we completed our divisional realignment program. Costs related to the Adenza restructuring and the divisional realignment programs are recorded as “restructuring charges” in our condensed consolidated statements of income. We exclude charges associated with these programs for purposes of calculating non-GAAP measures as they are not reflective of ongoing operating performance or comparisons in Nasdaq’s performance between periods.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Information set forth in this communication contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Nasdaq cautions readers that any forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and that actual results could differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to (i) projections relating to our future financial results, total shareholder returns, growth, dividend program, trading volumes, products and services, ability to transition to new business models or implement our new corporate structure, taxes and achievement of synergy targets, (ii) statements about the closing or implementation dates and benefits of certain acquisitions, divestitures and other strategic, restructuring, technology, environmental, de-leveraging and capital allocation initiatives, (iii) statements about our integrations of our recent acquisitions, (iv) statements relating to any litigation or regulatory or government investigation or action to which we are or could become a party, and (v) other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other factors beyond Nasdaq’s control. These factors include, but are not limited to, Nasdaq’s ability to implement its strategic initiatives, economic, political and market conditions and fluctuations, geopolitical instability, government and industry regulation, interest rate risk, U.S. and global competition. Further information on these and other factors are detailed in Nasdaq’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, which are available on Nasdaq’s investor relations website at http://ir.nasdaq.com and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Nasdaq undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    WEBSITE DISCLOSURE

    Nasdaq intends to use its website, ir.nasdaq.com, as a means for disclosing material non-public information and for complying with SEC Regulation FD and other disclosure obligations.

    Media Relations Contact
    Nick Jannuzzi
    +1.973.760.1741
    Nicholas.Jannuzzi.@Nasdaq.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    Ato Garrett
    +1.212.401.8737
    Ato.Garrett@Nasdaq.com

    NDAQF

    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (in millions, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
           
      Three Months Ended
      March 31,   March 31,
        2025       2024  
             
    Revenues:      
    Capital Access Platforms $ 515     $ 479  
    Financial Technology   432       392  
    Market Services   1,134       794  
    Other Revenues   9       9  
      Total revenues   2,090       1,674  
    Transaction-based expenses:      
    Transaction rebates   (579 )     (481 )
    Brokerage, clearance and exchange fees   (274 )     (76 )
    Revenues less transaction-based expenses   1,237       1,117  
           
    Operating Expenses:      
    Compensation and benefits   329       340  
    Professional and contract services   36       34  
    Technology and communication infrastructure   77       67  
    Occupancy   28       28  
    General, administrative and other   6       28  
    Marketing and advertising   14       11  
    Depreciation and amortization   156       155  
    Regulatory   15       9  
    Merger and strategic initiatives   24       9  
    Restructuring charges   5       26  
      Total operating expenses   690       707  
    Operating income   547       410  
    Interest income   11       6  
    Interest expense   (96 )     (108 )
    Other income (loss)   (1 )     1  
    Net income from unconsolidated investees   27       3  
    Income before income taxes   488       312  
    Income tax provision   93       79  
    Net income   395       233  
    Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests         1  
    Net income attributable to Nasdaq $ 395     $ 234  
           
    Per share information:      
    Basic earnings per share $ 0.69     $ 0.41  
    Diluted earnings per share $ 0.68     $ 0.40  
    Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0.24     $ 0.22  
           
    Weighted-average common shares outstanding      
    for earnings per share:      
    Basic   575.0       575.4  
    Diluted   580.0       578.9  
             
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Revenue Detail
    (in millions)
    (unaudited)
                 
            Three Months Ended
            March 31,   March 31,
              2025       2024  
                 
    CAPITAL ACCESS PLATFORMS      
      Data and Listing Services revenues $ 192     $ 186  
      Index revenues   193       168  
      Workflow and Insights revenues   130       125  
        Total Capital Access Platforms revenues   515       479  
                 
    FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY      
      Financial Crime Management Technology revenues   77       64  
      Regulatory Technology revenues   101       90  
      Capital Markets Technology revenues   254       238  
        Total Financial Technology revenues   432       392  
                 
    MARKET SERVICES      
      Market Services revenues   1,134       794  
      Transaction-based expenses:      
          Transaction rebates   (579 )     (481 )
          Brokerage, clearance and exchange fees   (274 )     (76 )
        Total Market Services revenues, net   281       237  
                 
    OTHER REVENUES   9       9  
                 
    REVENUES LESS TRANSACTION-BASED EXPENSES $ 1,237     $ 1,117  
                 
                 
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in millions)
             
        March 31,   December 31,
          2025       2024  
    Assets (unaudited)    
    Current assets:      
      Cash and cash equivalents $ 690     $ 592  
      Restricted cash and cash equivalents   18       31  
      Default funds and margin deposits   5,686       5,664  
      Financial investments   201       184  
      Receivables, net   986       1,022  
      Other current assets   237       293  
    Total current assets   7,818       7,786  
    Property and equipment, net   621       593  
    Goodwill   14,179       13,957  
    Intangible assets, net   6,830       6,905  
    Operating lease assets   381       375  
    Other non-current assets   818       779  
    Total assets $ 30,647     $ 30,395  
             
    Liabilities      
    Current liabilities:      
      Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 255     $ 269  
      Section 31 fees payable to SEC   264       319  
      Accrued personnel costs   198       325  
      Deferred revenue   981       711  
      Other current liabilities   187       215  
      Default funds and margin deposits   5,686       5,664  
      Short-term debt   400       399  
    Total current liabilities   7,971       7,902  
    Long-term debt   8,926       9,081  
    Deferred tax liabilities, net   1,586       1,594  
    Operating lease liabilities   393       388  
    Other non-current liabilities   216       230  
    Total liabilities   19,092       19,195  
           
    Commitments and contingencies      
    Equity      
    Nasdaq stockholders’ equity:      
      Common stock   6       6  
      Additional paid-in capital   5,450       5,530  
      Common stock in treasury, at cost   (672 )     (647 )
      Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,896 )     (2,099 )
      Retained earnings   8,658       8,401  
    Total Nasdaq stockholders’ equity   11,546       11,191  
      Noncontrolling interests   9       9  
    Total equity   11,555       11,200  
    Total liabilities and equity $ 30,647     $ 30,395  
             
             
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Net Income Attributable to Nasdaq and Diluted Earnings Per Share
    (in millions, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
             
             
         Three Months Ended
        March 31,   March 31,
          2025       2024  
             
    U.S. GAAP net income attributable to Nasdaq $ 395     $ 234  
    Non-GAAP adjustments:      
      Amortization expense of acquired intangible assets (1)   122       123  
      Merger and strategic initiatives expense (2)   24       9  
      Restructuring charges (3)   5       26  
      Net income from unconsolidated investees (4)   (27 )     (3 )
      Gain from extinguishment of debt (5)   (19 )      
      Legal and regulatory matters   2       2  
      Pension settlement charge (6)         23  
      Other loss   1        
      Total non-GAAP adjustments   108       180  
      Non-GAAP adjustment to the income tax provision (7)   (47 )     (47 )
      Total non-GAAP adjustments, net of tax   61       133  
    Non-GAAP net income attributable to Nasdaq $ 456     $ 367  
             
    U.S. GAAP diluted earnings per share $ 0.68     $ 0.40  
      Total adjustments from non-GAAP net income above   0.11       0.23  
    Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share $ 0.79     $ 0.63  
             
    Weighted-average diluted common shares outstanding for earnings per share:   580.0       578.9  
             
             
    (1) We amortize intangible assets acquired in connection with various acquisitions. Intangible asset amortization expense can vary from period to period due to episodic acquisitions completed, rather than from our ongoing business operations.
     
    (2) We have pursued various strategic initiatives and completed acquisitions and divestitures in recent years that have resulted in expenses which would not have otherwise been incurred. These expenses generally include integration costs, as well as legal, due diligence and other third-party transaction costs. The frequency and the amount of such expenses vary significantly based on the size, timing and complexity of the transaction. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, these amounts are primarily driven by the timing of recognition associated with the transfer of open positions in our Nordic power derivatives trading and clearing business, Adenza integration costs and other strategic initiative costs. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, these costs were primarily related to the integration of Adenza.
             
    (3) In the fourth quarter of 2023, following the closing of the Adenza acquisition, our management approved, committed to and initiated a restructuring program, “Adenza Restructuring” to optimize our efficiencies as a combined organization. In connection with this program, we expect to incur pre-tax charges principally related to employee-related costs, contract terminations, asset impairments and other related costs. We expect to achieve benefits primarily in the form of expense and revenue synergies. In addition, in September 2024, we completed our previously disclosed divisional realignment program.
             
    (4) We exclude our share of the earnings and losses of our equity method investments. This provides a more meaningful analysis of Nasdaq’s ongoing operating performance or comparisons in Nasdaq’s performance between periods.
             
    (5) For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we recorded a gain on the extinguishment of debt. This gain is recorded in general, administrative expense in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    (6) For the three months ended March 31, 2024, we recorded a pre-tax charge as a result of settling our U.S. pension plan. The plan was terminated and partially settled in 2023, with final settlement occurring during the first quarter of 2024. The loss was recorded in compensation and benefits in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    (7) The non-GAAP adjustment to the income tax provision primarily includes the tax impact of each non-GAAP adjustment. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we recognized a prior year tax reserve release of $18 million due to a favorable audit settlement.
             
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Operating Income and Operating Margin
    (in millions)
    (unaudited)
             
         Three Months Ended
        March 31,   March 31,
          2025       2024  
             
    U.S. GAAP operating income $ 547     $ 410  
    Non-GAAP adjustments:      
      Amortization expense of acquired intangible assets (1)   122       123  
      Merger and strategic initiatives expense (2)   24       9  
      Restructuring charges (3)   5       26  
      Gain from extinguishment of debt (4)   (19 )      
      Legal and regulatory matters   2       2  
      Pension settlement charge (5)         23  
      Other loss   1        
      Total non-GAAP adjustments   135       183  
    Non-GAAP operating income $ 682     $ 593  
           
    Revenues less transaction-based expenses $ 1,237     $ 1,117  
             
    U.S. GAAP operating margin (6)   44 %     37 %
             
    Non-GAAP operating margin (7)   55 %     53 %
             
    Note: The current period percentages are calculated based on exact dollars, and therefore may not recalculate exactly using rounded numbers as presented in US$ millions.
             
    (1) We amortize intangible assets acquired in connection with various acquisitions. Intangible asset amortization expense can vary from period to period due to episodic acquisitions completed, rather than from our ongoing business operations.
             
    (2) We have pursued various strategic initiatives and completed acquisitions and divestitures in recent years that have resulted in expenses which would not have otherwise been incurred. These expenses generally include integration costs, as well as legal, due diligence and other third-party transaction costs. The frequency and the amount of such expenses vary significantly based on the size, timing and complexity of the transaction. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, these amounts are primarily driven by the timing of recognition associated with the transfer of open positions in our Nordic power derivatives trading and clearing business, Adenza integration costs and other strategic initiative costs. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, these costs were primarily related to the integration of Adenza.
             
    (3) In the fourth quarter of 2023, following the closing of the Adenza acquisition, our management approved, committed to and initiated a restructuring program, “Adenza Restructuring” to optimize our efficiencies as a combined organization. In connection with this program, we expect to incur pre-tax charges principally related to employee-related costs, contract terminations, asset impairments and other related costs. We expect to achieve benefits primarily in the form of expense and revenue synergies. In addition, in September 2024, we completed our previously disclosed divisional realignment program.
             
    (4) For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we recorded a gain on the extinguishment of debt. This gain is recorded in general, administrative expense in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    (5) For the three months ended March 31, 2024, we recorded a pre-tax charge as a result of settling our U.S. pension plan. The plan was terminated and partially settled in 2023, with final settlement occurring during the first quarter of 2024. The loss was recorded in compensation and benefits in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    (6) U.S. GAAP operating margin equals U.S. GAAP operating income divided by revenues less transaction-based expenses.
             
    (7) Non-GAAP operating margin equals non-GAAP operating income divided by non-GAAP revenues less transaction-based expenses.
             
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Operating Expenses
    (in millions)
    (unaudited)
             
         Three Months Ended
        March 31,   March 31,
          2025       2024  
             
    U.S. GAAP operating expenses $ 690     $ 707  
    Non-GAAP adjustments:      
      Amortization expense of acquired intangible assets (1)   (122 )     (123 )
      Merger and strategic initiatives expense (2)   (24 )     (9 )
      Restructuring charges (3)   (5 )     (26 )
      Gain from extinguishment of debt (4)   19        
      Legal and regulatory matters   (2 )     (2 )
      Pension settlement charge (5)         (23 )
      Other loss   (1 )      
      Total non-GAAP adjustments   (135 )     (183 )
    Non-GAAP operating expenses $ 555     $ 524  
             
             
    (1) We amortize intangible assets acquired in connection with various acquisitions. Intangible asset amortization expense can vary from period to period due to episodic acquisitions completed, rather than from our ongoing business operations.
     
    (2) We have pursued various strategic initiatives and completed acquisitions and divestitures in recent years that have resulted in expenses which would not have otherwise been incurred. These expenses generally include integration costs, as well as legal, due diligence and other third-party transaction costs. The frequency and the amount of such expenses vary significantly based on the size, timing and complexity of the transaction. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, these amounts are primarily driven by the timing of recognition associated with the transfer of open positions in our Nordic power derivatives trading and clearing business, Adenza integration costs and other strategic initiative costs. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, these costs were primarily related to the integration of Adenza.
             
    (3) In the fourth quarter of 2023, following the closing of the Adenza acquisition, our management approved, committed to and initiated a restructuring program, “Adenza Restructuring” to optimize our efficiencies as a combined organization. In connection with this program, we expect to incur pre-tax charges principally related to employee-related costs, contract terminations, asset impairments and other related costs. We expect to achieve benefits primarily in the form of expense and revenue synergies. In addition, in September 2024, we completed our previously disclosed divisional realignment program.
             
    (4) For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we recorded a gain on the extinguishment of debt. This gain is recorded in general, administrative expense in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    (5) For the three months ended March 31, 2024, we recorded a pre-tax charge as a result of settling our U.S. pension plan. The plan was terminated and partially settled in 2023, with final settlement occurring during the first quarter of 2024. The loss was recorded in compensation and benefits in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
             
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Adjusted Impacts for Revenues less transaction-based expenses, Non-GAAP Operating Expenses,
    Non-GAAP Operating Income, and Non-GAAP Operating Margin
    (in millions)
    (unaudited)
                                     
      Three Months Ended                  
      As Reported   Adenza   Adjusted (1)   Total Variance   FX & Other (2)   Adjusted YoY
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024   March 31, 2024   March 31, 2024   $   %   $   $ %
    CAPITAL ACCESS PLATFORMS                                
    Data and Listing Services revenues $ 192     $ 186     $   $ 186     $ 6     3 %   $ (1 )   $ 7   4 %
    Index revenues   193       168           168       25     14 %     (16 )     41   26 %
    Workflow and insights revenues   130       125           125       5     4 %           5   4 %
    Total Capital Access Platforms revenues   515       479           479       36     7 %     (17 )     53   11 %
                                     
    FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY                                
    Financial Crime Management Technology revenues   77       64           64       13     21 %           13   21 %
    Regulatory Technology revenues   101       90       3     93       8     8 %     (1 )     9   10 %
    Capital Markets Technology revenues   254       238           238       16     7 %     (1 )     17   7 %
    Total Financial Technology revenues   432       392       3     395       37     9 %     (2 )     39   10 %
                                     
    Solutions revenues (3)   947       871       3     874       73     8 %     (19 )     92   11 %
                                     
    Market Services, net revenues   281       237           237       44     19 %     (2 )     46   19 %
    Other revenues   9       9           9           (6 )%             (4 )%
    Revenues less transaction-based expenses   1,237       1,117       3     1,120       117     10 %     (21 )     138   12 %
                                     
    Non-GAAP operating expenses   555       524           524       31     6 %     (6 )     37   7 %
    Non-GAAP operating income $ 682     $ 593     $ 3   $ 596     $ 86     14 %   $ (15 )   $ 101   17 %
    Non-GAAP operating margin   55%      53%          53%                   
                                     
                                     
    (1) Includes revenue for AxiomSL on-premises contracts to reflect adjustment for ratable recognition for the first quarter of 2024.
    (2) Reflects the impacts from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and excludes the impact of a one-time revenue benefit related to a legal settlement to recoup lost revenue recorded within Index in the first quarter of 2024.
    (3) Represents Capital Access Platforms and Financial Technology Segments.
    Note: The current period percentages are calculated based on exact dollars, and therefore may not recalculate exactly using rounded numbers as presented in US$ millions.
                                     
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Organic Impacts for Revenues less transaction-based expenses, Non-GAAP Operating Expenses,
    Non-GAAP Operating Income, and Non-GAAP Diluted Earnings Per Share
    (in millions, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
                                   
                                   
      Three Months Ended   Total Variance   Other Impacts (1)   Organic Impact (2)
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024   $   %   $   %   $   %
    CAPITAL ACCESS PLATFORMS                              
    Data and Listing Services revenues $ 192     $ 186     $ 6     3 %   $ (1 )   (1 )%   $ 7     4 %
    Index revenues   193       168       25     14 %         %     25     14 %
    Workflow and Insights revenues   130       125       5     4 %         %     5     4 %
    Total Capital Access Platforms revenues   515       479       36     7 %     (1 )   %     37     8 %
                                   
    FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY                              
    Financial Crime Management Technology revenues   77       64       13     21 %         %     13     21 %
    Regulatory Technology revenues   101       90       11     12 %     2     2 %     9     10 %
    Capital Markets Technology revenues   254       238       16     7 %     (1 )   %     17     7 %
    Total Financial Technology revenues   432       392       40     10 %     1     %     39     10 %
                                   
    Solutions revenues (3)   947       871       76     9 %         %     76     9 %
                                   
    Market Services, net revenues   281       237       44     19 %     (2 )   (1 )%     46     19 %
                                   
    Other revenues   9       9           (6 )%         (2 )%         (4 )%
                                   
    Revenues less transaction-based expenses $ 1,237     $ 1,117     $ 120     11 %   $ (2 )   %   $ 122     11 %
                                   
    Non-GAAP Operating Expenses $ 555     $ 524     $ 31     6 %   $ (6 )   (1 )%   $ 37     7 %
                                   
    Non-GAAP Operating Income $ 682     $ 593     $ 89     15 %   $ 4     1 %   $ 85     14 %
                                   
    Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share $ 0.79     $ 0.63     $ 0.16     24 %   $     %   $ 0.16     24 %
                                   
                                   
    Note: The current period percentages are calculated based on exact dollars, and therefore may not recalculate exactly using rounded numbers as presented in US$ millions. The sum of the percentage changes may not tie to the percentage change in total variance due to rounding.
    (1) Primarily includes the impacts of changes in FX rates and $3 million of revenue for AxiomSL to reflect adjustment for on-premises contracts ratable recognition for 2024 within Regulatory Technology revenues.
    (2) Organic changes (i) reflect adjustments for the impact of period-over-period changes in foreign currency exchange rates and (ii) includes revenue for AxiomSL on-premises contracts to reflect adjustment for ratable recognition for the first quarter of 2024.
    (3) Represents Capital Access Platforms and Financial Technology Segments.
                                   
    Nasdaq, Inc.
    Key Drivers Detail
    (unaudited)
             
        Three Months Ended
        March 31,   March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Capital Access Platforms      
      Annualized recurring revenues (in millions) (1) $ 1,281     $ 1,220  
      Initial public offerings      
      The Nasdaq Stock Market (2)   63       27  
      Exchanges that comprise Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic   4       1  
      Total new listings      
      The Nasdaq Stock Market (2)   170       79  
      Exchanges that comprise Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic (3)   9       2  
      Number of listed companies      
      The Nasdaq Stock Market (4)   4,139       4,020  
      Exchanges that comprise Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic (5)   1,160       1,203  
      Index      
      Number of licensed exchange traded products (6)   418       362  
      Period end ETP assets under management (AUM) tracking Nasdaq indexes (in billions) $ 622     $ 519  
      Total average ETP AUM tracking Nasdaq indexes (in billions) $ 662     $ 492  
      TTM (7) net inflows ETP AUM tracking Nasdaq indexes (in billions) $ 86     $ 46  
      TTM (7) net appreciation ETP AUM tracking Nasdaq indexes (in billions) $ 17     $ 124  
             
    Financial Technology      
      Annualized recurring revenues (in millions) (1)      
      Financial Crime Management Technology $ 295     $ 243  
      Regulatory Technology   362       328  
      Capital Markets Technology   893       821  
      Total Financial Technology $ 1,550     $ 1,392  
             
    Market Services      
      Equity Derivative Trading and Clearing      
      U.S. equity options      
      Total industry average daily volume (in millions)   53.6       43.3  
      Nasdaq PHLX matched market share   9.1 %     10.3 %
      The Nasdaq Options Market matched market share   5.1 %     5.4 %
      Nasdaq BX Options matched market share   1.7 %     2.2 %
      Nasdaq ISE Options matched market share   6.8 %     6.3 %
      Nasdaq GEMX Options matched market share   3.6 %     2.5 %
      Nasdaq MRX Options matched market share   2.8 %     2.5 %
      Total matched market share executed on Nasdaq’s exchanges   29.1 %     29.2 %
      Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic options and futures      
      Total average daily volume of options and futures contracts   256,009       241,665  
             
      Cash Equity Trading      
      Total U.S.-listed securities      
      Total industry average daily share volume (in billions)   15.7       11.8  
      Matched share volume (in billions)   137.6       116.7  
      The Nasdaq Stock Market matched market share   14.2 %     15.7 %
      Nasdaq BX matched market share   0.3 %     0.4 %
      Nasdaq PSX matched market share   0.1 %     0.2 %
      Total matched market share executed on Nasdaq’s exchanges   14.6 %     16.3 %
      Market share reported to the FINRA/Nasdaq Trade Reporting Facility   48.1 %     41.4 %
      Total market share (8)   62.7 %     57.7 %
      Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic securities      
      Average daily number of equity trades executed on Nasdaq’s exchanges   789,103       666,408  
      Total average daily value of shares traded (in billions) $ 5.4     $ 4.7  
      Total market share executed on Nasdaq’s exchanges   69.9 %     71.7 %
             
      Fixed Income and Commodities Trading and Clearing      
      Fixed Income      
      Total average daily volume of Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic fixed income contracts   83,864       92,070  
             
      (1) Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) for a given period is the current annualized value derived from subscription contracts with a defined contract value. This excludes contracts that are not recurring, are one-time in nature, or where the contract value fluctuates based on defined metrics. ARR is currently one of our key performance metrics to assess the health and trajectory of our recurring business. ARR does not have any standardized definition and is therefore unlikely to be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. ARR should be viewed independently of revenue and deferred revenue and is not intended to be combined with or to replace either of those items. For AxiomSL and Calypso recurring revenue contracts, the amount included in ARR is consistent with the amount that we invoice the customer during the current period. Additionally, for AxiomSL and Calypso recurring revenue contracts that include annual values that increase over time, we include in ARR only the annualized value of components of the contract that are considered active as of the date of the ARR calculation. We do not include the future committed increases in the contract value as of the date of the ARR calculation. ARR is not a forecast and the active contracts at the end of a reporting period used in calculating ARR may or may not be extended or renewed by our customers.
      (2) New listings include IPOs, issuers that switched from other listing venues, closed-end funds and separately listed ETPs. For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, IPOs included 18 and 5 SPACs, respectively.
      (3) New listings include IPOs and represent companies listed on the Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic exchanges and companies on the alternative markets of Nasdaq First North.
      (4) Number of total listings on The Nasdaq Stock Market for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 included 833 and 619 ETPs, respectively.
      (5) Represents companies listed on the Nasdaq Nordic and Nasdaq Baltic exchanges and companies on the alternative markets of Nasdaq First North.
      (6) The number of listed ETPs as of March 31, 2024 has been updated to reflect a revised methodology whereby an ETP listed on multiple exchanges is counted as one product, rather than formerly being counted per exchange. This change has no impact on reported AUM.
      (7) Trailing 12-months.
      (8) Includes transactions executed on The Nasdaq Stock Market’s, Nasdaq BX’s and Nasdaq PSX’s systems plus trades reported through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority/Nasdaq Trade Reporting Facility.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 4.23.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 23, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Annabelle Hopkins, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Government Affairs at the California Public Advocates Office. Hopkins has been Government Relations Manager at RWE Offshore Wind since 2024. She was Legislative Director at the Office of Assemblymember Jim Wood in the California State Assembly from 2022 to 2023. Hopkins held multiple positions in the Office of Senator Dave Min in the California State Senate from 2021 to 2022, including Legislative Director and Legislative Aide. She was a Senate Fellow in the Office of Senator Mike McGuire in the California State Senate from 2019 to 2020. Hopkins was the Finance Director/Policy Advisor for Audrey Denney for Congress from 2018 to 2019. She is a Board Member of FemDems and Young Professionals in Energy, Sacramento. Hopkins earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History from College of Wooster. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $153,000. Hopkins is a Democrat.

    Mandi Posner, of Gold River, has been appointed Deputy Director of the Center for Health Care Quality at the California Department of Public Health. Posner has been Chief of Field Operations for the South Division of the Center for Health Care Quality at the California Department of Public Health since 2021, where she has held multiple positions since 2016, including Branch Chief of Field Operations for the South Division, Los Angeles County Contract Manager, Staff Services Manager for Fiscal Operations, and Associate Governmental Program Analyst. Posner is a Member and California Representative of the Association of Health Facility Survey Agencies. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Administration from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $183,840. Posner is a Democrat.

    Yang Lee, of Sacramento, has been appointed Chief of Data Analytics and Strategy at the California Department of Developmental Services. Lee has been Deputy Director and Chief Financial Officer at the California Department of Social Services since 2022, where he was previously Assistant Director from 2020 to 2022. He held multiple positions at the California Department of Finance from 2008 to 2020, including Principal Program Budget and Finance Budget Analyst. Lee was a Legislative Assistant in the Office of Assemblymember Loni Hancock in the California State Assembly from 2006 to 2008. Lee earned a Master of Public Policy Analysis degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ethnic Studies from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $198,660. Lee is a Democrat. 

    Heather Leslie, of Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Counsel at the California Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety. Leslie has been the Assistant General Counsel at the California Natural Resources Agency since 2021. She was a Deputy Attorney General at the California Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General from 2015 to 2021. Leslie earned a Juris Doctor degree from University of California, Los Angeles School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $198,000. Leslie is a Democrat.

    Cindy Gustafson, of Tahoe City, has been appointed to the State Board of Fire Services. Gustafson has been the District Five County Supervisor for the County of Placer since 2019. She was the Chief Executive Officer of the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association from 2017 to 2018. Gustafson held multiple positions at the Tahoe City Public Utility District from 1991 to 2017, including Director of Resource Development and Community Relations, Assistant General Manager, and General Manager. She was a Commissioner at the California Fish and Game Commission from 2005 to 2009. Gustafson is a Member of Tahoe Fund. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Gustavus Adolphus College. This position does not require Senate Confirmation and there is no compensation. Gustafson is registered without party preference.

    Hampus Idsater, of Thousand Oaks, has been appointed to the Boating and Waterways Commission. Idsater has been an Investment Manager at Suntex Marina Investors since 2022. He was a Finance and Business Development Director at Hamner, Jewell & Associates from 2020 to 2022. Idsater was a Vice President at Eight Roads from 2015 to 2020. He was an Investment Manager at Fosun International from 2013 to 2015. Idsater was an Analyst at Morgan Stanley from 2011 to 2013. He is a Member of the Marine Recreation Association and Toastmasters International. Idsater earned a Master of Arts degree in Economics from University of Oxford. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Idsater is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: California’s economy continues to dominate and grow at a faster rate than the world’s top economies, with new data showing it has overtaken Japan as the 4th largest economy in the world. SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom today announced…

    News What you need to know: California is investing $500 million to help add 1,000 clean school buses across the state, and demand for incentives supporting zero-emission buses and trucks has more than doubled year-over-year. SACRAMENTO – California’s transition to…

    News What you need to know: More than 4 million California children will automatically receive SUN Bucks food benefits via EBT card starting in June. Each eligible child will receive $120 in food benefits. Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom announced today…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SAPS to conduct crime prevention imbizo in Eldorado Park

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, April 24, 2025

    The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale, will on Friday spearhead a high-level crime prevention imbizo in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg.

    “The purpose of the community engagement is to create a platform for effective interaction between the police leadership and communities to address crime-related concerns and policing needs in the area.

    “This community engagement will also provide an opportunity to find lasting solutions to communities affected by gun and gang violence,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Joining the Deputy Minister will be top police officials, including the Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya; Deputy National Commissioner of Policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, and Gauteng’s Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni.

    SAPS said the imbizo is aimed at fostering direct dialogue between police leadership and the local community in a bid to tackle pressing crime concerns and improve public safety.

    The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community policing partnerships and ensure more responsive, targeted crime prevention strategies in hotspots across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Operation Vala Umgodi nets 369 suspects

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, April 24, 2025

    A total of 369 suspects have been arrested during the South African Police Service’s nationwide Operation Vala Umgodi, which targets illegal mining.

    The suspects, of different nationalities, were arrested for illegal mining-related offences and other crimes such as murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of explosives and possession of suspected stolen property. 

    During Operation Vala Umgodi in the Northern Cape, 21 unpolished diamonds were seized in Kleinsee on 15 April, leading to the arrest of four suspects. Within days, the team seized 39 more unpolished diamonds and arrested five suspects on the R355 enroute to Port Nolloth on 21 April.

    Other items seized during Operation Vala Umgodi in the past week include five unlicensed firearms; 34 rounds of ammunition, and 15 vehicles including sedans, bakkies, trucks and trailers.

    Highlights of Operation Vala Umgodi in the past week include:

    • Free State: The Operation Vala Umgodi team in the province arrested 14 undocumented persons around Allenridge Rock Dam, Meloding Calaria location and Rathaba Hostel. More than 400 kilograms of gold bearing material and illicit gold processing equipment were seized.
    • Gauteng: On 19 April, the team in the province carried out an intelligence driven operation at the N12 informal settlement, Crystal Park. The operation resulted in the arrest of 15 illegal miners, various illegal mining equipment were seized, including ‘phendukas’ (used to refine and extract gold from ore) and gas cylinders.
    • Limpopo: Ten suspects were apprehended on charges of illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act on 18 April. Two of these suspects were nabbed for illegal processing of precious minerals in the Giyani policing area.    
    • Mpumalanga: A total of 27 suspects were apprehended in Barberton on 20 April 2025. One suspect was found in possession of explosives and another one was found in possession of ammunition.
    • North West: 104 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested and a variety of illegal mining equipment were also seized. The suspects were nabbed between 10 and 16 April in the Bojanala sub-district 1 and 2 (Brits and Rustenburg areas).

    “While progress is being made, continued vigilance and action are necessary to completely disrupt illegal mining networks. Public cooperation is vital in this regard, and all South Africans are encouraged to report illegal mining activities,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa initiates consultation on appointment of Deputy Chief Justice

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, April 24, 2025

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has nominated four candidates for the position of Deputy Chief Justice and initiated consultation with the Judicial Service Committee and political parties in the National Assembly in this regard.

    The position became vacant when then Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, became Chief Justice following the retirement of Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

    “Section 174(3) of the Constitution provides that the President as Head of the National Executive, after consulting the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of parties represented in the National Assembly, appoints the Chief Justice and the Deputy Chief Justice.

    “President Ramaphosa has in a written submission to Chief Justice Maya, who chairs the Judicial Service Commission, inviting the Commission for its views on the suitability of four candidates who are being considered for appointment by the President,” the Presidency said in a statement.

    The four candidates under consideration are: 

    • Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Justice Dunstan Mlambo;
    • President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Mahube Molemela;
    • Judge President of the Free State High Court, Justice Cagney John Musi; and
    • Judge President of the Northern Cape High Court, Justice Lazarus Pule Tlaletsi.

    “President Ramaphosa underscored in his letter to the Chief Justice that the Deputy Chief Justice plays a crucial role in the leadership of the Judiciary and in upholding the principles of justice, constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

    “The President has advised Chief Justice Maya that, as directed by the Constitution, he has also initiated consultation on this appointment with the leaders of parties in the National Assembly,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Algeria: Authorities step up crackdown on peaceful dissent in the face of new expressions of discontent

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to a new online protest movement and in the lead up to the sixth anniversary of the Hirak movement in February 2025, Algerian authorities have intensified their relentless clampdown on peaceful dissent through arbitrary arrests and unjust prosecutions leading to lengthy prison sentences, said Amnesty International.

    Over the past five months, Algerian authorities have arrested and convicted at least 23 activists and journalists, particularly in relation to their support to the “Manich Radi” [I am not satisfied] online protest movement, launched in December 2024 to denounce restrictions on human rights and difficult socioeconomic conditions in the country. All have been detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights, with the majority currently serving prison sentences or awaiting trial.

    Nothing can justify detaining and jailing people solely for having expressed dissatisfaction about political and socioeconomic conditions.

    Heba Morayef, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

    “The trajectory of suffocating online activism pursued by the Algerian authorities is alarming and must be reversed. Nothing can justify detaining and jailing people solely for having expressed dissatisfaction about political and socioeconomic conditions. All those detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their right to freedom of expression must be immediately released,” said Heba Morayef, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

    Amnesty International investigated nine illustrative cases of activists and journalists targeted for their online expression. Seven of them were convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from 18 months to five years solely for their online expression and activism. Five defendants were tried in expedited proceedings that did not provide time for adequate defence, undermining their right to a fair trial. Authorities also detained an activist and a journalist for several days and subjected the latter to an abusive and arbitrary ban on travel and issuing publications.

    The latest spate of arbitrary arrests and unjust prosecutions demonstrates the Algerian authorities’ clear resolve to crush all expressions of discontent.

    Heba Morayef, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

    “The latest spate of arbitrary arrests and unjust prosecutions demonstrates the Algerian authorities’ clear resolve to crush all expressions of discontent online and punish people simply for exercising their human rights and denouncing injustice,” said Heba Morayef.

    Authorities must end their crackdown on peaceful dissent and stop punishing the legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of expression. Authorities should also promptly, thoroughly, independently, impartially, transparently and effectively investigate allegations of human rights violations and bring to justice anyone suspected to be responsible in fair trial. Authorities should also ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims.

    The organization’s findings are based on a review of relevant court rulings, legal documents, relevant social media content posted by the victims, media reports and interviews with 11 people who provided consent for publication.  

    On 11 March 2025, the Bejaia Court upheld the conviction of activists Soheib Debbaghi and Mahdi Bazizi in expedited trial proceedings, sentencing them to 18 months in prison and a fine of DZA 100,000 (EUR 693). The conviction relates to the launch of the “Manich Radi” movement by Soheib Debbaghi and Samy Bazizi – Mahdi Bazizi’s brother, who lives in Canada – in December 2024 to express their frustration with the political and socioeconomic situation in Algeria, including the repression of human rights. The hashtag was relayed by thousands of people and drew comments from Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboune, who stated on 24 December 2024: “Let no one think that Algeria can be preyed upon by a hashtag”.

    Soheib Debbaghi was convicted of “publishing content harmful to national interest”, “publishing content harmful to national order and security” and “inciting an unarmed gathering” based on social media posts relaying the “#Manich_Radi” hashtag. Mahdi Bazizi was convicted of “hiding a person to obstruct the course of justice” in reference to Soheib Debbaghi’s attempt to avoid arrest.

    On 20 January 2025, only four days after his arrest, the tribunal of Rouiba in Algiers sentenced renowned activist and poet Mohamed Tadjadit to five years in prison and a DZD 500,000 (EUR 3,465) fine following expedited proceedings. His conviction was solely based on social media content and digital communications, including posts relaying the “#Manich_Radi” hashtag and poetry with political messages. The court found him guilty of “undermining national unity”, “publishing content harmful to national interest”, “inciting to an unarmed gathering” and “offending public bodies”.

    On 4 March, the tribunal of Tizi Ouzou, northeastern Algeria, also convicted activist Belaid Charfi of “publishing content harmful to national interest” and sentenced him to four years in prison and a DZD 100,000 (EUR 693) fine and DZD 10,000 (EUR 69) in civil damages. The conviction followed expedited trial proceedings and was solely based on social media posts including sharing the “Manich_Radi” hashtag and other political messages denouncing the detention of other activists and the deteriorating socioeconomic conditions.

    Authorities also arrested activist and unionist Fadhila Hammas on 21 February 2025 in the northeastern town of Azazga. Police questioned her about her opinions and Facebook posts on political and human rights issues. Four days later, a public prosecutor ordered her release pending her trial on 11 May for “publishing false information susceptible to harm public order and security.” If convicted, she faces up to three years in prison.

    On 16 February 2025, the Court of Ouargla, eastern Algeria, upheld the conviction of activist “Abla” Derama Kemari and sentenced her to three years in prison – including one year suspended – and a fine of DZD 300,000 (EUR 2,079). Authorities convicted her on charges of “offense to the president” and “creating an online account to incite hatred and discrimination” for Facebook posts denouncing socioeconomic issues in the Algerian Saharan regions and the repression of activists.

    On 14 January 2025, the Court of Tizi Ouzou also upheld a verdict against activist Massinissa Lakhal in connection with his online activities. The court sentenced him to three years in prison and DZD 5,000,000 (EUR 34,645) in fines as well as DZD 200,000 (EUR 1,386) in civil damages based on his activity on Facebook, including following accounts and sharing publications allegedly supporting the Movement for Self-Determination of the Kabylie (MAK) — which the authorities designated as “terrorist” in a process not conforming with international human rights standards. His conviction was also based on his ties with other MAK activists, including his father, Ammar Lakhal, a former MAK representative in Canada.

    Among the journalists targeted by the authorities is Abdelwaheb Moualek who was convicted by the tribunal of Sidi Aich in Bejaia on 25 February following expedited proceedings, without a lawyer. He was found guilty of “publishing content harmful to national interest” and sentenced to 18 months in prison and a fine of DZA 100,000 (EUR 693) for a Facebook publication commenting on repression. He remains free pending appeal.

    On 2 January 2025 an investigative judge at the tribunal of Annaba, eastern Algeria, questioned journalist Mustapha Bendjama about his Facebook publications and placed him under judicial supervision for publishing content “harmful to national interest” and “false information susceptible to harm public order and security”. The judge imposed a formal travel ban on him for travel out of Algeria and out of the region of Annaba and banned him from issuing publications that could “undermine national interest”.

    Background

    Since the “Hirak” protest movement began in February 2019, the Algerian authorities have weaponized the criminal justice system to clamp down on peaceful dissent, arbitrarily arresting and prosecuting hundreds of activists, human rights defenders, protesters, and journalists for exercising their rights to peaceful assembly, association and expression, notably on social media, leading to a steady erosion of human rights in the country.

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent websites related to Alipay Financial Services (HK) Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fraudulent websites related to Alipay Financial Services (HK) Limited 
    The fraudulent websites reported by the SVF licensee known at the time are as follows:
    https://alipaiyhk[.]online/hk
    https://fet-woxx[.]online/hk
     
    The HKMA wishes to remind the public that anyone who has provided his or her personal information or account credentials, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites concerned, should contact the relevant SVF licensee, and report to the Police or contact the Anti-Deception Coordination Centre of the Police at 18222.
    Issued at HKT 12:43

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Tsim Sha Tsui (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (April 24) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Tsim Sha Tsui.

    Cheng Wah-sang, aged 73, went missing after he was last seen in a shopping mall on Granville Road yesterday (April 23) afternoon. His friend then made a report to Police.

    He is about 1.7 metres tall, 60 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a long face with yellow complexion and short white hair. He was last seen wearing a green long-sleeved polo shirt, blue trousers and dark shoes.

    Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1174 or 9628 4078 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rachel Timm Wins 2025 UConn Law Teaching Award

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The UConn Law Class of 2025 has selected Professor Rachel Timm to receive the Perry Zirkel ’76 Distinguished Teaching Award.

    “I am truly honored to receive this award,” Timm said. “I am grateful to be in a profession that allows me to help students grow—not just academically, but also personally and professionally, in ways that align with their true identities. Every year, I learn so much from my students.”

    Timm, who joined UConn Law in 2019, teaches legal practice courses, including Interviewing, Counseling and Negotiation, and Research and Writing.

    Timm’s nomination praises her for unparalleled dedication to her students as well as for being genuine and encouraging, calling her an example of outstanding commitment to the practice of teaching.

    “She takes the time to get to know each student personally and creates a learning environment in which students feel confident and empowered,” the nomination reads. “Professor Timm gives students lessons on how to better serve clients through lessons in cross-cultural lawyering, encourages students to rethink the utility of norms within the legal profession, and gives students resources to maintain mental wellness.”

    It goes on to say that because of Timm, students are better prepared to serve clients, themselves, and their communities.

    “I’m delighted to see the graduating class award this well-deserved honor to Professor Timm, which is a wonderful recognition of her impact on our law school community,” Dean Eboni S. Nelson said. “She is an excellent educator who is committed to her students’ success and development. We greatly appreciate her many contributions to UConn Law and beyond.”

    The teaching award was established in 2016 through the generosity of Perry Zirkel, who graduated from UConn School of Law in 1976. He became a professor of education and law at Lehigh University and served as dean of the university’s College of Education. The UConn Neag School of Education also honors a faculty member each year with the Dr. Perry A. Zirkel Distinguished Teaching Award. The Neag School will announce its 2025 award recipient in May.

    Alumni and current students are invited to nominate faculty members for the award and a committee of four graduating students chose five finalists. The entire graduating class is invited to vote to choose the winner, who is presented with the award at commencement.

    Past winners are Professors Bethany Berger in 2024, Leslie Levin in 2023, Mary Beattie in 2022, Julia Simon-Kerr in 2021, Jessica Rubin in 2020, Alexandra Lahav in 2019, Paul Chill in 2018, Richard Pomp in 2017, and Jeremy McClane in 2016.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Radware Announces Extraordinary General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR), a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments, today announced that an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (the ”Extraordinary General Meeting” or the “Meeting”) will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. (EST), at the offices of Radware Inc., 575 Corporate Drive, Mahwah, N.J. 07430, U.S.A. The record date for the Meeting is April 25, 2025.

    The agenda of the Meeting is: (1) to approve grants of equity-based awards to, and modifications in the structure of the annual bonus of, the president and chief executive officer of the Company; and (2) transact such other business as may properly come before the Meeting or any postponement or adjournment thereof.

    Proposal 1, the proposal voted upon, requires the approval of a simple majority of the shares voted on the matter at the Meeting, either in person or by proxy; provided that either (i) the shares voted in favor of the proposal include at least a majority of the shares voted at the Meeting, either in person or by proxy, by shareholders who are not “controlling shareholders” and do not have a “personal interest” (as such terms are defined in the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999 (the “Companies Law”)) in such proposal or (ii) the total number of shares voted against such proposal by the disinterested shareholders described in clause (i) does not exceed 2% of the aggregate voting rights in the Company. As of the date hereof, the Company has no controlling shareholder within the meaning of the Companies Law.

    In the absence of the requisite quorum of shareholders at the Extraordinary General Meeting, the Extraordinary General Meeting shall be adjourned to the same day in the next week, at the same time and place, unless otherwise determined at the Extraordinary General Meeting in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Extraordinary General Meeting, Radware will make available to its shareholders of record a proxy statement describing the proposal to be voted upon at the Extraordinary General Meeting, along with a proxy card enabling them to indicate their vote on the matter. The Company will also furnish copies of the proxy statement and proxy card to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Form 6-K, which may be obtained for free from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, the Company’s website at https://www.radware.com/ir/financial-info/ or by directing such request to the Company’s Investor Relations department at ir@radware.com.

    About Radware

    Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR) is a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments. The company’s cloud application, infrastructure, and API security solutions use AI-driven algorithms for precise, hands-free, real-time protection from the most sophisticated web, application, and DDoS attacks, API abuse, and bad bots. Enterprises and carriers worldwide rely on Radware’s solutions to address evolving cybersecurity challenges and protect their brands and business operations while reducing costs. For more information, please visit the Radware website.

    Radware encourages you to join our community and follow us on: Facebook, LinkedIn, Radware Blog, X, and YouTube.

    ©2025 Radware Ltd. All rights reserved. Any Radware products and solutions mentioned in this press release are protected by trademarks, patents, and pending patent applications of Radware in the U.S. and other countries. For more details, please see: https://www.radware.com/LegalNotice/. All other trademarks and names are property of their respective owners.

    Radware believes the information in this document is accurate in all material respects as of its publication date. However, the information is provided without any express, statutory, or implied warranties and is subject to change without notice.

    The contents of any website or hyperlinks mentioned in this press release are for informational purposes and the contents thereof are not part of this press release.

    Contacts
    Investor Relations:
    Yisca Erez, +972-72-3917211, ir@radware.com

    Media Contacts:
    Gerri Dyrek, gerri.dyrek@radware.com

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements made herein that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about Radware’s plans, outlook, beliefs, or opinions, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates,” “plans,” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may,” and “could.” Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, could differ materially from Radware’s current forecasts and estimates. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: the impact of global economic conditions, including as a result of the state of war declared in Israel in October 2023 and instability in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, tensions between China and Taiwan, financial and credit market fluctuations (including elevated interest rates), impacts from tariffs or other trade restrictions, inflation, and the potential for regional or global recessions; our dependence on independent distributors to sell our products; our ability to manage our anticipated growth effectively; our business may be affected by sanctions, export controls, and similar measures, targeting Russia and other countries and territories, as well as other responses to Russia’s military conflict in Ukraine, including indefinite suspension of operations in Russia and dealings with Russian entities by many multi-national businesses across a variety of industries; the ability of vendors to provide our hardware platforms and components for the manufacture of our products; our ability to attract, train, and retain highly qualified personnel; intense competition in the market for cybersecurity and application delivery solutions and in our industry in general, and changes in the competitive landscape; our ability to develop new solutions and enhance existing solutions; the impact to our reputation and business in the event of real or perceived shortcomings, defects, or vulnerabilities in our solutions, if our end-users experience security breaches, or if our information technology systems and data, or those of our service providers and other contractors, are compromised by cyber-attackers or other malicious actors or by a critical system failure; our use of AI technologies that present regulatory, litigation, and reputational risks; risks related to the fact that our products must interoperate with operating systems, software applications and hardware that are developed by others; outages, interruptions, or delays in hosting services; the risks associated with our global operations, such as difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations, compliance costs arising from host country laws or regulations, partial or total expropriation, export duties and quotas, local tax exposure, economic or political instability, including as a result of insurrection, war, natural disasters, and major environmental, climate, or public health concerns; our net losses in the past and the possibility that we may incur losses in the future; a slowdown in the growth of the cybersecurity and application delivery solutions market or in the development of the market for our cloud-based solutions; long sales cycles for our solutions; risks and uncertainties relating to acquisitions or other investments; risks associated with doing business in countries with a history of corruption or with foreign governments; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; risks associated with undetected defects or errors in our products; our ability to protect our proprietary technology; intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties; laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting our business; compliance with open source and third-party licenses; complications with the design or implementation of our new enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system; our reliance on information technology systems; our ESG disclosures and initiatives; and other factors and risks over which we may have little or no control. This list is intended to identify only certain of the principal factors that could cause actual results to differ. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting Radware, refer to Radware’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the other risk factors discussed from time to time by Radware in reports filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except as required by applicable law, Radware undertakes no commitment to revise or update any forward-looking statement in order to reflect events or circumstances after the date any such statement is made. Radware’s public filings are available from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or may be obtained on Radware’s website at www.radware.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry Chair announced

    Source: Scottish Government

    Lord Scott to lead review of 2005 murder investigation.

    Lord Scott KC will lead the independent Public Inquiry into the investigation of Emma Caldwell’s murder.

    Justice Secretary Angela Constance announced the appointment of Lord Scott, a Senator of the College of Justice, in an update to the Scottish Parliament.

    Emma, 27, was murdered in April 2005. In February last year her killer was convicted and given a life sentence for Emma’s murder and violent offences against other women.

    The Justice Secretary said:

    “In March last year, I announced that there would be a Public Inquiry into the investigation of Emma’s murder in 2005 to provide answers to the victims and survivors involved and ensure that lessons are learned for the future. The other victims, as well as Emma’s mother Margaret and the rest of the family, deserve nothing less after the unbearable loss, pain and grief they have suffered.

    “Lord Scott has a strong track record on human rights and I am pleased that someone of his experience, expertise and legal standing will lead this inquiry. Importantly, Emma’s family support his appointment.

    “I will now consult Lord Scott on the terms of reference and seek the views of Emma’s family and others on the inquiry’s remit. I will update Parliament on the terms of reference and the timescale for the inquiry’s formal setting-up date in due course.”

    Lord Scott said:

    “I am aware of the significant public interest in this inquiry and the importance it holds for Emma Caldwell’s family. I will discharge my duties as chair independently, thoroughly and to the best of my ability.

    “I come to this role with three years of experience as a judge of the Court of Session and High Court of Justiciary. This followed over 20 years in the voluntary sector, primarily in the area of human rights, as well as over 30 years in private practice as a criminal defence lawyer and work in several reviews which scrutinised the use of various powers by the Police Service of Scotland.

    “I look forward to discussing the terms of reference with the Cabinet Secretary and to establishing and working with an inquiry team to start our work as soon as possible.”

    Background

    Lord Scott, a graduate of the University of Glasgow, qualified as a solicitor in 1987. He was appointed a Queen’s Counsel in 2011 and a judge in 2022.

    He chaired the Scottish Human Rights Centre from 1997 to 2005; convened the Howard League for Penal Reform in Scotland from 2006 until 2018; and chaired Justice Scotland in 2014.

    In 2015, Lord Scott chaired an Independent Advisory Group on police ‘Stop and Search’ powers and he chaired independent reviews into biometrics in policing in Scotland and the impact on communities of policing of the miners’ strike in 1984-85.

    Lord Scott chaired the Scottish Mental Health Law Review from May 2019 and submitted the Review’s final report to Scottish Ministers in September 2022.

    In 2020, he chaired a group providing independent scrutiny on Police Scotland’s use of emergency powers under Coronavirus legislation.

    Read the Justice Secretary’s statement to Parliament on 7 March 2024 announcing plans for a statutory Public Inquiry

    Government Initiated Question confirming that Lord Scott has agreed to chair the independent Public Inquiry into the investigation of Emma Caldwell’s murder.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government action to improve safety in young offender institutions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Government action to improve safety in young offender institutions

    Frontline officers and young people in custody will be better protected under plans to equip specially selected and trained staff with synthetic pepper spray, the Government has announced today (24 April).

    • Specially selected, trained staff to be equipped with synthetic pepper spray 

    • Response to rising violence in young offender institutions  

    • Rate of assaults on staff 14 times higher than in adult prisons

    Amid rising levels of violence, the decision will help keep both staff and young people safe and reduce the severity of incidents in young offender institutions. 

    Over the last few years, more and more frontline officers have been forced to put themselves in danger to protect young people in custody from attack and fend off homemade weapons.  

    PAVA, a synthetic pepper spray which temporarily incapacitates those it is sprayed upon, will now be available to specialist staff in young offender institutions to help de-escalate and diffuse violent situations.   

    Today’s announcement comes as new figures show the rate of assaults in public youth offender institutions is around 14 times higher than in adult prisons.  

    By giving staff the tools they need to keep young people in custody safe, they will be able to focus on rehabilitation and help them turn their lives around. Reducing reoffending is fundamental to the government’s pledge to keep our streets safe, part of its Plan for Change. 

    Minister for Youth Justice Sir Nic Dakin said:     

    This government inherited a criminal justice system in crisis. The unacceptable levels of violence faced by our brave frontline officers in young offender institutions is yet another symptom of that.   

    This is not a decision we have made lightly, but our overarching duty is to keep staff and young people in custody safe. This spray is a vital tool to prevent serious violence, helping staff to focus on rehabilitation as part of our Plan for Change.

    The number of young people in custody has fallen significantly in recent years. Those now held in young offender institutions are mostly older teenage boys, aged 16 to 18 years of age, and over two-thirds of all young people are there for violent offences such as murder, attempted murder and grievous bodily harm.  

    Recent incidents have seen young people in custody sustain serious injuries while staff have experienced fractures, dislocations, puncture wounds and lacerations.  

    The PAVA rollout will allow staff to respond to these incidents more effectively and restore order more quickly.   

    It will only be deployed in limited circumstances by specially trained individuals where there is serious violence or an imminent risk of it taking place. It has previously been used in young offender institutions when National Tactical Response Groups have been called to deal with serious incidents, but this change will mean it can be used more quickly to diffuse situations. It is already used by police in the community and by prison officers in the adult estate to reduce the risk of serious harm to staff and prisoners alike.   

    To keep both staff and young people safe, use in the youth estate will have strict controls, with each use of PAVA being reviewed by an independent panel and reported to ministers for further scrutiny. Ministers will also review its operation and impact after 12 months including to address any disproportionate use.  

    Today’s announcement follows extensive research and evidence gathering with specialists including subject matter experts and NHS England.   

    The Government has also recently taken action to end the practice of placing girls in young offender institutions following recommendations from Susannah Hancock’s independent review into the placement and care of girls in youth custody.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Career Insight: Joe, Trainee Solicitor, HM Revenue & Customs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Career Insight: Joe, Trainee Solicitor, HM Revenue & Customs

    Joe provides an insight into his training within HMRC Legal Group

    I am a fourth seat trainee in HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) Legal Group’s European and International Law advisory team. The team advises on, drafts and helps negotiate a range of international agreements, including Free-Trade Agreements and Double Taxation Treaties.

    I studied Philosophy and Politics as my undergraduate degree, focussing my studies on human rights and the regulation of transnational enterprises. I suspected that a career in law was the best opportunity apply these interests in practice; however, as a non-law graduate I was reluctant to immediately volunteer for the expense and stress of two more years of study in the form of the GDL and LPC. So, after graduating, I moved abroad to pursue a career playing and coaching rugby; the COVID-19 pandemic put paid to that ambition but provided me the opportunity to start an online law conversion.

     I applied for the role at HMRC as I thought that first-hand experience of the legislative process and regular precedent setting litigation would provide a great opportunity to develop my career as a solicitor; but also because the tax arena seemed to offer a lot of variety, encompassing my interests in both public law and commercial questions.

    All trainees start in litigation for their first year, though pupils spend 6 months of this seconded to Chambers. My first seat was in VAT litigation so after three years of intensive study, I arrived at HMRC braced for mountains of paperwork and long days of dense tax calculations. Instead, waiting on my desk were various packets of lentil-based snacks and the deceptively knotty legal question; are these crisps, or at least similar to crisps? I spent the seat thinking about other such questions, like what distinguishes cosmetic surgery from medical care. During this seat I visited the Supreme Court assisting a senior lawyer and saw my own case feature in national newspapers.

    For my second seat I applied for HMRC’s Enforcement and Illicit Finance litigation Team. The question for this team was less frequently whether someone owes tax, but how HMRC can actually collect it from them. My tasks ranged from advocating on HMRC’s behalf in the magistrates Court to instructing counsel at fast pace on High Court Proceedings, attending the Court of Appeal and working with international law enforcement to seize overseas assets.

     As a trainee you will get give your own cases to run as part of a cross-HMRC case team with tax and policy experts, so you can stretch yourself in an environment surrounded by expert lawyers and tax professionals, who are all very generous with their time. Your role is to co-ordinate this team and ask the right questions to tease the legal arguments out of your clients. In this respect the skills I developed playing teams sports were as important as my legal knowledge.  

    In your second year you move into an advisory team. In my first six months I worked on a mix of human rights and technical tax advice as part of the Personal Tax and Welfare team. I drafted my statutory instrument, which was a particular highlight, and fed into a major budget measure. It can feel like a drastic transition from the more adversarial world of litigation, but the training is extensive with HMRC running internal induction courses alongside the wider GLP offering.

    The advisory lawyers cover a wide variety of tasks, with my final seat feeling like an entirely new role.  I didn’t study EU or International Law as part of my law conversion, but having the lawyers who drafted the treaties sat next to you in the office is always a good starting point!

    Whilst the HMRC training contract will be of particular interest for anyone who wants a career in public law, I think it is really important to understand the breadth of the department’s work. There is regular precedent setting litigation with engages questions of employment and commercial law, and advisory teams that span the breadth of civil and criminal practice.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Global: Threatening diversity, threatening growth: the business effects of Trump’s anti-DEI and anti-trans agendas

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Matteo Winkler, Professeur associé en droit et fiscalité, HEC Paris Business School

    Recent months have seen a dramatic shift in US policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These changes carry deep economic consequences. President Donald Trump’s executive orders aim to ban DEI initiatives in federal agencies and contractors, and private companies have felt pressure to weaken or drop their DEI programmes. Trump has framed what was once a corporate safeguard against discrimination as “illegal and immoral”, marking a stark reversal in legal and business norms. Federal judges have blocked some of Trump’s orders, or elements of them, and some legal processes are ongoing.

    Transgender rights have become a lightning rod in this shifting landscape. The barrage of federal directives seeks to challenge – or outright eliminate – protections in areas ranging from health care to education to the military. Beyond the immediate harm to trans individuals, these policies pose threats to multinational companies that have long defended inclusive workplace values. Their leaders must now navigate a cultural minefield where staying silent risks public backlash, while openly supporting trans employees can invite legal and political complications. The business repercussions of this moral issue could affect everything from brand reputation to talent retention.


    A weekly e-mail in English featuring expertise from scholars and researchers. It provides an introduction to the diversity of research coming out of the continent and considers some of the key issues facing European countries. Get the newsletter!

    The economic imperative of DEI initiatives

    There is a growing ensemble of research suggesting that DEI policies are not just nice-to-have but a corporate imperative. This year, the World Economic Forum reported that organizations that include DEI in their core business strategies improve performance, innovation and employee satisfaction. These findings are in line with other studies, which have consistently demonstrated that inclusive workplaces not only attract top talent but perform better financially and have higher returns on assets and net income.

    With regard to people identifying as LGBTI+, a 2024 report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development highlighted that inclusive policies enable LGBTI+ individuals to achieve their full employment and productivity potential, benefiting both their well-being and society at large. Moreover, according to Open for Business, a think tank whose mission is making a case for LGBTQ+ inclusion in private and public settings, companies with “larger LGBTQ+ workforce benefit from diverse perspectives but also foster environments where innovation and productivity thrive”. It has also been found that human rights violations against LGBTI+ people diminish economic output at the micro level, suggesting that inclusive societies are more likely to experience robust economic growth.




    À lire aussi :
    Business schools are facing challenges to their diversity commitments. They must reinforce them to train leaders effectively


    Research has also shown that trans-inclusive business practices have long been associated with innovation, employee satisfaction and market competitiveness. Companies that provide gender-neutral bathroom access, introduce the inclusive use of pronouns and support employees’ gender transitions have been proven to foster relational authenticity in the workplace.

    Discrimination and exclusion, by contrast, not only harm individuals but also impede economic growth by limiting the available talent pool and reducing overall productivity. In September 2024, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) reported that “laws and policies designed to restrict or prevent access or supports for transgender and nonbinary people” endanger LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, leading to increased fear, lack of safety and a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ violence. More generally, these laws and policies can also deter businesses from investing in regions perceived as discriminatory. Also in September, the Movement Advancement Project identified that the lack of legal protection against discrimination contributes to economic instability for LGBTQ+ families, which can lead to wage gaps, job insecurity and reduced access to benefits, ultimately contributing to reduced consumer spending and lower economic participation.

    Language targeting trans rights and visibility

    Despite the benefits of DEI initiatives, the current US administration has sought to enact several policies aimed at dismantling them, resulting in organizations, both public and private, to suspend funding for DEI and outreach programmes. In Trump’s executive orders, anything – policy, programme or initiative – related to or benefitting trans people in access to healthcare, academic research, scientific inquiry, school policies, personal safety, participation in sports, and military service is now rejected as “gender ideology extremism”.

    Targeting sports, education and the military is functional to an ideological battle aimed at erasing spaces where trans people are most vulnerable. These spaces are also formative arenas in shaping national identity and the public perception of DEI initiatives. When they become politicized, they can also affect how businesses frame their values, manage risks and engage with their different stakeholders.




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    The anti-trans executive orders begin by redefining the term “sex” for interpretations of federal law. According to the text of “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to Federal Government”, a person is either male or female, which is determined by their reproductive cells at conception – a definition in which biology takes precedence over individual rights and legal protections. “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” weaponizes this “biological truth” by threatening to cut off federal funds to schools that allow trans athletes to participate in them. “Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness” equates being transgender with medical or physical incapacity despite no evidence suggesting that trans service members negatively impact military readiness. “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling” seeks to prevent schools from teaching about gender identity, which would strip trans youth of critical support systems. And “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation” describes gender-affirming healthcare as “destructive”.

    The ripple effects of this anti-trans rhetoric extend into the private sector, compelling businesses to reevaluate their DEI strategies in fear of backlash or scrutiny. Even before the last US presidential election, companies such as Ford, Harley-Davidson and Lowe’s withdrew their participation in the Corporate Equality Index, a national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. In the wake of Trump’s anti-DEI and anti-trans orders, organizers of various Pride events in the US and Canada learned that some corporations, including longtime sponsors, had decided not to fund them. And according to the New York Times, some companies erased language and terms related to DEI from annual reports filed this year, including Dow Chemical, whose reference to LGBTQ+ employee resource groups disappeared from its public documents.

    Navigating between inclusive values and anti-DEI pressure

    Three patterns seem to be emerging on how companies are navigating the tension between values that are inclusive of LGBTI+ people and the growing pressure to scrub DEI commitments within the US context. For the moment, these patterns do not reflect formalized strategies but adaptive responses to an environment that has grown in complexity in a very short time. Some corporate actions reflect deliberate strategy aimed at protecting global consistency, while others appear more reactive, shaped by local market pressures.

    The first pattern involves establishing a sort of internal firewall between US and international operations. Banco Santander provides a clear example of this approach. Thus far, it has maintained global DEI commitments such as tying executive bonuses to increased gender equality in leadership. This group stated that such targets would not be applied to countries where governmental policies target DEI. In this pattern, DEI programmes are maintained abroad but are dismantled in the US to minimize political exposure in the latter.

    The second approach, observed at accounting firm Deloitte, is a cultural split between US operations and those overseas: while entities under the same global brand may still share data, practices, or strategic frameworks internally, they now adopt publicly distinct positions on DEI. Deloitte UK has remained vocal on its DEI commitments, highlighting the cultural and political fault lines that multinationals must now navigate.

    The third approach is a retraction of DEI altogether. Target offers a striking example. In 2023, under increased political and consumer pressure, the company rolled back some of its LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts by reducing the number of Pride-related items for sale. In 2025, four days after Trump’s inauguration, Target announced it would “end its three-year DEI goals”, cease reporting to the Corporate Equality Index and “end a program focused on carrying more products from Black- or minority-owned businesses”, as reported by CNBC. The moves resulted in considerable public criticism, and more notably, coincided with a marked drop in foot traffic – “nearly 5 million fewer visits” over a four-week period – revealing reputational and financial risks associated with the abandoning of DEI policies. By contrast, bulk retailer Costco, which said three days after the inauguration that its shareholders voted against a proposal seen as unfriendly to the company’s DEI programmes, “saw nearly 7.7 million more visits” during that same stretch.




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    In light of the evidence, it is clear that undermining DEI initiatives poses substantial risks – not just to human dignity, but to economic competitiveness. Businesses and policymakers must recognize that DEI is not merely a social or ethical imperative but a core strategy for growth and innovation. By fostering environments where all individuals can thrive, we unlock the full potential of our workforce and ensure sustainable economic growth.

    Conversely, discriminatory policies contribute to social instability, brain drain and economic stagnation. In the United States, the rollback of DEI initiatives and the marginalization of transgender individuals threaten to erode the nation’s ability to uphold human rights and maintain business competitiveness. History demonstrates that exclusionary policies ultimately harm societies rather than strengthen them. The question remains whether the US can afford to sacrifice social stability and economic growth in pursuit of ideological battles. The evidence suggests that it cannot.

    Matteo Winkler is a member of the Open for Business Academic Committee. He has received funding from the HEC Foundation.

    Marcelle Laliberté is a member of Women in Aerospace Europe and HEC We&Men, and a contributor to the UN`s High Advisory Board on Governing AI for Humanity.

    ref. Threatening diversity, threatening growth: the business effects of Trump’s anti-DEI and anti-trans agendas – https://theconversation.com/threatening-diversity-threatening-growth-the-business-effects-of-trumps-anti-dei-and-anti-trans-agendas-255040

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release – State Highway 2, Tangoio crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are now in the position to release the name of the man who died following a crash on State Highway 2, Tangoio on 16 April.

    He was Glen Stephen Harrison, 64.

    Police extend our condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating crash involving off-road motorcycle

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Road Policing Manager Inspector Angela Hallett

    Police are investigating a serious crash involving an off-road bike in Hastings this afternoon.

    About 2pm, a motorcycle crashed on Canning Road, between Hapia Street and Orchard Road. As the bike skidded along the ground it hit a nurse outside a café, causing her moderate injuries.

    One of the two juvenile on the bike received critical injuries, while the second received serious injuries. Police have established the rider was a 14-year-old, carrying a 17-year-old passenger.

    We are still piecing together the events, but initial indications suggest the bike was one of two travelling at speed along Canning Road and may have been attempting to undertake a turning vehicle when the crash happened.

    Both bikes are believed to have been the subject of complaints a short time earlier, though were not being pursued at the time of the crash.

    I want to commend the swift actions of medical staff who rushed to assist the injured parties, and the professionalism of Police staff. Officers at the scene were forced to form a barrier between the first responders and a number of people who arrived on scene and became abusive at the people who were trying to help.

    Police also arrested one man for breaching bail, after he drove a car onto the footpath at the crash scene.

    The investigation into the crash is in its early stages and no charges have yet been laid. We are speaking to a number of people and will be making follow up enquiries over the coming days.

    The road was closed for a time while a scene examination was carried out but has since reopened.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Syracuse Man Sentenced to Nearly 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking

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

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Diquan Hall, age 26, of Syracuse, was sentenced today to 110 months in federal prison for distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.

    As part of his guilty plea, Hall admitted that he repeatedly sold fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Syracuse area in January and February 2024.  Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also ordered Hall to serve a four-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.

    This case was investigated by ATF, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Syracuse Police Department Intelligence Division, and the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Commandeur and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI