Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
A J-10A fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command stands ready to take off during a flight training exercise in early January, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xiao Rui)
loading…
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
Soldiers assigned to the Songbai border defense company under the Chinese PLA Xinjiang Military Command patrol the snow-covered border on horseback at the northern foot of Tianshan Mountains on January 23, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Ma Wenqing)
loading…
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SINGAPORE, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BYDFi officially listed the BERA/USDT spot trading pair and launched BERA/USDT perpetual contracts with up to 75x leverage. Users can now participate in the 8,100 USDT reward campaign – for more details, please visit the BYDFi website or refer to the official announcements.
Berachain: The Innovative Blockchain Powering $BERA
As the native token of the Berachain blockchain, $BERA derives its value not only from market demand but also from the strong foundational support of the Berachain ecosystem. Berachain is an EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain built on the Cosmos SDK. It utilizes an innovative Proof-of-Liquidity (PoL) consensus mechanism, which differs from traditional Proof-of-Stake (PoS) systems. By linking validator rewards to application demand and liquidity contributions, PoL creates a dynamic incentive structure that prevents token devaluation and liquidity depletion. This groundbreaking economic model fosters mutual value creation between the blockchain and applications built on it, ensuring sustainable growth.
On April 20, 2023, Berachain successfully raised $42 million in a Series A funding round led by Polychain Capital. Furthermore, ahead of its mainnet launch, Berachain’s liquidity pre-deposit application, Boyco, attracted over $3 billion within one week, demonstrating strong market interest and adoption.
$BERA: The Key Asset of Berachain
$BERA, as the native token of Berachain, is primarily used to pay network transaction fees (gas) and can be staked to cover validator activation costs
Market Performance:
With the continuous expansion of the Berachain ecosystem, the demand for $BERA is expected to grow, driving its market value even higher.
How to Trade $BERA on BYDFi
One-Click Buy & Sell
Users can purchase BERA easily through BYDFi’s “Convert” feature, using credit/debit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or wallet balances.
Leverage Trading
About BYDFi
Founded in 2020, BYDFi is recognized by Forbes as a top 10 global crypto exchange, serving over 1,000,000 users. The platform holds MSB licenses in multiple regions and is a member of South Korea’s CODE VASP Alliance. Laying great stress on compliance and development, BYDFi has always guarded the legal rights of all its global users. To protect user assets, BYDFi stores all funds in offline multi-signature wallets with at least a 1:1 reserve ratio and publishes regular proof-of-reserves (PoR) reports for transparency. BYDFi offers 24/7 live customer support, providing efficient and professional assistance in every step of a trader’s journey. BUIDL Your Dream Finance.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Company announcement no. 3 / 2025
Schindellegi, Switzerland – 7 February 2025
Share-based Incentive Program 2025
Trifork Group AG (“Trifork”) has granted restricted share units (“RSUs”) under the existing employee long-term share-based incentive program (“ELTIP”) approved by the Board of Directors in 2021.
The first ELTIP 2025 (“ELTIP 2025a”) is covering the grant in January 2025 to certain employees of the Trifork Group.
The ELTIP 2025a is based on RSUs and employees participating in the ELTIP 2025a may, subject to certain terms and conditions, be allocated RSUs by converting salary supplements or bonuses. RSUs granted will be subject to graded vesting over a three-year period.
Further details about the ELTIP 2025a are stated below:
| Participants | Certain employees of the Trifork Group in selected jurisdictions. Total 51 employees. |
| Number of RSUs | Based on the number of employees participating in the ELTIP 2025a, a total of 33,549 RSUs will be allocated. The number of RSUs is calculated by converting the amount of salary supplements or bonuses and applying the weighted average share price for shares of the last three trading days of 2024. |
| Granting | RSUs comprised by the ELTIP 2025a are granted in January 2025. |
| Vesting | RSUs will vest over a three-year period with 1/3 of the RSUs vesting each year. Vesting is not conditional upon the achievement of any financial or non-financial targets but is conditional upon the participating employee remaining employed with the Trifork Group throughout the vesting period or becoming a good leaver during the vesting period as well as the participating employee having complied in all respects with the terms and conditions of the ELTIP 2025a. |
| Objective | Attraction and retention of employees in selected jurisdictions. |
| Conversion | Once vested and not lapsed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the ELTIP 2025a, each RSU will entitle the holder to receive one Trifork share. |
| Conditions | RSUs are granted based on the conversion of individual supplement salaries or bonus amounts for each participating employee.
The ELTIP 2025a is subject to customary conditions. |
| Allocation & theoretical value | The allocation is based on the weighted average share price of the last 3 trading days of 2024 (DKK 75.08). Dividing the converting salary by this amount results in the number of RSUs to be granted. The converting total amounts to DKK 2,518,858.92 (EUR 338,556) and 33,549 RSUs.
The theoretical value for the RSUs is the market price of the Trifork share at grant date minus the expected dividends for the portions vesting after one, two, and three years. |
For further information, please contact
Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director & Head of IR
frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17
About Trifork
Trifork is a pioneering global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative solutions. With 1,278 professionals across 76 business units in 15 countries, Trifork delivers expertise in inspiring, building, and running advanced software solutions across diverse sectors, including public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. Trifork Labs, the Group’s R&D hub, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic and high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is a publicly listed company on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.
Attachment
Source: ASEAN
The Virtual Ministerial Meeting of the ATIGA Upgrade Negotiations was conducted on 7 February 2025 to discuss and provide guidance on key outstanding issues for the ATIGA Upgrade Trade Negotiating Committee (ATIGA Upgrade TNC) to conclude the negotiation in 2025.
The Meeting reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the upgraded ATIGA would be a modern, comprehensive, forward-looking agreement, covering traditional and emerging elements relevant to business communities and more responsive to regional and global developments.
Image credit: ASEAN Secretariat
The post ASEAN Aims to Conclude the Negotiation of the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) Upgrade in 2025 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: International Chamber of Commerce
Headline: Re-election in sight for Chair of ICC World Chambers Federation
Mr Hisarcıklıoğlu’s three-year mandate will begin on 1 July 2025, following formal ratification by the ICC World Council in June. This will be Mr Hisarcıklıoğlu’s second and final mandate, following his initial election in 2023. As ICC WCF Chair, he will continue to strengthen the chamber community worldwide and increase the impact of the ICC World Chambers Federation, ICC’s unique forum connecting chambers across borders.
Responding to the election results, Mr Hisarcıklıoğlu said:
“I am honoured by the trust of my fellow chamber colleagues in re-electing me for a new term. We are committed to working even harder to strengthen and expand our unique global network of chambers, ensuring it becomes even more diverse and representative. We will also reaffirm the ICC World Chambers Federation as a trusted business partner to all chambers in our network, equipping them with ICC tools and resources to enhance their operations, drive growth, and create a better business environment.”
ICC Secretary General John W. H. Denton AO said:
“I congratulate Rifat on his re-election – a testament to the trust our chamber community places in him and a well-deserved recognition of his leadership.”
Mr Hisarcıklıoğlu is the President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB), the country’s largest business organisation, representing 366 chambers and commodity exchanges and over 2 million members. He also serves as Chair of ICC Türkiye.
With an extensive background in international business and chamber leadership, he currently holds key positions in several global organisations, including Vice-President of EUROCHAMBRES, Vice-President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce, Vice-President of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, Chair of B20 Türkiye, and member of the ICC Executive Board.
In addition to his institutional leadership, he is a prominent business figure in Türkiye and the surrounding region, serving as Chairman of Eskihisar Group, which operates in construction, real estate, the food industry and the automotive sector.
About the election process
In accordance with the ICC WCF Articles, Mr Hisarcıklıoğlu’s re-election is subject to formal ratification by the ICC World Council in June 2025 upon recommendation by the ICC Executive Board.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Electrical system failures during departure from London Heathrow Airport, 8 February 2024
This statement provides an update on the ongoing investigation into a serious incident involving a Boeing 747-433 aircraft which suffered electrical system failures during departure from London Heathrow Airport.
The aircraft departed in weather of rain, thick cloud, and icing conditions. Electrical failures resulted from water having leaked onto the aircraft’s avionic equipment – the effects of which included all pitot probe heaters becoming inoperative, and the cabin altitude increasing. The crew began descending the aircraft from FL250 and experienced unreliable flight instrument indications. They diverted the aircraft to Amsterdam Schipol Airport, which had clear weather.
The investigation is ongoing and a final report will be published in due course.
Published 7 February 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
FORM 8.3
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
| 1. | KEY INFORMATION | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (a) | Full name of discloser: | Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3. | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (b) | Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (c) | Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree |
Aviva PLC | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (d) | If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (e) | Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure |
06 February 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (f) | In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A” |
YES Direct Line Insurance Group PLC |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2. | POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (a) | Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security: | 32 17/19p ordinary (GB00BPQY8M80) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interests | Short Positions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number | % | Number | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) | Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: | 10,552,256 | 0.39 % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| (2) | Cash-settled derivatives: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (3) | Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | 10,552,256 * | 0.39 % | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 679,466 shares that are included in the total above. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions). |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (b) | Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3. | DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated. |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (a) | Purchases and sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security | Purchase/sale | Number of securities | Price per unit | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 32 17/19p ordinary (GB00BPQY8M80) | Sale | 2,003 | 5.1274 GBP | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| There was a Transfer In of 4,002 shares of 32 17/19p ordinary | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (b) | Cash-settled derivative transactions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security | Product description e.g. CFD | Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position | Number of reference securities | Price per unit | |||||||||||||||||||||
| (c) | Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (i) | Writing, selling, purchasing or varying | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security | Product description e.g. call option | Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. | Number of securities to which option relates | Exercise price per unit | Type e.g. American, European etc. | Expiry date | Option money paid/ received per unit | ||||||||||||||||||
| (ii) | Exercise | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security | Product description e.g. call option | Exercising/ exercised against | Number of securities | Exercise price per unit | |||||||||||||||||||||
| (d) | Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Class of relevant security | Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion | Details | Price per unit (if applicable) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4. | OTHER INFORMATION | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (a) | Indemnity and other dealing arrangements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none” |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
| None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (b) | Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none” |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
| None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (c) | Attachments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? | NO | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Date of disclosure | 07 February 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contact name | Thomas Hone | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Telephone number | +44 20 3033 3419 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE convenes inaugural 2025 Meeting of the Development Coordination Council Working Group on Macro, Private and Financial Sector Development and Regional Trade Facilitation
OSCE convenes inaugural 2025 Meeting of the Development Coordination Council Working Group on Macro, Private and Financial Sector Development and Regional Trade Facilitation | OSCE
Skip navigation
Navigation
Navigation
Home Newsroom News and press releases OSCE convenes inaugural 2025 Meeting of the Development Coordination Council Working Group on Macro, Private and Financial Sector Development and Regional Trade Facilitation
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
In response to the recent announcement by the US to impose an additional 10% duty on Hong Kong products, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has decided to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO).
In regard to the matter, the Hong Kong SAR Government noted that the US’ measures are grossly inconsistent with the relevant WTO rules and ignore Hong Kong’s status as a separate customs territory as stipulated in Article 116 of the Basic Law and recognised by the WTO.
The Hong Kong SAR Government added that it will formally launch procedures in accordance with the WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism against the US’ unreasonable measures to defend its legitimate rights.
In addition to reiterating that Hong Kong is a staunch supporter of the rule-based multilateral trading system, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it strongly opposes the US’ measures and urges it to take immediate actions to rectify its wrongdoing.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
| Press release | Danske Bank Bernstorffsgade 40 DK-1577 København V Tel. + 45 45 14 14 00 7 February 2025 |
Progress in customer activity as well as core banking activities continued,
and credit quality remained strong
Record-high net profit of DKK 23.6 billion, improving return on equity to 13.4%
Dividend of DKK 9.35 per share for the second half of 2024 as well as an extraordinary dividend of DKK 5.35 per share, in total DKK 14.7 per share
The Board of Directors has decided to initiate a new share buy-back programme of DKK 5 billion
Danske Bank has announced its financial results for 2024.
Carsten Egeriis, Chief Executive Officer, comments on the financial results:
“For Danske Bank, 2024 was a year in which we consistently delivered positive results from quarter to quarter, driven by increased customer activity, continually strong credit quality and a sustained, dedicated effort from the entire organisation. Consequently, we maintained our positive commercial momentum, resulting in a solid financial performance.
One year into the execution of our Forward ’28 strategy, we have made substantial progress within our technology transformation and customer engagement, and we can see that our investments in enhancing the customer experience have resulted in increasingly positive customer satisfaction scores.
Our continued focus on cost discipline and on maintaining strong credit quality resulted in two upward adjustments of our financial guidance in 2024. On the basis of our strong financial results and solid capital position, the total distribution in 2024 amounts to 100% of net profit, thus honouring the commitment we have made to our shareholders.
With our advanced customer offerings, deep expertise and solid financial position, Danske Bank is strongly positioned to create value for customers, shareholders and society. In a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, rapid technological shifts and increasing sustainability challenges, we will continue to focus on opportunities and solutions for households and businesses alike.”
The annual report is available at www.danskebank.com. Highlights are shown below:
2024 vs 2023
Total income of DKK 56.4 billion (up 8%)
Operating expenses of DKK 25.7 billion (up 1%)
Loan impairments of DKK -543 million (2023: DKK 262 million)
Net profit of DKK 23.6 billion (up 11%)
Return on shareholders’ equity of 13.4% (2023: 12.7%)
Strong capital position, with a CET1 capital ratio of 17.8% (2023: 18.8%). The ratio reflects strong capital generation and the full deduction of the announced 40% additional capital distribution.
Solid progress towards Forward ’28 ambitions and 2026 targets
2024 was the first full year of our Forward ’28 strategy, and we are well-positioned for future growth as we maintain our trajectory towards strengthening our position as a leading bank in the Nordic region and make significant investments in our customer offerings.
For personal and private banking customers, with Forward ’28, a sharpened focus in each of our markets has allowed us to further strengthen our relations with existing customers and attract new ones. For business and institutional customers, we want to be a leading bank in the markets in which we operate. Our approach focuses on meeting evolving market demands while fostering high long-term customer and employee satisfaction.
Significant progress with our technology transformation paved the way for a better customer experience and improved efficiency. In 2024, we made substantial progress in terms of using digitalisation, data, AI and technology to improve customer engagement while reducing costs and operational risks. We developed a new version of our District online banking platform that is tailored to small businesses and is expected to launch in Denmark in the first half of 2025. We also launched a new welcoming app that makes it both easier and faster to become a personal customer with us.
Across the bank, we have made GenAI a strategic priority, and our GenAI-powered solutions offer key opportunities to unlock productivity gains. During 2024, we launched DanskeGPT, which has been adopted by almost 16,000 users across the organisation, corresponding to 74% of all employees. We have also deployed GenAI-powered tools for our software developers, and these tools are driving solid productivity improvements.
In 2024, Danica developed its new commercial strategy, Forward ’28 – Danica, which aims to make Danica the preferred pension company in Denmark by 2028. The strategy, which took effect on 1 January 2025, focuses on the importance of making customer interactions with Danica easy and convenient through digital solutions and on offering comprehensive healthcare offerings, attractive returns and quality advice. These elements are expected to be key growth drivers over the next few years. The strategy aligns with the strategic direction set in Danske Bank’s Forward ’28 strategy, underscoring the significant potential in synchronising services between the bank and the pension business.
As the success of our strategy relies on solid execution, we have a significant focus on our employees, supported by investments in development activities, leadership and the workplace. Employee satisfaction and engagement scores continued to improve from already high levels and are now above the industry benchmark.
Sustainability is a key focus area in Forward ’28, and our ambition is to be a leading Nordic bank in terms of supporting the sustainability transition of customers, businesses and the Nordic societies that we are a part of. Our efforts are reinforced by new ESG advisory services, comprehensive staff training, recruitment of specialists and strategic partnerships, all aimed at supporting our customers’ sustainability transition. In line with European regulation, for the 2024 annual report, Danske Bank has prepared a sustainability statement in accordance with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).
Better-than-expected macroeconomic conditions
Macroeconomic conditions developed more favourably than expected in the markets in which we operate. Especially in Denmark, the inflation and growth outlook improved during the year, and this development is forecast to continue as central banks continue their easing trajectories, leading to lower rates for both households and businesses. Although the growth outlook has improved broadly speaking in the Nordic region, the uncertainty related to Europe’s long-term growth prospects and ability to innovate persists.
In times of uncertainty for both Danske Bank and our customers, our well-capitalised balance sheet has enabled us to be a strong financial partner for our customers, and we have continued to support them with risk management expertise and expert advice.
Strong financial performance
An improved commercial momentum in our business, supported by better-than-expected macroeconomic conditions and strong credit quality have enabled us to strengthen profitability and generate record-high net profit. The return on equity thus increased from 12.7% to 13.4%, highlighting our positive trajectory and progress towards our 2026 targets.
In 2024, total income grew 8%, driven by a sustained uplift in core banking income. Despite central bank rate cuts and lower deposit margins as well as overall muted credit demand, net interest income showed the expected strong development, with increasing net interest income throughout the year. Net fee income continued the positive traction throughout the year, reflecting our overall strong development and ability to do more business with existing customers and to attract new customers. We saw a higher level of fee income from cash management products, and customer activity generally remained high. Furthermore, we saw an increase in investment fees generated by strategic investments in our private banking offerings as well as a strong development in fees from asset management.
Net trading income remained stable, and net income from insurance business benefited from stable financial markets, with the health and accident business continuing to be challenged, however.
Operating expenses developed according to plan and were at the same level as in 2023. The minor year-on-year increase was caused mainly by higher investments in our technology transformation made under our Forward ’28 strategy and staff costs that were impacted by wage inflation. Costs related to financial crime prevention and legacy remediation decreased in line with our plan for a normalisation of costs, and together with prudent cost management, this led to an improvement in the cost/income ratio to 46% from 49%.
Loan impairment charges amounted to a net reversal of DKK 543 million, reflecting strong credit quality and modest impairments against single-name exposures coupled with a review of post-model adjustments. We continue to apply significant post-model adjustments as well as a scenario-based macroeconomic model to cater for potential tail risks that are not evident in our portfolio. Overall, the macroeconomic environment improved during 2024 and was characterised by lower inflation, lower interest rates and an enhanced growth momentum.
Overall, we ended the year with the same positive momentum that we saw in the first nine months of 2024. This resulted in record-high net profit of DKK 23.6 billion, up 11% from 2023.
“The first year of execution of our Forward ’28 strategy, 2024 was an important year for Danske Bank’s financial performance: With income growth driven by our growing core income as well as our continued efforts to support customers and drive the commercial momentum, net profit represents a record-high result,” says Stephan Engels, Chief Financial Officer.
We continue to create value to the benefit of our customers, our shareholders and society: Our tax expense amounted to DKK 7.6 billion, and given our strong capital position, and in line with the Forward ’28 strategy, the financial year 2024 enables us to make a significant payout to our shareholders.
Delivering on capital distribution
Given our strong balance sheet, and as planned in the Forward ’28 strategy, the financial year 2024 yields a significant payout to our shareholders. We paid a dividend of DKK 7.50 per share in connection with the interim report for the first half of 2024, and we propose a dividend of DKK 9.35 per share for the second half of 2024 as well as an extraordinary dividend of DKK 5.35 per share. Furthermore, on 6 December 2024, we announced a special dividend of DKK 6.50 per share following the successful transfer of the personal customer business in Norway. In total, our distribution for 2024 amounts to DKK 28.70 per share.
It remains crucial for us to create value for all our stakeholders, including our shareholders, customers, employees and the societies we are part of, and as a bank we need to attract capital from shareholders to lend and do business. Besides large institutional investors, our capital distribution benefits most major pension funds in Denmark as well as private individuals in Denmark, who have invested part of their savings in Danske Bank shares. In total, we have more than a quarter of a million investors, of which more than half are private individuals in Denmark.
Danske Bank’s dividend policy for 2025 remains unchanged, targeting a dividend payout of 40-60% of net profit in the form of annual dividend payments.
Share buy-back
The share buy-back programme launched in February 2024 of DKK 5.5 billion was completed in January 2025.
On the basis of the financial results for 2024, the Board of Directors has decided to initiate a new share buy-back programme of DKK 5 billion, taking the total payout ratio to 100% of net profits when including the dividend for 2024 but excluding the special dividend related to the transfer of the personal customer business in Norway. The programme, which has been approved by the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority, will start on 10 February 2025.
Outlook for 2025
We expect net profit for 2025 to be in the range of DKK 21-23 billion.
The outlook is subject to uncertainty and depends on economic conditions.
Danske Bank
Contact: Helga Heyn, Head of Media Relations, tel. +45 45 14 14 00
More information about Danske Bank’s financial results is available at www.danskebank.com/reports.
Attachments
Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent
Published: Friday, 7th February 2025
The closures follow months of investigation, including test purchasing a co-ordinated operation to target illegal cigarettes and vapes being sold in the city.
Three more shops in Stoke-on-Trent have been forced to close after a Trading Standards operation uncovered the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes.
The closures follow months of investigation, including test purchasing a co-ordinated operation to target illegal cigarettes and vapes being sold in the city.
The city council has now used its powers to issue three premises with a 48-hour closure notice.
Today (Thursday 6 February 2025), Newcastle Magistrates Court made a closure order for each of the premises extended these orders for three months.
The council will now work with the landlords of the affected premises to ensure that only legitimate businesses operate from these locations.
The shops subject to the closure orders are:
Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council advised: “This is another great result by our Trading Standards team. These operations protect residents, support legitimate businesses, and uphold the law.
“Businesses selling illegal goods will face serious consequences. I encourage any residents to report any suspicious activity related to illegal tobacco, vapes, or underage sales.
“We want Stoke-on-Trent to be a safe, thriving place and we won’t hesitate to take action against those who undermine the hard work of residents and legitimate businesses.”
The Trading Standards work forms part of the city council mission to be a cleaner, greener and safer city for all who live, work and visit Stoke-on-Trent.
Anyone who wants to report a similar issue to trading standards can call the Trading Standards Hotline 01782 238444 or visit stoke.gov.uk.
Source: Aisle of Wight
In September 2024 the Isle of Wight Council launched its blood pressure monitor loan scheme. High blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart, checking your blood pressure is a positive step you can take. Residents could visit one of the council libraries and borrow a blood pressure monitor for free.
The scheme has gone so well that the council is now also making this service available in East Cowes Library, in addition to six other libraries which are,
There have been nearly 80 loans to date, allowing people to help monitor their blood pressure in the comfort of their own home. Should individuals have any concerns they should consult/ access appropriate help and support from a medical professional.
Teams from within the libraries have given some great feedback on the scheme so far.
Staff at Ventnor Library said: “Our customers think the service is wonderful and they can’t believe that it’s free! When they need to monitor their blood pressure, they just go to the library and borrow one. No wait and no fuss.”
Ryde Library staff said “Customers are delighted by this new service available from the library. They’re really grateful to be able to borrow a blood pressure monitor for free. It’s so easy to use at their leisure in the comfort of their own homes.”
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health commented ‘’We’re really pleased with the response and use of the blood pressure monitor scheme so far. February is Heart Month, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this amazing offer.’’
Simon Bryant, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight added ‘’we are really pleased at how well the blood pressure monitor loan scheme has been received by residents on the Island. We know that high blood pressure is a major cause of heart disease but often has no symptoms. Around 1 in 4 people will have high blood pressure without knowing it. Knowing your blood pressure means being able to make the lifestyle changes and or get the help needed to bring blood pressure down to a healthy level.
The free to loan monitors are available to Island residents over the age of 18 years old who hold a valid library membership. If you are not a member of your local library it takes just a few minutes on arrival, just bring along a photo ID.
Residents can also visit their local pharmacy and enquire about a free blood pressure check.
Source: City of York
Council and police officers visited a business in Clifton last week, where nearly £5,000 of noncompliant vapes and illicit tobacco was found and seized.
The illegal items found and taken have an estimated retail value of £4,941.25:
These products will be investigated, and appropriate legal action taken. The officers had the help of a sniffer dog, a spaniel called Mostyn.
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member with portfolio for Trading Standards at City of York Council, said:
Tobacco kills hundreds of people in York every year, and the illicit market in tobacco and vapes makes harmful products cheaper and more easily available, especially to those below the legal age limit.
“Illicit vapes are becoming much more prevalent and are partly responsible for the rise in young people vaping – our public health advice is that while we support e-cigarettes as effective quit aids for adults to stop smoking, people who don’t smoke shouldn’t vape.
“This is why it is so important that you report concerns. Information from members of the public, investigation, and action by Council and police officers is essential to protect public health and enforce proper regulations.”
Sergeant Stuart Henderson of North Yorkshire Police, said:
This is the result of joint working with our Trading Standards colleagues at City of York Council. It is the second successful operation that we have conducted with Trading Standards in Clifton as part of our Clear, Hold Build initiative.
“The work shows we will work with all our law enforcement partners to disrupt and deter criminality and to make Clifton and the City of York no place for criminals.”
Check the packaging for the following tell-tale signs that a disposable vape may be illegal:
Anyone concerned about unregulated vapes or tobacco being sold can:
Find support to stop smoking online or email: cychealthtrainers@york.gov.uk for an appointment.
Source: City of York
Figures released today show that 2024 was the busiest year for York’s Park & Ride since 2017, with the total number of journeys exceeding 4.5 million, almost one million higher than in 2023.
December saw the most trips for a decade, recording nearly 500,000 journeys, a 3.5% increase on the previous highest monthly total set in December 2016.
City of York Council estimates that people boarding at the Park & Ride sites in December resulted in over 61,700 cars not travelling into central York – equivalent to a line of traffic that would be long enough to reach central London.
In December, First Bus sold 148,310 tickets at the Park & Ride sites alone (the remaining journeys being people who joined the bus along the route or were returning from the city centre). Industry standard definition of occupancy per car for a leisure trip is 2.4 people. This gives us a total of 61,700 cars that didn’t come into the city centre over Christmas. Google Maps shows that the road route from York Minster to Westminster Abbey is 210 miles. If we say a car takes up 6 metres of space on the road, 61,700 times 6 metres is 230 miles. Therefore, 61,700 cars would stretch all the way to central London.
York’s Enhanced Bus Partnership, which oversees £17.2 million of government funding for the Bus Service Improvement Plan, ran a marketing campaign to promote the Park & Ride as well as direct bus services for six weeks before Christmas. Working with Make It York and all bus operators, the social media posts and adverts reached over 2.2 million people in a campaign targeting towns and cities where previous research has shown Christmas Market visitors come from.
Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Economy and Transport at City of York Council, said:
Just shy of half a million journeys in one month is an incredible milestone to reach, so thank you to all the residents and visitors for using the Park & Ride, and thank you to First Bus for increasing the number of buses available during this incredibly busy period.
First Bus invested in more services on the network in November and December, increasing frequency on several routes to support the York local and visitor economy in anticipation of customer demand. First Bus replicates this investment during other busy periods to keep York visitors and commuters moving sustainably throughout the year.
Cllr Ravilious continued:
The numbers are phenomenal but we do also need to recognise that York still experienced congested streets in the run up to Christmas, so while we are delighted, we continue our work throughout the year to support and promote the city’s bus services as well as other sustainable forms of transport.
“Our young people’s ticketing and marketing campaigns, which and are funded by central government, have over the last 12 months helped make bus use more attractive and given more people more options, and we will soon be consulting on improvements to the Park & Ride sites.”
Kayleigh Ingham, Commercial Director of First Bus North & West Yorkshire, said:
The superb performance throughout 2024 is a tribute to the commitment and high standards of service delivered by the First Bus team.
“We’ve demonstrated that bus is an easy and sustainable way to travel into York. We’re attracting more customers due to good value fares, zero-emission buses, and our service, which is delivered with a smile. The benefits this brings, with cleaner air and quieter city centre roads, contributes to York’s environmental targets.”
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said:
It is wonderful to see the great results for bus travel for the year and 500,000 journeys during the Christmas period is fantastic.
“We are very fortunate to have a bus service within the city that supports both demand and sustainability. Collaboration between all parties on communicating key messages was key and we look forward to working with and supporting the transport sector throughout 2025.”
These Park & Ride figures follow the Department for Transport’s own statistics released late in 2024 which show that York’s bus services as a whole (including all local services and the Park & Ride) are once again in the top ten of all local authorities for the number of bus trips per resident. An average of 70.6 journeys per head of population in 2023 and 2024 ranks York the best in Yorkshire and nationally sits 9th out of 90 English local authority areas.
The data also showed that York’s bus trips are up 35% from 2021 and 2022, almost quadrupled from 2020 and 2021 and now back within 3% of the level they were in 2019 and 2020 (the year before COVID-19). This is one of the best post-pandemic recovery rates in the country.
In addition to December’s figures, November 2024 was the busiest November ever recorded, with 10% more passengers than the previous record set in 2016.
Source: City of Liverpool
Liverpool City Council is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to addressing racial inequality by appointing a leading diversity and inclusion organisation, Inclusivitii, to support the development of a bold, anti-racism strategy for the city and council.
This marks a pivotal moment in the Council’s efforts to foster a more inclusive, fair, and united Liverpool.
Racism remains a deep-rooted issue in the city, impacting areas such as health, education, and employment. Despite Liverpool’s rich and diverse history, many individuals still face barriers.
The Council, alongside its partners, is dedicated to tackling these challenges through meaningful action, ensuring that residents, service users and employees, regardless of background, have the opportunity to thrive.
The strategy is set for launch in September 2025. In the months ahead, there will be public consultations offering residents, community groups, businesses, and employees the opportunity to actively contribute to shaping the approach.
Throughout this process, the Council’s Safer and Stronger Communities Team will continue to support and empower communities, embedding anti-racism principles across the city.
In addition to shaping the city-wide strategy, Inclusivitii will also collaborate with Liverpool City Council to help the organisation become an actively anti-racist organisation.
This work will include reviewing internal policies, practices, and structures to ensure fairness, inclusion, and racial equity in decision-making at all levels.
By nurturing an inclusive culture within its own organisation, the Council aims to set a powerful example and drive transformation across the city.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:
“We are delighted to appoint Inclusivitii to work with us on our transformative anti-racism strategy for the city. Their expertise is essential in helping us create a more inclusive city.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has supported this process, including Alison Navarro, Programme Director of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Race Equality Hub, and Moni Akinsanya, Associate Director for Diversity and Inclusion at Liverpool John Moores University. Their invaluable guidance, along with input from various community organisations, has been crucial throughout the procurement process.
“Being anti-racist isn’t just about recognising inequality and inequity, it’s about actively challenging and eradicating it. Liverpool City Council is committed to driving this change with urgency, transparency, and accountability.
“To make this strategy truly impactful, the voices of Liverpool’s communities must be at the heart of the work. I encourage all residents, community groups, businesses and employees to engage and contribute.”
Andrew Lewis, Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council, said:
“This appointment highlights the Council’s commitment to addressing racial inequality and bringing about lasting change, both across the city and within our own organisation.
“As we work toward creating an anti-racist Liverpool, the Council is committed to leading by example. We will continuously examine our internal structures to ensure fairness, inclusion, and racial equity are embedded in every aspect of decision-making.
“By listening to and learning from those who experience racism first-hand, we aim to create a strategy that not only highlights the challenges but also provides real, sustainable solutions for long-term change.”
Aduke Onafowokan from Inclusivitii said:
“Every once in a while, an opportunity arises to make a meaningful impact, one that honours the incredible work already done while unlocking new possibilities for progress. For us, this is such an opportunity to serve communities and individuals.
“We recognise that being anti-racist requires a lasting shift in how we think, behave, and perceive the world around us. It is, therefore, a profound honour to support Liverpool City Council, building on the inspiring work already undertaken by the organisation, to co-produce a strategy that truly reflects the voices, lived experiences, and aspirations of its communities.
“This will move us forward towards a future where racial equity and equality are not just ambitions but a lived reality. Thank you again for this incredible opportunity.”
More information about Inclusivitii can be found at https://www.inclusivitii.com.
Source: City of Liverpool
One of ITVX’s most successful-ever comedies is set to return to the small screen tonight, thanks to Liverpool Film Office.
G’wed will be back for a second series at 10.05pm Thursday 6 February and is the tenth project to receive investment from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s LCR Production Fund which is facilitated by Liverpool City Council’s Film Office.
The first season aired in 2024 and has been streamed over six million times.
Written by Liverpool’s Danny Kenny and produced by Golden Path Productions, filming for the second series took place in Wirral and Liverpool for five weeks last summer. As part of the production fund agreement, it supported six trainees from the Film Office’s skills initiative Action!, which saw the industry-newcomers hone skills as assistant directors, and take up roles in costume, props, locations, make-up and sound departments.
The £3 million, LCR Production Fund is was launched by Mayor Steve Rotheram in 2019, and has to date invested in 10 high-end TV dramas including This City Is Ours, the Time series 1 and 2 – the first of which won a BAFTA – and Emmy Award-winning The Responder.
The Action! initiative has been made possible through £2.3m of BFI National Lottery funding which was awarded to Screen Alliance North, a new skills cluster partnership delivered by Liverpool Film Office, North East Screen, Screen Manchester and Screen Yorkshire.
The partnership aims to make the screen sector more accessible and to help build a thriving and skilled workforce across the North of England.
For more information head to the Liverpool Film Office website.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“When I launched the LCR Production Fund, I wanted to help establish the Liverpool City Region as the ‘Hollywood of the North.’ We’ve already begun to see that pay off, supporting a number of award-winning productions.
“This investment isn’t just about making great TV—though G’wed has clearly been a hit – it’s about creating opportunities for local people, supporting our economy, and showing the world what our region can do. I’m really proud to see how our funding is helping to nurture the next generation of talent and put our region at the heart of the UK’s creative industry.”
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“This investment has helped provide opportunities for local crew and trainees – some of who were given the first step on their film and TV career ladder.
“The fund has helped bring so much to our region, from the economy to providing opportunities for local people to flourish in a career they could have only dreamt of.
“It is fantastic what has been achieved here and hope that the impact of the fund continues for many years to come.”
Action! trainee and Chargehand props on G’wed 2, Ciaran Dow Jones said: “During my placement, I worked in dressing props, which gave me great hands-on experience in creating sets and managing prop storage.
“Everyone had a real laugh on set and there was great teamwork amongst the cast and crew. The best part was the fun atmosphere – every day on set was exciting.
“Moving forward, I want to keep developing my skills in the art department while also exploring other roles in film and TV, with the goal of becoming a director one day.”
Head of Liverpool Film Office, Lynn Saunders said:
“We’re proud to have invested in the second series of G’wed and I know that it will build on the success of the first which was a hit for audiences.
“Having filmed in Wirral and Liverpool, and being solely based in Wirral, we are proud to have worked closely with Wirral Council colleagues to make this series possible. “We’re looking forward to tuning in on Thursday along with thousands of others.”
Source: City of Leeds
One of the world’s most beloved bunnies has hopped into Leeds City Museum this week, inviting visitors to celebrate a very special birthday.
From Friday (Feb 7) museum-goers can step inside the world of international phenomenon Miffy, the adorable rabbit created by Dutch artist and illustrator Dick Bruna, as the iconic character marks her 70th anniversary with a new exhibition.
The exhibition features a collection of screen prints, films, pencil drawings, paintings, original book designs and Miffy merchandise from across the world alongside stop motion models from the TV series Miffy and Friends.
The interactive exhibition, which is free to visit, will bring Miffy to life through giant versions of some of the illustrated icon’s most popular books, inviting visitors to enter Miffy’s world, play hide and seek among the trees and use their imaginations to create their own stories using puppets, drawings and colour.
A collaboration with Mercis, the global brand owner of Miffy, the concept for the exhibition began in 2022 when Leeds Museums and Galleries won a prestigious European award for its learning programmes.
The trophy awarded to the service was a bronze sculpture of Miffy created by Dick Bruna’s youngest son, Marc Bruna.
Matt Storey, Leeds City Museum’s principal keeper, said: “It’s a real joy to welcome such a world-famous character to Leeds and for the museum to be playing an important part in celebrating 70 years of both Miffy and Dick Bruna’s unique art, life and legacy.
“As well as marking a huge milestone for Miffy, the exhibition is a great chance for families to come together at the museum and step into a world of play and imagination which they can explore and be inspired by.”
Originally created on June 21, 1955, Bruna first drew Miffy to entertain his young son whilst on a rainy seaside holiday in Holland, telling him stories about a rabbit which ran around the garden of their holiday home.
The acclaimed series of picture books which followed used simple illustrations and rhyming text to explore universal childhood themes, with Miffy becoming globally synonymous with friendship, innocence, fun and design.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for different generations to come together at the museum and celebrate a character who has been a part of so many childhoods all across the world.
“Leeds City Museum is the ideal place for such a family-friendly exhibition and we’re really looking forward to welcoming families in the coming months.”
The Leeds City Museum exhibition will run from February 7 until September 7, 2025, and is free to visit.
A programme of Miffy themed events and activities will take place throughout February half term and the museum will be celebrating Miffy’s official birthday in June.
After Leeds, the exhibition will move to Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life.
For more details, please visit: Miffy’s 70th Birthday | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions
ENDS
Source: City of Leeds
A new report has highlighted the extensive work in Leeds to recruit and support foster carers as the city strives to meet an ever-increasing demand for placements to help change the lives of looked after children.
The annual fostering report, to be discussed by senior councillors at next Wednesday’s executive board meeting (February 12), gives an update of the innovative work and progress of services that support the city’s foster and kinship carers.
Leeds City Council’s fostering service, Foster 4 Leeds, plays a crucial role in supporting over 400 fostering placements and 350 children living with kinship or connected carers across Leeds.
However, as is the case nationally, the need for more foster carers is continuing to rise and recruitment is a significant priority in Leeds.
This year, breakthrough work and plans have included:
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “Children do their best living in families and these proposals go a long way to enhance the health and wellbeing of our looked after children and ensure they grow and thrive in family environments.
“We are utterly committed to supporting all carers in this vital role and enabling fostering to be a rewarding experience, giving a real purpose to truly help change lives.
“I would encourage anyone interested to please take a look at our new website and consider joining our incredible legion of foster and kinship carers who provide that crucial consistency in care for our city’s vulnerable children.
“Being able to place children within Leeds has many benefits – not least enabling young people to retain strong relationships with their birth family, continue at school and access all the benefits of living within our child friendly city.”
To view the annual fostering report being considered by the executive board visit Council and democracy (agenda item 10).
For more information on fostering in Leeds, please visit: Foster 4 Leeds | Foster 4 Leeds.
ENDS
For media enquiries please contact:
Leeds City Council communications and marketing,
Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk
Tel: 0113 378 6007
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
In 2024, Rosneft received more than 70 patents for innovative inventions. Thus, today the portfolio of the technological leader in the oil and gas industry includes more than 1,100 objects of intellectual activity that have undergone state registration.
Rosneft is the first oil company in the country that successfully creates software that covers all key processes of oil and gas production. Last year, specialists from the Ufa Scientific Institute presented an updated simulator RN-SIMTEP, the economic effect of which will exceed 1 billion rubles by 2030. The software package is designed to simulate the processes of preparation, transportation and primary processing of hydrocarbon raw materials.
The Company’s specialists have also developed the RN-AKZT expert system, which allows selecting steel for pipe products and methods of their anti-corrosion protection depending on operating conditions. The innovative product includes an artificial intelligence model that is trained on real data and is capable of predicting the intensity of metal corrosion. The software operates autonomously and does not depend on external sources of information. Its use in production processes will significantly increase the reliability of pipelines.
Another new software is a mobile application for mine surveyors, developed by Tomsk scientists of Rosneft. The service allows for prompt access to field maps in the field, updating information on existing infrastructure, and adding new objects to the map.
Rosneft is betting on digitalization in all areas of activity. The emphasis on the implementation of digital technologies increases transparency, controllability and speed of decision-making throughout the production chain.
In 2024, at the Barsukovskoye field of RN-Purneftegaz (part of Rosneft), the Company’s scientists created a “digital twin” of a preliminary gas treatment unit. This is one of the largest interactive objects designed in Russia – its area is 270 thousand square meters, which is comparable to the size of a populated area.
Rosneft is one of the leaders in the development of 3D design. Hundreds of objects have been designed in the Company using information modeling technologies. Last year, the Ufa scientific institute presented an updated unified catalog of 3D products, the digital database of which currently contains 277 thousand three-dimensional products: from complex equipment to the simplest parts. Rosneft design institutes use the catalog when developing structures, plant sites, pipelines and other industrial facilities. Ready-made solutions significantly reduce time and increase design efficiency. The institute’s specialists regularly update the catalog taking into account changes in industry documents.
In 2024, the Company updated its fleet of diagnostic robotic complexes. Specialists from the Volgograd Scientific Institute created two new devices for diagnosing petrochemical facilities, such as high-temperature furnaces and propane dehydrogenation reactors. The robots transmit measurement results in real time and generate a report on the study conducted. Due to the reduction in the time of shutdown repairs, the economic effect at the plant with robotic diagnostics reaches 280 million rubles per year.
Also, as part of the consistent robotization of production processes, Rosneft has equipped all echelon-type drilling rigs at the Verkhnechonskoye and Severo-Danilovskoye oil and gas condensate fields with robotic equipment for connecting drill pipes. The economic effect of using the new domestically produced development is 1.5 million rubles for each well.
In 2024, the Tomsk Scientific Institute opened a new, second core storage facility, which will increase the total volume of core stored in the Company’s institutes by 25%, providing the corporate research and design unit with reserve space for at least 10 years.
In addition, the institute’s specialists have put into operation an innovative mesotomograph – a device for studying a full-size core using X-ray tomography. Improved characteristics will help to select tools for searching and developing new deposits and increasing production at the Company’s existing assets more quickly and efficiently.
Rosneft is actively developing technologies for developing complex reserves. At the Priobskoye field of the key production asset RN-Yuganskneftegaz, specialists from the scientific block have successfully implemented their own data processing technology, which determines oil-saturated zones for drilling with high accuracy. The innovation will allow for an additional extraction of more than 100 million tons of oil at the field.
Rosneft is one of the largest petrochemical producers in Russia. In 2024, experts from a scientific institute in Novokuibyshevsk developed and patented a modified bitumen that can withstand increased transport loads. The new product is used in road surfaces and has an increased operating temperature range from plus 40°C to minus 50°C. The new bitumen can also withstand increased transport loads.
The Company’s innovative development program is aimed at replacing imported technologies in the production of high-quality petroleum products. One of the main objectives of the program is the transition of Rosneft’s oil refineries to the use of highly efficient catalysts of their own production, which allows avoiding the risks of dependence on supplies of foreign products.
Rosneft has been implementing a large-scale program for the comprehensive study and environmental monitoring of the Arctic since 2012. Together with the country’s leading specialized institutes, the Company’s scientific unit organizes hydrometeorological, geological, and biological research that is unprecedented in its geographical coverage.
In 2024, the Company conducted its 50th anniversary research expedition to clarify the ice conditions of the Yenisei Gulf. During the work, a wide range of regular studies was carried out, covering all stages of ice cover development and destruction. The data obtained will form the basis for planning and organizing a system for safe and efficient transportation of hydrocarbons in the waters of Sever Bay and the northern part of the Yenisei Gulf.
Also last year, Rosneft summed up the results of the first field season of the corporate biodiversity conservation program Tamura, the purpose of which is to obtain information on the state of key animal species in the Arctic region. The data obtained on the population of polar bears, wild reindeer and rare bird species will allow scientists to draw conclusions about the state of ecosystems and develop measures to preserve biodiversity.
To update the geological model and resource potential of the Company in the East Siberian Sea, two shallow wells were drilled, from which 204 m of core were collected.
Rosneft has unique capabilities both in developing its own technologies and in implementing them. By increasing the technological efficiency of production and actively improving its own intellectual competencies, the Company sees its goal as the development of Russian technological sovereignty across all production chains.
Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft February 7, 2025
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 33-year-old man that escaped NT Corrections custody yesterday.
Around 5.20pm this afternoon, the man was arrested without incident in Ludmilla.
Police would like to thank the public for their assistance.
Source: Europol
On 7 February 2025, Europol hosted a Quantum Safe Financial Forum (QSFF) event, during which the QSFF has issued a call to action for financial institutions and policymakers, urging them to prioritise the transition to quantum-safe cryptography. With the rapid advancement of quantum computing, the financial sector faces an imminent threat to its cryptographic security. This transition presents both a…
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Ress Life Investments A/S
Nybrogade 12
DK-1203 Copenhagen K
Denmark
CVR nr. 33593163
www.resslifeinvestments.com
To: Nasdaq Copenhagen
Date: 7 February 2025
Corporate Announcement 05/2025
Ress Life Investments A/S publishes financial calendar
The current financial year runs from 1 January to 31 December.
Financial Calendar
19th March 2025 Annual Report ending 31 December 2024
16th April 2025 Annual General Meeting
9th September 2025 Interim financial statement for the period from 1 January 2025 through 30 June 2025
Questions related to this announcement can be made to the company’s AIF-manager, Resscapital AB.
Contact person:
Gustaf Hagerud
gustaf.hagerud@resscapital.com
Tel + 46 8 545 282 27
Attachment
Source: China State Council Information Office
Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that China’s northeastern city of Harbin, host city of the 9th Asian Winter Games, will deliver a spectacular sports gala for the world.
At a banquet held by Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, ahead of the opening ceremony of the Games, the Chinese leader extended a warm welcome to international dignitaries who are here to attend the ceremony.
Among the guests were Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra, National Assembly Speaker of the Republic of Korea Woo Won-shik, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, and Olympic Council of Asia Vice President Timothy Fok Tsun-ting.
China’s ice-and-snow passion ignited by major sports events has invigorated global winter sports, Xi told the guests while addressing the banquet.
The 9th Asian Winter Games attracted a record number of participating countries and regions, as well as registered athletes, Xi said.
According to the organizers, over 1,200 athletes from 34 countries and regions across Asia will compete in the Games.
Harbin will deliver for the world a sports gala that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular, Xi noted.
The theme of the Games — “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia” — embodies Asian people’s shared aspiration and desire for peace, development and friendship, Xi noted.
He called on Asia to uphold the common dream of peace and harmony, jointly respond to all sorts of security challenges, and contribute to building an equal and orderly multipolar world.
He also stressed the shared pursuit of prosperity and development, calling on Asian people to work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained momentum for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.
To realize the common wish of friendship and affinity, Xi called for promoting inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning among diverse civilizations.
Harbin, dubbed China’s “ice city,” is the birthplace of the country’s modern winter sports. The city also hosted the third edition of the Games in 1996.
The ice-and-snow culture and economy are becoming a new driving force for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world, Xi noted.
As the Chinese people are celebrating the Spring Festival, which ushered in the Year of the Snake, Xi wished all athletes “excellent performance with the agility of the snake.”
“Among the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, the snake represents wisdom and agility. The Year of the Snake will surely brim with vigor and vitality,” he said.
Senior Chinese leaders including Cai Qi attended the event.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Feb. 7 — As the world ushers in the Year of the Snake on the Chinese lunar calendar, the Spring Festival has expanded beyond its traditional roots to become a global phenomenon, offering a window through which people around the world can learn about China’s cultural ethos and contemporary dynamism.
To mark the Chinese New Year, the London Eye was lit up in auspicious red, while Dubai’s Burj Khalifa dazzled with festive projections. Global iconic landmarks joined China in celebrating a millennia-old tradition. Additionally, the festival’s global imprint extends beyond the lights: dragon dances, temple fairs and other activities were held across the world.
This year’s Spring Festival is the first since its inscription on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list. The Chinese New Year is becoming a festival celebrated across the world. As nearly 20 nations recognize the Spring Festival as an official holiday and some 200 countries hold celebrations, this cultural event reflects humanity’s shared yearning for renewal and connection.
China’s expanded visa-free travel policies have amplified this cultural exchange, enabling more international travelers to visit China and immerse themselves in the festival’s rich customs.
Foreign visitors have experienced not just festive fireworks, but the profound values embedded in the tradition: familial bonds that transcend borders, the harmony between humanity and nature, and an emphasis on social cohesion. These values resonate across cultures, dismantle stereotypes and nurture mutual cultural appreciation.
“The Spring Festival Gala,” an annual TV program broadcast live and watched by billions worldwide, epitomizes China’s cultural appeal. The 2025 gala featured the performances of U.S. band OneRepublic and Peruvian artists, demonstrating artistic dialogue between East and West.
The televised extravaganza also offers a glimpse of the integration of tradition and modernity as well as technological progress in the country. AI-powered robots performed a synchronized dance in embroidered jackets during the show, showcasing China’s fusion of heritage and cutting-edge technology, and the openness, inclusiveness and innovation of Chinese culture.
Beyond culture, this year’s Spring Festival illuminated China’s economic resilience amid global economic headwinds.
The eight-day holiday saw year-on-year increases in tourist numbers and expenditure, as well as record box office revenue. Boosted by trade-in programs and other policies, the sales of home appliances and communication equipment at key retailers jumped during the festival, reflecting the vibrancy of China’s consumption market.
In Chinese culture, the snake symbolizes agility, wisdom and vitality. As the world is fraught with growing uncertainties and regional frictions, the Spring Festival, an age-old tradition that perpetually rejuvenates itself, serves as a unique portal to a dynamically evolving China.
Moreover, the values enshrined within the Spring Festival not only act as a guiding light for individuals, but also hold the potential to foster deeper mutual understanding among different cultures and promote world peace and prosperity.
Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English
On 22 January 2025, the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) ordered Valour Digital Securities Limited to comply with the financial reporting requirements under the German Securities Trading Act (Wertpapierhandelsgesetz – WpHG). In case the company fails to comply with this order, BaFin also threatened to impose coercive fines in the amount of 57,500 euros.
The notice is immediately enforceable but not yet final and binding.
Companies such as Valour Digital Securities Limited that are domiciled in a third country and that issue securities that are traded on an organised market in Germany must prepare annual financial reports as at the end of each financial year. This information must be made publicly available no later than four months after the end of each financial year.
Before publication, companies must publish an announcement informing the public and BaFin about the date from which and the website on which the information will be available.
Valour Digital Securities Limited contravened these requirements since it failed to publish an annual financial report for the financial year 2023 as legally required minimum components are missing. The company also failed to publish an announcement in respect of this.
The announcement by BaFin is also set out by law and is based on section 124 of the WpHG.
Source: European Commission (video statements)
Press conference by Donald TUSK, Polish Prime Minister andUrsula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission
Follow us on:
-X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
-Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission
Visit our website: http://ec.europa.eu/
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s homegrown AG600M amphibious aircraft complete first test flights in year of Snake
XI’AN, Feb. 7 — Three AG600M “Kunlong” large amphibious aircraft, independently developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), have concluded another round of test flights recently, marking a critical step toward airworthiness certification, AVIC has announced.
With the support of some 500 members of the aircraft research team, the mission was carried out on Monday at the AVIC civil aircraft test flight center in Pucheng, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. Throughout the process, the three aircraft underwent rigorous assessment tests, including flight control failure simulations, ice formation condition tests, and checks following upgrades to its avionics systems.
All three planes safely returned to the tarmac after completing the mission, AVIC said on Thursday.
These tests validated the aircraft’s performance and safety, laying a solid foundation for subsequent airworthiness certification efforts, it said.
The AG600 family of amphibious aircraft is a cornerstone of China’s efforts to bolster its emergency response capabilities. Designed to meet civil airworthiness standards, it is the country’s first homegrown large special-purpose aircraft of such kind for firefighting, maritime rescue, and disaster relief operations.
As an upgraded variant, the AG600M boasts enhanced performance: a maximum takeoff weight of 60 tonnes, a 12-tonne water-carrying capacity, and a fight range of 4,500 kilometers. Its low-speed, short-runway capabilities make it ideal for complex missions, such as dousing wildfires or conducting open-sea rescues.
The AG600M prototype completed its first test landing on land in May 2022, followed by a successful landing on water for the first time in August that same year.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Feb. 6 — As winter settles across China, excitement for winter sports is in full swing, with skiers carving down slopes and ice skaters gliding across rinks from north to south. Enthusiasm is especially high as the 9th Asian Winter Games opens Friday in Harbin, marking another milestone for China’s winter sports development.
At the heart of this movement is Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose lifelong passion for sports has fueled the rapid expansion of winter activities nationwide.
The foundation for this boom was laid more than a decade ago when Xi, attending the Sochi Winter Olympics, met with International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach. During their meeting, Xi set an ambitious goal: to engage 300 million people in winter sports. That vision has since become a reality.
By April 2024, following the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, around 313 million people – over 22% of China’s population – had actively participated in ice and snow activities.
FROM CHILDHOOD PASSION TO NATIONAL LEGACY
Xi’s love for winter sports dates back to his childhood. In the 1950s and 1960s, skating on Beijing’s Shichahai Lake was a popular winter pastime. Young Xi often rushed home from school to skate on the frozen lake.
That early connection to winter sports evolved into a national mission. Historically, winter sports in China were largely confined to the colder northern regions and were practiced in harsh conditions. Xi sought to change that.
From the successful bid for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics to the Games’ execution, Xi played a leading role. Between 2015 and 2022, he visited Olympic venues in Beijing and Zhangjiakou five times, overseeing venue construction, management, and volunteer operations. During a 2021 inspection visit, he emphasized using the Winter Olympics as a catalyst to elevate the nation’s ice and snow sports culture.
Beijing’s hosting of the Winter Games proved transformative. Today, seniors and children alike are skating and skiing in places where snow was once rare. Increased investment in facilities has made winter sports more accessible and affordable.
By the end of 2023, the number of winter sports venues in China had reached 2,847, a 16.1% year-over-year increase, with new facilities even emerging in southern regions.
Xi’s vision for China’s winter sports development has reshaped the landscape. From his childhood struggles to afford skates to today’s youth training in state-of-the-art facilities, the progress is evident.
“You now have excellent training facilities and a wonderful environment to strengthen your bodies and foster teamwork and bravery,” Xi told young ice hockey players in 2017. “The future of China’s ice and snow sports depends on your generation.”
RISE OF ICE AND SNOW ECONOMY
The 9th Asian Winter Games, running from February 7 to 14 in Harbin, highlights China’s growing influence in global winter sports.
Xi has described the ice and snow industry as a “mountain of gold and silver,” emphasizing the need to leverage natural winter resources. His vision includes a comprehensive winter sports economy encompassing equipment manufacturing, tourism, and cultural industries.
China’s ice and snow economy is projected to exceed 1 trillion yuan (about 138 billion U.S. dollars) in 2025, with estimates reaching 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030.
Last winter, China recorded more than 385 million winter leisure visits, a 38% year-over-year increase, with related revenue rising 50%.
Harbin, one of China’s top winter tourism destinations, welcomed 87 million visitors – up 300% year-over-year – generating 124.8 billion yuan in tourism revenue, a 500% increase.
China’s winter sports equipment industry is also expanding, bolstered by advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. The country now produces a full range of 15 ice and snow equipment categories, with innovations such as smart ski insoles, heated snow boots, and VR skiing simulators.
In 2023, Xi visited a village in Mohe, China’s northernmost city, and emphasized the importance of utilizing snow and ice resources for economic growth. Today, the village has become a top destination for southern tourists, reflecting a broader trend across the country.
Chongli, Hebei province, is a prime example of this transformation. Once a poverty-stricken area, it has become a world-renowned ski resort, with one in four locals now employed in winter sports-related jobs.
“The ultimate goal of building a sporting powerhouse and a healthy China is to strengthen people’s fitness,” Xi said. “This is also an essential part of China’s effort to build a modern socialist country in all respects.”
STRONGER GLOBAL TIES THROUGH WINTER SPORTS
Xi’s leadership in winter sports has not only transformed China’s ice and snow culture but has also fostered international cooperation. Through strategic policies and personal commitment, he has positioned sports as a bridge for global friendship and mutual understanding.
In August 2023, Xi wrote to the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association and friendly personages in the U.S. state of Washington, stating, “Sport is a bond that promotes friendship among peoples.” This principle has guided China’s efforts to use winter sports as a tool for diplomacy.
During a 2017 visit to Finland, Xi and then-Finnish President Sauli Niinisto met with Chinese and Finnish winter athletes, highlighting the role of sports in strengthening bilateral relations. Similarly, in 2018, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin watched a youth ice hockey match in Tianjin, reinforcing China-Russia ties.
Beyond individual partnerships, China has collaborated with multiple Asian nations to promote winter sports by sharing expertise, resources, and experiences. The upcoming Asian Winter Games exemplifies this spirit of unity and cooperation, with Cambodia and Saudi Arabia making their debut at the Games.
At the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, Xi underscored how the Games fostered global unity during challenging times. “It has also brought confidence and hope to a world overshadowed by instability,” he said, reinforcing the Games’ motto: “Together for a Shared Future.”
Xi’s contributions have long been recognized by the international sports community. IOC Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. praised his leadership, saying, “It’s great to have such an important partner for sports and international Olympic matters.”
Bach also commended Xi as a “true champion” with a clear vision for the role of sports in society.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Feb. 7 — Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special representative Zhang Guoqing will travel to France from Feb. 9 to 12 for the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit at the invitation of the host, the Chinese foreign ministry announced on Friday.
Zhang is a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a vice premier of the State Council.