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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Man Sentenced for Armed Fentanyl Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Jago Clay, 24, was sentenced to 108 months, on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. 

    According to his plea agreement, on June 17, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Clay’s vehicle, due to an upside-down license plate affixed to the wrong vehicle.  During the stop, officers found a large bag containing approximately 256 pressed fentanyl pills, a digital scale, and two loaded handguns. Clay admitted to knowingly possessing the fentanyl pills, with the intent distribute them, and to possessing the firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

    Under federal law, Clay must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence.  Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.

    Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Col. Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

    The case was investigated by the ATF, KSP, and Lexington Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Paco Villalobos prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities.  It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts.  In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

    — END —

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A year on from the Senate inquiry into concussion, what’s changed and what comes next?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Annette Greenhow, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, Bond University

    In September 2023, an Australian Senate committee released a landmark report on concussions and repeated head trauma in contact sports.

    The committee made 13 recommendations to improve outcomes for past, present and future players.

    The report emphasised shared responsibility and transparency in developing a national approach, with the government to lead nine of the recommendations.

    As of October 2024, no official government update has been provided.

    We’ve assessed the status of the recommendations – of the publicly available sources, we found evidence of action in some areas but no national strategy in directly addressing the focus of several key recommendations.

    As part of this review, we searched the websites of the Australian government’s Department of Health and Aged Care and the Australian Sports Commission/Australian Institute of Sport (ASC/AIS).

    We approached the Senate committee secretary and the Department of Health and Aged Care for more information but neither was able to comment.

    We acknowledge there is likely more work going on behind the scenes, and these processes take time.

    Here’s what we found.

    Progress being made

    In the past year, there has been progress made with several recommendations including those addressing community awareness, education and guidelines for amateur and youth sports.

    The AIS continues to engage in health-led efforts with a suite of resources aimed at increasing community awareness and education.

    In June this year, the institute published a new set of return-to-play guidelines specifically targeting community and youth athletes.

    This represents a tangible response from a federally funded sporting body.

    However, these guidelines must be easily implemented by clubs. To date, there is no indication the government plans to increase funding or resources to clubs to help do so.

    The committee also called for national sporting organisations to “further explore rule modifications to prevent and reduce the impact of concussions and repeated head trauma, prioritising modifications for children and adolescents”.

    Several major sporting codes have modified their rules and we expect them to remain focused on rule modifications to ensure the longevity of their sports.

    General practitioners (GPs) are often the first port of call after a concussion, and the committee recommended the development of standardised guidelines for GPs and first aid responders.

    This addresses concerns that GPs may require additional training in treating sport-related brain trauma.

    In response, the AIS developed a free, online short course for registered GPs.

    Work in progress, or lack of progress?

    There appears to be work in progress or a lack of progress elsewhere, including key recommendations for a National Sports Injury Database (NSID) and professional sport data sharing.

    The inquiry highlighted how patchy data collection had contributed to evidence gaps in understanding sports injury management and surveillance. The committee’s most urgent recommendation therefore was for the government to establish the NSID.

    This would work closely with another recommendation that called for professional sport codes to collect and share de-identified concussion and sub-concussive event data with the NSID.

    As of October 2024, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports the NSID is still under development and is not yet ready to receive data.

    Other recommendations related to research – establishing an independent research pathway, ongoing funding commitments and a co-ordinated and consolidated funding framework.

    These recommendations called for the government’s existing agencies, or a newly created body, to coordinate research on the effects of concussion and repeated head trauma.

    No new dedicated sports-related concussion research pathways have emerged since the inquiry.

    In terms of funding commitments, in April this year – after former rugby league star Wally Lewis’s National Press Club appearance – Dementia Australia reported the government had pledged $A18 million for concussion and CTE support services and education.



    Read more:
    Why a portrait of a former NRL great could spark greater concussion awareness in Australia

    The May 2024 federal budget allocated $132.7 million to boost sports participation from grassroots to high performance. But this did not address concussion and repeated head trauma, and we haven’t been able to find evidence of a co-ordinated and consolidated funding framework.

    Our view is concussion funding pools should be primarily focused on supporting independent research projects. However, sporting bodies clearly need to be involved – they provide access to athlete populations and most people in these organisations have a genuine care for athlete welfare.

    Another recommendation called for a national concussion strategy. This should focus on binding return-to-play protocols and rules to protect participants from head injuries.

    The recommendation included a role for government and whether any existing government bodies would be best placed to monitor, oversee and/or enforce concussion-related rules and protocols.

    In our view, this recommendation involves much more than producing guidelines. It requires a more comprehensive national strategy, with consideration to monitoring compliance and enforcement.

    We could not find any evidence indicating the current status of this recommendation.

    Increased funding and support for affected athletes were also focus areas.

    These recommendations called for a review to address barriers to workers’ compensation and ensure adequate insurance arrangements remain in place.

    We could not find any evidence of whether state and territory governments are involved in the reviews of workers compensation to apply to professional athletes.

    The committee recommenced the government consider measures to increase donations to brain banks for scientific research.

    We couldn’t find any evidence of steps taken to implement this recommendation.

    Moving forward

    There has been progress in education and guidelines but a lack of the coordinated, transparent approach the committee envisioned.

    A formal government response, as demonstrated in Canada and the United Kingdom, is essential to establish trust and chart a clear path forward.

    The Australian government, as guardian of the Australian public’s health, has an opportunity to do the same.

    Annette Greenhow receives funding from SSHRC Partnership Development Grant. Annette is a Board Member of the Australian and New Zealand Sports Law Association. The views expressed in this article are her own.

    Stephen Townsend does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A year on from the Senate inquiry into concussion, what’s changed and what comes next? – https://theconversation.com/a-year-on-from-the-senate-inquiry-into-concussion-whats-changed-and-what-comes-next-239929

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Attempted ram raid – Woolner

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are calling for information after an attempted ram raid in Woolner on Saturday morning.

    Around 3:05am, police received reports of a vehicle attempting to ram the front doors of a business on Bishop Street, before being confronted by the owner and fleeing the scene.

    The vehicle used by the alleged offenders was later reported stolen.

    Police urge anyone with information regarding the incident to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference NTP2400105693.

    Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Humanising AI could lead us to dehumanise ourselves

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Raffaele F Ciriello, Senior Lecturer in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney

    Shutterstock

    Irish writer John Connolly once said:

    The nature of humanity, its essence, is to feel another’s pain as one’s own, and to act to take that pain away.

    For most of our history, we believed empathy was a uniquely human trait – a special ability that set us apart from machines and other animals. But this belief is now being challenged.

    As AI becomes a bigger part of our lives, entering even our most intimate spheres, we’re faced with a philosophical conundrum: could attributing human qualities to AI diminish our own human essence? Our research suggests it can.

    Digitising companionship

    In recent years, AI “companion” apps such as Replika have attracted millions of users. Replika allows users to create custom digital partners to engage in intimate conversations. Members who pay for Replika Pro can even turn their AI into a “romantic partner”.

    Physical AI companions aren’t far behind. Companies such as JoyLoveDolls are selling interactive sex robots with customisable features including breast size, ethnicity, movement and AI responses such as moaning and flirting.

    While this is currently a niche market, history suggests today’s digital trends will become tomorrow’s global norms. With about one in four adults experiencing loneliness, the demand for AI companions will grow.

    The dangers of humanising AI

    Humans have long attributed human traits to non-human entities – a tendency known as anthropomorphism. It’s no surprise we’re doing this with AI tools such as ChatGPT, which appear to “think” and “feel”. But why is humanising AI a problem?

    For one thing, it allows AI companies to exploit our tendency to form attachments with human-like entities. Replika is marketed as “the AI companion who cares”. However, to avoid legal issues, the company elsewhere points out Replika isn’t sentient and merely learns through millions of user interactions.

    Some AI companies overtly claim their AI assistants have empathy and can even anticipate human needs. Such claims are misleading and can take advantage of people seeking companionship. Users may become deeply emotionally invested if they believe their AI companion truly understands them.

    This raises serious ethical concerns. A user will hesitate to delete (that is, to “abandon” or “kill”) their AI companion once they’ve ascribed some kind of sentience to it.

    But what happens when said companion unexpectedly disappears, such as if the user can no longer afford it, or if the company that runs it shuts down? While the companion may not be real, the feelings attached to it are.

    Empathy – more than a programmable output

    By reducing empathy to a programmable output, do we risk diminishing its true essence? To answer this, let’s first think about what empathy really is.

    Empathy involves responding to other people with understanding and concern. It’s when you share your friend’s sorrow as they tell you about their heartache, or when you feel joy radiating from someone you care about. It’s a profound experience – rich and beyond simple forms of measurement.

    A fundamental difference between humans and AI is that humans genuinely feel emotions, while AI can only simulate them. This touches on the hard problem of consciousness, which questions how subjective human experiences arise from physical processes in the brain.

    Science has yet to solve the hard problem of consciousness.
    Shutterstock

    While AI can simulate understanding, any “empathy” it purports to have is a result of programming that mimics empathetic language patterns. Unfortunately, AI providers have a financial incentive to trick users into growing attached to their seemingly empathetic products.

    The dehumanAIsation hypothesis

    Our “dehumanAIsation hypothesis” highlights the ethical concerns that come with trying to reduce humans to some basic functions that can be replicated by a machine. The more we humanise AI, the more we risk dehumanising ourselves.

    For instance, depending on AI for emotional labour could make us less tolerant of the imperfections of real relationships. This could weaken our social bonds and even lead to emotional deskilling. Future generations may become less empathetic – losing their grasp on essential human qualities as emotional skills continue to be commodified and automated.

    Also, as AI companions become more common, people may use them to replace real human relationships. This would likely increase loneliness and alienation – the very issues these systems claim to help with.

    AI companies’ collection and analysis of emotional data also poses significant risks, as these data could be used to manipulate users and maximise profit. This would further erode our privacy and autonomy, taking surveillance capitalism to the next level.

    Holding providers accountable

    Regulators need to do more to hold AI providers accountable. AI companies should be honest about what their AI can and can’t do, especially when they risk exploiting users’ emotional vulnerabilities.

    Exaggerated claims of “genuine empathy” should be made illegal. Companies making such claims should be fined – and repeat offenders shut down.

    Data privacy policies should also be clear, fair and without hidden terms that allow companies to exploit user-generated content.

    We must preserve the unique qualities that define the human experience. While AI can enhance certain aspects of life, it can’t – and shouldn’t – replace genuine human connection.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Humanising AI could lead us to dehumanise ourselves – https://theconversation.com/humanising-ai-could-lead-us-to-dehumanise-ourselves-240803

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia

    Source: ASEAN

    While in Singapore for the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2024 Summit, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today shared his views and perspectives with Channel News Asia (CNA), where he highlighted the key outcomes of the recently-held 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Meetings in Vientiane, Lao PDR, and talked about the importance of promoting ASEAN’s relations with its external partners, among others.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fred Graham work a tribute to home town

    Source: Auckland Council

    Celebrated artist Fred Graham has unveiled a gift to the town he loves in the form of a sculpture carrying its name.

    Waiuku becomes the latest addition to Auckland’s public art collection after its unveiling on the Glenbrook-Waiuku Road / Cornwall Road intersection.

    It expresses his aroha (love) and whakawhetai (gratitude) for the town where he has lived, worked and raised his family with wife Norma for more than 30 years.

    Franklin Local Board member Sharlene Druyven says Graham (Ngāti Korokī Kahukura, Tainui) is internationally and nationally celebrated and is a taonga of the area.

    Now 96, he is still being commissioned – especially in Waikato – where his ancestry anchors him, with Waiuku acknowledging Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua history in the rohe (area) and the immigrants who have made it their home.

    Based on the letter W, three of the four inner panels feature the koru, honouring those involved in the story of how Waiuku got its name.

    Brothers Tamakae and Tamakou vied for the hand of Waikato chieftainess Te Atairehia – after whom Ngati Te Ata are named – and who is represented by a fourth koru.

    Tamakae was the provider, Tamakou the orator. Tamakou was first to meet Te Atairehia but she requested Tamakae be presented. He was working in the kumara gardens and had to be washed in the wai (water) and uku (a type of white clay) at the stream that flows into the Manukau Harbour before he could meet her.

    He won her heart and they married, and from then on, the area was known as Waiuku.

    Fred Graham’s work is held in international collections.

    Graham was born in 1928 in Arapuni, going on to Taita College where his talent was recognised, a gift nurtured at Ardmore Teachers Training College.

    From there he developed an interest in sculpture, teaching himself to carve in wood and stone, and later using steel – a cornerstone of Waiuku with its iron sand and mill.

    He was part of a collective that ran a Te Tai Tokerau (Northland) initiative in rural Māori communities with artists such as Cliff Whiting and Paratene Matchitt known as the ‘Class of ’66’ after a Hamilton show called ‘Contemporary Māori Painting and Sculpture’.

    Friendships with art greats Ralph Hotere and Muru Walters were also established during his early days, while his own works fused Māori and European cultures, often combining wood, stone and modern materials in commissions displayed across Aotearoa.

    “Fred is known for drawing on Māori traditions, but that is in the art world. In Waiuku he is better known for his gentleness, kindness and wisdom,” Druyven says.

    “This is a man who has walked alongside greats of the art world but who is humble, who celebrates what matters to him, whanau and whenua.

    “Very few of us can say we are friends with an art great, and the fact he’s just Fred to so many here in Waiuku tells you everything you need to know.”

    Ngaati Te Ata kaumatua Riki Minhinnick leads the blessing of the site.

    His son Brett followed his own path, also becoming an acclaimed artist and exhibiting currently with his father and other prominent Māori artists at this year’s Venice Biennale.

    Fred Graham received the Te Waka Toi Te Tohu Aroha mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu Award in 2017 and a year later the Arts Foundation Icon Award and was also made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

    The 5.2 metre tall 1.4 tonne stainless steel work was made in Waiuku by retired engineer Rex Erikson, a long-term friend and collaborator.

    Waiuku is the second major Graham installation in the town. In 2020 his work recognising NZ Steel’s 50th anniversary in 2015, was unveiled at Centennial Park – Lions Lake to locals.

    That eight-metre steel statue features triangular panels depicting the three Franklin sites that converge to see steel forged at the mill, Taharoa, Waikato North Head and Glenbrook.

    Fifty birds adorn the panels, the cut-outs recognising the lives of those connected to the mill who have passed, and the shaped birds the lives of those now associated with the mill, and the whanau supported by that relationship.

    Inside the triangle, pipes can be seen, honouring the pipeline that sees iron sand shaped into steel.

    Atop the structure three birds rise into the sky, the past, present and the future.

    Stay connected

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Progress towards Auckland’s climate goals puts resilience at the forefront

    Source: Auckland Council

    From increasing public transport options, to decarbonising the council’s operations, to community food initiatives and building resilience to flood events, Auckland Council is delivering tangible, positive climate outcomes for Aucklanders. That’s according to Auckland Council’s Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan 2024 progress snapshot.

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the council’s Policy and Planning Committee applauds the progress already made but reminds us that to maintain momentum and achieve our climate goals requires continued commitment from all of us.

    “As a region, the scale and speed of climate action needed to make an impact on resilience continues to grow and will require increasing levels of cohesion and investment across both government and our council.”

    Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan is Auckland Council’s long-term approach to climate action. It sets out eight priority action areas to deliver our goals to reduce carbon pollution and plan in ways that prevent further climate disruption.

    Kataraina Maki, Auckland Council’s Chief Sustainability Officer, believes the council plays a crucial role in forward-thinking to make caring for everyone in a climate-disrupted future a reality.

    “Imagine the lives we can all live when, across our communities, we are empowered to take the bold climate actions we need, and know are feasible. Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan provides long term solutions to make wise decisions now that will prevent further disruption to the climate later for future generations.

    “Kia kotahi, Auckland Council supports our communities to unite, work together, and adapt to low-carbon, climate-prepared lifestyles to meet peoples’ needs and make our city better for everyone, especially those most vulnerable to climate disruption.”

    The annual progress report highlights the council’s contribution towards the implementation of Te Tāruke-a-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan based on the levels of actions that are completed, in progress, and still required in reducing emissions and improving resilience to climate change. It also provides highlights of progress and key challenges for each priority in the plan along with a summary of key initiatives planned for the year ahead.

    Key highlights of 2023/2024 report include:

    • Collecting and diverting 20,000 tonnes of food scraps from landfill, exceeding the target of 18,000 tonnes for year one
    • Investment in public transport to increase patronage up to 100 million boardings by March 2025
    • Issuing three new green bonds increasing total green bond holdings to NZ $3.7 billion
    • The Auckland Council climate grant funded 32 community-led projects, with approximately a third going to underserved communities
    • Approximately 750,000 trees were planted across the region as part of the Urban Ngahere programme
    • Several projects including Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Domain Wintergardens have switched from gas to electricity and alternative energy sources, saving money and reducing emissions.

    A planted area and stormwater stream beside the motorway in South Auckland.

    Building resilience to future extreme weather events top priority for the council

    In response to the 2023 extreme weather events, Auckland Council has partnered with the government to implement a $2 billion flood recovery and resilience package. As severe weather events happen more frequently, the council is preparing for the additional water we know to expect and preventing further flood risks through financial support for affected homeowners, supporting community-led responses and accelerating crucial repairs to affected infrastructure.

    The Making Space for Water programme has been integral to this work where $820 million has been given to help build resilience, repair affected stormwater assets and reduce the impacts of future intense rainfall.

    Councillor Hills says that rebuilding our infrastructure after big flooding and climate events can prevent worsening climate disruption.

    “Rampant carbon pollution has trapped heat like a blanket in our atmosphere and warmed the oceans, leading to a disrupted climate and more extreme weather events. A lot more water is one of the effects,” he says.

    “Auckland Council prioritises working alongside mana whenua, communities, and infrastructure experts to redesign our city to be more spongy to soak up this extra water and reduce heat in our neighbourhoods.

    “By uncovering our natural waterways and enhancing and maintaining our stormwater systems through programmes like Making Space for Water, we’re giving water space to flow and rise to build resilience and reduce the impacts of future flooding.”

    An electric bus on Waiheke Island.

    Zero emission transport

    Auckland’s public transport network is becoming fully electric. A total of 180 buses are now zero emissions in the fleet, making it the largest fleet of zero-emission buses of any city in Australasia. Investment in the transition from fossil fuels to lower emissions has also seen the construction of the first low emission ferries. The Climate Action Transport Targeted Rate has also increased our frequent bus network to forty routes in total, the most recent addition is the 94, which is seeing almost 400 new users each day.

    Te Herenga Waka O Orewa Marae has received funding to repair flooring in the wharekai, an engineering design to improve stormwater management.

    Mana whenua partnerships

    Auckland Council supports leadership of mana whenua who have expertise in living in harmony with natural systems to care for their rohe and tāngata, using mātauranga Māori to guide how te taiao is valued and protected. The council supports climate resilience programmes across seven Auckland marae as part of the Resilient Marae Programme, and rangatahi Māori-led responses to the environment such as Mātātahi Taio to deliver climate action outcomes using traditional Māori knowledge systems and practices.

    About the progress snapshot

    The council group this year reports that based on the current allocation of funding for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, meeting the 2050 net zero target set in Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri is becoming more challenging within timeframe and financial constraints. Regional emissions are also starting to rise, after they temporarily decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The report identifies that we all face big challenges in a climate-disrupted future. Better, resilient lives for everyone are possible through bold community climate planning, and a sustained collective commitment and effort from government, the council, businesses, communities and individuals to climate action.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on October 18, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,170.25 6.31 5.50-6.55
         I. Call Money 970.10 6.11 5.50-6.24
         II. Triparty Repo 4,266.15 6.34 5.81-6.55
         III. Market Repo 6.00 5.90 5.90-5.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 928.00 6.40 6.39-6.45
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 9,547.65 6.47 5.10-6.60
         II. Term Money@@ 1,233.00 – 6.85-6.90
         III. Triparty Repo 361,634.75 6.29 6.23-6.60
         IV. Market Repo 150,948.36 6.29 5.00-6.64
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/10/2024 13 Thu, 31/10/2024 20,073.00 6.49
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 54,755.00 6.49
    3. MSF# Fri, 18/10/2024 1 Sat, 19/10/2024 866.00 6.75
      Fri, 18/10/2024 2 Sun, 20/10/2024 0.00 6.75
      Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 3,350.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 18/10/2024 1 Sat, 19/10/2024 144,586.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/10/2024 2 Sun, 20/10/2024 0.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/10/2024 3 Mon, 21/10/2024 4,259.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -219,457.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    5. On Tap Targeted Long Term Repo Operations€ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 250.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 2,275.00 4.00
    6. Special Long-Term Repo Operations (SLTRO) for Small Finance Banks (SFBs)£ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 105.00 4.00
    Mon, 22/11/2021 1095 Thu, 21/11/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 29/11/2021 1095 Thu, 28/11/2024 305.00 4.00
    Mon, 13/12/2021 1095 Thu, 12/12/2024 150.00 4.00
    Mon, 20/12/2021 1095 Thu, 19/12/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 255.00 4.00
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,222.87  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     10,762.87  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -208,694.13  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on October 18, 2024 991,699.56  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending October 18, 2024 1,001,756.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ October 18, 2024 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on October 04, 2024 488,495.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    € As per the Press Release No. 2020-2021/520 dated October 21, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/763 dated December 11, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/1057 dated February 05, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/695 dated August 13, 2021.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    £ As per the Press Release No. 2021-2022/181 dated May 07, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/1023 dated October 11, 2021.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/1340

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to support listing of innovative SMEs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken on Feb. 17, 2023 shows a view of the Beijing Stock Exchange in Beijing, capital of China.[Photo/Xinhua]

    China will intensify its support for the listing of high-quality innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on the Beijing Stock Exchange and the “new third board,” a financing platform designed for SMEs.

    This initiative is outlined in a strategic cooperation agreement signed by the Beijing Stock Exchange, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and the National Equities Exchange and Quotations during the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2024 on Sunday.

    According to the agreement, the three parties will enhance their coordination and collaborate in areas such as institutional synergy, company cultivation and work coordination to form a cohesive force that promotes the development of these enterprises.

    They also aim to assist the enterprises in effectively utilizing capital market tools like mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and equity incentives to achieve high-quality development.

    So far, China has cultivated about 141,000 innovative SMEs that use specialized, sophisticated technologies to produce novel or unique products, including 14,600 “little giant” firms, according to data from the MIIT.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students entered the top 115 best students in Russia following the conference “Management of the Future”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Four students Faculty of Economics, NSU — Leonid Chistopolov, Anastasia Karunina, Alena Kozich and Makar Fedorov — entered the top 115 best students in Russia following the results of the XII conference “Management of the Future”, organized by the Graduate School of Management of St. Petersburg State University.

    The conference “Management of the Future” has been held since 2012 and attracts the most promising students interested in modern trends in management and business. The selection of participants consists of several stages: filling out a questionnaire with a resume and portfolio, a test of logic and mathematics, as well as a final video interview, which has become one of the most difficult tests for participants.

    — I learned about the conference from the previous head of Case Club NSU, who went to the conference last year and shared positive emotions. Therefore, I decided that I definitely needed to participate in the selection in order to meet ambitious students from all over Russia at the conference, hear expert opinions from top executives of large Russian companies on the topic of “Growth at the intersection of competencies” (the topic of this year’s conference), get a job opportunity and, of course, visit St. Petersburg! When I received the coveted letter of passage, of course, I was happy and felt confident in my abilities. And when I learned that three from NSU passed the selection, I realized that it was not in vain that I chose this university three years ago, — shared Anastasia Karunina.

    This year, the event brought together more than 100 students from all over the country, providing participants with unique opportunities to communicate with top managers of leading companies and participate in practical cases.

    — I decided to participate because I wanted to develop connections, expand my knowledge in the industries where I work, and see the city (I have never been to St. Petersburg). The conference gives me the opportunity to do all of this. When I found out that I had passed the selection, I was happy, — said Leonid Chistopolov.

    For university students, this is not only an opportunity to exchange experiences and establish new connections, but also a chance to demonstrate the high level of training at NSU.

    We congratulate the guys on such an important achievement and wish them success!

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/NSU students-entered the top-115-best-students-of-Russia-at-the-future-management-conference/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s railway cargo transportation rises

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This aerial photo shows a freight train loaded with auto parts, home appliances and textile products pulling out of the Xiahuayuan railway cargo terminal in Zhangjiakou, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s railway network transported 1.004 billion tonnes of cargo in the third quarter of this year, marking a year-on-year increase of 3.8 percent and setting a new record for freight volume in a single quarter, official data showed Sunday.

    China’s railway industry has been improving its transportation services and efficiency to support the high-quality development of the economy, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

    During this period, railways handled 520 million tonnes of coal, up 3.5 percent year on year.

    The company said it will further speed up the development of a modern railway logistics network to facilitate domestic and international economic circulations, and reduce logistics costs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, fatal water incident, Manukau Harbour

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now confirm the name of the man who died after a boat capsized in the Manukau Harbour on Sunday 20 October.

    He was 52-year-old Parma Siwam Samy, also known as Vimal, of Māngere East.

    Police would like to extend our condolences to his whānau at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing and his death will be referred to the Coroner.

    Police would like to thank the members of the public who assisted with the rescue.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 225-2024: Australian Fumigation Accreditation Scheme: treatment provider suspended – Ceylon Pest Control Co. (Pvt.) Ltd (AEI: LK0010MB)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    21 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, offshore treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents and master consolidators.

    What has changed?

    Following identification of critical non-compliance, we have suspended Ceylon Pest Control Co. (Pvt.) Ltd (AEI: LK0010MB) from the…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Average speed camera trial to investigate safety dividend

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Average speed camera trial to investigate safety dividend

    Published: 21 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Minister for Roads

    Previously, average speed cameras have only been used in NSW to monitor the speed of heavy vehicles. Road safety benefits will be evaluated when a trial of average speed cameras for light vehicles is conducted from next year.

    Legislation that passed NSW Parliament has enabled their use for all vehicles, bringing the state into line with all other Australian mainland states and the ACT where the technology is an integral part of their speed enforcement programs.

    The NSW Government will now trial the lifesaving benefits of average speed cameras as part of efforts to combat the rising road toll which today stands at 271 – two more than at the same date in 2023.

    The average speed camera trial will build on road safety initiatives introduced by the Minns Labor Government, including:

    • Seatbelt enforcement by the existing mobile phone camera detection network
    • Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months
    • The demerit return trial that rewarded more than 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a demerit-offence-free driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024
    • Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2,700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same
    • Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local experts
    • Signed National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth

    Speeding is the biggest killer on NSW roads, contributing to 41 per cent of all fatalities over the past decade.

    Regional NSW is home to a third of the population but is where two-thirds of all road deaths happen.

    Two trials will be conducted on limited stretches of highway in regional NSW to assess whether these measures reduce speeding at these locations, improving safety and preventing injuries and fatalities. The trial areas are:

    • Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie) – 15kms between cameras
    • Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai – 16kms between cameras

    There were a combined total of six fatalities and 33 serious injuries between 2018 and 2022 at these locations.

    Road safety experts have backed the use of average speed cameras and the NRMA will be part of the assessment process to ensure drivers have a voice in the review of the trial. 

    Transport for NSW will now work on the technical elements and deliver a communications campaign to inform motorists about the trial to begin mid-2025.

    Trials are proposed to begin with a 60-day period in which speeding drivers will receive a warning letter rather than a fine before normal enforcement, including fines and demerit points, begin.

    Minister for Roads John Graham said:

    “This is the right time to investigate whether lives can be saved by the use of average speed cameras for all vehicles, not only trucks.

    “This technology has been found to be effective in other states and in the UK, Norway, Italy and the Netherlands.

    “It is our responsibility to properly evaluate whether they are effective in preventing another family and another friendship circle from being devastated – which is the sad result every time someone dies on NSW roads.

    “Before trials begin next year, the NSW Government will conduct a comprehensive awareness campaign so the public is aware of average speed cameras and a 60-day warning letter period will give motorists time to adjust to their use in these limited locations.”

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “In 2023, over two thirds of the deaths on our roads were in regional NSW. Our goal is to assess how effective the cameras can be in changing speeding habits and reducing needless deaths.

    “The NSW Government will continue to inform all drivers but particularly the regional communities around these trial sites about how it will work.

    “Unfortunately, on Tuesday night we saw Nationals in the Legislative Council cynically voting against the average speed camera trial, putting politics above the safety of the people they purport to represent.

    “There have been a few times in this Parliament that the Leader of the Nationals has torched the Coalition agreement allegedly on a matter of principle – but saving lives on our roads in the bush? The Nationals are clearly confused about what is important.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Breaking ground on the first new Road of National Significance

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Work has kicked off on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) as the Government continues to move at pace to deliver infrastructure that enables Kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “The Government is keeping its promise to New Zealanders to deliver a new generation of RoNS across the country that reduce congestion, unlock land for thousands of new houses, and boost economic growth as we rebuild the economy to reduce the cost of living. Delivering the infrastructure this country needs is a key part of our plan to rebuild the economy and boost productivity,” Mr Brown says. 

    “Early works have now started on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway RoNS to four-lane this critical corridor that carries 29,000 vehicles a day and links freight to one of New Zealand’s largest ports. The growing population and economy mean that the central section of this road is reaching capacity at peak times. Starting work now allows the NZTA to maximise the 2025/2026 construction season and bring forward the construction of this project by 12 to 15 months.”

    The Government is prioritising 17 RoNS which were highlighted in the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport, with seven new projects to begin procurement, enabling works and construction in the next three years.

    “New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and our Government is taking action to fix it. It’s not enough to just talk about projects and write endless business cases. Kiwis voted for a Government that would get on and build the infrastructure that our country needs. That is what we are doing, and we’re pleased to be able to show action within our first year. 

    “Four-laning the Hawke’s Bay Expressway will unleash national and regional economic growth and productivity by reducing travel times, increasing resilience, and improving safety for motorists. 

    “The Hawke’s Bay Expressway was critical to the resilience of the region during Cyclone Gabrielle, with other routes being cut off. This Road of National Significance will increase capacity, resilience, support residential growth, and provide a boost to the local economy by helping move freight more quickly to the Napier Port. 

    “NZTA is prioritising the Taradale Road to Pākowhai Road section of the Hawke’s Bay Expressway as it is the most congested part of the road, and will help ensure more reliable journey times for commuters and freight operators in the Bay. 

    “The Government will be delivering the benefits of better road infrastructure to Kiwis and businesses across the country, as progress ramps up on several other Roads of National Significance projects. Takitimu North Link Stage 1 is already underway, Ōtaki to North of Levin will begin construction next year, and the Northland Expressway is currently undergoing geotechnical work. 

    “The RoNS projects previously built by National are some of New Zealand’s most successful State Highway corridors, reducing congestion and improving safety. Moving at pace to build a new generation of RoNS signals our Government’s focus on prioritising investments that deliver real value to commuters and businesses.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lower speed limits on SH1 Whangārei to Te Hana, SH14 Dargaville to Whangārei, SH15 Maungatapere

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    New speed limits will soon come into effect on short sections of the following state highways:

    • SH1 Whangārei to Te Hana – changes in place from w/c 21 October 2024
    • SH14 Dargaville to Whangārei – changes in place from w/c 29 October 2024 
    • SH15 Maungatapere School – changes in place from w/c 29 October 2024 

    Note: All other approved changes on SH15 were implemented on 13 May 2024

    The changes we are making on SH1, SH14 and SH15 focus on short sections of state highway, including schools, and involved extensive community engagement and input prior to approval.

    School speed changes include new electronic variable speed limit signs outside five schools to reduce speeds during pick up and drop off times.

    For more information, please visit: 

    Speed management in Northland and Auckland(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ​​DTA pilots new AI assurance framework​

    Source: Australia Digital Transformation Agency

    The DTA is exploring artificial intelligence (AI) assurance mechanisms for Australian Government agencies consistent with the National framework for the assurance of AI in government. Our approach to AI assurance prioritises human oversight and the rights, wellbeing, and interests of people and communities. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TD to send HKeToll SMS by “#HKeToll” from October 28

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    TD to send HKeToll SMS by “#HKeToll” from October 28
    TD to send HKeToll SMS by “#HKeToll” from October 28
    **************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) announced today (October 21) that the HKeToll has participated in the SMS Sender Registration Scheme under the Office of the Communications Authority to help the public verify SMS messages issued by the HKeToll. Starting from noon next Monday (October 28), the HKeToll will use “#HKeToll” for issuing messages to local subscribers of mobile services who are HKeToll users, ceasing the use of the sender ID without prefix “#” at the same time.     A spokesman for the TD said that the HKeToll has been progressively implemented at government-tolled tunnels and Tsing Sha Control Area since May 2023. The overall operation has generally been smooth to date, and motorists have been extensively using and adapting to the system. The registered sender ID “#HKeToll” with prefix “#” will enable users to authenticate messages and guard against scams and loss.     The TD reiterated that the HKeToll will not send SMS messages or emails with hyperlinks to vehicle owners for carrying out transactions. Vehicle owners must log in to the HKeToll website (hketoll.gov.hk) or mobile app to pay outstanding tolls online. Members of the public should stay alert when receiving messages without prefix “#” but purportedly issued by the HKeToll or any unidentified messages, and should not reply directly, visit suspicious websites or disclose any personal information to avoid being directed to fraudulent websites to carry out transactions. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call 3853 7333.

     
    Ends/Monday, October 21, 2024Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: KnowBe4 Sheds Light on the Alarming Trends of Human Trafficking Through Social Engineering in the UAE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Human trafficking continues to be an issue in the UAE, particularly affecting foreign workers from Africa and South and Southeast Asia. Lured with false promises of high-paying jobs, victims arrive in the UAE only to have their passports confiscated and find themselves in forced labor or even sex trafficking conditions. As the U.S. Department of State’s 2023 report highlights, many foreign workers, making up nearly 90% of the UAE’s population, are vulnerable to exploitation, with common abuses including non-payment of wages, debt-based coercion, and substandard living conditions.

    Traffickers are increasingly using social engineering tactics on social media platforms to target these workers, offering employment opportunities that seem too good to be true. Once victims arrive, they often find themselves in industries ranging from domestic work to cybercrime operations or sex trafficking, trapped by a combination of legal loopholes and physical isolation.

    How to Avoid Falling Victim to Human Trafficking

    Traffickers use highly convincing tactics to deceive job seekers, but there are steps individuals can take to protect themselves:

    • Research the Employer Thoroughly: Verify the legitimacy of any job offer by researching the company’s website, reading employee reviews, and ensuring the company is registered in corporate databases.
    • Avoid Upfront Payments: Legitimate employers do not charge for recruitment fees or visas. Be wary of any employer requesting payment before employment.
    • Beware of Social Media Offers: Many job scams originate on social media platforms like Facebook or WhatsApp. Always verify the recruiter’s identity and check if the company is reputable.
    • Know Your Rights: Be familiar with UAE labor laws, especially the legal processes regarding work visas and employment contracts.
    • Ask for Legal Documentation: Ensure you have an official job offer letter and that the employer provides clear visa sponsorship information before agreeing to travel.

    Taking these steps can help individuals avoid falling victim to human trafficking schemes that are increasingly prevalent in the UAE.

    For more detailed insights, you can read the 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report on the UAE

    By Anna Collard, SVP content strategy and evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB-Supported Project Boosts Resilience of Land, Maritime Transport Networks in Solomon Islands

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS (21 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing the Government of Solomon Islands with the second tranche of financing for its Land and Maritime Connectivity Project totaling $53 million. The project is strengthening transport infrastructure in Solomon Islands.

    The Land and Maritime Connectivity Project was approved by the ADB Board in June 2021, to be funded by a concessional loan of $74.4 million and a grant of $74.5 million. The grant is sourced from the Asian Development Fund, which provides grants to ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries. The Government of Solomon Islands is contributing the remaining $21.8 million of the project’s overall cost of almost $171 million. The project is a 10-year multitranche financing facility, enabling ADB’s long-term support to the country’s transport sector.

    “Developing a sustainable transport network will help drive robust socioeconomic growth in Solomon Islands,” said ADB Senior Transport Specialist Rika Idei. “The project will better connect people in rural and remote areas to markets, health, and education services.”

    Tranche 2 will continue the rehabilitation and climate-proofing of road transport infrastructure from the first tranche. Works on the remaining 26 kilometers (km) of the Henderson–Mberande road section have commenced, while the rehabilitation of the 1.7 km Honiara City Council–Ground section and the upgrading of the 3.1 km Town Ground–White River section are ongoing. Both are critical road links on Guadalcanal Island. Climate resilience features are integrated into the road design to ensure all-year access along the east–west corridor in the island. After the completion of civil work, a 5-year performance-based maintenance will follow to sustain road quality and endurance.

    Maritime transport infrastructure will be improved in the second tranche, with work beginning for the provincial wharves under the project in Kira Kira and work in Ahanga expected to start soon. Marketplaces and passenger buildings will be included as part of the provincial wharves.

    Support for institutional improvement is a key element of the project, particularly in the second tranche. Part of the support is to develop a gender strategy to support women in technical and leadership roles in the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and VNPT collaborate on 5G in Vietnam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Nokia and VNPT collaborate on 5G in Vietnam

    • Nokia and VNPT partner to deploy 5G technology supporting the development of digital infrastructure in Vietnam

    21st October 2024
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia and Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), one of Vietnam’s leading telecommunications operators, today announced a new partnership to deploy 5G technology. This significant development marks a new milestone in the long-standing collaboration between the two companies, reinforcing their commitment to providing a strong digital infrastructure in Vietnam. Nokia is also manufacturing its 5G products locally in Vietnam highlighting its commitment to the region.

    As part of this agreement, Nokia will deploy equipment from its state-of-the-art 5G AirScale portfolio, powered by its energy-efficient ReefShark System-on-Chip technology. These provide premium connectivity, low latency, enhanced network capacity, and reduced power consumption. Nokia will also deploy its AI-based 5G MantaRay network management solution which will greatly improve VNPT’s network operation efficiency.
      
    Mr. Huynh Quang Liem, VNPT’s CEO, said: “Collaborating with Nokia will enable VNPT to rapidly deploy a world-class 5G network and meet the growing demands of our customers in Vietnam, 5G will serve as the foundation that will drive Vietnam’s economic development and societal progress, thereby accelerating its journey towards becoming a digital economy.”

    Tommi Uitto, Nokia’s President of Mobile Networks, said: “Nokia is proud to be VNPT’s strategic partner in introducing 5G which will deliver future-ready communications solutions that will help accelerate Vietnam’s digital future. Our local 5G production is further enhancing our strong bond with the country.”

    Resources:
    Webpage: Nokia 5G
    Product page: AirScale Radio Access
    Product page: MantaRay Network Management

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale.Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appeal to public following hit and run

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police investigating a hit and run incident in Pukekohe last week, which left a man critically injured, are appealing to the public for information.

    At about 2.47am on Friday morning, Police were called after a member of the public located a man injured and unconscious lying on Wellington Street.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor, Counties Manukau South CIB, says the victim was transported to hospital in a critical condition, where he remains.

    “As part of Operation Gain, our investigations team is actively making enquiries to identify and locate the driver and vehicle involved.

    “We are asking for the public’s assistance for any information which may help us to help us locate the driver or the vehicle involved.

    “Anyone in the area who may have witnessed this incident or who has any information – including CCTV – is asked to contact Police immediately.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says it’s likely the vehicle would have been damaged during this incident.

    “If you are the owner of this vehicle, please contact us.

    “A number of people have come forward with information and spoken to Police since this incident, and we ask anyone who has not yet spoken to us to get in touch.”

    Information can be provided to Police by making an online report at 105.police.govt.nz using “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please reference the file number 241018/8618.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Waikato fire burning through swampland

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    A 20 hectare scrub fire is burning in swampland off Island Block Road, Waikato this afternoon.
    Fire and Emergency New Zealand was alerted to the fire around 1.15pm.
    Incident Commander Shane Bromley says four fire trucks, five tankers and two helicopters are responding to the fire, with another helicopter on its way.
    “The fire is semi-contained but not controlled and we’ve put fire trucks in place to protect three houses as a precaution,” Shane Bromley says.
    “We are also working to protect the nearby Whangamarino Wetland and expect to have a crew at the fire ground overnight.”
    There will be another update at 7pm tonight.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – Two containers successfully removed from reef after HMNZS Manawanui sinking

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force
     
    New Zealand and Samoan teams have today removed a second shipping container from the reef off Samoa’s Upolu, one of three that came off the sunken Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui on 6 October.
     
    The first of these 10ft shipping containers was successfully removed on Saturday.
     
    Of the two that have now been removed, the first was empty while the second contained food. The third and final container is empty and damaged, and will be removed next.
     
    “We are planning for the removal tomorrow, if the conditions are right. It’s important that this work is carried out safely and with care,” NZDF Senior National Representative Commodore Andrew Brown says.
     
    The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is working with a local contractor, ARK Marine, to remove these containers from the reef off the south-west coast of Upolu.
     
    The work is being carried out with the approval of the Samoan authorities, and under the direct supervision of Samoan officials.
     
    Commodore Brown says daily monitoring of the vessel and shoreline will continue during CHOGM.
     
    “We will be conducting one dive, one drone flight and one beach patrol daily. The timing will be coordinated so as not to disrupt the event.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: United Kingdom – Hundreds Gather to Celebrate 100 Years Since Construction of London’s First Ever Mosque

    Source: AHMADIYYA MUSLIM JAMAAT INTERNATIONAL
     
    The capital’s oldest mosque, the Fazl Mosque in Southfields, London, welcomed hundreds of guests on Saturday evening to mark a century since its foundation stone was first laid. 

    Guests including MPs, academics and religious leaders came together to view a special exhibition and hear a keynote address from the worldwide Head and Fifth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad.
    The evening, themed “Islamic Light in the West: A Century of Spiritual Revival,” honoured the legacy of the journey of the Second Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community from India to the UK – a journey that marked the dawn of a new era for Islam in Britain. 
    Speaking about the history of the mosque, His Holiness said:
    “From 1920 onwards, Ahmadi Muslims diligently raised funds through personal sacrifices and contributions.  Their collective efforts culminated in the purchase of the plot of land in Southfields, where you have gathered, for the sum of £2,230. It would serve as the location for the first Mosque in London.”
    “Exactly a century ago, the Second Caliph graced the land in Southfields where you are sitting and laid the foundation stone for the Fazl Mosque, which proved to be a landmark moment in the history of Islam in the UK.”
    The Fazl Mosque was granted heritage status by Historic England in 2018 and has served as the global headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. It remains a focal point for the community’s religious and humanitarian activities.
    His Holiness, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, also highlighted the urgent need to end conflicts taking place around the world.
    “Across the globe, wars are raging, lives are being tragically lost in unimaginable numbers, and we are witnessing a blatant disregard for the rights of Allah the Almighty and the rights of humanity.”
    “It is my heartfelt prayer that may the love of God Almighty and His Creation enter the hearts of all mankind. Certainly, it was to achieve this objective that the Fazl Mosque was constructed, and it is for the sake of reiterating this message and recognising the immense blessings of God Almighty that we have held this event.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Three arrested at Kilburn

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police recovered a stolen car and seized firearms during an investigation at Kilburn last night.

    About 7.30pm on Sunday 20 October, police located a stolen Holden Commodore station wagon in the car park of a Kilburn licensed premises.

    The alleged occupants of the stolen car were identified by police nearby.

    A 31-year-old Manningham man and a 25-year-old Paralowie woman were arrested and charged with illegal use of a motor vehicle.

    The stolen car was towed away for forensic examination.

    Following these arrests, Western District Police and Serious and Organised Crime Branch detectives searched addresses linked to the arrested people.

    At a Kilburn property, three firearms, firearm parts and ammunition were found.  Some of the firearms are suspected to have been stolen and inquiries are continuing.

    A 39-year-old Kilburn man was arrested and charged with serious firearm offences.

    The arrested men will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today, Monday 21 October.

    The woman was bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 3 December.

    Anyone with information about illegal or stolen firearms in our community is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    CO2400042199
    CO2400042169, CO2400042345

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Visa’s Growth Corporates Working Capital Index Reveals 300% Increase in Working Capital Efficiency

    Source: Visa Inc.
     
    Top performing growth corporates surveyed saved an average of $11 million, with virtual card usage jumping 32%

    SAN FRANCISCO – Visa (NYSE:V), a global leader in digital payments, announced the findings from its second annual global Growth Corporates Working Capital Index. The findings revealed an astounding increase in working capital usage and efficiency, with an 81% adoption rate of at least one working capital solution in 2024. Beyond increased adoption, top-performing companies1 saved an average of $11 million in interest and fees – a YoY efficiency increase of 300%.

    The Index surveyed nearly 1,300 CFOs and Treasurers across 8 industry segments and 23 countries, all representing “Growth Corporates,” organizations that generate between $50 million and $1 billion in annual revenue.

    Beyond the increased adoption of working capital solutions, virtual cards saw a particularly high uptick. These solutions offer flexible, on-demand working capital solutions that provide access to funds as corporate needs require.

    Virtual cards saw a 32% YoY increase in usage and were intrinsically linked to top-performing Index scores. Surveyed Growth Corporates who used virtual card solutions saw higher probability of reduced Days Payable Outstanding (DPO), strategic utilization of working capital, better cash flow predictability, more supplier integration into payment systems and early supplier payment.

    The Index notably highlights that CFOs and Treasurers of Growth Corporate businesses want relationship-based banking and personalized working capital solutions tailored to their specific industry, spending habits and business needs.

    Five out of eight industries represented by survey respondents cited lengthy approval processes and uncertainty about approval outcomes as their most significant obstacles, as respondents expressed the need for bankers with both the lending experience and working knowledge of their industry and region to design working capital solutions that fit their business requirements.

    And the stakes are high: 90% of respondents reported negative consequences when working capital access was denied or took too long.

    “Growth Corporates have unique needs and capabilities that often fall through the cracks between small businesses and enterprises,” said Lauren Hewings, Visa’s Head of Working Capital Solutioning. “This valuable segment, which really represents tomorrow’s enterprises, has historically lacked access to customized, industry-tailored products and solutions from their financial institutions; however, increasingly, they are demanding them from their financial institutions as they seek flexible, on-demand methods for optimizing cash flow to drive strategic growth.”

    Additional key findings include:

    More than half (58%) of top performers surveyed improved their working capital ratios, as evidenced by 51% shorter cash conversion cycles and 28% shorter days payable outstanding.
    Strategic use cases drove 62% of working capital use. CFOs and Treasurers were 35% more likely to use solutions to invest in company assets and 37% more likely to have invested in organic growth and expansion, than last year.
    Developing markets and specific industries experienced remarkable gains: North America’s agriculture sector saw a 17% Index surge, healthcare in Europe and Asia-Pacific (APAC) led with 16% gains, and retail in Central Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA) witnessed a dramatic 26% increase in Index scores.
    Top performers surveyed achieved a 21% increase in their net profit margins and a 14% increase in their working capital ratios.
    Top-performing CFOs and Treasurers are three times more likely to use virtual cards next year than bottom performers. Virtual cards provide access as needed to pay suppliers early, which is often associated with more favorable pricing from key suppliers.

    For more information about the Growth Corporates Working Capital Index, please visit: https://global-corporate.review.visa.com/solutions/commercial-solutions/knowledge-hub/working-capital-index-report.html.

    About Visa Inc.

    Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

    ______________________________
    1 Top performers are characterized by superior predictability in financing needs, which enables them to use financing more strategically than less efficient counterparts. Growth Corporates at the top of the Index are more likely to be in a stable financial position, either with the help of external working capital or without and are therefore the least likely to have needed financing for emergencies.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Appointments – Members, Companies Auditors Disciplinary Board

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    The Albanese Government has today appointed Mr Michael Bray, Ms Julie Williams and Mr Matthew Green as part‑time accounting members of the Companies Auditors Disciplinary Board (CADB) for a three‑year period.

    The CADB is an independent disciplinary body established by Part 11 of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001 (ASIC Act).

    CADB receives and reviews applications made to it by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority in respect of registered company auditors under the Corporations Act 2001.

    Mr Bray specialises in financial statement audits in specialist industries with complex accounting and auditing issues. He has extensive experience in a number current and previous roles including as a Professor of Practice at Deakin University, a Director at the Australian Business Reporting Leaders Forum and a Special Adviser to the Chief Connectivity and Integrated Reporting Officer of the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation.

    Ms Williams has many years experience as a registered liquidator and is well‑versed in the financial regulatory framework, including the Corporations legislation. Her experience includes membership of the board of the Institute of Public Accountants where she chaired the IPA’s disciplinary committee and served as President between 2020 and 2023.

    Mr Green is a partner at Forvis Mazars and a registered company auditor. He has a breadth of experience that includes providing audit and assurance services specialising in corporate reporting, accounting and auditing requirements, corporate law and governance, risk assessment and corporate transactions and valuations.

    The Government has also reappointed Ms Adeline Hiew as a part‑time business member and Mr Tony Brain and Ms Ann‑Maree Robertson as part‑time accounting members of the CADB.

    These appointments will continue the high level of skills and experience available to the CADB, to help ensure that the key sectors of our economy are effectively regulated.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Delay to retirement village review won’t help residents

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    “Retirement Village Residents Association members have asked for three priority areas they want action on; maintenance and repairs, disputes settlements and fairer fees, and repayments on exiting a village. Timelines for review set by this Government are unacceptable and will leave residents in the lurch for years,” Labour seniors spokesperson Ingrid Leary said. 

    “Nearly all the background work has been done. Leaving any changes to the Act to the next parliamentary term will see many of the current residents passed on, time is on no one’s side.

    “Delays will only benefit the operators, not the residents.

    “Labour started this review process which now needs to be completed with haste by the Government. More than 20 years since the original Act was implemented.  

    “Recent comments by the Executive Director for Retirement Village Association Michelle Palmer in the media indicate the industry has been encouraging its members to make changes.

    “Clearly the time is right for this Government to act with both residents and operators primed and ready to resolve these long overdue concerns,” Ingrid Leary said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APEC Reinforces Ethical Standards, Drives Global Impact in Health-Related Sectors Lima, Peru | 21 October 2024 APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group Senior stakeholders from across the Asia-Pacific convened in Lima last month to drive action to enhance ethical practices, reinforcing APEC’s leadership in promoting sustainable growth and fair competition for SMEs.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    Dedicated to advancing ethical standards in health-related sectors, senior stakeholders from across the Asia-Pacific convened in Lima last month to drive action to enhance ethical practices, reinforcing APEC’s leadership in promoting sustainable growth and fair competition for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

    “Ethical business practices are not just about doing the right thing—they are about creating environments where businesses can thrive, where innovation can flourish and where societies can prosper,” said Diane Farrell, Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade at the US Department of Commerce, upon opening the 2024 APEC Business Ethics for Small and Medium Enterprises Forum.

    Endorsed by APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministers in 2011 and recognized by APEC Economic Leaders in 2012, the Business Ethics for APEC SMEs Initiative is the world’s largest public-private partnership promoting ethical business practices in health-related sectors. 

    The APEC Kuala Lumpur Principles for medical technology industry and Mexico City Principles for biopharmaceutical industry guide nearly 20,000 enterprises and set a global benchmark for ethical conduct, supported by industry and governments alike.

    “By prioritizing ethical standards, we not only enhance competitiveness but also ensure that small and medium enterprises are well-positioned to thrive in the future economy,” said Aaron Sydor, Chair of the APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group. 

    “We are also empowering the region’s SMEs with the tools they need to operate with integrity and transparency in an increasingly complex global market,” Sydor added.

    This year’s forum advanced government strategies to encourage ethical practices with Chile announced a pilot program to promote enterprise integrity through public procurement, and Mexico introduced a new partnership to align SMEs with the Kuala Lumpur and the Mexico City principles. 

    The forum also marked the international launch of the US Consensus Framework, expanding ethical standards across the APEC region, as well as the expansion of the Peru Consensus Framework with new public and private signatories, boosting momentum for ethical collaboration in health systems.

    Consensus frameworks are critical to advancing ethical business conduct to support small businesses within health systems and represent each economy’s commitment to strengthening collaboration. This includes adherence to rules within respective health systems and alignment of ethical principles across diverse stakeholders. 

    “When ethical practices are prioritized, patient outcomes improve. This Initiative is crucial in ensuring that ethical considerations are embedded in every aspect of healthcare, ultimately leading to better care for patients across the region,” said David Reddy, director general of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations.

    The 2024 forum promoted mentorship for medical technology and biopharmaceutical industry associations to embed these principles in their codes of ethics, and for the first time, addressed the role of women’s leadership in this effort.

    “APEC has a unique opportunity to champion ethical leadership that is inclusive and gender balanced. This means not only supporting women in leadership roles but also ensuring that ethical considerations are integrated into all aspects of economic policymaking,” said Dr Rebecca Sta Maria, executive director of the APEC Secretariat.

    The commitments made at the forum will play a pivotal role in shaping health-related sectors globally. APEC’s strong leadership in promoting ethical business practices is crucial to driving sustainable growth and public health, empowering SMEs to thrive in an increasingly complex global market.

    “Effective government strategies serve as a catalyst for ethical transformation across industries, ensuring that businesses are anchored in integrity,” Chris White, general counsel and chief policy officer at the Advanced Medical Technology Association. 

    “By championing ethical practices, including in the public procurement process, governments not only guide businesses but also reinforce the trust that is vital to the broader health ecosystem,” he concluded.

    For more information about the Business Ethics for APEC SMEs Initiative, visit the initiative’s homepage. Stakeholders interested in learning more or getting involved are encouraged to contact the initiative’s stakeholder liaison team at [email protected].

    For further details or to arrange possible media interviews, please contact:

    APEC Media at [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –